An American Werewolf in Tokyo

JUST FUT

2011-11-13T00:21:00.001+09:00

Some amazing Japanglish...

I saw this one over the stairs leading down from the Shinkansen platform in Fukui Station:

"JUST FUT"
(FUT- Fukui University of Technology)

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

2011-11-07T14:08:00.000+09:00

I know it's been a while since my last posting in spring. Apologies for the long hiatus. A lot has happened since then, way too much to update you on now. Most notably, October 14th marked my 3rd year anniversary in Japan. Can you believe it? The Tokyo Werewolf has been roaming the Land of the Rising Sun for over 3 years!

Now back to some of the good stuff, the real reason you guys read these things...

The other day, I was at Ruby Room talking with one of the bartenders. She is a student at Waseda University and mentioned that their university festival was to be held that weekend. AKB48 and ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION were playing, along with other famous acts. Different clubs and departments throughout the university were setting up booths and a plethora of events were scheduled throughout the weekend. I had the day free on Saturday, so I made plans to meet up with her and her friends.

For some reason or other, the festival website wasn't working, so I wasn't able to see the line-up of events. I stumbled into the university campus around 2PM, figuring I could pick up a schedule and find out what time Asian Kung-Fu Generation was playing. While roaming into campus, I could hear loud music emanating from a concert space. Could it be? I followed the music to the school gymnasium and entered the gates. I glanced around to see if there were any ticket booths or security guards, but there were none that I could reckon. I surreptitiously walked through the open doors right into the gargantuan space, suddenly in the presence of thousands of Japanese youngsters shouting in unison at the stage. Surely enough, up there in the distance was Asian Kung-Fu Generation rocking the stage amidst flashing lights, teleprompters, and a wall of loudspeakers. I tapped a kid's shoulder and asked what time the show began. He said only 20 minutes ago. Having just stumbled into a school gymnasium where one of my all-time favorite Japanese rock bands was playing, it was clear that my timing was nearly perfect.

Ever since getting my hands on a copy of Surf Bungagku Kamakura, an album that lionizes the beautiful small towns of Shonan Beach, Ajikan (the band's nickname) has been one of my favorite Japanese rock bands. They blend elements of hard rock, alternative rock, and emo-punk to create their own breed of music that, thanks to singer Masafumi Goto's wonderful voice, maintains an introspective and emotional quality. Ajikan's best songs are power-pop hits that are driven by heavy guitars, emotive lyrics, and passionate vocals.

Check out the theme song to Solanin, a recent rock 'n' roll film that features one of their singles:

Recently, I've been a bit bummed by the pressures of the working world, and as you can imagine, some of the luster of living abroad wanes after 3 years. But seeing so many Japanese young people rocking out to an incredible band reminded me why I came here in the first place. Not to mention the greater school festival itself, it was definitely a great show and a great day.

カーディガン：Cardigan

2011-05-25T00:46:00.001+09:00

Saki, the drummer from Tance Boy has another group that she plays with, Cardigan. I went to see them for the first time tonight. They are quite a bit softer than most of the Tokyo bands that I follow around, but they have a great sense of melody and I think are worth checking out. Listen for yourself:

http://www.audioleaf.com/cardigan/

The second song on the playlist, 愛してる, (Ai Shiteru - "I Love You") shows the band's wide range of emotion. I like some of the odd harmonies that heighten the tension during the chorus.

Click here to see their official page

Guitar Wolf - Blurb in Metropolis

2011-05-23T14:54:00.000+09:00

Metropolis Magazine's recent feature, Pantheon of Japanese Rock Gods, included a blurb about Guitar Wolf that I whipped up. Scroll down to #12:

Pantheon of Japanese Rock Gods

Here is a shot of frontman Guitar Wolf Seiji that I snapped in spring of 2005 at CBGB's in New York City. I know I've posted this photo before, but I think the occasion is appropriate. I was a college sophomore back then and the show basically blew my mind. I was inspired enough to even try on a pair of leather pants.

Travel Agency at the Ruby Room

2011-05-21T15:59:00.000+09:00

Thanks to everyone who came out last night!! Travel Agency put on an incredible show. After a few major technical mishaps, the band got started and played a short yet intense set. I'll upload more photos later, but for now, check out their awesome UV style:

This Friday: Travel Agency at the Ruby Room

2011-05-17T13:46:00.000+09:00

SUGAR WALLS: Live Music and DJ's
FRI, MAY 20th
The Ruby Room, Shibuya
8PM-11PM
¥1500 (w/dr)

8-9:30PM DJ Hoari
9:30-10:30PM Travel Agency (live French electro-newpop)

This month, Sugar Walls welcomes French electro-newpop trio Travel Agency. They've come all the way from France, so let's show them a big welcome. Their tracks look pretty awesome and I am definitely keen on this show:

www.travelagency-dimension.com

Please note the early start time. Beer Pong people, we can set up a table and play, but it has to be before 9:30PM, so please come on the early side.

CYA THERE!

The Fractures

2011-05-12T01:07:00.001+09:00

This past evening, I went down to Shibuya to check out The Fractures, a great Tokyo rock band that has shared the stage with Sunset Drive on a number of occasions. I've been running into their bassist Nobu at Ruby Room quite a bit recently, and last night, he told me to come down to one of their shows this week.

The band took the stage at Kinoto in the south-side of Shibuya at 9:15 this past evening for a quick but thoroughly enjoyable set. The Fractures are a three-piece band that goes for a garage rock sound that is hard but not too heavy. Singer Daichi sings in Japanese, but takes on the affect of a British-invasion era vocalist. Nobu's backup harmonies add to the vintage vibe. It's been a while since I've enjoyed a live show from a young indie band and I would definitely recommend checking out this group if you get a chance.

Their webpage has some good videos to check out. I think this video best gets at my description:

If possible, I'm going to try to snag them for one of my upcoming events, so please stay tuned.
___
http://www.the-fractures.com/

The Tateyama Alpine Route, Matsumoto, Kamikochi, and Shizuoka

2011-05-09T01:16:00.000+09:00

For Golden Week this year, I decided to ditch Tokyo and head to the heartland. I took the train up to Tateyama in Toyama Prefecture to traverse the Tateyama Alpine Route.

One the way up the mountain, the bus passes through Yuki no Otani, the Great Valley of Snow. Huge annual snowdrifts are some of the biggest in the world. This year's wall of snow was 17 meters high!

I stayed in a lodge near the top of Tateyama in Murodo. A quick walk led to amazing views of the snowy mountains. Here you can see a hiker's camp at the base of the peaks.

The next morning, I continued down the other side of the mountain to the Kurobe Dam. At 186 meters in height, it is the largest dam in Japan.

From there, I continued on to Matsumoto, a quiet mountain city in Nagano Prefecture which is famous for having the oldest standing castle in Japan.

The following morning, I awoke early and headed up to Kamikochi, an mountain valley with spectacular views. I was confronted by magnificent alpine scenery, marshlands, and even wild monkeys...

That evening, I called up Toshi from Sunset Drive and joined him and his family at his home in Shizuoka.

Blizzard In Tokyo

2011-05-02T20:10:00.001+09:00

No, just kidding. I'm currently high up in the mountains in Tateyama, Toyama Prefecture. This place is the sight of some of the world's biggest snow drifts; the highest observable part of the wall of snow today was 17 meters tall... and it's already May 2nd if you haven't noticed. I feel like it's the middle of winter...

Vinyl From the Vault: One Way and Chaka Khan

2011-04-28T17:27:00.002+09:00

Another great find from Disk Union in Kichijoji:

I Feel For You by Chaka Khan features the eponymous title track originally penned by Prince. Who's Foolin' Who by One Way features the funk classic, "Cutie Pie", which also currently happens to be my favorite phrase to refer to girls I have my eye on.

Maybe I will spin these two tracks at my next party on May 20th.

Chirinuru Wowaka - Interview for Metropolis

2011-04-06T13:57:00.000+09:00

Towards the end of last February, I interviewed Yuu from Chirinuru Wowaka and GO!GO!7188 for Metropolis Magazine. The article was finally published last Friday. Please check it out and let me know your thoughts!

Chirinuru Wowaka Interview for Metropolis

Unfortunately, it was nearly impossible to compress the key points from an hour-long interview into a mere 800 words. I will say this though, for all of Yuu's shyness, once you get her talking she really lets it all out. Yuu is a very cool person and an incredibly talented musician, and I feel fortunate to have had the chance to sit down with her.

Akira - Reviewed by A.O. Scott Review

2011-03-30T00:26:00.000+09:00

The New York Times' A.O. Scott just posted a stunning review of the classic anime, Akira.

Beer Pong... Amidst a Nuclear Crisis

2011-03-19T22:30:00.000+09:00

Beer Pong stops for no one...

Oddly enough, we had a decent crowd last night. But in all seriousness, I just wanted to send out my love to all those who decided to stick it out in Tokyo this week. It's been an incredibly stressful couple of days for all of us.

The situation in Fukushima is far from over, but things are looking up for the first time in a while. Everyone, please stay alert and informed.

A Hopeful Sign in Tense Time

2011-03-17T01:44:00.000+09:00

I was in Shinjuku-Gyoen today and saw this beautiful tree, a breed of Cherry Blossom that blooms early.

A Slight Atmosphere of Panic in Tokyo

2011-03-14T13:19:00.001+09:00

While Tokyo is quite removed from the catastrophe up north, a slight feeling of panic pervades the atmosphere here. Over the weekend, centers of town like Shinjuku and Shibuya were half empty and many businesses and shops were closed. Small tremors call still be felt every few hours.

Rumors and hysteria have been spreading via facebook and cellphones and some of my foreign friends have been making plans to go home. The news about the nuclear reactors in Fukushima is the most unnerving, but fortunately the plant is 150 miles north of Tokyo and the government has only advised people in the immediate vicinity to evacuate.

I would advise everyone to remain calm and stay alert.
____

No bread at my local supermarket:

Perishable foods are also running out fast:

An appeal to those concerned about the earthquake

2011-03-13T18:02:00.002+09:00

To those of us in Tokyo,

Please don't propagate rumors, false information, and hysteria about the earthquake via facebook and cellphones. Don't contribute to unnecessary panic here and abroad.

Thank goodness that most of us are OK and that the earthquake wasn't as strong in this part of the country.

To those of you outside Japan,

Despite a few isolated incidents, Tokyo is more or less OK after the earthquake. Things will be back to normal quite soon. Don't buy into the unnecessary panic brought on by the news. Most of us in this region of the country are completely fine.

Unfortunately, it's a different story up north in Tohoku where the situation is catastrophic. Please focus your thoughts and energies there where they really count.

Earthquake!!

2011-03-11T17:54:00.000+09:00

I was in my house this afternoon working on my taxes when Tokyo was suddenly hit by a moderately large Earthquake, by far the largest one I've ever experienced. My entire house was shaking. At first I ducked under my desk, but then I realized that I should run outside before the quake grew any larger.

I got out to the sidewalk and could see the trees in the neighborhood shaking pretty violently. I was standing on solid ground, but felt pretty disoriented by the shaking earth. Thankfully, the quake died down after a minute or two.

It's been about three hours from the initial quake, but aftershocks are still hitting the city. I can't tell if I'm just dizzy or if the ground is still gently shaking.

It was definitely a bit of a scare, but everyone here is OK.

A gas storage tank caught fire in Chiba near Tokyo. There are also reports of tsunamis hitting the coast up in the northern regions.

Check the news for updates on the situation.

The Pillows at Studio Coast

2011-03-01T01:25:00.001+09:00

This past evening, I went to see The Pillows, one of my all-time favorite Japanese rock bands, rock out at Studio Coast in Shinkiba. It was my first time seeing the band play live. I've been in Tokyo for almost two and a half years now, and during the show I couldn't help but wonder... what the hell was I waiting for?!

