Popular songs and hidden gems that highlight THE ALFEE’s ensemble
THE ALFEE is a rock band known for signature songs like “Mary Ann” and “Hoshizora no Distance.”
Ken Sakurai, the main vocalist and bassist, is known for his trademark sunglasses.
Konosuke Sakazaki handles acoustic guitar and vocals, and is widely connected with a variety of musicians.
Toshihiko Takamizawa—familiar from variety shows, with his distinctive shaped guitars and refined style—joined to form the band in 1973.
Starting out as a folk band, their music gradually incorporated elements of rock, metal, and prog, forging a unique style of their own.
Their ensemble playing, which reflects the trust they’ve built over a long career, is fantastic.
Please enjoy a wealth of classic songs from this legendary band that continues to thrive today!
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Popular Songs and Hidden Gems Showcasing THE ALFEE’s Standout Ensemble (71–80)
spring stormTHE ALFEE
This is a song by THE ALFEE included on the album “ONE -Venus of Rock-.” Its powerful sound carries a hint of hard rock, and the contrast with lyrics that depict feelings of regret is striking.
While it’s a straightforward breakup song—portraying someone watching cherry blossom petals dance, looking back on shared memories, and being filled with regret—the weight of the sound seems to convey the depth of those emotions.
COMPLEX BLUE – Only Love Is Too SadTHE ALFEE
This sings of a woman’s sorrow after parting from the man she loves.
He has another partner, and their relationship is forbidden.
She understands that, but she can’t help loving him deeply.
The two love each other profoundly, yet they have no choice but to part.
It’s unbearably painful, but because it’s an affair and they can’t be together openly, she has to give up…
When the cherry fruit ripensTHE ALFEE
Like beautiful cherry blossoms, THE ALFEE’s “Sakura no Mi no Jukusuru Toki” sings of a love that is both beautiful and gentle.
Released in 2009 as a double A-side single together with “Kaze no Uta,” the song was chosen as the theme for the fifth season of the drama “Kyoto Chiken no Onna.” Its title comes from the novel of the same name by author Shimazaki Toson.
It portrays a romantic relationship that once fell apart after repeated misunderstandings, yet carries a powerful desire to be together again.
If there’s a relationship you wish to mend as the cherry blossoms bloom, listen to this song and reaffirm the great love that resides within you.
Popular songs and hidden gems (’81–’90) that highlight THE ALFEE’s ensemble
On Windday, I’ll take you with meTHE ALFEE
The energetic guitar sound is awesome! This song by THE ALFEE, a rock band that has been at the forefront of the Japanese music scene for many years, was released in 1986 as their 22nd single.
It was used as the CM song for ANA’s “Summer Okinawa Campaign.” It’s a passionate love song that sings straight from the heart: “I want to protect you forever.” By combining that heartfelt message with a grand, expansive sound arrangement, the result is a refreshing and exhilarating piece.
summer showerTHE ALFEE
THE ALFEE is a three-piece band formed in 1973.
Each of the three members brings out their own individuality, and they often appear in the media for things other than singing as well.
They have hit songs like “Merianne,” “Hoshizora no Distance,” and “Koibitotachi no Pavement.” Their debut track was the 1974 single “Natsu Shigure,” notable for its folk-like sound.
Distance Under the Starry SkyTHE ALFEE
This is a signature song by THE ALFEE, released in 1894.
It drew major attention when Narashino High School performed it at the 101st National High School Baseball Championship in 2019.
The song is notable for its dynamic shifts in tempo, conveying a majestic atmosphere and a powerful sense of forward momentum.
These tempo contrasts are also striking in wind ensemble performances, evoking an image of determination and bravery in the pursuit of victory.
Because the overall tempo has a strong sense of drive, coordinating cheers may be challenging, but when everything clicks perfectly, the feeling of exhilaration is likely to be even more pronounced.
Sofia in the MistTHE ALFEE
It’s The Alfee’s 21st single, released in 1985, with Takamizawa on lead vocals.
It’s a dramatically styled number packed with quintessential ’80s synth sounds.
The lyrics portray a man full of lingering regret, reminiscing in late autumn about a love that ended last Christmas.
In conclusion
We introduced some of THE ALFEE’s classic and popular songs.
Did you find a new favorite or make a new discovery? From upbeat tracks brimming with hope thanks to their positive lyrics to grand love songs, THE ALFEE delivers a wide variety of music.
Their rich musicality, built over a long career, really hits home.