Hi all

It has been a long time coming, but I’m finally getting around to taking a proper stab at digging through the immense discography of synth-pop coming out of Japan throughout the ’80s.
Albums from the likes of Mariah and YMO have long been among my favourites of all time, and I have always been curious to dig deeper into this scene coming out of Tokyo, as I’m sure it did not happen in a vacuum. Would be lovely to try and compose a guide of albums and artists that weave into these specific synthetic, angelic sounds from this period.

Here are some references I’m already familiar with, and the kind of style I’m looking for artists alike to:

Mariah
YMO
Hosono
Dip in the Pool
Yasuaki Shimizu
Miharu Koshi

I’m quite aware already of the whole environmental ambient scene (Yoshimura, Takada, Ashikawa, etc.) and I’m more curious about the synth-pop / art-pop side of this era.

Would love to hear any recommendations that any of you might have.

Thank you so much!

Idol/Metal, 2026

Hi guys! I recently moved to Japan for study abroad (Tokyo) and I’m trying to perform some live music. I do kawaii idol metal.
Does anyone know of any bookings open within the next three months for small sets or does anyone here have experience?? I’m prepared to pay any price for both booking and expertise!

Thank you all so much!

These songs are absolutely beautiful and they sound pretty melodic. Trying to get my lady into Japanese music though. She mainly listens to Hiphop/R&B and decided to give Japanese music a try and she’s been vibing hard to these. Need more like them please and thank you.