I think The Pillows played one of the best live shows I've seen during my entire time in Japan. Their music is upbeat, loud, straight ahead, and above all else, fun. They have the same appeal of American bands like Weezer and the Ramones, who both in their heyday were know for rock 'n' roll music based on straightforward guitar harmonies and catchy hooks. Unpretentious and unaffected, The Pillows are simply a great rock 'n' roll band.

The group has been around since 1989; indeed they celebrated their 20th anniversary already two years ago. All of the members are in their 40's and the Japanese press likes to kid around by calling them a bunch of ojisan, or old guys. But I think the enduring quality of their music shows that there is more to rock 'n' roll than youth and trends. There are plenty of hot young bands in Tokyo, but few of them could repeatedly fill large venues like Studio Coast with thousands, and even fewer could get such a strong reaction from the crowd; the audience begged for 2 encores.

For a good introduction to The Pillows' music, get your hands on the DVD's of FLCL, a 6-part anime series that in and of itself is a great example of Japanese animation. The soundtrack to the series is essentially a 'best of' album for The Pillows, showcasing the many moods that the band is capable of, while all along sounding energetic and fun.

For now though, I will leave you with one of the band's best songs, "Sorachuu Resistor". You can clearly hear how the band has their own updated take on classic 50's rock 'n' roll harmony.

Karuizawa - 軽井沢

2011-02-23T00:10:00.001+09:00

I took a day trip to Karuizawa in Nagano today. The snow was pretty dull, but the convenience was hard to beat. The morning Shinkansen whisks you right to the mountain in less than an hour and a half. The view of Asama Mountain and the surrounding Northern Japanese Alps veiling the horizon was also quite beautiful.

Looking down the slop with Asama Mountain in the background:

Vinyl From the Vault: DJing THIS FRIDAY

2011-02-14T18:16:00.000+09:00

I'm back up on the wheels of steel this Friday at the Ruby Room.

SUGAR WALLS (DJ's & Beer Pong)
FRI, FEB 18th - 8pm~late
RUBY ROOM
¥1500 (1drink + game)
www.rubyroomtokyo.com

Yes, you guessed it, Apollonia Kotero (circa 1984), is our spokeswoman. My set will be at 8PM, so come by after work if you have time!

And adding to the tension, yesterday at Disk Union in Kichijoji, I stumbled across hidden treasure.

Prince by Prince, easily my all-time favorite record. I first found this album at a record shop in Harvard Square when I was 19. I vividly remember holding it in my hand in wondering if I wanted to shell out the $7 or not. I bought the album, took it home, set it on my turntable, and my life has never been the same.

This is Your Bloody Valentine, the first album released by My Bloody Valentine. It's nothing compared to the group's followup releases Isn't Anything (my person favorite) and their masterpiece Loveless, but nevertheless this album is an important part of rock history. The singles compilation in the purple jacket is much better musically speaking. Some of the songs have a touch of the washy shoegaze guitars that characterize the group's signature sound that they had yet to develop.

And finally, the self-titled album Skull Snaps, a legendary rare funk record whose drum breaks have been sampled by every rapper since the dawn of Hip-hop.

I'm looking forward to spinning a few of these babies in a couple of days. See you there!

Chirinuru Wowaka - チリヌルヲワカ - Round II

2011-02-10T23:39:00.000+09:00

I said in my last post that I would go see Wowaka again next week. Well I kept my word and went to see them rock Shibuya's O-West this evening. My only complaint is that they didn't play my favorite song, Kasugai. Here's the video if you are curious. I think this song totally rocks.

I didn't bring my camera this time, so here is another photo that I snapped last week.

Chirinuru Wowaka - チリヌルヲワカ

2011-02-07T14:24:00.001+09:00

While Akko from GO!GO!7188 is on maternity leave, guitarist Yuu Nakashima has taken the opportunity to focus on her other band, Chirinuru Wowka (known as Wowaka to English speaking audiences). Recently, they've been touring extensively in support of an upcoming mini-album release scheduled for April. Last Friday night, Wowaka played at Koenji High with Kinoco Hotel, the retro rock group that I first saw with GO!GO! last May.

While GO!GO!'s sound is ska-influenced and playful, Wowaka takes on a more straight ahead rock-oriented approach. Simply put, the band's songs have an anthemic quality, supported heavily by second guitarist Natsuki Sakamoto. To non-Japanese speakers and first-time listeners, Yuu's high pitched vocals and use of falsetto can be a bit off-putting, something definitely apparent in GO!GO!'s quirkier songs. But in Wowaka's music, I think Yuu has found a fitting match for her characteristic vocal style. The band's newest single, White Hall, definitely illustrates this synthesis.

As a musician and artist, Yuu is mysterious and fascinating. In person, she is painfully shy and unassuming. It's almost hard to imagine that she fronts two well-known rock bands. Her posture is slightly awkward and her bangs often hide half her face. I've had countless opportunities to talk with her, yet somehow our conversations never go beyond everyday greetings. She is no different on stage, where she only lets out a few sentences during her set, all with an overly reserved tone that suggests a shy girl more than a grown woman.

But all of this changes when she plugs in her signature Telecaster guitar. As I've written time and time again, she can totally wail; she is a brilliant guitarist admired far and wide in Japan. Her fretwork is complex and busy, yet oddly tasteful. During her solos, Yuu often steps up onto a small podium placed center-stage and showcases her energetic playing for a wild-stricken audience. At the end, she always leans deeply into her last slide down the fretboard.

Akko's ability to fire up a hungry crowd is hard to replace, but Wowaka certainly had their fans jumping off their feet. I'm going to have to go see them again next week.
____

Chirinuru Wowaka

Yuu Nakashima, brilliant and mysterious

Guitarist Natsuki Sakamoto was the bubbliest in the group. After the show, he let me strum is 1969 Les Paul which he claimed cost him 15 grand.

Kitsch-rock outfit Kinoco Hotel took the final slot of the night. They deserve a post in their own right.

One of the most exciting moments of the night was when their lead singer jumped up on her keyboard to do a risque dance.

Please don't touch me there...

2011-02-06T01:59:00.000+09:00

I saw this sign on the wall of Katase-Enoshima Station:

The translation is something like, "With all our devotion, we give you our heart." It looks like the guy is getting a little bit more than that...

Vinyl From the Vault: DJing THIS WEEKEND

2011-01-27T00:32:00.000+09:00

I'm DJing at Ruby Room this Saturday night from 11PM until 12:30AM! Definitely come by and funk around with us!

Here are some new records I picked up at Recofan in Ikebukuro for the occasion. Pandemonium by The Time completes my collection of all the group's albums. Does anybody remember Somebody's Watching Me by Rockwell? Perhaps this may help. You don't have to listen very carefully to hear Michael Jackson's voice in the background.

And of course a little Stevie can't hurt...

Autumn Travels

2011-01-21T15:39:00.000+09:00

I wanted to share with you some photos from my travels this autumn, some of my favorite pictures from the year. The one in particular is one of my favorites:

Looking at the fall foliage and mountains from the midst of a swamp, Kamikochi, Nagano

Here is a slideshow detailing my travels through Nagano, Nara, Kyoto, and Hong Kong.

For the high-res version, click here.

An American Werewolf in Beijing - Slideshow

2011-01-19T15:00:00.002+09:00

Here is a slideshow of the 100 best shots I took in Beijing.

For the full-res version, click here.

An American Werewolf in Beijing

2011-01-17T16:43:00.002+09:00

The Forbidden City at Dusk

Sorry for my ridiculous hiatus in posting. Things have been pretty wild since getting back to Japan after the Bo-Peep tour. Too much to update you on here, but I will do my best.

On New Years Day, I boarded an evening flight for China, touching down in Beijing around 10PM. I've been living in Japan over 2 years now and it is a complete shame that I had yet to see one of the most significant cities in Asia. I decided to take advantage of the slow pace in Japan over New Years and get my ass over there.

Thoughts and reflections? On the positive side, Beijing is a bustling city with access to some incredible sites. Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City were each double the scope that I had imagined. The Great Wall of China at Badaling was a site to be seen and not described in writing, but unfortunately, the bitter cold winds made the experience more trying than I expected.

The Great Wall at Badaling

The best thing about China was hooking up with some cool travelers along the way. Almost as soon as I got to my hostel, I got friendly with a group of Chinese guys my age who worked in offshore oil-drilling in Tianjin. They were quick to break the ice by offering me a cup of Chinese wine, perhaps some of the strongest liquor I have ever had. We goofed off until midnight, hit the sack, and got up early the next day for a day of sightseeing.

Jackie, Chenhuan, and Nana, the Chinese guys from my hostel

In Japan, Chinese people have a reputation for being loud and rude. But after a week in Beijing, I really came to appreciate Chinese cultural forwardness. People in Tokyo are perhaps too shy. Getting into a deep conversation with a stranger is a challenge. In Beijing however, the people I met were constantly probing me and responding deeply to my questions. Conversations were noticeably more hearty. I'm sure my prejudices play into my experience, but these are my honest impressions.

Then there is the negative side. Don't take me the wrong way, but China is a bit of a scary place. Make no mistake, it is a communist country whose government has totalitarian tendencies. Communist and especially Maoist imagery can be see everywhere throughout the city. The media is tightly controlled and many major internet sites are blocked.

The Gate to the Forbidden City

Economically, China is the country everyone is talking about these days. China, China, China is all you hear about in business news. But what I saw was a primitive capital city with a noticeably low standard of living. Looking at just the numbers, China is certainly outpacing the rest of the world, but if you put your feet on the ground over there, you might second-guess everything you've heard.

My next stop will most likely be Shanghai, the modern hub of China. They say it is certainly a foil to traditional Beijing.

It was an outstanding trip, but nothing compares to the Tokyo hustle!

The Forbidden City

A narrow hutong (traditional alleyway) after dark

D-22, a famous indie rock club. Could it be the Ruby Room of Beijing?...

The gate to Liangshidian Jie, a famous tourist street

Home Safe

2010-11-23T14:20:00.000+09:00

Total Mileage: 1518.0

I drove home from New York City to Syracuse on Saturday afternoon. I guess the exhaustion must have finally caught up to me, because I fell asleep after dinner and didn't wake up until the following morning at 9AM, thirteen hours later.

I still owe you my final impressions of the tour, but for now, I'll leave you with an all inclusive slideshow of my tour photos in chronological order. You'll see shots of all the venues we played at as well as places and people we got to see along the way. Quite a few of my college friends and even my mom make appearances. We had a running joke that the trip was actually the "Ethan Green Reunion Tour".

I've long had the hunch that my existences in Japan and the US were mutually exclusive, but to see friends from both eras of my life cross paths was quite an experience. And it was all thanks to a Japanese rock band...

Enjoy!

Click here to view the full-quality slideshow.

Bon Voyage Bo-Peep!

2010-11-20T09:40:00.002+09:00

Last night, we made it to Manhattan for the final leg of the tour. The venue was Arlene's Grocery, an awesome spot in the Village known for having some of the best music in town. Even with the midnight slot, Bo-Peep attracted a decent audience; next to AS220 in Providence, Arlene's had the second best attendance of the tour.

Without fail, the girls gave their all for every performance of the tour. Last night was no exception. I've seen them play their set six times this week and it has yet to wear on me. I'm already looking forward to seeing them take the stage back in Tokyo next month.

So what was it like managing a tour for a Japanese band? I'll save my debriefing for another time. All I can say for now is that musically, Bo-Peep is an incredible band that deserves a place in the American music scene. And personally, they are some of the best friends I have in Japan.

I saw the girls off to the their airport taxi this morning. All good things come to an end, but Bo-Peep will certainly be back to rock America again.

