What makes The Very Best of Japan by Japan notable?

The album underscores Japan's impact on the new wave genre, with notable singles like Ghosts reaching significant chart positions during their original releases. Critics have acknowledged their innovative use of synthesizers and art rock aesthetics, influencing numerous artists across various genres. The compilation also introduced Japan's music to a new generation, revitalizing interest in their catalog. Released in 2006, The Very Best of Japan compiles tracks from the band's influential run in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This compilation came after Japan's disbandment in 1984, serving as a retrospective of their artistic journey and evolution. It highlights how their experimental sound paved the way for later electronic and pop music movements.

Who is The Very Best of Japan for?

The Very Best of Japan works well if you're into wave-like pacing for introspection, dynamic flow with emotional peaks and for evening relaxation.

How many songs are on The Very Best of Japan?

The Very Best of Japan has 15 tracks, running approximately 73 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

The Very Best of Japan

Japan · 2006

73 min · 15 tracks · new wave

An atmospheric blend of synth-driven melodies and introspective lyrics, capturing the essence of new wave's melodic innovation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ghosts (single version) — This track exemplifies Japan's ethereal sound, featuring haunting melodies and introspective lyrics that define their signature style. Its prominent use of synthesizers marks a milestone in new wave music.
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Quiet Life (7″ version) — With its lush instrumentation and reflective themes, this song captures the essence of urban melancholy that permeates much of Japan's work, showcasing their lyrical depth.
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Gentlemen Take Polaroids — This track melds jazz influences with electronic textures, embodying the band’s unique fusion approach and demonstrating their innovative spirit within the new wave genre.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing for introspection
dynamic flow with emotional peaks
for evening relaxation
nostalgic vibes for reflective moments
engaging soundscapes for focus

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
seek straightforward single tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2006, The Very Best of Japan compiles tracks from the band's influential run in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This compilation came after Japan's disbandment in 1984, serving as a retrospective of their artistic journey and evolution. It highlights how their experimental sound paved the way for later electronic and pop music movements.
Stylistic neighbors: Gary Numan· Duran Duran· Talk Talk

New to Japan? Find your way in →

Tracklist

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

1 Ghosts (single version) 3:59
2 I Second That Emotion (single mix) 3:47
3 Quiet Life (7″ version) 3:54
4 Gentlemen Take Polaroids 7:08
5 The Art of Parties (single version) 6:45
6 Visions of China 3:40
7 Taking Islands in Africa (Steve Nye remix) 4:57
8 European Son (single mix) 3:39
9 Cantonese Boy 3:49
10 Life in Tokyo, Part 1 (special remix) 4:03
11 Nightporter 7:00
12 Methods of Dance 6:56
13 All Tomorrow’s Parties (7″ version) 3:35
14 Canton (live) 5:30
15 Ghosts (album version) 4:38

What to play next

Go back to

Japan Is the Masterpiece, but New Too

1996

Full Japan discography Where to start with Japan Artists like Japan

new wave

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata