Nippon Columbia Japan Schallplatten & CDs

Review: This reissue of the 1981 self-titled album from the cult Japanese duo Colored Music is now made available on vinyl for the first time since its original release. This groundbreaking mix of cosmic new wave, avant-garde synth-pop, experimental funk and unconventional disco is wonderfully unique and is reminiscent of David Bowie's Berlin Trilogy with a psychedelic Haruomi Hosono touch. Featuring celebrated musicians like Mansaku Kimura and Shuichi "Ponta" Murakami, Colored Music delivers an unparalleled, otherworldly soundscape that belies it ages.

Review: Hitomi Toyama's 'Sweet Soul Music' originally made it to wax last year, when the track appeared as part of a rare Japanese funk compilation curated by the sound's brightest stars, Wamono. Now, though, it gets a proper release on 7", and is backended by the sultry B-side 'Wanna Kiss', which sounds pitched up and chirpy in its shrill alto vocals, which assure us we're held. The A, meanwhile, is as horny (in both senses of the word) as ever, quite obviously singing the praises of "sweet soul music... I love you!"

Review: Originally released in 1983, Hitomi Tohyama's NEXT DOOR was the great Japanese artist's fourth album and now it makes a welcome return to the shelves thanks to this limited edition reissue on clear green vinyl. Deeply inspired by early 80s American pop, this City Pop classic captures the essence of urban life with every track. it is truly packed with sweet and infectious rhythms and nostalgic medics, lush hooks and effortless charm. As such NEXT DOOR is a toe-tapping journey through Tokyo's city lights that is sure to connect with a whole new generation.

Review: We're thrilled to see and help announce the reissue of Hitomi "Penny" Tohyama's iconic 1983 album Sexy Robot, a cornerstone of 80s Japanese AOR and city-pop. This reissue celebrates Tohyama's fifth release, which captures the vibrant New York sound of the era and paved the way for the Beacon Sound movement in Japan. The album features Tohyama's silky vocals paired with infectious beats and some of the best city-pop of the era. Sexy Robot stands out for its blend of smooth melodies and energetic rhythms, presenting an authentic slice of 80s music culture. This vinyl reissue offers a pristine listening experience, although the record has some noticeable scuffs that do not impact playback. This reissue is a fantastic entry point into the world of city-pop and a celebration of Hitomi Tohyama's enduring legacy.