Apprx. mileage: 1250

Bo-Peep En Route: Boston and Milford

2010-11-19T00:23:00.001+09:00

Sorry for the wait, we've just completed the longest leg of our tour; we jumped from Philly to Boston, and then back to Milford, CT. One more show in Manhattan tonight at Arlene's Grocery. It's been quite a haul and we are all pretty exhausted, but the girls haven't shown one ounce of fatigue in their playing. They've been giving it their all every night.

A Philly Cheese Steak was an appropriate meal before hitting the road to Boston on Tuesday.

The girls played a small show at O'Brien's Pub, a great local venue in Boston.

Last night, we did a show organized by Manic Productions at Daniel Street in Milford.

Last stop: Manhattan

Mileage: approx. 1160.3

Bo-Peep En Route: Philadelphia

2010-11-17T01:48:00.000+09:00

We packed up the car in Brooklyn and were off to Philadelphia by 2PM yesterday. We took a slight detour through Manhattan so we could ride over Williamsburg Bridge for one incredible view of the City.

We took our pleasant time driving and made it to Philadelphia by 5PM, giving us just enough time to walk around the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall before load-in. The girls knew way more that I expected about America's founding fathers.

Bo-Peep played at the Philadelphia Mausoleum of Contemporary Art, an aptly named art gallery that is housed in the remnants of a 19th century tombstone manufacturer's office. The facade of the building says it all.

One of the bands on the roster, Banned Books, was easily the most exciting and unique band Bo-Peep has shared the stage with on this tour so far. The group is a three-piece trio with the guitar doubling on keyboard. Both the bassist and guitarist used a plethora of noisy bugged-out electronic effects. The drummer had a minmal kit with just one cymbal, hi-hats, snare, and bass drum, but somehow he managed to make a thunderous cascade of noise like Keith Moon.

Bo-Peep took the stage sometime around 9:30. The crowd wasn't bad for a Monday night.

The bassist/guitarist in J. Fox, the first band on the roster of the evening, has a brother in Tokyo who is one of our good friends. He has a friend in Philadelphia who said we could sleep at his band's rehearsal studio.

This was the biggest surprise of the tour so far. We were expecting to crash in a small dirty warehouse with moldy couches. When we walked in, all five of us were blown away. The space turned out to be an enormous converted warehouse shared by 7 artists and musicians. It was something of an artists' collective slash hipster hang-out, complete with numerous lofts, a recording studio, and even a swing.

We finally got a good night's sleep. The ladies are doing their make-up now before we hit the road to Boston. We are playing at O'Brien's Pub at 9PM.

approximate mileage: 620

Bo-Peep En Route: Brooklyn

2010-11-16T02:55:00.001+09:00

I've got to run so I'm going to make this quick.

After Bo-Peep's incredible opening show in Providence, we jumped in the car to head to New York. We stopped at the Yale Bowl on the way to catch the end of a football game. The girls were excited to attend their very first tailgate party.

From there, we took off to New York City where we rendezvoused with some old friends. It was our only day off scheduled for the tour.

We had a few hours to spare in Brooklyn. Here is Take checking out a rack of guitar effects.

We played the Trash Bar in Brooklyn last night to an ecstatic audience. A good number of Japanese rock fans came by for the show.

Next stop: Philadelphia

Miles on the car: 526

Bo-Peep En Route: Providence

2010-11-13T23:46:00.000+09:00

Last night, Bo-Peep played the first show of their tour at AS220 in Providence.

Living in Japan for two years, I think I've forgotten how beautiful New England cities can be, especially in autumn. The fall foliage is incredible, even this late in the year. The girls were equally impressed. You don't see streets lined with fiery orange trees and classic 100-year old buildings in Tokyo.

AS220 is something of an art-gallery turned music venue slash bar & cafe. The location couldn't be better; the space is located right in downtown Providence. If I lived in this city, it would definitely be one of my hangouts.

Bo-Peep was third on the line-up in a benefit concert for Girls Rock Rhode Island, an organization dedicated to supporting young women who play rock music. Could it have been a better fit? The audience ate the band up. I saw looks of shock on many people's faces who were taken off their guard. Could a band from Japan rock this hard?

308 miles are on the car. Next stop: Brooklyn.
____

Picking the girls up at the Providence Amtrak station

AS220

Getting ready for the show

TOUR KICKS OFF TODAY!!

2010-11-13T00:21:00.000+09:00

Ladies and Gentlemen!

"SUSHI BURNING! GEISHA BURNING! HANABI BURNING!"

Bo-Peep's November 2010 USA Tour kick's off today!

I'm currently at my place in Syracuse. In 5 minutes, I'll be on my way to Providence to pick the girls up for their first gig.

Friday, November 12
AS220, Providence, Rhode Island
Girls Rock Showcase
9PM
$10
http://as220.org/calendar.html

See you at the show!

Bo-Peep Tour Plugged By Japanamerica's Roland Kelts

2010-11-12T02:09:00.000+09:00

Author, commentator, and lecturer Roland Kelts has plugged Bo-Peep's tour!

http://japanamerica.blogspot.com/2010/11/far-east-to-east-coast-bo-peeps-kawaii.html

Make sure you check out his book, Japanamerica.

Bo-Peep Written Up on Examiner.com

2010-11-10T14:02:00.000+09:00

Check out this article hot off the press!

http://www.examiner.com/japanese-culture-in-new-york/tokyo-s-bo-peep-rocks-the-northeast

Thanks to Examiner.com and Justin Tedaldi for hyping Bo-Peep's tour. We hit the road this Friday!

BO-PEEP: Japanese Press Release

2010-11-06T05:18:00.002+09:00

"SUSHI BURNING! GEISHA BURNING! HANABI BURNING!"
「３ピース女性バンドBO-PEEP、３度目のアメリカツアーへ」

東京を拠点に活動するBO-PEEP（ボーピープ）が３度目のアメリカツアー（海外ツアーとしては６度目）を１１／１２より敢行する。今回は初のNYマンハッタンでのLiveを含む東海岸６都市公演。
福岡で結成されてから丸１０年を迎える２０１０年は、３月に１５本のアメリカ中西部ツアーを行なったばかりだが、NEW YORKやBOSTONの大学生たちからのラブコールに答えての急遽のツアー実現となった。
ステレオタイプな日本女子のイメージを完璧に覆すライブパフォーマンスで急激に話題になっているBO-PEEPが、配信サイトで人気の最新アルバム "VIBE" を引っさげ、人種と音楽のルツボNYでどんなパフォーマンスをするか、どんな反応を得るか。乞うご期待！

＊2009年にSouth By South Westに出演したときのJohn Pareles氏寄稿THE NEW YORK TIMESの記事の和訳：
↓
長年多くのロックのライブを経験してきて、日本は面白く可笑しいが、すぐに違和感がなくなるようなバンドを多く輩出していることがわかった。もし私がSXSWのスケジュールを見間違えていなかったら、東京から来た３人の女性ハードロックバンド、BO-PEEPを見る事はなかっただろう。運がよかった。BO-PEEPの荒々しく効果的なリフは、それがぶっきらぼうなワンコードの力強い乱打だろうと、調和しないメタルのラインだとしても、パンクのように鳴り響かせていても、冗談めいた所などなかった。
ボーカルはヨーコ・オノ風の震え声で英語だったとは思うが、何を言っているのか理解はできなかった。しかし、それは問題では無い。BO-PEEPはどんなアメリカやイギリスのサイケデリックなバンドや激しいバンドと並んでも負け劣りしない、そしてそうあるべきだ。

＊Tour Schedule:
↓
Friday, November 12
AS220, Providence, Rhode Island

Sunday, November 14
The Trash Bar, Brooklyn, New York

Monday, November 15th
Philadelphia Mausoleum of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Tuesday, November 16th
O'briens Pub, Boston, Massachusetts

Wednesday, November 17th
Daniel Street Club, Milford, Connecticut

Thursday, November 18th
Arlene's Grocery, Manhattan, New York

Official Page:
http://bo-peep3.com/
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/bopeepjapan
Japanese management: 3rd Stone From The Sun Corp.
http://www.3rdstones.com/

Japanese Band Bo-Peep Tours the Northeast US

2010-11-04T14:24:00.001+09:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Japanese Band Bo-Peep Tours the Northeast US

Tokyo, Japan – November 1st, 2010 – Bo-Peep, one of Tokyo’s hottest rock bands, has recently finalized the schedule for their upcoming Northeast US Tour.

The band will play 6 dates in mid-November in New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Milford, and Providence. This will be the band’s third US tour after appearing at Austin’s prestigious South By Southwest festival both this year and last.

Well known in Tokyo for their ferociously intense music and lean visceral show, Bo-Peep is an all female trio that epitomizes the excitement of the Japanese rock scene. As described by one journalist, “Bo-Peep is harder than a hurricane and louder than bombs.”

The band is earnestly looking forward to sharing their own breed of Japanese-influenced hard rock with new audiences and die-hard fans in the USA.

Official Page:
http://bo-peep3.com/
Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/bopeepjapan

Tour Schedule:
Friday, November 12
AS220, Providence, Rhode Island

Sunday, November 14
The Trash Bar, Brooklyn, New York

Monday, November 15th
Philadelphia Mausoleum of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Tuesday, November 16th
O'briens Pub, Boston, Massachusetts

Wednesday, November 17th
Daniel Street Club, Milford, Connecticut

Thursday, November 18th
Arlene's Grocery, Manhattan, New York

For all press inquiries and general questions, please contact:

Ethan Green, Tour Manager
ethan@tokyowerewolf.com

BO-PEEP: November 2010 USA Tour

2010-10-31T01:23:00.002+09:00

BO-PEEP has announced their November 2010 USA Tour! Guess what!!?! I'm their tour manager! Come on down and join us for one of our rambunctious shows! We are going to rock the Northeast US hardcore Japanese style!

Friday, November 12
AS220, Providence, Rhode Island
Girls Rock Showcase
9PM
$10

Sunday, November 14
The Trash Bar, Brooklyn, New York
11PM
$6

Monday, November 15th
Danger! Danger! Gallery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
8PM

Tuesday, November 16th
O'briens Pub, Allston, Massachusetts
8:30PM
$7

Wednesday, November 17th
Daniel Street Club, Milford, Connecticut
8PM
$8
http://manicproductions.org/

Thursday, November 18th
Arlene's Grocery, Manhattan, New York
12AM (technically Friday morning)
$8

Rock in China

2010-10-25T01:31:00.000+09:00

The New York Times posted a cool video about emerging rock festivals in China. With 100 festivals and counting, maybe they will one day rival Japan's festival scene. Check it out:

Bo-Peep: 10th Anniversary Show

2010-10-06T19:24:00.000+09:00

This past Saturday night, Bo-Peep celebrated their 10th anniversary with a special live show featuring bands and musicians who have stuck by their side and supported them all these years.

The Tokyo Pinsalocks, who are gearing up for their upcoming album release, played a set featuring their new material.

Hisayo...

Reiko...

Nao...

At this point, I don't think I can count the number of times I've seen Bo-Peep live, but this time around, Mika's smile was the brightest I've ever seen. The positive vibes in the room must have caused the band to kick it up a notch.

For each song, Bo-Peep featured a line-up of different guest bass players. Hisayo, Arie from Vola and the Oriental Machine, and Hime, Bo-Peep's original bassist, all played numbers. In the end, Take, the group's current master of the 4-stringed axe, closed the set with her characteristic energy. The power was alive.

Chatmonchy and Electric Eel Shock

2010-10-06T02:21:00.001+09:00

I'm a week behind on posts. My apologies.

On Tuesday last week, I swung by Shelter in Shimokitazawa to check out a double bill featuring two incredible Japanese bands, Chatmonchy and Electric Eel Shock.

Chatmonchy is one of the hottest modern rock acts in Japan. Walk into Tower Records, HMV, or any other major record store, and you will find their latest albums prominently displayed. Their 2009 album release, Kokuhaku, with it's incredible range of moods and sounds, is one of my favorite Japanese rock albums. I've been eager to see the band live for some time.

