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 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.
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.
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.
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.