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

My Rainy Valentinesutoreitenaa

Straightener is a four-piece rock band led by Atsushi Horie from Nagasaki Prefecture.

This track is included on their EP “Next Chapter EP,” released on October 29, 2025.

Written entirely in English, the song wraps you in a soothing, dreamlike sense of floating, created by layers of spatial guitar sounds.

The title might conjure images of a sweet Valentine’s Day, but in reality it’s an alternative piece imbued with the chill and quiet of rain, leaving a somewhat wistful aftertaste.

Its deep sonic world is captivating, as if it gently accompanies the sentimental mood that comes at winter’s end.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to alone on a drizzly February night, lost in thought in a warm room.

Spiralsutoreitenaa

Straightener, a band that has continued to lead the Japanese rock scene, enjoys strong support.

Their 2019 release “Spiral” opens with imagery of the sea in its first lines.

It’s an uplifting anthem that encourages everyone with a dream, so give it a listen when you’re feeling down or troubled.

DAY TO DAYsutoreitenaa

Straightener – Music video “DAY TO DAY” (full version) featuring actor Yudai Chiba
DAY TO DAYsutoreitenaa

It’s their 20th major single, released on November 11, 2015.

The music video features the popular actor Yudai Chiba.

Despite being mid-tempo, the weight of the sound in the intro and interlude is really cool.

The lyrics evoke a touch of sadness.

Boy Friendsutoreitenaa

When it comes to songs that gently keep you company on lonely nights, “Boy Friend” comes to mind.

Released in 2018 by Straightener, a band that has led the Japanese rock scene since the 2000s, it features a striking band sound with guitars colored by tremolo and reverb.

The lyrics express the joy and gratitude of meeting a loved one, perfectly matching the subtly wistful tone of the track.

Its airy melody unfolds at a medium tempo and resonates deeply with the heart.

How about listening to it while gazing at the nighttime cityscape?

BLACK EYEDsutoreitenaa

A track with a downer vibe and technical sound that stands out as a curveball within their catalog.

It was chosen as the ending theme for the overseas drama “PERSON of INTEREST” (aired on the NTV network in Japan) and is one of the signature songs from the 2013 release Resplendent.

In particular, Hidetsuka Hinata’s (aka Hinacchi) technical bass lines are immensely satisfying to listen to.

KILLER TUNE [Natural Born Killer Tune Mix]sutoreitenaa

Straightener – KILLER TUNE [Natural Born Killer Tune Mix] LIVE Ver.
KILLER TUNE [Natural Born Killer Tune Mix]sutoreitenaa

It’s a single released in December 2004, but the Natural Born Killer Tune Mix is included on the album “TITLE,” which came out in January 2005.

If you look closely at the lyrics, the initial letters follow the alphabetical order from A to K, making for a playful set of lyrics.

Little Miss Weekendsutoreitenaa

Straightener – Little Miss Weekend
Little Miss Weekendsutoreitenaa

This is an uptempo track featuring a robust, quintessentially Tenor sound.

Centered on a simple yet powerful four-on-the-floor beat, it unleashes danceable arrangements in rapid succession, delivering an intense experience that never lets up from start to finish.