Chatmonchy's appeal is their seamless blend of cuteness (in the girlish/feminine sense) and intensity (in the guitar driven rock 'n' roll sense). The band is an all female trio featuring Kumiko Takahashi on drums, Akko Fukuoka on bass, and Eriko Hashimoto on guitar and lead vocals.

Eriko's shimmering vocals are soft in tone and reach a high register; in some sense, she sounds like a grown woman with a girl's voice. Her soft-spoken persona was even more evident on stage. Her stature was shorter than I imagined and her youthfulness (all the members of the band are in their mid-twenties) was quite evident. Between numbers, she talked to the audience in a shy, almost hesitant manner. This was in stark contrast to the depth and maturity of the band's songs.

Bassist Akko embodies the band's rock 'n' roll personality. Like Akko from GO!GO!7188, she displays a true performers spirit, hoping up and down the stage during the band's more intense numbers. When I met her at Ruby Room a few months back, she was frank, upfront, and not the least bit shy.

Check out the video for Sekai ga Owaru Yoru (The Night the World Ends)
My personal favorite song, Kaze Fukeba Koi
This one is also pretty cool. Renai Spirits (Love Spirits)

Electric Eel Shock is another story all-together. The first time I saw them at Shelter was actually back in early 2009 when the band opened for Bo-Peep. Eel Shock's blend of in-your-face indy rock and heavy metal definitely turned the heat up a notch after Chatmonchy. The band is aggressive and almost rude. In Chili-Pepper's fashion, the drummer plays naked with nothing but a tube sock covering his extremities. During their classic number, "Bastard" the band wasn't shy about accusing each and every audience member of bastardry. Check out the videos to see what I mean.

Metal Man
Bastard

It was an awesome night and I think it will be quite a while before I see such a diverse and talented line-up of bands share one stage.
___

Here is a photo of Eel Shock that I snapped at Shelter a year and a half ago.

DJ Open Mic - Be-Wave in Shinjuku

2010-09-23T16:39:00.001+09:00

When I first landed in Tokyo, I was religiously attending the Ruby Room's Tuesday night open mic. Via Ruby Room, I've crossed paths with incredible musicians, awesome bands, and many wonderful people who have become by closest friends in Japan.

This time around, I want to plug a new open-mic-style event in Shinjuku, Thursday People at the venue Be-Wave. Thursday People is organized by my DJ friend Michiya Hisano and is an open mic of sorts for DJ's. Perhaps "Open Tables" would be a more appropriate name. Anyone can bring their records and CD's and DJ for thirty minutes. It's an awesome place to try your hands DJing, plug your own events around town, and see where the music nuts are planning their next big bashes.

Here is the Werewolf spinning a set on Thursday two weeks ago:

More details

Be-Wave's website

Thursday People

7:00-24:00 every Thursday, entrance is free!

Japanese Virtual Girlfriends

2010-09-03T15:21:00.001+09:00

In case you get lonely this summer...

Vinyl from the Vault: What Time is It?

2010-08-31T15:06:00.000+09:00

Jackpot.

I kid you not, I've been on the prowl for this record since April. What Time is It?, The Time's second album, was released in 1982. After scouring through bin after bin in shop after shop, two copies of this record turned up at Recofan in Shibuya.

Sunshine Through the Rain - 尾瀬 (Oze)

2010-08-16T01:43:00.000+09:00

An ancient Japanese legend states that mythical foxes, the Kitsune, hold their wedding ceremonies during sunshowers. Thus begins Sunshine Through the Rain, the first sequence from Akira Kurosawa's film Dreams, a collection of vignettes supposedly based on the director's actual dreams.

The story begins with a mother warning her young son against venturing into the woods on the day of a sunshower. The boy willfully disobeys his mother and walks deep into the nearby cedar forest where he happens upon a fox-wedding...

A week ago on Friday night, I boarded the nightbus for Oze, a national park deep in the heart of Honshu, the main island of Japan. The bus arrived in the pitch-black wilderness around 4AM. When the first rays of sun began to break through the mountain peaks, we began our hike up the trail.

By mid-morning, we had made it over the first hill into the central area of the park, a spectacular marshland surrounded by broad green mountains. The trail consisted of two rows of flat wooden planks that led hikers safely over the soft muddy ground beside tufts of grasses, half-wilt flowers, and groves of trees.

Along the path, one was subjected to many small wonders: spiderwebs, a myriad of colorful flower petals, and vistas overlooking the wide expanse of the marsh.

Kurosawa's Sunshine Through the Rain weighed heavily on my mind throughout the morning and afternoon. Sparse and beautiful birdsongs could be heard at every curve along the trail. The subtle energy and beauty of the songs seemed to mimic the haunting, hollow flute music of the Kitsune Procession.

In the final sequence of Sunshine Through the Rain, the young boy walks through a lush mountain valley in search of the Kitsune in order to beg them for forgiveness. He has viewed their secret ritual and they are furious. Abandoned by his own family, the boy walks through a flower strewn valley towards a mountain range far off in the distance. The scene is so reminiscent of the sweeping landscape throughout Oze. Many years ago, could Kurosawa himself have witnessed this place with his own eyes?

___

A link to the full-size slideshow
Part I of Sunshine Through the Rain

The Smashing Pumpkins

2010-08-13T09:58:00.002+09:00

Tuesday evening after work, I jumped the train to Shinkiba and made my way to the venue Studio Coast just in time to catch the Smashing Pumpkins.

Wait, can I say that again? I went to see the Smashing Pumpkins.

Whatever your thoughts are of musicians doing their own tribute tours, this was a chance to see Billy Corgan, one of modern rock's most unique and influential artists, live and in action.

While the Pumpkins didn't try too hard to preserve their lineup (Corgan was the only original member on stage), they certainly took pains to recreate the famous Pumpkin's guitar sound. The whole venue was awash with deep distortion, squeeling feedback, and soaring harmonics. I found myself completely lost in their classic songs.

Before nearly getting my ass beaten by an oversized Japanese security guard, I managed to snap three photos with my SLR. Here is the best one, proof of Corgan...

Classic Songs On the Set List:

Ava Adore

Today

Tonight, Tonight

Bullet With Butterfly Wings

1979

Cherub Rock

Classic Songs that the Werewolf wanted to hear:

Quiet

Rocket

Disarm

Soma

Geek USA

Here Is No Why

Zero

Porcelina Of The Vast Oceans

Tales Of A Scotched Earth

X.Y.U.

Hello Kitty Kat

Frail and Bedazzled

Pissant

Perfect

Sitar in Inokashira Park

2010-08-11T23:35:00.000+09:00

Today after sunset, I took a stroll through Kichijoji's Inokashira Park. It was a warm and beautiful summer evening. While leisurely walking across the bridge that connects both sides of the pond, I happened upon a young Japanese man playing the sitar.

He told me that he studied with a guru in Rajistan, India.

DJing in Shindaita

2010-08-01T02:23:00.000+09:00

I did a half-hour DJ set at Fever in Shindaita this past evening. Here I am cueing up Jesse Johnson.

Earlier today, I was at Enoshima Beach with some friends enjoying the summer vibes. I've never seen so much eye-candy concentrated in one place. It was as if every beautiful girl in Shibuya packed up, donned a bikini, and went out to get some sun.

Scenes from Thailand

2010-07-29T23:11:00.000+09:00

Here are two collections of pictures of Thailand, duly divided into the country's good and bad sides.

First is Thailand's beautiful side. The first few photos are urban scenes from Bangkok followed by major temples and palaces in the capitol city. Next are the ruins of Ayutthaya followed by the beautiful beaches of Pattaya.

Click here for the Hi-Res version.

And of course next is Thailand's dark side. This slideshow contains a mix of photos from red-light areas in Bangkok and Pattaya.

Click here for the Hi-Res version.

Bangkok Dangerous

2010-07-27T23:58:00.000+09:00

Similar to the hotspots in Tokyo, downtown Bangkok is a mecca of hyper-consumerism. The futuristic BTS above-ground train line runs through the heart of the city, whisking well-dressed passengers to glass-walled offices and multi-storied shopping malls. The Siam Paragon mall seems even more done-up than the nicest complexes in Shibuya and Roppongi. Escalators carry shoppers through the central atrium to floors loaded with luxury brand-name shops: Ferragamo, Versace, Chanel, and there is even a Lamborghini dealership on the fourth floor.

But Bangkok also as a dark side, an underworld of poverty, street hustlers, drugs, sleaze, and prostitution. The visibility of sex-tourism in the city is staggering. After the sun goes down, prostitutes can be seen virtually everywhere throughout the city, often side by side with foreign clients. The various red-light districts are absolutely packed with strip clubs, bars, and girls working the streets.

But this is only the easily observed outer layer of Bangkok's underbelly. I found myself wondering what must lie beneath the surface, the unseen corridors and alleyways where establishments cater to local Thai clients and rich connoisseurs with skeletons in the closet.

The first area I explored briefly was Soi Cowboy, one of Bangkok's signature red-light districts. The history of the area goes back to the 1970's when an American ex-pat opened the first bar on the street. The legend goes that he always wore a cowboy hat, thus giving the district its nickname.

If you've ever wondered about the etymology of the term "red-light district", you should walk down Soi Cowboy. The dim street is completely inundated in deep pink neon lighting and the seedy atmosphere is pervasive. Girls from various clubs line the streets wearing tanktops, stiletto heals, and hoochie shorts.

The area is mainly geared towards foreign customers. They say that Thai men aren't even allowed in some clubs unless they are escorted by a foreigner.

Outside Bangkok, things aren't much different. I spent two days traveling around the beaches of Pattaya, a city two hours southeast of the capital. Walking up and down the main beach, I saw women caked in makeup everywhere. Those who were alone often called to me when I walked by. The others were generally chatting with late middle-aged foreign men.

By night, Pattaya also descends into debauchery. The famous red-light district in town is called Walking Street, and it is not too different from Soi Cowboy minus the fact that it is significantly larger. Roaming the grounds were various touts carrying price lists of the services offered by their establishments. Outside the clubs were bar girls in various tantalizing costumes, trying to pick up passerbys. Some were obviously underage. These two girls were happy to pose for my camera.

Passing another bar, these girls called to me and held up this sign.

Flattering, I know.

Entertainment for men, or exploitation of poor women? A bustling nightlife scene, or a morally debased spectacle? The plethora of dualities leaves me with mixed feelings. I'm back in Tokyo now, yet even Japan in all of its kinkiness feels utterly normal in comparison.
____

More scenes from Soi Cowboy...

And scenes from Walking Street...

Major Label Debut: Disclosed

2010-07-14T18:09:00.002+09:00

In late March, I somewhat facetiously remarked that I had made my major label debut with a major rock band, but was bound by a non-disclosure agreement and couldn't reveal any details.

The true story isn't quite as sexy, but it was still a cool experience for me. While recording their latest album Go!!GO!GO!Go!!, the management and members of GO!GO!7188 were looking to round up a group of people to record the shout chorus for the opening track. I've done a little bit of work with the management in the past, so they called me in on active duty to join in on the fun.

I've been playing music all my life and have a bit of experience playing drums at major recording studios in New York City, but I have never seen a recording studio quite as gargantuan as the one GO!GO! was using. The huge control room alone was only a third the size of the soundstage.

The small group of us gathered around a few microphones, were given instructions, and then were directed by bassist Akko to shout as loud as we could. "GO!...GO!GO!GO!...GO!...GO!GO!GO!" The engineers then multiplied our tiny ensemble to make us sound more like a screaming arena audience.

Go!!GO!GO!Go!! was released about a month ago on June 2nd and is available at major record stores throughout Japan.

When you get your hands on the album, flip to the back of the sleeve...

And take a closer look at the 'Special Thanks to' part...

