A collection of Stray Tenor’s gem-like songs that resonate deep in the heart. Melodic masterpieces.
Since their formation in 1998, STRAIGHTENER has continued to lead Japan’s rock scene.
Beginning with early alternative rock and evolving by incorporating elements of pop and electronica, their music has changed with the times while consistently pursuing melodic beauty.
Atsushi Horie’s poetic, soul-soothing lyrics, woven together with sophisticated sound arrangements, have kept listeners enthralled.
Here, we present a selection of timeless masterpieces born from their remarkable career.
A collection of Stray Tones’ gem-like songs that resonate with the heart. Melodic masterpieces (1–10)
sea glasssutoreitenaa
It’s a gem-like song that captures the fleeting light and wistfulness of summer’s end.
Atsushi Horie’s poetic world is portrayed by overlaying the evolving relationship and shared memories of two people onto a shard of glass whose corners have been rounded by the waves.
The pure desire to see the world through a loved one’s eyes rides on a driving sound and really hits home.
Released in April 2016, the track was later included on the album “COLD DISC.” Its popularity is clear from placing second in the fan vote for the best-of compilation.
On nights when you want to reminisce a little about the season that’s passed, its beautiful melody will gently accompany your sentimental heart.
TRAINsutoreitenaa
The title track of Straightener’s eighth single.
With a full-on sense of speed and a sound that’s straightforward yet powerful, it’s truly a definitive “this is Tenner” masterpiece.
It also marks a milestone for the band, as this release saw their first appearance on TV Asahi’s popular music program Music Station.
ROCKSTEADYsutoreitenaa
With its exhilarating drive, solid sound, and piercingly good melody, this ultimate uptempo anthem has been beloved from their indie days to the present.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call it their signature work—one of the all-time masterpieces in the history of Japanese rock.
It’s a self-explanatory track with a mysterious power that gives you a push when you’re ready to take that first step.
Melodic Stormsutoreitenaa
It’s the title track of Straightener’s fifth single.
An anthemic song of theirs, its sense of speed, razor-sharp sound, and great melody seize listeners’ hearts and carry a force that makes fists shoot into the air almost involuntarily—like magic.
It’s a timeless masterpiece that has become the soundtrack of many people’s youth.
Winter Sunsutoreitenaa
This work is characterized by a rush of great melodies—a sparkle packed into a single track like the sun rising in winter.
The 8th full album featuring this piece, “Behind The Scene,” reached No.
4 on the charts, tying the highest position of their career.
It’s a release that conveys an unfading sense of self—something only they, having overcome many hardships and built a long, fulfilling career, could achieve.
COME and GOsutoreitenaa
A gem of a rock tune released in August 2024 that resonates across generations.
Its distinctive sound and emotional lyrics blend together, leaving a deep impression on listeners.
Carefully depicting the struggle with loneliness and inner conflict, it delivers an empowering message that encourages you to look ahead.
With Straightener’s signature edgy sound balanced perfectly with a modern, synth-driven vibe, it’s a must-listen not only for rock fans but also for anyone who connects with introspective lyrics.
REMINDERsutoreitenaa
With the spread of the iPhone, reminders have also become mainstream, and they’re such a useful tool, aren’t they? They help prevent us from forgetting things.
By the way, what do you think about the idea that music can serve as an emotional reminder? The music we listened to in our teens can bring back the feelings we had at the time.
It’s a very bittersweet song.
Screaming Starsutoreitenaa
An emotional guitar rock track that makes your heart race from the very first notes of the intro.
The song portrays the feelings of a protagonist who carries a strong resolve as they move from past to future, and its raw urgency—like a cry reaching toward a distant light—hits home even as it grapples with anxiety and inner conflict.
Released in October 2020 and included on the album “Applause,” it left a deep impression on many fans when it was performed for the first time during the September 2020 streaming live show.
It’s a song that gives you the courage to shake off hesitation on nights when you long to change something but can’t quite take that final step.
A powerful track that pushes you forward, assuring you that even in the dark, you can still find hope.
From Noon Till Dawnsutoreitenaa
With a brass section resounding triumphantly from the intro, this track sets hearts racing as if announcing the start of a grand adventure.
In the world of lyrics woven by Atsushi Horie, you can picture a protagonist single-mindedly pressing toward the light along a long road that runs from noon until dawn.
Straightener’s muscular rock sound, adorned with the vibrant colors of guest brass players, creates a driving momentum that stirs the listener’s spirit.
Released in October 2012 as the band’s 15th single, the song served as the opening theme for the drama “Yūsha Yoshihiko to Akuryō no Kagi” (The Hero Yoshihiko and the Key of the Evil Spirit).
When you’re striving toward a big goal, listening to this piece might give you a firm push forward, telling you, “You’ve still got more in you.”
iridescent cloudssutoreitenaa
This is a medium-tempo number rich with color, depicting a deep bond between hearts and a single-minded love that continues even when apart.
Atsushi Horie’s poetic lyrics and emotional vocals ride a beautiful melody that sinks deep into the heart.
Included on the album “Behind The Scene,” released in October 2014, the track was voted third in a fan poll for inclusion on the best-of album, suggesting it holds a special place for many listeners.
Because there is someone precious to us, we can keep going tomorrow—perhaps this song embodies that universal form of love.
On a quiet night of solitary reflection, listening to this piece will surely kindle a warm light in your heart.