RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

Masterpieces and popular songs by Tokyo Jihen

Here are some songs by Tokyo Jihen, the rock band centered around Ringo Sheena, who is also active as a solo artist.

Although Tokyo Jihen disbanded in 2012 to much regret, we received the happy news of their “reboot” at the start of 2020!

Their appeal lies in the mysterious power of their music: it isn’t exactly pop, yet it’s catchy and irresistibly listenable, combined with the high level of musicianship of each member.

The band was formed when Ringo Sheena, who was working solo at the time, found it difficult to maintain her motivation and thought, “If I compose as though I’m writing songs for band members, maybe I’ll feel more inspired.”

With that origin in mind, give another listen to the many masterpieces that Tokyo Jihen has created.

Tokyo Jihen’s classic and popular songs (41–50)

secretToukyou Jihen

Five of us who met online performed and sang Tokyo Jihen’s “Himitsu.”
secretToukyou Jihen

I don’t think I can possibly put Jihen into words, so I really want you to listen.

The live version of “Himitsu” is a great example, but their live arrangements are always awesome.

They also put a lot of care into the visuals, and I think they’re truly a band that captivates.

Makunouchi SadisticToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – Makunouchi Sadistic
Makunouchi SadisticToukyou Jihen

A youth song by Tokyo Jihen that sparked buzz with a thematic concept serving as a sequel to one of their own masterpieces.

While it contains comedic elements, its high sophistication shines through.

Its overwhelming, sustained excitement gives it a cool allure that makes you want to listen to it in September.

Drowning requestToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents “Drowning Wish” Copy/Cover [Bass]
Drowning requestToukyou Jihen

It’s a song that feels really good to sing.

The melody in the chorus is especially satisfying to sing, and it makes it easy to express a sense of urgent, gloomy emotion.

That’s why when I’m stressed, this is the song I sing the most when I go to karaoke alone.

homesickness for one’s homelandToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Jihen – Patriotic Sentiment Guitar Cover
homesickness for one’s homelandToukyou Jihen

Both the lyrics and the melody are very cute.

It has a tranquil scent of old, good Japan that somehow evokes Kagurazaka on a holiday afternoon.

The drum rhythm adds a lot of flavor and is quite distinctive.

I think the depiction is very characteristic of Ringo Sheena, who loves cats.

FOULToukyou Jihen

동경사변 -본 보야지 – FOUL
FOULToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Jihen can drastically change their vibe from song to song, and this track feels like a distillation of everything cool about them.

The lyrics are delivered in sharp, clipped phrases, the guitar drives forward with an infectious groove—every part of the song is saturated with style.

Savor Tokyo Jihen’s head-turning, hard-hitting cool.

superstarToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Jihen - Superstar - Live (with lyrics)
superstarToukyou Jihen

It’s said that Shiina Ringo composed this song while thinking of her idol, Ichiro, and he actually commented on the work himself during an interview.

Many people can probably relate to the feeling of admiring someone on TV while at the same time seeing yourself as small.

Absolute value vs. relative valueToukyou Jihen

[MAD] Poppy the Performer × Absolute Value vs. Relative Value
Absolute value vs. relative valueToukyou Jihen

This song is from Tokyo Jihen’s 2011 album Discovery.

Their albums often include one track that’s quite idiosyncratic—a quirky curveball that hardcore fans adore—and Zettaichi Tai Sotaichi may be one of those.

With its fast tempo, enigmatic lyrics and sound, it’s a striking, impactful track.