RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

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 StraiTener’s gems that resonate deep in the heart. Melodic masterpieces (11–20)

Graffitisutoreitenaa

A pop tune that freezes time with a sudden flash of past memories, then paints a vivid path toward the future for a heart that has stopped in its tracks.

Atsushi Horie’s poetic lyrics and the deliberately pared-back, subtractive arrangement gently seep into the listener’s soul.

Released as a single in April 2020, the track is also included on the album “Applause.” Its No.

1 spot on the weekly Oricon ROCK singles chart speaks to the support it received.

For those moments when you want to change but find yourself hesitating, it tells you, “You can grow stronger just as you are,” offering the courage to embrace your true self.

It’s a song that quietly stays close to anyone who feels on the verge of losing themselves amid waves of change.

primary colorsutoreitenaa

This song straightforwardly portrays the wish to remain true to oneself without being dyed by anyone else’s colors.

It’s not easy to stick to your own will without being swayed by others’ eyes and voices.

With a sound as radiant as daybreak, the track powerfully supports those who face forward while wrestling with such inner conflicts.

Released in May 2016, it opens the album “COLD DISC” and also served as the theme song for the film “U-31,” which depicts a soccer player’s comeback.

When you’re dealing with setbacks or on the verge of losing your sense of self, listening to it will give you a courage that feels like a light kindling in your heart.

A flock of sheep climbs the hill.sutoreitenaa

STRAIGHTENER – The flock of sheep climbs the hill
A flock of sheep climbs the hill.sutoreitenaa

This song poignantly sings of the nobility and loneliness of walking the path you believe in without being swept along by those around you.

Within a fable-like world, you can almost see a solitary figure breaking from the flock and aiming for the hilltop.

Atsushi Horie’s poetic lyrics, intertwined with a band ensemble that resounds at times fiercely and at times gently, delicately portray both determination and anxiety.

The track is one of the double A-side singles released in July 2011, and is also included on the acclaimed self-titled masterpiece “STRAIGHTENER.” Many listeners have likely felt on the verge of losing their sense of self within society or experienced loneliness.

This is a song that gently nudges you forward, telling you, “It’s okay to move at your own pace.”

lightSutoreitenā×Hata Motohiro

Straightener, Motohiro Hata – “Akari” MUSIC VIDEO
lightSutoreitenā×Hata Motohiro

In the clear winter air, this is a song that lights a warm flame in the heart as you think of someone precious.

As the voices of Atsushi Horie and Motohiro Hata—each with their own distinct appeal—intertwine, you can feel the story gain a striking depth.

The gentle waltz rhythm mirrors the hurried steps on the way home, enveloping listeners in a tender mood.

Released in November 2017 as Straightener’s first collaborative single, it also drew attention for being featured in the winter campaign commercial for Nagasaki Huis Ten Bosch.

It was later included on the album “Future Soundtrack.” Give it a listen on those homeward walks in the season when we long for connection—when you want a quiet warmth to rest close to your heart.

VANISHsutoreitenaa

The only new track included on the 2011 self-cover album “STOUT.” It’s a simple, high-energy uptempo number packed with their signature sense of speed.

The music video has a Western film vibe, features cameo appearances by all members of the telephones, and is intricately linked to the MV for “Prelude” by another sunnyday—a project featuring drummer Shinpei Nakayama and guitarist Jun Oyama outside of Straightener—showing particular attention to the visual production.

Additionally, the next album, “STRAIGHTER,” includes an alternate version titled “Prototype.”

Cinderella Songsutoreitenaa

This is the lead track included on the 2013 mini-album “Resplendent.” From the intro, it features a highly aggressive, upbeat arrangement.

Despite its brief runtime of just over two minutes, the song has a well-crafted sense of dynamics, making it a bona fide killer tune.

A collection of Stray Tenner’s soul-stirring gem-like songs. Melodic masterpieces (21–30)

TODAYsutoreitenaa

This is a track included on the mini-album “Immortal,” released in November 2007.

The bass solo in the middle is really cool.

In a good way, it’s a song where the instruments stand out.

It pairs perfectly with the simple vocal melody and is an excellent track.