In all seriousness though, Go!!GO!GO!Go!! is a great album that shows a bit of a departure from the band's previous release, Antenna. For one, Yuu's guitar work on the album is noticeably more intense. But keeping with the band's signature style, there is still a lot of catchy songwriting and vocal interplay between Akko and Yuu.

My personal favorite song on the album is track 12, "Kyou no Uta" (Song for Today). The verse contains a little melodic interplay with a stereotypical asian melody that is followed by an exciting anthemic chorus. Another highlight of the album is the fourth track, "Saigo no Bansan" (The Last Supper). The song contains characteristcally GO!GO! style punk and ska guitarwork. Thrown in the middle of the song is an incredibly powerful and well placed guitar breakdown that gets me jumping everytime.

Finally, check out the video for "Mayakashi no Sekai" (Fake World) which is available via youtube. I think this song combines various elements that I've been trying to describe when I write about this band,
mainly the group's quirky sense of melody, intense guitarwork, and energetic stage presence. And like the previous two songs, the listener is again treated to an anthemic chorus and aggressive guitar breakdown.

Check it out:

Bo-Peep meets James Brown

2010-07-10T16:18:00.001+09:00

Yesterday evening at Shibuya's Duo Exchange, the Japanese television channel NHK World hosted and filmed a live music event showcasing new talent in Tokyo. Four reputable underground Japanese groups were on the roster: visual-glam band Doubt, viciously named ska group Doberman, funk outfit Osaka Monaurail, and of course, my favorite ladies on the Tokyo scene, Bo-Peep.

The program is scheduled to be broadcasted overseas on NHK World on the final four Mondays in August. In Japan, the program will be available via the NHK World iPhone application.

Bo-Peep- having recently released their new album Vibe- have been in overdrive lately. Their album release party last week at Super Deluxe was probably the most intense set I've ever seen the girls do. Last night, in an effort to show off their Japaneseness to their intended foreign audience, the girls all donned yukatas, which are basically summer kimonos. I'm looking forward to seeing how the cameras catch their characteristic energy.

Taking the stage after Bo-Peep was the throwback funk ensemble Osaka Monaurail. The group is a classic funk tribute band led by lead singer and organist Ryo Nakata, who takes on the personality of James Brown when on stage. Down to the stiff full bodied dance moves, husky voice, and full suit, Nakata's James Brown was totally spot on. The whole crowd, including Bo-Peep and crew, were simply grooving.

And if the group wasn't authentic enough, they even had personalized 45s for sale at their merchandise desk. The inner vinyl junky in me had to pick up a few for posterity.

Tribute band or not, I love funk and soul, and Osaka Monaurail had it going on. I'll definitely be checking them out again.

Stay tuned in August for a link to the feature broadcast on NHK World.
_____
Osaka Monaural's webpage: click here

And a cool music video via youtube:

Bo-Peep Release Party

2010-07-06T17:21:00.000+09:00

Bo Peep held a release party for their latest record, VIBE, last Friday night. There were quite a few excellent bands playing and I got some awesome photos.

In order of appearance, Che-a, Sunset Drive, Natccu, and of course my favorite ladies of all time, Bo-Peep.

Here is a link to the full-size slideshow.

Waves in Ibaraki

2010-07-06T00:13:00.001+09:00

Last Saturday, I got up at 5AM and drove with some friends out to Ibaraki for some surfing. Compared to Tokyo, the long barren coastline is simply another universe.

My friend Keita...

An early afternoon oceanside nap...

Japanese surfers heading out to catch some waves...

Darth Vader Working the Runway

2010-07-01T00:45:00.000+09:00

Here is phase two from the "Who is My Boss" campaign that I posted last week. Witness with your own eyes, the illustrious Darth Vader working the catwalk...

You can find this poster all over the trains and stations in Tokyo. The advertisement is for cell phone giant Docomo's new series of phones.

Bad Noise - SUPER BAD EDITION

2010-06-28T10:56:00.000+09:00

I think the line-up for June's Bad Noise, the Ruby Room's monthly rock event, was the best yet. Check out this slideshow that I whipped up. In order of appearance:

1. Puffy Shoes

2. Tance Boy

3. Jovo

Stay tuned for a review. For now, I have to head to work.

Who is my Boss?

2010-06-26T15:48:00.000+09:00

When it comes to advertising, the Japanese love Darth Vader. A few months back, this ad was hanging everywhere throughout Tokyo.

The Beat Motors

2010-06-14T14:29:00.001+09:00

This past Friday evening, I was invited to see Sony Smaller Recordings artist, The Beat Motors. They were playing a sold-out show at Shimokitazawa Shelter.

The Beat Motors are an up-and-coming band on the indy circuit in Japan. A while back, I remember asking Akko from GO!GO!7188 which new bands she had her eye on, and the Beat Motors was the first group she mentioned.

The Beat Motors' music is pretty easy to describe. They are a riff oriented hard rock band, going for a 70's underground vibe. Their music is awash with heavily distorted guitar riffs, guitar solos, and a touch of bluesy harmonica. No glitz, no glam, just a bunch of skinny guys in tight jeans rocking out like back in the day. I wouldn't say that the Beat Motors is the most original band on the scene in Japan, but their live show was definitely a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to checking out their latest album release, 素晴らしいね, (Subarashi ne, Wonderful, right).

A few photos from Friday night's show... The place was so packed that it was hard to get a good angle.

Here is the promotional video for their recent single, Jet Sensei.

Definitely take a look at their website. There are links to more music videos as well as their myspace page where you can here some tracks.

Sunset Drive and Prague in the News

2010-06-10T02:24:00.000+09:00

A few cool articles from the local music press this past week...

My friend and old college classmate Sarah Cortina published an article on Prague this past week in Metropolis. It's in English so check it out here.

Also, my close friends Toshi, Alastair, and Shinta from Sunset Drive got a full page interview in Club Juice, one of the best free music mags in circulation in Tokyo. For those who can read the good ole' Nihongo, click here.

GO!GO!GO!...till 6AM

2010-06-02T00:46:00.000+09:00

This next bit isn't really much of an article, really just a few musings about getting the chance to hang out with a band that I really respect. After Rogue Wave last Tuesday, a few of us managed to party the night away straight till 6AM. It was one of those excellent nights spent in great company where sleep deprivation the following day is almost a pleasure. In any case, read on if you are interested...
___

I've seen GO!GO!7188 on stage multiple times, greeted them backstage, listened to and pondered over their music, and have even done a little business with their manager. But at Rogue Wave last week, I was afforded a rare opportunity to spend some personal time with the group and learn a little bit more about their individual personalities and musical ambitions.

Onstage and offstage, the members of GO!GO! have virtually the same personas. Drummer Turkey, who actually goes by Turkey in real life, can be the clown of the group. As the only guy, he is often singled out by the other two. To break the ice with me, he facetiously told me that I looked like Antonio Banderas (a statement without one ounce of truth.) Drums and percussion is also my background, so we had an interesting conversation about musical influences. When I asked him about his favorite group, he didn't hesitate to mention the Foo Fighters. Turkey and I spoke in Japanese, but he was keen to share with me the vulgar English he had learned from a mutual friend.

Yuu, the guitarist and songwriter, is somewhat shy and reticent in person and on stage. When she makes an announcement to the audience, there is always a slight quaver in her voice. But all of this is in direct contrast to her guitar playing. She always strums a Fender Telecaster and she can totally wail. It's quite a sight to see her jump up on the center platform on stage and take a solo. She is bursting with guitar talent and musical skill. In person, she is reserved, but through her music, you can tell that she is a passionate and intense person.

Of the three, bassist and lyricist Akko is the most charismatic and forward. As a performer she is electrifying, bouncing all over the stage hammering out her bass lines. She knows how to prep the audience. I once saw her walk to the middle of the stage and address the audience at the top of her lungs without a microphone. Her raw voice had as much weight as the PA. Personally, she is also the most direct, the type of person who will lunge right at you with a handshake.

I asked her a bit about her history with the group. I was surprised to learn that she began bass at 17 and formed GO!GO! when she was 18. A one-year turn around from being an average high school girl to a member of one of the premier bands in Japan... I think she was born for the stage.

Kinoco Hotel finished their set around 11PM and the afterparty for the event began around midnight. We all sat around drinking and chatting till 2AM or so. From there, a few of us, including Akko, songwriter Natccu, and GO!GO!'s manager headed off to a bar Shimokitazawa. We didn't leave until 6AM. It was definitely an awesome night.

Rogue Wave

2010-05-30T15:48:00.002+09:00

This past Tuesday evening, I was signed up as staff for Rogue Wave, a one-time live music event held at Shindaita Fever. The show was organized by Tokyo music bigwigs Daniel Robson and Keith Cahoon. Four excellent bands were on the roster; veteran rockers GO!GO!7188, rock singer songwriter Natccu, hard rock band Molice, and the retro outfit Kinoco Hotel.

Starting the night off right was none other than GO!GO!7188. At this point, I've seen the group five times. Usually, GO!GO! can pack large concert halls and 1000-seat venues, but this time, it was awesome to see them fill a smaller, more intimate space. I was able to get right up to the stage and snap a few close photos, but the fervor of the audience forced me to retreat.

Right now, GO!GO!7188 is on fire promoting their latest album, Go!!GO!GO!Go!!, which is scheduled for release next week on June 2nd. Their new songs are energic and spunky as usual, but with an injection of thicker guitars, their sound has even more bite. I received a promo copy of the album after the show and I'll be sure to post a review sooner rather than later.

Next up was Natccu, playing her first show since returning from her recent tour of England. Her set at Rogue Wave was one of the best I've seen her do all year. It must be that she is still buzzing from her experience abroad. To my ears, her new songs sounded a bit more "English". The new tracks use some interesting synth riffs, complimenting her poppy indy rock feel. She too is prepping up for her new album which should be released soon.

Molice was up next. I had last seen them at Ruby Room's Bad Noise event back in late February. While I love Ruby Room to death, the band was much more in their element at Fever, a genuine rock club with a professional sound system. The full size stage and top notch gear gave them the chance to show their intensity. Too much intensity perhaps; I think the soundman could have turned them down one notch.

Finally, last on the roster was relatively new group, Kinoco Hotel, a band who is all about kitsch. Kinoco Hotel is a throwback to the era of Group Sounds, the time in Japanese pop music history when every rock band was a knock off of the Beatles. They marched on stage in matching Sgt. Pepper's uniforms and mop-top wigs, playing 60's surf riffs and hard psychedelic rock. I was standing next to Akko and Yuu from GO!GO! who were both rocking out, enthralled by the performance. It seemed like the seal of approval to me.

In order of appearance, GO!GO!, Natccu, Molice, and Kinoco Hotel:

Congratulations to Daniel and Keith for an excellent and successful event! The Werewolf is earnestly looking forward to the next one...

The Werewolf Wheels of Steel: Part II

2010-05-17T01:27:00.000+09:00

Wednesday night's midnight DJ set was awesome. In fact, there weren't enough acts to fill the night, so the staff asked me to spin 2 more sets. I was nearly out of good tunes by the end of it!

Prince, The Time, Morris Day, Sheila E, Jesse Johnson, Zapp&Roger... buttocks' were bouncing the night away.

I've taken so much shit over the years for my obsession with Prince. The Haters just don't know how cool his stuff is. When I cue up Prince tracks, you wouldn't believe how hard people get down. I have to say that it is a pretty awesome feeling seeing people grooving to your favorite records. It's ironic when the uncool is just so cool. I think I feel the same about Japanese music sometimes too...

Anyway, here's me holding a delcious piece of vinyl while negotiating with the bartender in New York Jewish style.

[photo courtesy of Mimi's facebook, sorry if you're reading this :p]

The Werewolf Wheels of Steel

2010-05-11T02:12:00.001+09:00

My DJ Set!
This WEDNESDAY@11:30PM
The Ruby Room, Shibuya

Get ready for a monstrous Tokyo Werewolf DJ set, coming up this Wednesday night at the Ruby Room. I'll be spinning super groovy funk and soul from the late 70's and early 80's.

