ASP News

ASP Year 1 Japanese student. Music and culture.

We have just opened the door and gazed into the wicked world of Japanese music. We have fairly touched Jrock and only given you an unfair little taste of Jpop. But this time will be a bit different. I will introduce you (who do not already know about this band) to a more stylish and [...]

In the jungle of Japan’s music industry, you will find lots and lots of different artists. There is a great danger to get lost and drown in all that weird music. But surely, every country has their own superstar. Kumi Koda (倖田 來未) is Japan’s Britney Spears/Christina Aguilera (you-name-it) R’n’B/pop-queen. Sexy and sweet, she is [...]

Welcome to the world of Visual Kei, Japanese rock! This time D’espairsRay will be the topic. The band was formed in 1999 by Hizumi, Karyu, Zero, and Tsukasa. They have toured in Europe and USA, and have actually been in Denmark too, where they played in Pumpehuset Copenhagen in 2006. Their latest appearance was during [...]

During the next couple of months, Renmin Shinbun will bring a portrait of a Japanese record artist for every issue. This month, Japanese pretty-boy, Gackt is in focus. Gackt Camui (神威 楽斗) was born in Okinawa, Japan in 1974 and is a famous Japanese celebrity. Not only is he a musician and songwriter, but he [...]