News
Tokyo Jihen · 2020
20 min · 5 tracks · pop music
A vibrant fusion of pop, rock, and smooth jazz with intricate arrangements and sharp lyrical commentary.
Top tracks — play these first
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選ばれざる国民 — This opening track sets the tone for the EP with its catchy melody and biting critique of societal norms, encapsulating the band's signature sound.
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猫の手は借りて — With its playful instrumentation and clever lyrics about seeking help in chaotic times, this track represents a lighter yet poignant aspect of the album.
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永遠の不在証明 — This closing track dives into themes of absence and longing, showcasing Tokyo Jihen's ability to blend emotional depth with engaging melodies.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP blends genres with intricate arrangements and sharp lyrics, showcasing a strong return to form for the band.
What we noticed
- Each song incorporates shifts in tempo and dynamics, often transitioning from smooth jazz sections to more energetic pop-rock choruses.
- Lyrically, the tracks engage with contemporary social themes, using sharp commentary that complements the musical arrangements.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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 flow throughout
- short bursts of engaging energy
- for urban exploration
- playful rhythms for light moods
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer album experiences
- need high-energy instant gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on April 8, 2020, 'News' marked Tokyo Jihen's first new material in five years following their hiatus after the album 'Daidai' in 2015. This EP showcases a return to form as they blend diverse genres while addressing contemporary issues through their lyrics.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Cornelius· Shugo Tokumaru· Yuksek
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 選ばれざる国民 4:12
- 2 うるうるうるう 4:09
- 3 現役プレイヤー 3:00
- 4 猫の手は借りて 4:15
- 5 永遠の不在証明 4:23
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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