This time, I'm definitely prepared. A few days ago, I stopped by Disc Jam in Shibuya's Udagawa-cho to pick up a pair of pro phonograph needles.

And speaking of vinyl pornography from my last couple of posts, here are my latest finds in my ongoing vinyl quest. Pornography might actually be the right characterization. Here are three sexy records that definitely cross the border into the realm of obscenity.

Do you remember this band, the Apollonia 6? Their song, "Sex Shooter", was featured in Prince's Purple Rain. A perfect mix of lacy undergarments and 80's synth funk.

And speaking of Prince...

Perhaps you remember Sheena Easton's "Sugar Walls"? The song was penned by Alexander Nevermind, one of Prince's many monikers. Tipper Gore ranked this song #2 on her "Filthy Fifteen", a list of songs that were guaranteed to corrupt the youth of America. Now in my hands, I'll be using this record to corrupt the youth of Japan.

...Blood races to your private spots, that lets me know there's a fire
You can't fight passion when passion is hot
Temperatures rise inside my sugar walls...

Eeewww.

Finally, in the background of both photos you can see Prince's Black Album, the notorious unreleased collection of outtakes from his Sign O' the Times era. I found all three in the same 10 minute span at Shibuya's motherload of vinyl, Recofan. 3 very rare, and very sexy records.

Delicious Beer

2010-05-10T23:37:00.001+09:00

This past Monday, I took a day trip to Enoshima and Kamakura, only an hour and a half south of Tokyo. Summer has been knocking at the door and I was overcome by an intense desire to see the ocean.

The local beers brewed in the area are delicious. One of the brews, simply named "Enoshima Beer," is one of the most flavorful beers I've ever had in Japan. I strongly recommend picking some up if you are ever in the area.

In the middle is an empty bottle of Enoshima Beer. For decoration in the background are two items from my "Communist Liquor Cabinet," The bottle on the left is sochu and the one on the right is a wheaty beer, both brewed in North Korea. I picked them up my last time in Seoul.

GO!GO!7188 - Acoustic Live

2010-05-06T16:08:00.000+09:00

This past evening, I was invited to see GO!GO!7188's very first acoustic live at the Kudanshita Kaikan right behind the Budokan.

With dim theatrical lighting, an assortment of stringed instruments, and atmospheric percussion, I think they were going for a golden age MTV unplugged-type atmosphere. I'm not sure if the medium was a great match for their punky energetic sound, but seeing GO!GO! play a toned down set definitely afforded an opportunity to hear the intricacies of the group's songwriting. The interaction of Akko and Yu's well rehearsed vocal harmonies was definitely a personal highlight for me.

The group began their much demanded encore with an acoustic version of Kinkyori no Renai, (Short Distance Love), one of my all time favorite GO!GO! songs.

At this point, I've been hanging around long enough that the members and managers know me pretty well. Bassist Akko came right at me with a handshake. Upon my exit, both managers shouted to me, "Goodbye Eeesan!"

Chatmonchy at the Ruby Room

2010-05-04T00:03:00.000+09:00

This past Sunday evening, I was in Yurakucho hanging out with one of the bartenders from the Ruby Room. She had the midnight shift, so we decided to drop by for a drink around 11:30PM.

When we walked into the dimly lit bar, the place was all but empty. The sole customer was a young blonde haired Japanese woman sitting at the bar table talking with Akko, Ruby's booking manager. Playing on the sound system was the new album by Chatmonchy, one of Japan's most popular rock bands. I said my hellos and took a seat.

Something felt out of place. As awesome as Chatmonchy is, it wasn't the type of music that Ruby typically spins. There was also something vaguely familiar about the blonde woman. I had heard rumors that members of Chatmonchy were known to drop by Ruby on occasion. Could it be? There was only one way to find out.

I introduced myself. The woman's name was also Akko. Easy to remember, I remarked. One bar, four people, two Akkos. She greeted me with passable English and I complimented her on her accent. She then told me that her band had recently been on tour in the States and she was trying to practice English more. "This is my group," she said, pointing to the speakers. My suspicions were confirmed. I was officially sitting next to the bassist from Chatmonchy, one of the hottest Japanese rock groups on the scene today. I've been following their music for over a year now and I've been dying to see them play live. But don't think for a second that the Werewolf was frozen with starry eyes; I was on my best behavior, trying hard to contain my excitement.

We actually struck up a good conversation. Akko was surprisingly friendly and candid about her band's story. Perhaps she was happy to meet a foreigner who was genuinely interested in her music. We talked about our favorite rock bands, the best Japanese musicians, and mutual friends in the Tokyo music scene. As it turns out, Akko is drinking buddies with Akko from GO!GO!7188 (I know, too many Akko's in this story.) That would be a party that I would love to crash sometime. Chatmonchy is also under the same division of Sony Records as Prague, so Akko also knew all of the people in their crew.

I was especially curious about the band's recent experience playing at Austin's South By Southwest. Chatmonchy's first American tour was also the first time that the girls in the group had been to the States. They managed to play shows in San Francisco, LA, New York, as well as other major stops. Akko seemed totally overwhelmed by the positive response they got from American audiences. I was genuinely happy to hear it. I always had a hunch that something about the band's unique character would be able to cross cultural and geographic barriers.

Akko then pulled out her iPhone and cycled through pictures of various venues, restaurants, and tourist spots the girls stopped at while on tour. Something inside me was happy to see that even the members of a well-respected band could be typical Japanese tourists at times.

Later in the night, a group of foreign guys came into the place, sat down, and ordered drinks. Bartender Akko pointed to Chatmonchy bassist Akko and mentioned that her band was the one playing on the speakers right now. The guys managed to show a bit of interest, but I could tell that they didn't know what was really going on.

My favorite bar, my favorite band, and my drink of choice in hand; could it have been a better night?
____

Here is a video of the band playing one of my favorite songs,　風吹けば恋 (roughly meaning, "Love in the Wind.") You can see Akko rocking the bass on the left side. I think this song does well to capture the band's essence. Essentially, Chatmonchy is able to tie together crunching guitars and hard rock with more feminine vocals and lyrics. To me, vocalist Eriko's high pitched voice seems to convey the emotions of the young girl deep inside every woman. Is that too lame a characterization? Why don't you just listen for yourself:

For more information, check out this recent posting from Spin Magazine.

The Dream of the Cherry Blossoms

2010-04-27T23:19:00.001+09:00

Before spring turns to summer, I have to post a retrospective of the brief yet spectacular cherry blossom season. These photos start in late March and continue on through early April, the 27th through the 6th to be exact.

The flowers are so incredibly beautiful and at once ephemeral. Gazing at them invokes sadness, for one always knows that the scene will be all but gone the following week.

BAD NOISE!: Prague

2010-04-26T15:05:00.001+09:00

This past Saturday night marked the third installment of Bad Noise! the Ruby Room's new monthly live series organized by the man behind British Underground, Daniel Robson.

Playing the second slot was a personal favorite of mine, Prague, an awesome Sony band that has been kicking up a lot of dirt this past year with their major debut. Indeed, you've probably heard quite a bit about them from me. Favorite Band + Favorite Space = Recipe for Success. I'm already in heavy anticipation for their next single release scheduled for May 12th.

Bad Noise! is held on the 4th Saturday of every month, always a week after Beer Pong :P

____

Bassist Tsugu doing his dance. He's in his early 20's but doesn't look a day over 16.

Yuta on vocals and guitar. Shy in person but quite intense with a guitar in hand.

Vinyl from the Vault: Mazarati

2010-04-26T00:49:00.003+09:00

I returned to Beat Collectors in Shinjuku the other day and picked up yet another unique find, the 12" single, "Stroke" by 80's Minneapolis band Mazarati. Of the dozens of record shops I've scoured all over Tokyo, I have never, I repeat, NEVER have seen a single one of this band's records. A truly rare find.

While it's clear to me that this record isn't quite on par with Morris Day's "Color of Success," "Stroke" is certainly a groovy tune that has its place in history along with the rest of Prince's cohorts. Check out the song here, but don't be surprised if it's a little too oldskool for your ears.

Once again, I have to give my unofficial endorsement for Beat Collectors, one of the coolest boutique vinyl shops I've stumbled across in Tokyo. Exit Shinjuku station on the west side and walk north to the area across the tracks from the Prince Hotel. Across the street from Mos Burger is a building with a jazz record shop called Hal's Records. Find Beat Collectors on the third floor of the same building down the hall from Hal's.

If you perhaps know of another awesome Tokyo record shop tucked away in some alleyway or high-rise apartment complex, please leave a comment!!

Legends of Japanese Rock 'n' Roll Cinema: Rockers

2010-04-22T13:43:00.000+09:00

Rockers (2003), directed by Takanori Jinnai, is something of a comedy rock 'n' roll drama. The film follows the not-so-fictional band Rockers from the depths of looserhood through their quick rise to fame, and then back again. Like many Asian comedies, this is film is full of hilarious slapstick gags and cinematic tongue in cheek. This time though, we are overloaded with rock 'n' roll cliches: band rivalries, burning guitars, greasy hairstyles, motorcycles, leather jackets, and even a little male eye-liner. The film is fast-paced, exciting, and full of great music.

Rockers takes its inspiration from the real life 80's Japanese punk band, The Rockers, one of the groups featured in the underground classic, Burst City. In a somewhat ironic twist of fate and time, director Jinnai was actually the lead singer of the original Rockers. After the completion of Burst City and the breakup of his band, Jinnai moved on to a celebrated acting career. Rockers (the film) was his directorial debut.

The movie version of the band however, is more fiction than reality. Jinnai dropped the definite article ("the"), juiced up the story quite a bit, and created an over the top, insanely energetic film. This film may be the the only case on record of an ex-rock star directing his own biopic.

While the plot of Rockers only reflects some elements of the real band, the original spirit of the music and lifestyle are there for us in full force.
____

[apologies for the poor quality of this youtube video]

Vinyl Pornography: The Color of Success

2010-04-20T01:03:00.002+09:00

A year ago last March, I wrote about salivating in the record stores of Shibuya. Countless shops throughout Tokyo are simply oozing with classic vinyl. The only way I can wrap my mind around the pure volume of material is to keep a definite goal in sight. I have a handful of artists and albums that I am looking for. Today though, I found a real gem.

Here it is, the color of my success:

"The Color of Success" from 1985, Morris Day's first solo album after breaking with The Time.

I've been on a rampage looking for this record for the past few weeks. I've combed through every Disk Union, Recofan, and independent record store that I know of from Ochanomizu to Kichijoji.

This afternoon, while poking around the bootleg CD district in West Shinjuku, I stumbled across a little boutique store called "Beat Collectors." They had not just one, but two copies of this record, among other countless rare grooves that would make any vinyl junkie shiver.

"Beat Collectors" selection may have been more limited than the larger chains, but it was certainly more concentrated. I'll be sure to check out their Shibuya branch. For satisfying my quest, I definitely owe them an unofficial Werewolf endorsement.

As for now, I'll be content spinning the record in my room. It's rare, it's funky, it's "The Color of Success."

Absolutely No Double Dipping!!

2010-04-19T01:15:00.000+09:00

Here is an ad for a restaurant near my town. When I was a kid, my big brother always hated it when I double dipped...

Legends of Japanese Rock 'n' Roll Cinema: Iden & Tity

2010-04-14T17:14:00.001+09:00

It's been a while since I updated this series. My apologies! I have yet to even touch on some of the best films!

Last December, I wrote a review of Tomorowo Taguchi's recent coming of age film, Shikisoku Zeneration, based on the epinymous novel by subculture icon Jun Miura. What I failed to mention in my review was that Shikisoku Zeneration is actually the duo's sophomore effort. Back in 2003, Taguchi directed the film adaptation of Iden & Tity, a four volume manga series drawn by Miura in the mid 90's.

