[Hidden Gem] Japanese Songs You'll Want to Share with Someone Right Now

Crimson at duskASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

Asian Kung-Fu Generation – Yuugure No Aka

This is a hidden gem by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, the four-piece rock band affectionately known as Ajikan, and it was included as the B-side to their smash hit “Rewrite.” The steady, understated guitar work is cool and incredibly satisfying, isn’t it? Have you ever watched a sunset dye the sky deep red and felt the grandeur of nature, realizing how small we humans are and how trivial your worries really are? This is the song I want you to listen to in those moments.

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miyabi

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birds (in 2022)DISH//

DISH// – birds (in 2022) [Official Video]

DISH// is a four-piece rock band fronted by actor Takumi Kitamura as vocalist.

Many people are familiar with their well-known songs like “Neko” and “Jinchōge.” A hidden gem of theirs is “birds,” a track included on DISH//’s first album MAIN DISH.

In 2022, they also released a retake titled “birds (in 2022).” It’s fun to compare the two and focus on the differences in vocal delivery!

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yamamoto

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Once…EGO-WRAPPIN’

EGO-WRAPPIN' 'Once...'

With a subdued yet sensual saxophone tone making a striking impression in the intro, listeners are immediately drawn into the world of the song.

This is “Once…” (“Katsute…”) by the Osaka-born duo EGO-WRAPPIN’, released in 2001.

It’s included on the album Midnight Deja Vu (Michishio no Romance).

By skillfully blending elements of jazz blues and Japanese kayōkyoku, EGO-WRAPPIN’ have forged a style all their own.

In this track, carried by a waltz rhythm, you can savor refined performances on guitar, piano, bass, and horns.

Rising even more freely and resoundingly above those instruments is the voice of vocalist Yoshie Nakano.

When it comes to creativity as a vocalist, no one surpasses her.

“Once…,” EGO-WRAPPIN’s song about an adult parting—be sure to give it a listen.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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All LightTokyo No.1 soulset feat. Harada Ikuko

TOKYO No.1 SOUL SET – All Becomes Light ft. Ikuko Harada

This indescribable melancholy—Harada Ikuko as the guest vocalist is just wonderful.

She collaborates with all kinds of artists, doesn’t she? No matter who she plays with, her own color never wavers.

The Soul Set’s airy, laid-back performance is great too.

If you listen to it when you’re feeling blue, it’ll pile even more gloom on top—but that feeling is somehow comforting.

LONELY NIGHTStofubeats

tofubeats – LONELY NIGHTS

This is a track by tofubeats that depicts a lonely night.

Released in May 2017, it’s included on the album “FANTASY CLUB.” Its emotional atmosphere, wistful melody, and sounds that feel like racing through a city at night are striking.

The song portrays the loneliness of youth and the feelings one has in the nighttime streets, highlighted by a compelling collaboration between tofubeats and KEIJU.

It’s recommended for night drives or spending time alone, and it resonates with anyone who feels lonely.

Blending an urban vibe with youthful sensibilities, it’s a track you should definitely check out.

spectatingRin to shite Shigure

spectating

It’s a gouging, reverberant rock sound that feels like it forcibly drags emotions out from the depths of your heart.

It’s a track by the band Ling tosite sigure, known for their edgy musicality, included on their first album “#4,” released in 2005.

The piece is notable for its deeply reverberant guitar sound, starting with a quiet atmosphere and then surging into a passionate development midway through.

And the sparse lyrics really pierce you.

Turn up the volume when you listen—by all means.

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Araki Jakkan

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On the night when the stars disappearedAimer

Aimer 'On the Night the Stars Disappeared'

A song by Aimer, a female singer whose emotional, husky voice has earned high acclaim in Japan and abroad.

It’s included on her 5th single, RE:I AM EP, and was also featured in 2022 as the title track of the compilation album “Hoshi no Kieta Yoru ni” (On the Night the Stars Disappeared).

The transparent, airy ensemble and heartrending melody that evoke the title have a soothing quality that makes you want to keep listening.

With lyrics that seem to stand by you through everyday worries and stress, it’s a dreamy ballad that gently heals the heart.

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Hoshino Takashi

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