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)

After the dreamToukyou Jihen

This is the final track included on Tokyo Jihen’s album “Kyōiku.” Personally, since it’s a song created after Ringo Sheena experienced pregnancy and childbirth, I listen to it feeling that you can catch a glimpse of the change in her emotions.

It’s a very gentle, motherly song.

Tokyo Jihen’s classic and popular songs (51–60)

heartToukyou Jihen

Truly, the artist Tokyo Jihen packs something weighty precisely into their simple titles.

It isn’t a song with big climaxes or dramatic peaks.

And yet, the pull that seizes you and won’t let go feels utterly mysterious.

It’s a track I want you to listen to with your mind emptied, while carefully reading the lyrics.

LetterToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents - Letter (I tried playing it) @Nekokumo
LetterToukyou Jihen

A song by Tokyo Jihen included at the end of the album “Adult.” The lyrics are written in the form of a letter.

The worldview woven by the wistful strings and the rock band sound performed by Tokyo Jihen is truly beautiful.

EducationToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – Ultramarine Weather
EducationToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents’ first album, Kyōiku, released in 2004.

Many rock fans will likely recognize the red-and-white cover emblazoned with the origami crane logo.

In addition to the debut single Gunjo Biyori and the second single Sōnan, the album is packed with tracks that cross over a variety of musical genres.

It’s also the only album recorded by the band’s original lineup, which is one reason this work stands as a landmark masterpiece.

Once a man and a womanToukyou Jihen

02 Once Men and Women (Tokyo Incidents cover) / Kurobikari Ringo
Once a man and a womanToukyou Jihen

Perhaps they are old now; as the title suggests, the song’s tone evokes the everyday life of a couple who have been together for many years.

It doesn’t have the energetic vigor of youth, yet it conveys a heartwarming sense that the passion between them as a married couple might flare up again.

Farewell at Thirty-TwoToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – Farewell at Thirty-Two (Sugarhate cover)
Farewell at Thirty-TwoToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Jihen, the band led by Ringo Sheena that disbanded in 2012.

The song they released just before breaking up, “Farewell at Thirty-Two,” is one I’d love adults troubled by love to hear.

It captures the kind of heartache children can’t grasp and those inescapable regrets, expressing them through dramatic performance—and offering solace.

Proof of Eternal AbsenceToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – The Eternal Alibi of Absence
Proof of Eternal AbsenceToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Jihen, Japan’s premier musical collective, disbanded in 2012 and resumed activities in 2020.

This song is one from their post-revival era.

Beyond each member’s exceptional musicianship, the tracks powered by Ringo Sheena’s charismatic presence and utterly unique vocals are must-hears.

The coexistence of deep, refined musicality and catchiness is brilliant, offering countless highlights.

And after the vocal part ends near the close of the track, the groove shifts dramatically in the outro—goosebumps guaranteed.