The movie follows the guitarist in a rock band who is making a major debut. Even with their growing popularity, the guys in the group are still poor, living in small apartments and working menial jobs. The main character realizes that his dream was a disappointing let-down. He has no money, no creative freedom, and feels empty. Eventually, through inspiration from Bob Dylan, he is able to find his creative voice and reconcile his emotions.

A second theme in the story is the main character's turbulent and insecure relationship with his girlfriend. He really loves her, but due to his infidelity and insecurity, he can never make things work out.

These personal struggles make up the honest side of the film. There is no glitz and glam in this movie. On the other side is the idealistic tone which is ever present throughout the story. The main character is haunted by visions of the ghost of the classic 1960's Bob Dylan, who follows him around and communicates with him via harmonica music. Through the language of music (expressed in subtitles), Dylan gives him aphorisms about life, music, and truth, ideals that end up inspiring the main character to be true to himself.

Iden & Tity effectively tells a story that weaves together rock music with life experiences. The film proves to me how something mundane like music has a more profound side. In this sense, this movie left a very strong impression on me. The very next week, I went to the book store and bought the entire manga series. Check back for a review in the future.
____

Here is the Japanese trailer for the film. Can you spot the phantom Bob Dylan?

Major Label Debut: Non-Disclosure

2010-03-31T23:13:00.000+09:00

That's right. Today, the Werewolf made his major label debut. Unfortunately, I'm bound by a non-disclosure agreement with the management, but I will say this: a certain high profile Japanese band rounded up a group of people to yell out a shout chorus for their upcoming album. When the record is released, listen carefully and maybe you'll be able to make out my voice amongst the crowd.

I can only give you two more bits of information. First, the band is awesome. And second, they have a lot of money, because studios like this one definitely don't come cheap.

Cherry Blossoms over Kandagawa

2010-03-28T10:50:00.000+09:00

The cherry blossoms have been beginning to open their buds this past week. Here are trees overhanging the Kanda River just 10 minutes from my house. I can only imagine how beautiful this same scene will be next week.

Fish Consumption Down

2010-03-24T10:44:00.000+09:00

Has the world turned upside down? Is this a sign of impending Armageddon? Japanese consumption of fish is at an all time low.

Check out this story from the Wall Street Journal.

Trading organizations have enlisted the help of a rock band to tackle (pun intended) this crisis. Read the article here.

Korean Music Rec

2010-03-15T18:42:00.000+09:00

Check this out, "Tell Yourself" by Korean band Clazziquai. A girl I met at a hostel in Seoul recommended me this song.

Very cool electropop dance rock. I can definitely hear elements of Japanese groups Sakanaction and Vola and the Oriental Machine. These aspects are the earworms and kernels of creativity that permeate throughout the East Asian cultural sphere.

What's My Name...Bitch?!?!

2010-03-13T18:50:00.000+09:00

I saw this poster in Shinjuku Station. Japan Railways is launching a new campaign/contest to name their newest bullet train for the north-east route, cleverly titled, "What's my name?"

You already know the first word that came to my mind to answer the question. Did anyone else have the same chain of thought?

Hip Hop Japan: Vocabulary Quiz

2010-03-08T01:50:00.000+09:00

Masculinity:　男らしさ、男性権威主義
Patriarchy:　父権主義
Sexism:　セクシズム　性差別主義
Object:　モノ、モノ扱い
Misogyny:　女嫌い、女性蔑視
Ho:　売女
Bitch:　ビッチ
Thug:　サグ、ワル
Incarceration:　ムショ行き

list compiled by by 5th Element

This past Monday night, I attended a film screening and seminar run by 5th Element, an awesome Tokyo based organization and blog dedicated to Hip-hop music and culture. I first ran into these guys last summer at Ian Condry's Hip-Hop Japan seminar and after party.

Monday's event was a film screening of Beyond Beats and Rhymes, a film by Byron Hurt that takes a critical look at misogyny and sexism in American Hip-hop music. Keiko Tanaka, one of 5th Element's main contributors, told me after the screening that the members of the group were fans of the film since it came out in 2006 and were patiently waiting for a release in Japan. When one never came, they took matters into their own hands, translating and subtitling the entire film themselves.

It must have been a monstrous task. The academic jargon of the documentary film must have been difficult enough. But the real challenge I imagine would be translating and conveying the meaning of the various rap songs played throughout the film. Can one think of a more complex usage of wordplay than American Hip-hop music?

It's something I think about often. The proliferation of American Hip-hop is global, as big in Japan as anywhere else. People the world over listen to great rap music, but how much of the poetry actually passes through cultural and linguistic barriers.

"Honeys play me close like butta played toast, from the Mississippi down to the East Coast..." I'm sure that plenty of the Shibuya thugs I see listen to Notorious B.I.G., but how many of them truly understand the levels of wordplay of the line above? Hip-hop vocabulary, wordplay, and cultural references are difficult even for native speakers.

But then again, this could just be my stereotype. Some of the original Japanese rappers spoke fluent English and picked up the genre in the mid-80's during their travels in the USA. Furthermore, as strange as it may sound, Hip-hop catch phrases and slang have become part of the global lexicon. The aforementioned Shibuya thugs probably wouldn't get beyond the first paragraph of this blog, but ask them about slappin' ho's and bustin' gats and they will probably know exactly what you are talking about.

The above vocabulary list was passed around for the viewers of the film.

Werewolf Taxes

2010-03-05T18:18:00.001+09:00

I just filed my Werewolf Taxes for last year. It was super 大変 (tough) and 面倒くさい (a pain in the ass) but the staff at the city office were very helpful.

Remember that the deadline is March 15th! Act fast!

Proof of Ruby, Vol. II

2010-03-05T00:10:00.001+09:00

In case you were questioning the Werewolf's musical credentials, here's a little more proof of the man in action.

Last Tuesday at Ruby Room Open Mic, I rocked out a few tunes on my axe, Japanese born Stratocaster-copy エクスカリバー (Excalibur). Photo by my surfrock/ninja friend, Keita.

Air Guitar...but Air Sex?????

2010-02-26T11:33:00.001+09:00

[*viewer discretion advised]

You've undoubtably heard of Air Guitar and even the Air Guitar World Championships, but I bet you haven't heard of this. Witness the latest trend courtesy of Japan,...Air Sex!

Here's what some Japanese guys do when they can't get laid.

Would you call this boredom or creative inspiration? Please please please leave your comments!!!

Sakanaction

2010-02-23T01:57:00.000+09:00

Sakanaction is one of the hot new electro-rock bands on the Tokyo scene.

Hong Kong Werewolves

2010-02-17T11:38:00.002+09:00

Here are more of my photos from Hong Kong. Perhaps they illustrate the city better than my words.

An American Werewolf in Hong Kong

2010-02-15T22:50:00.006+09:00

I spent this past week in Hong Kong. In some ways the city is just how I imagined it. The central area of Hong Kong Island is a commercial and mercantile oasis filled with modern skyscrapers that soar to nose-bleeding height. The rest of the surrounding city is a dense jungle of buildings from another era, sweaty with water-damage, and decorated with ubiquitous neon signs, external plumbing, and residents' clothes hanging out to dry.

Perhaps I've watched too many Kung Fu movies, but the stereotypes I brought with me were confirmed soon after I arrived. Directly before my eyes, I witnessed the very canvas that inspired the great visionary directors of Hong Kong cinema. I could see the urban break-neck action sequences of John Woo and the steamy romance and noir of Wong Kar Wai.

I immediately felt inundated by the boisterous atmosphere. As opposed to the social propriety of Tokyo, the Chinese descendant residents of Hong Kong are loud and animated, letting their cell phones ring and yelling at each other in the streets. The average crowds of popular shopping areas like Mong Kok rival Tokyo's Shibuya and Harajuku on their busiest days. The claustrophobia in the sea of people is only accentuated by a canopy of shop signs suspended by steal cables from almost every building.

One way to catch the essence of the city is to stroll through the Temple Street Night Market after dusk. Rows of street stalls dealing in all kinds of merchandise are lined by buildings with eclectic stores and aromatic Chinese eateries. Shops and stalls selling all kinds of contraband and sleaze are plentiful. One can find knock off fashion labels and watches, pirated DVD's and CD's, and even second-hand pornographic literature.

I saw one stall selling imitation LEGOS of exactly the same look and design of the popular toy series, but instead manufactured by the bootleg brand "Enlighten". I'm fairly sure this would be illegal in the States, but I would be more concerned over the lead tainted paint...

By day, Hong Kong is equally as impressive. The skyline viewed from Victoria Peak is world famous, but unfortunately on the day I took the cable car to the top, most of the tallest buildings were shrouded in clouds. The view wasn't much to brag about.

The fog was thick, but it did offer an alternate perspective. I was able to witness the famous Giant Buddha of the Po Lin Monastery, veiled in mystery, riding on a cloud to Nirvana.

And of course, if you are a true werewolf, you'd better find a few locals to show you around. A few of my Hong Konese friends took me out to the bars and clubs of Lan Kwai Fong. The area was reminiscent of Tokyo's Roppongi, complete with mini-skirts and over-eager and ambiguously sketchy foreign guys out for tail. We bounced around to a few different spots and hug out till the first trains at 6AM. I hit the sack for a quick two hours and was on my flight home by 12:30 the next afternoon.

I've been back in Tokyo for a few days now, but I can't get the trip off of my mind. Personally, the best part was being reminded about what it felt like when I first came to Asia. Many of the mysteries of Japan have slowly unravelled for me, but Hong Kong presented a fascinating new world with a mysterious culture. I could feel that same sensation in my gut that I first experienced when I witnessed Japan with fresh eyes. I was a foreigner in a land filled to the brim with people each with their own individual story.

The sensation followed me home. I was only gone for 5 days, but it must have been much longer. The sites, smells, and atmosphere of Tokyo all felt new, as if I were re-experiencing them all over again.

GO!GO!7188 - Ultimate Exclusive Shitty Fan Photo

2010-02-15T01:13:00.000+09:00

This past evening, I was again invited to see GO!GO!7188. I've been listening to their albums more lately and I'm getting bit by their bug more than ever.

Tonight's show was at La Cittadela in Kawasaki City. The band was on fire as usual, but due to outside circumstances, the show was a bit unfortunate. Whoever was running the soundboard was asleep at the wheel. The bass was completely buried in low feedback, totally obscuring Akko's virtuosic playing. And worse, the band wasn't given much time to play in the lineup. A group of their stature deserve more time, or at least an encore.

The plus side was getting to hear new songs that the band is currently recording. The new numbers recalled the cross Asian-Rock hybrid of their earlier hit song Ukifune, but have more of an 80's pop feel.

After the show backstage, I was attacked by my usual case of butterflies that I often experience when confronted by awesome Japanese rockstar chicks. While this fan was posing for a photo with the band, I pulled out my camera and snapped my own picture. It was an ad hoc maneuver intended to break the ice, but it only made me feel more awkward.

Left to right, bassist Akko, an eager fan, and guitarist Yuu. Drummer Turkey was hanging out elsewhere at the time.

All the members of the group are wicked friendly and they all remembered meeting me last time, but we were only able to share general greetings. Deep conversations about the nature of rock 'n' roll will have to wait until next time.

For now, I'll leave you with a great music video for their song 片思いフィター [directly translates to Unrequited Love Fighter]

Tance Boy Rocks the Ruby Room

2010-02-01T18:48:00.002+09:00

Tance Boy was back this weekend at the Ruby Room for another hot set. Awesome moves, stylish looks, and a simply great sound, these guys are one of the most fun bands I know in Tokyo. Their energetic rock songs are held together by Yun's undeniably bright frontwoman personality and Take's melodic and catchy guitar riffs that stick in your head for hours after each show.

