Nightmare – Rewrite (review)
Nightmare Rewrite Review by Jen Wang Nightmare has always been an unpredictable band, and their latest single, Rewrite, definitely captures tContinue reading…
Category: Reviews
Critical analysis of the sounds and stories shaping modern Japan. From the visceral energy of live rock, pop, and idol performances to the subtle mastery of award-winning manga and deeply personal films, our reviews offer an expert lens on the craftsmanship, production, and cultural legacy of Japanese media.
Leo Ieiri – a boy (Review)
Leo Ieiri a boy Review by Kelly-Mae Matt Leo Ieiri’s second album a boy is the first album I have heard from the singer in full, introducing Continue reading…
Cibo Matto – Hotel Valentine (Review)
Cibo Matto Hotel Valentine Review by David Cirone Funny, tragic, and mesmerizing, Cibo Matto’s Hotel Valentine is a return to form, and then Continue reading…
Yui Ogura – Charming Do! (Review)
Yui Ogura Charming Do! Review by Kelly-Mae Matt Charming Do! is Yui Ogura’s latest release which sports a fresh and energetic sound that is Continue reading…
xxxHOLiC (Series Review)
xxxHOLiC Review by Jen Wang The live-action adaptation of CLAMP’s hit manga, xxxHOLiC (pronounced “holic”), is part gothic thriller and part fContinue reading…
moumoon – Love before we Die (Review)
moumoon Love before we Die Review by David Cirone moumoon’s Love before we Die is a dreamy, well-crafted follow-up to last year’s Pain KillerContinue reading…
The Blue Hearts – Super Best (Review)
RETRO REVIEW The Blue Hearts Super Best Review by David Cirone You’d think the Clash had a Japanese brother, so brace yourself. When you cContinue reading…
Death Note (Film Review)
DEATH NOTE (2006) Review by David Cirone SUMMARY Overachieving high-school student and future prosecutor Light Yagami (Tatsuya Fujiwara) discContinue reading…
Kra – Life – Today is a good day to Die (review)
RETRO REVIEW Kra Life ~Today is a good day to Die~ Review by Jen Wang The unusual title of Kra’s 2009 album, Life ~Today is a good day tContinue reading…
WHITE ASH – Ciao, Fake Kings (Review)
WHITE ASH Ciao, Fake Kings Review by David Cirone Hot off the success of their Gatchaman Crowds theme, young J-Rock band WHITE ASH proves itsContinue reading…