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 Straightener’s soul-stirring gem-like tracks. Melodic masterpieces (41–50)

VANDALISMsutoreitenaa

Straightener – VANDALISM -Prototype-
VANDALISMsutoreitenaa

According to the members, this ambitious work was created with the intention of ‘throwing a stone into the pond’ and stirring things up.

Although its release was delayed due to the impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake and other setbacks, it achieved a respectable peak of 13th on the Oricon Singles Chart.

Another distinctive feature is its unconventional format, with different types of VANDALISM included on a single release, showcasing the playful spirit of the four members.

KINGMAKERsutoreitenaa

Formed mainly by childhood friends since their middle school days, Straightener is a four-piece rock band performing under a name that means “one who makes things straight.” Their song “KINGMAKER,” included on their major 7th album STRAIGHTENER, is striking for its waltz-time beat featuring edgy guitar sounds.

Along with a bassline that moves throughout the entire track, the slap-driven solo showcases just how cool the bass can be as an instrument.

It’s a powerful rock tune whose low end, supporting the hysteric sound, lingers in your ears.

From Noon Till Dawn (feat.Tabu Zombie & Kunikazu Tanaka)sutoreitenaa

Formed in 1998, Straightener is an alternative rock band.

This track features guest appearances by Tabu Zombie, the trumpeter from SOIL & “PIMP” SESSIONS, and saxophonist Kunikazu Tanaka.

It was used as the theme song for the drama “The Hero Yoshihiko and the Key of the Evil Spirits.” With the addition of horns, it’s an even more powerful and cool track.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTsutoreitenaa

STRAIGHTENER – GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST
GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTsutoreitenaa

The song, which has that sophisticated coolness characteristic of Straightener, is “GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST.” Despite its mellow mood, you can really feel the band’s groove.

It’s a track that captures not only the happy vibe of Christmas but also the band’s cool factor, so it’s definitely a song you’ll want to try.

KILLER TUNEsutoreitenaa

Formed in 1998 by Atsushi Horie and Shinpei Nakayama.

Bassist Hidekazu Hinata joined when they made their major-label debut in 2003, and in 2008 former ART-SCHOOL member Jun Oyama came on board.

They are now active as a four-piece band.

Their melodic, bittersweet songs and hard-hitting rock tunes both pack a punch.

Silver Liningsutoreitenaa

Here’s a song by Straightener that was released digitally in September.

The title, “silver lining,” in English refers to a single ray of light shining through a break in the clouds.

The melody spans a wide range, but it’s still fairly easy to remember.

The C section that comes in later has slightly tricky tonality and may be hard to pitch accurately, so it’s a good idea to practice just that part thoroughly.

The rhythm is also at a tempo that’s easy to groove to.

synchronizationsutoreitenaa

This is a moving song by Straightener, whose energetic yet profound lyrics shape the band’s unique identity.

The arrangement is simple but blends seamlessly with the summer vacation vibe, showcasing high-level vocal prowess.