As organizer of the event, I was more than a little on edge before the show trying to get everything in order. I neurotically asked Yun how long they were planning to play. "We want leave them wanting more," she said to me with a big smile.

I think they lived up to their promise. Even with Ruby's dinky sound equipment, they were able to play some of their songs the best I've ever heard them. The band was on fire and everyone in the small yet intimate audience was fully captivated.

Standing out in my mind was their classic tune, Fiat. Hear it on their myspace page. Slightly in contrast to their other brighter songs, I like how the chords have a dark and deep quality.

One of the challenges and pleasures of working with Tance Boy is that they fall far on domestic side of the international music scene in Tokyo. Their following is mostly Japanese and none of the members speak English. When I first pitched them the idea of getting them to play at the Ruby Room, there was some unspoken trepidation, but once they realized that I was a bona fide fan, they were quick to warm up to me.

Catch the band this Thursday at Shibuya's O-Crest.
___

Bassist Yoshimi

Yoshimi, Yun, and Take

Saki on drums, slightly visible in the back

By the way, of no consequence to Tance Boy, I ran into Tigarah at Shibuya's Mos Burger earlier in the evening.

Vola and the Oriental Machine

2010-01-31T16:21:00.004+09:00

This past Friday evening, Ryoko from Bo-Peep took me to see her husband Arie's band, Vola and the Oriental Machine, play at Shibuya's O-Nest. They are signed by Universal, tour all over Japan, and are quite well known in the music world over here.

Vola plays an eclectic mix of hard rock and electronica. The drummer often bangs out uptempo disco rhythms while Arie's bass drives with intense distortion and buzz. The singer switches accompaniment between guitar and keyboards and at key points in the music, the lead guitarist runs his rig through heavy electronic processing.

For brief moments at a time, Vola's plethora of influences would come and go through their busy sonic spectrum. From the West, I heard elements of Smashing Pumpkins inspired guitars and Daft Punk style vocoding. From the East, a few songs were reminiscent of electro groups like Sakanaction and Capsule. But perhaps these were just my own personal musical projections. Vola's sound is unique and goes well beyond comparison.

You can sample a few highlights from their current work on their myspace page here. The song Future Days most directly matches my attempt at description. The unfortunately spelled Oriental Melonchory gives you a taste of Vola's adrenalin capacity.

If I could describe Prague as electronica via rock as I did last week, then Vola would be rock via electronica. The keyboards and electronic effects take on just as heavy a role as drums and guitars. I think the connection between the two groups might not be so spurious. I was once out to dinner with members from both bands. Arie from Vola and Tsugu from Prague sat in the corner of the restaurant booth and quietly talked about music for over an hour while ignoring the rest of us. Given the decade and a half between the two, the scene was like master and pupil.

After Vola's performance, Mika, Ryoko, and I made our greetings, then we took off to get some Korean BBQ, known as yakiniku in Japan.
____

Mika doing what she does best...

Ryoko

Smoky Korean BBQ

Mika goofing off as usual

The Silence of the Lambs: BO PEEP... In Chains

2010-01-29T00:50:00.000+09:00

Since this past fall, I've been working with American filmmaker Aaron Jenkin on a music video for Bo-Peep. Our original idea was to do a simple live promotion video and we met with the girls in early November to discuss our plans. Over a few drinks during a late night out with the band, we brainstormed ideas, one of which was captured by Aaron on a napkin.

We shot live footage at a Shibuya performance two weeks later. Thankfully, our array of HD cameras weren't pulverized in the process. Soon after, Aaron returned to his work in the States. The napkin idea was quick to burgeon into and incredibly elaborate setup that he's been working on patiently ever since. I'm not allowed to reveal too much to you, but I will say that the extended plot involves sheep, dolls, rockets, telekinetic energy, and of course rock 'n' roll.

Two nights ago, I had the band over at my place where we set up a makeshift movie studio and filmed a quick scene. Filming took a few hours and the girls had to wear some heavy costumes, but they were great sports and we all had a blast. Afterwards, we cracked open a few beers and goofed off until the last train.

Production should be wrapping up within the next few weeks. You can guess whose blog the final product will appear on first.

Also, if you are interested in Aaron's work, including the video he shot for Tokyo-based band, The Watanabes, check out his webpage here.

Slideshow from Korea

2010-01-27T14:53:00.002+09:00

I think these photos more or less capture the essence of my trip.

An American Werewolf... in Pyongyang

2010-01-27T14:25:00.007+09:00

I didn't make it quite as far as Pyongyang, but I did get within a few hundred yards of the Military Demarcation Line that officially separates North and South Korea. The North Korean army blasted numerous infiltration tunnels under the DMZ that were eventually discovered by the South. They are now open for tours.

Unfortunately, all of the real sites at the DMZ were snowed in the day I visited, but I was able to see the Freedom Bridge up at the boundary of the Civilian Restriction Zone. At the present day, only the occasional freight train passes over this bridge to supply the few joint ventures that the North and South cooperate on. If relations between the two countries are ever normalized, this train bridge will lead trains to Pyongyang, onto China, the Trans-Siberian Railway, and then Europe. It's a romantic idea made further intriguing by current talk of an undersea railroad tunnel between Kyushu and Korea. Imagine riding a train from Hokkaido all the way to London!

I bought some North Korean beer and sochu as a souvenir. See later.

It was my second time visiting Korea since I first came to Asia. Seoul is an incredible city, fast paced and hip like Tokyo, but a little rough around the edges and more down to Earth. The real character of the city comes out at night. There are awesome restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and clubs around every corner. Braving the winter cold, I had the pleasure of witnessing the snowy streets illuminated by moonlight and neon.

The snow was beautiful.

Sipping North Korean beer with my roommate after returning to Tokyo

Koenji

2010-01-23T02:31:00.003+09:00

I went to see Natccu play a live show this past evening in Koenji. This flyer was hanging in the dressing room.

Hisayo from the Tokyo Pinsalocks, who also doubles as Natccu's backup bassist, is one of the grooviest bass players in town. Here she is chatting with journalist Felicity at a restaurant after the show.

Prague: Light Infection Tour

2010-01-21T01:43:00.006+09:00

I went to see Prague at Shibuya's O-Nest last night. They are on the Tokyo leg of their Light Infection Tour, promoting their eponymous new single. Check a few posts down for the video.

The guys played well as always, and this time held the stage for much longer than usual.

Their music would be difficult to describe unless you are familiar with some of the sounds of contemporary Tokyo. One time when I split a cab home with Tsugu, I asked him about his favorite Japanese groups. Without hesitation, he mentioned the electro-rock band, Sakanaction. After listening to all Sakanaction's albums, I could see the connection. Prague has all the pop and funk of an electro-techno rock band but none of the electronics.

I'm most attracted to the interplay of Yuuta's high singing vocals with his dreamlike electric guitar. The sound is at once introspective, emotional, and aggressive, a perfect match for the dim urban-esque lighting of the typical Tokyo basement venue. Of their current releases, I think Slow Down most clearly represents their vibe.

I'm not the only one in town onto this group. They are signed by Ki/oon Records, a division of Sony that boasts some of the best bands in Japan, if not the world. Asian Kung Fu Generation, Chatmonchy, the Polysics, now Prague. Ki/oon has been pushing Prague's major debut all through the fall. They have posters up in Tower Records and on billboards around Shibuya.

After the show we all grabbed a few drinks and shared some good conversation. Prague is under the same management as Bo-Peep, so I saw quite a few of the usual suspects. The band has a funny dynamic. Bassist Tsugu and drummer Ken are outgoing and will talk about anything, but Singer Yuuta is unbelievably shy. Musically, he commands the band, but between songs and off stage, he doesn't have the 'frontman' personality. I think it adds to their mystery.

Keep an eye out for the debut album scheduled for release next June.

Spunky Afro Tiger Jet II: Boy Allergy Night

2010-01-15T01:32:00.004+09:00

Tigarah is a gangsta.

I went to see her late last night at classy Aoyama club le Baron de Paris. She was spinning with multi-national DJ girl group Boy Allergy. The group is comprised of three badass ladies: Eiko and Tigarah from Japan, and Kon-chan from Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The music was funky and the bass was booty. The party went on till 4:30AM when the club owners turned the lights on, Japanese for "get lost."

These girls may have professed some serious boy allergies, but fortunately for me, there were no werewolf allergies. Between sets, I got to hang out with the girls, share a few drinks, and chat about the hottest spots and best musicians in Tokyo.

Kon-chan showing off her Brazilian mane with Tigarah getting down...
Eiko on the mix with Kon-chan and Tigarah livin' it up behind the booth
Tigarah and Eiko, ready to scram before dawn
le Baron de Paris, a swanky club in Omote-sando

GO!GO!7188 - Ultimate Exclusive Live Video

2010-01-03T13:49:00.003+09:00

Ladies and Gents, the Werewolf has obtained exclusive permission directly from the management of GO!GO!7188 to share with you this live video for the duration of one week.

Watch it now before I take it down!

Yuu on guitar and vocals, Akko on bass, and Turkey on drums, GO!GO!7188 is one of Japan's most exciting rock acts. See for yourself.

Tokyo Street Fashion and Capsule Hotels

2010-01-02T20:22:00.004+09:00

Not that these two topics have anything to do with each other, but I saw two unrelated articles in today's New York Times about Japan.

The first is a quick look into the international influence of Tokyo fashion. Check out, "Paris, Milan, Tokyo. Tokyo?"

The second is a more unsettling piece about salarymen who because of the weak economy have recently been turning to capsule hotels for residency. Check out, "For Some in Japan, Home Is a Tiny Plastic Bunk."

A Happy Hannukah and a Bo-Peep New Year

2010-01-01T13:31:00.010+09:00

I spent this past New Year's with Bo-Peep. My evening began at 7:30PM when I was packing my bags to head over to drummer Ryoko's house. The thought suddenly crossed my mind, "Why am I packing my earplugs to go to a New Year's party?" Because when it comes to Bo-Peep, I don't take any chances.

We had quite a feast.

Bassist Take sharing laughs in front of Ryoko's favorite records

Frontwoman Mika

An American Werewolf and three Japanese Sheep

A New Year's toast with Mika

A toast with Ryoko's husband, except all he had in hand was a giant Japanese raddish

Ryoko loves cats.

Takahashi, Prague's tech, with Ryoko's husband, Yoshinori, bassist from the band Vola and the Oriental Machine

Why do the Japanese live so long and look so young? It must be their healthy diet of sake, beer, and cigarettes. I think I inhaled three packs worth of secondhand smoke.

After midnight, we all went to the local Shinto shrine to pray for good fortune for the coming year.

Here are a few men warming up by the fire.

Deep in the night, the dim temple grounds seemed to evoke another era.

Mika praying to the Shinto gods for Bo-Peep's continued success

Wishing everyone a wonderful 2010!

uhnellys at Ruby Room

2009-12-24T23:29:00.007+09:00

The uhnellys did a quick set at the Ruby Room year end party last night. I only wish that my foreign language comprehension could keep up with Kim's explosive Japanese rapping.

It was a hot set and I'm looking forward to seeing these guys again soon.

GO!GO!7188 - Ukifune

2009-12-22T14:45:00.004+09:00

Metropolis ran an article a few weeks featuring 10 famous Japanese songs. My good friend Daniel Robson nominated "Ukifune" by GO!GO! 7188. Check out his review here.

He was most impressed by the band's ability to tie together traditional Japanese sounds and themes (the title comes from a character in the Tale of Genji) with crushing modern rock.

As a fan of this band, I wanted to share these videos. I think they definitely give you a good idea of the band's sonic essence. And personally, watching the live video gives me flashbacks to the times that I've seen GO!GO! in concert. I distinctly remember thousands of Japanese people jumping in step to the quirky rhythm of this song.

Here is a live TV spot:

and the official video subtitled in English: