Galaxy Quest… The appearance of Babymetal’s Metal Galaxy album (see J-Pop Go review previously) seemed to spark up some debate in certain quarters (‘PA PA YA!!’ in particular), largely because although the variety of new influences on that album gave … Read More
Fragile love… Those familiar with the Japanese grassroots music scene in London will no doubt be familiar with singer/songwriter Jun Okada. A regular performer at many gigs, including open mic performances and impromptu shows at Japanese venues, Jun also spent … Read More
Odd Sting & Intrigue Kanon Wakeshima originally established herself over the years with a very distinct baroque pop approach to music, typified by her use of the cello and her work alongside Malice Mizer musician and producer Mana. Her 2008 … Read More
Lounge pop party It seems surprising that nearly ten years have passed since Kanon Wakeshima graced UK shores as a live performer. During those interleaving years her style has been undergoing something of an evolution from the classic ‘Lolita Pop’ … Read More
Slick and stylish moments Having combined the visual style of Gothic Lolita with a theatrical baroque pop approach to her music, Kanon Wakeshima swiftly won fans over with her 2008 debut ‘Still Doll’. Albums such as 2009’s Shinshoku Dolce and … Read More
2019 has been a mixed combo of winners in many genres, including some classic artists. Here’s the songs that J-Pop Go think stood out this year… BABYMETAL – PA PA YA!! With its bonkers screeching synth sounds, speedy guitars and … Read More
The year in J-pop… 2019 saw a mixed year of underground idol action, new releases from established acts and more than a few interesting UK-based events. Here’s J-Pop Go’s review of the year… The year started off with some sad … Read More
Fox God in Space Following the release of their 2016 album Metal Resistance (see J-Pop Go review previously), Babymetal seemed to be beset by a variety of dramas and tragedy. In 2018, the trio were reduced to two when Yuimetal … Read More
Bridging the UK and Japan Naomi Suzuki is no stranger to the flourishing Japanese cultural community in the UK. Having been at the forefront of London’s annual Japan Matsuri for many years, her many talents also include her songwriting and … Read More
Bridging cultures… October offers up Japanese pop with a UK jazz-funk twist care of the critically acclaimed James Taylor Quartet and UK-based singer Naomi Suzuki. The evening celebrates the Japan-UK Year of Culture with the Bridge Together Project – presenting … Read More