Narita

A venerable New York City-born heavy metal outfit that found success in the 1980s via their driving blend of arena-ready hard rock and anthemic power metal, Riot's popularity waxed and waned with the changing musical tides over the years, but they maintained a sizeable fan base overseas, especially in Japan, where they remained a huge draw well into the 2010s. Founded in 1976 under the leadership of guitarist/songwriter Mark Reale – the band's sole constant member – Riot is known for their strong melodies and technical acumen, and for the distinctive baby seal face that adorned nearly all of their album covers – the mascot is affectionately referred to as "Johnny." Since becoming active in the late 1970s, Riot has released nearly 20 studio LPs, with highlights arriving via Fire Down Under (1981), Thundersteel (1988), and Immortal Soul (2011). After Reale passed away in 2012, the surviving members began operating under the moniker Riot V…

The Vanity Records box sets present a comprehensive anthology of releases by legendary Japanese DIY label Vanity, active in the late 70s and early 80s. It was conceived by Studio Warp, in collaboration with Agi Yuzuru and the whole roster of artists involved with Vanity. Eight years in the making, the limited edition project is finally seeing the light of day on October 21st 2019, with distribution duties handled by Kyou Records in Japan and WRWTFWW Records in the rest of the world.

Following successful disco excavation from the Caribbean to South Africa, we booked a first class ticket to Narita to bring you the latest release, Tokyo Nights: Female J-Pop Boogie Funk: 1981 to 1988. This compilation presents 12 of the most memorable and sought-after songs of the era recorded by female artists. The music is a reflection of the unbridled optimism, technological achievement, excess and exuberance of Bubble-era Japan. More than catchy melodies and funky baselines, these are reflections of a time when Japan was the center - and future - of the world.