RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

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!

Popular songs and hidden gems (11–20) that highlight THE ALFEE’s ensemble

Cinderella Can’t SleepTHE ALFEE

THE ALFEE [Cinderella Can't Sleep] 1985
Cinderella Can't SleepTHE ALFEE

Mr.

Sakazaki is unusually singing while playing the drums.

He’s a genius on acoustic guitar, but it’s amazing that he can also play the drums.

The Alfee had a string of big hits in the ’80s.

This song sold very well too, didn’t it?

Take back the love!!THE ALFEE

THE ALFEE – Take Back the Love!! [45th ANNIVERSARY BEST HIT ALFEE 2019 Spring Uprising]
Take back the love!!THE ALFEE

A song by Crystal King, also known as the opening theme of the TV anime Fist of the North Star.

In THE ALFEE’s cover, bold arrangements evocative of metal are added to the original rock-like feel, including majestic strings and intensely pounding drums.

The twin vocals—recreated by Sakazaki’s low range and Takamizawa’s high range—and a longer, more technically intricate guitar solo than in the original make this a cover arrangement that can be enjoyed whether you know the original or not.

Crash!THE ALFEE

CRASH ! THE ALFEE -Sub español
Crash!THE ALFEE

A mature hard rock number that shows a fierce, cool side of THE ALFEE.

It’s included on their 18th album, Nouvelle Vague, released in 1998.

The sound incorporates a digital vibe, and Sakazaki’s sweet vocals and the rhythm feel so good you can’t help but get into it.

The second verse lyrics are really cool, too.

In the end, do we just crave the thrill? On nights when nothing seems to go right, you just want to CRASH!, don’t you?

AdventurersTHE ALFEE

This song served as the opening theme for the 1994 NHK TV anime Montana Jones.

It was THE ALFEE’s first television anime theme song.

Blending THE ALFEE’s signature rock sound with jazz-like rhythms, it’s a colorful and vibrant track.

GLORIOUSTHE ALFEE

THE ALFEE – GLORIOUS【Grateful Birth Final】
GLORIOUSTHE ALFEE

Released in 2013 as their 63rd single, “GLORIOUS.” With an intro reminiscent of church music and a gripping guitar riff by Takamizawa, it’s a life song about thinking of a friend.

The prayer-like lyrics and Takamizawa’s passionate feelings, conveyed so vividly, are deeply stirring.

There are moments when even the smallest happiness gives us tremendous courage and joy, aren’t there? By holding on to such moments as we walk forward, the future will surely shine.

No matter how the times pass or values change, this masterpiece reminds us that the love we feel for someone precious is unchanging.

Joker – The City That Never Sleeps –THE ALFEE

THE ALFEE – Joker — The City That Never Sleeps [Our Budokan 2020]
Joker - The City That Never Sleeps -THE ALFEE

Released in 2020 as their 69th single, “Joker – The City That Never Sleeps -.” Used as the theme for the drama “Memory Investigation 2: Shinjuku East Police Station Case Files,” this song is a cheer anthem that looks toward the future, and I think it will especially resonate with those who have just moved to Tokyo or are new to living alone.

With its beautiful choral work and the trio’s harmonies offering encouragement, it’s a ballad filled with THE ALFEE’s feelings about their music and their wish to reach listeners during the COVID era.

I hope its sound continues to echo forever.

Popular Songs and Hidden Gems by THE ALFEE Highlighting Their Ensemble (21–30)

PrayerTHE ALFEE

THE ALFEE – Prayer [2017 Winter Festa]
PrayerTHE ALFEE

This song also has a really great atmosphere.

Even from the intro, it’s not a bright song—its image feels like the end of the century.

I get a message like, “Something might happen, but steel yourself.” For some reason, I really love this song.