Masterpieces by Spitz: A list of recommended popular songs and signature tracks

If I could live with yousupittsu

Spitz – 11 If I Could Live With You (Kimi to Kurasetara)

A medium-tempo number filled with gentle warmth that helps you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

While it doesn’t have any flashy climaxes, its worldview—depicting the small joys of daily life with a touch of wistfulness—deeply resonates with listeners.

It was included as the closing track on the sixth album, “Hachimitsu,” released in September 1995.

Though it wasn’t released as a single, it has long been cherished by fans as a crucial piece that defines the lingering afterglow of this classic album.

With few leaps in vocal range and a simple melody, it’s something you can sing naturally and without strain.

It’s a perfect song for moments when you want to feel the preciousness of ordinary time spent with someone dear, or when you wish to quietly lose yourself in thought on a still night.

Grasshoppersupittsu

Spitz 10 – Grasshopper

The bouncy rhythm and exhilarating, fast-paced guitar sound feel absolutely amazing! Masamune Kusano’s distinctive word choices and catchy melodies have a captivating charm that grabs listeners and won’t let go.

Though it wasn’t released as a single, this track—featured in the latter half of the classic 1995 album “Honey (Hachimitsu)”—has long been a fan favorite.

It also drew attention in 2015 when ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION covered it for a tribute project.

The vocal range isn’t very wide, and its upbeat tempo makes it easy to try at karaoke.

Put it on as driving BGM, and it’s a pop tune guaranteed to lift your spirits along with the passing scenery.

Beyond the purple nightsupittsu

Spitz / Beyond the Purple Night

The way the scene gradually opens up from the darkness and the gentle melody befitting the end of the day really lingers in your ears, doesn’t it? Even while carrying pain and loneliness, the worldview of the lyrics—quietly trying to make it through the night—seems to gently stay close to the hearts of those of us living today.

Released in March 2021, marking the 30th anniversary of their major debut, this piece was written as the ending theme for TBS’s news program “news23.” It was later included on the album “Himitsu Studio.” Listening alone in the stillness of late night, reflecting on the day, you might even feel a faint hope for tomorrow.

Stay nakedsupittsu

Spitz / As We Are (Naked)

A pop number whose effervescent funk rhythm and dazzling horn section set your heart dancing.

Released in July 1993 as their sixth single, it was later included on the acclaimed album “Crispy!”.

With Masanori Sasaji brought in as producer, the fresh arrangement boldly adds strings and more to the band’s established sound.

It’s also known for featuring the group’s first straightforward use of the word “I love you” in the lyrics, marking a turning point from an introspective image to a brighter worldview.

It became a radio favorite, including being selected for heavy rotation on FM802.

The chorus melody is expansive and pleasant—perfect for livening up a drive or karaoke session with friends.

Ysupittsu

Spitz 09 – Y

With lyrics that evoke bittersweet farewells and life’s crossroads, paired with a lyrical melody that tightens the chest, this mid-tempo ballad leaves you feeling cleansed each time you listen.

Featured on the classic 1995 album “Honey,” this track was never released as a single, yet it has graced numerous screen productions across eras, including the 1996 drama “Hakusen Nagashi” and the 2022 hit “silent,” making it a celebrated insert song.

It’s the kind of piece you’ll want to sink into alone on a quiet night; while it lacks flashy shifts, that restraint lets you fully immerse yourself in its world.

The vocal range isn’t particularly wide, and there are few belted high notes, making it an excellent choice when you want to deliver a tender performance at karaoke.

never wake upsupittsu

Spitz / Samenai (Never Waking Up)

This is the title track that opens their 15th studio album, “Samena i,” a number packed with their early impulses as a rock band and an inexhaustible passion for music.

Included on the album released in July 2016, it’s a song beloved by fans for its vital place in later tours as well.

In the music video, characters modeled after the members from their indie days appear, and a back-to-basics, muscular band sound rings out.

Masamune Kusano puts into unique words the shock of rock he felt in his youth, and it’s moving to see the resolve to keep running in pursuit of the dream even with age.

It’s an uptempo tune for adults who want to stay obsessed with something, or for those times when you want to reaffirm your own passion.

Hydrangea Streetsupittsu

Spitz 07 – Hydrangea Street

It’s a medium-tempo tune that, come the rainy season, I find myself irresistibly wanting to listen to—one that seems to carry the scent of rain.

It’s included on the classic album “Honey” (Hachimitsu) released in 1995 by Spitz, a band beloved by many listeners.

Though not released as a single, it’s highly regarded as a hidden gem where the seasonal feel of hydrangeas blends with a wistful melody.

A remastered edition came out in 2002, and the song has been cherished ever since.

The sound conjures scenes of the protagonist running through the rain, and Masamune Kusano’s clear, translucent vocals really sink into the heart.

It’s a track that gently keeps you company on gloomy rainy days or on quiet nights when you want to reflect.

I recommend giving the whole album a listen.