Review by Stan

Best representative of Japanese downtempo music. Very underated band. Love to hear more from them even though they've been around quite a while. Must buy.

Being listening to her works since she debuted 20 years ago. Not my fav album but still a good one. I'm bias though :,-).

Basically the good stuffs rolled into a package. Chara fans will know what it means. Have been listening to her songs since when I was still a young chap. Recommended!

By far, the most powerful underground band in Japan that ever existed. Some may differ, but hey, that's my own opinion. Words seem to under-state what this band can offer... or should I say had offered? 'Nuff said, let's press the 'Play' button. I will definitely miss em.

One of the best bands to emerge from the land of risin' sun in recent years. Lead vocal Tomomi Nababa's voice may not be every one's cup of tea, but it definitely grows on me. Coupled by their unique style and defiance to go mainstream, this band definitely is in their own league. No wonder they achieved so much success in the underground scene. I'm not one who believes in idolism, but Nababa is already a goddess in my context. I just pray that they will not fall into the death trap of commercialism. A must buy.

In these days, it's pretty much difficult to stand out from the dense J-rock scene in Japan, and I have to admit that I had my doubts initially when I only heard some of their samples. After much consideration, I took the risk and purchased this album. Not to say that they are outstanding vocally, but as soon as I pushed the 'Play' button and closed my eyes, I was somewhat transported into another world. From the start right to the bonus ending track, 'Seagull', I was totally engrossed into their world. Totally a compliment when I say that they have the same effect Bump of Chicken had on me. Worth a try.

I'm a great Quruli fan, but I had to agree with Hideki that this particular offering lacks the puch they had in their past albums. I should say that it's more of a feelgood pop/rock album, distinctly different from their indie rock style. Despite that, they still kept their signature sound... and get a load of their MVs. My personal fav is Birthday. See and know what I mean. Worth every penny.

Shiina Ringo has surfaced with yet another superb album. Creativity and uniqueness still prevails in her latest offering with her band, Tokyo Incidents. Music that defies mainstream commercialism, that is what I like about her style. I have to agree one point with Bryan though, and that is the cologne. Like him, I thought it'll be one full bottle of chemically-induced nice smelling liquid. I'm still sceptical about the way it's packaged, especially confusing for overseas buyers like us. Overall, no complaints. Worth a try, but buy the regular edition will do.

Cocco has been one of my favourite musicians. In fact, I even had one of her song titles tattooed on my back. But when I heard this for the first time, I was somewhat lost for comments. I have always known Cocco to pen dark, solemn and pessimistic songs. Somehow, she has taken a dramatic turn in her style and presentation, as displayed when she collaborated with SINGER SONGER. Even said so, it is still commendable that she is willing to sing again, as she had once said how she detested the spotlight. And she doesn't bound her songs to any genre, she composes and writes what she feels. Blame me for being biased, but whatever Cocco sings, I will still love it. Can't wait for her full-length album.

This is definitely one of the most interesting albums I've heard from Japan. Every song on this album actually pieces together to tell a story... and amazing how each song flows seamlessly to the next. Superb. And what sets this group apart from the rest of J-scene is Fujiwara Motoo's unique and distinct voice, always a pleasure to listen to. Definitely worth every cent. A must try. Oh, and by the way, one particular song moved me to tears, that is how good they are.