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.
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A collection of Stray Tenner’s soul-stirring gem-like songs. Melodic masterpieces (21–30)
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
![KILLER TUNE [Natural Born Killer Tune Mix]sutoreitenaa](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/1BZh0IzapVQ/sddefault.jpg)
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.
A collection of Straightener’s gem-like songs that resonate deep in the heart. Melodic masterpieces (31–40)
BRAND NEW EVERYTHINGsutoreitenaa
A song included on Straightener’s 2012 single “From Noon Till Dawn.” It sings about the idea that, unless we pay attention, we might miss the small freedoms hidden in our everyday lives.
It’s a striking track that makes you realize the happiness and freedom that we often take for granted.
NO ~The Flower That Bloomed in the Wake of Life~sutoreitenaa
A song imbued with a strong anti-war message.
Released in July 2015, it was created to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of the war.
Its powerful lyrics, which speak to overcoming past losses and renewing hope and determination for the future, resonate deeply.
Also included on the album “COLD DISC,” it reached No.
19 on the Oricon charts.
It drew attention for Atsushi Horie, who is from Nagasaki, performing it in chorus with students from his alma mater.
When you want to reflect on war and peace, why not listen to this song? Its crystal-clear vocals and delicate melodies sink deeply into the listener’s heart.
The Future Is Nowsutoreitenaa
This is a single released by Straightener on April 11, 2018.
It was also chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Digimon ReArise, and the track captures a dynamic feel inspired by the anime’s world.
The “piko-piko” sound you hear in the intro and chorus isn’t a programmed sequence—it’s actually guitarist Jun Oyama producing that tone with effects on his guitar, which is pretty surprising.
AGAINST THE WALLsutoreitenaa
This track appears on their second full-length album released in 2005.
It has a somewhat nostalgic vibe, and the beautiful choral work in the chorus is one of its key charms.
The simple, straight-ahead arrangement further brings out the song’s emotional impact, making it one of the standout pieces that adorn their masterpiece-packed second album.
ALIBIsutoreitenaa
This track features a steady drum rhythm and a progression with a dark atmosphere.
The rhythm switches to half-time in the chorus, and the way it keeps building power until that point makes it a very cool song.
With its unique vibe and strong presence, this is a must-listen!