Color Bars (EP) cover

Color Bars (EP)

Tokyo Jihen · 2012

21 min · 5 tracks · pop music

A vibrant fusion of pop and jazz, weaving intricate melodies with a playful yet sophisticated flair.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    今夜はから騒ぎ — This opening track sets an energetic tone with its infectious rhythm and captivating hooks, embodying the EP's eclectic spirit.
  • →
    タイムカプセル — The song features reflective lyrics that explore nostalgia, paired with a smooth jazz arrangement that highlights the band's versatility.
  • →
    ほんとのところ — With its poignant vocal delivery and intricate instrumentation, this track showcases the emotional depth present throughout the EP.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases intricate compositions and strong production, blending pop and jazz effectively.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a lively tempo and layered instrumentation, immediately establishing a vibrant atmosphere.
  • The EP closes with a ballad that contrasts the upbeat nature of the previous tracks, providing a reflective conclusion.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo groove throughout
  • for casual gatherings
  • vibrant sound for afternoon drives
  • engaging melodies for light moods

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tracks
  • prefer lengthy immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2012, 'Color Bars' is Tokyo Jihen's first EP following their acclaimed album 'Sports' in 2010. This release came during a period of artistic exploration for the band, showcasing their ability to blend genres and innovate within the Japanese music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Cornelius· Shugo Tokumaru· Yuksek

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 今夜はから騒ぎ 3:42
  • 2 怪ホラーダスト 3:40
  • 3 タイムカプセル 4:17
  • 4 sa_i_ta 5:29
  • 5 ほんとのところ 4:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata