☆ MP3s are 128 kbps and not ripped from promotional videos
☆ Leave a comment if you download
☆ If you don't download anything, please do NOT comment
☆ Only those with Livejournal accounts may request
☆ Leave requests in the comments with "REQUEST" in the subject. Be specific as to what song(s) you ask for.
☆ Check your emails/comments because I will often answer requests ASAP.
☆ Don't hotlink
☆ Don't repost these songs elsewhere without credit please

R E A D Just to reiterate, updates are obviously now going to be infrequent. Otherwise, enjoy this delayed entry.

FILE EXPIRATION : 9/18

  

林憶蓮
「 一個人  」 3:44
Yi Ge Ren / Single Person
Mandarin, Cover, Dance, Pop
Hu Xi [CDA] : 2006.08.29
OFFICIAL WEB

Ash
「 B.L.T  」 3:10
English, Cover, Pop
I'm Ur Woman [CDA] : EKLD-0656 : 2005.10.20
OFFICIAL WEB

New Order
「 Bizarre Love Triangle  」 3:51
English, New Wave, Pop
Substance [CDA] : B000002LCK : 1987.08.11
OFFICIAL WEB

Sandy Lam Yik-Lin was a radio DJ in Hong Kong prior to signing a record deal in 1984. She started off as a teen idol, but progressed towards more mature styles. Eventually she starred in a few movies, later focusing solely on music. Sandy got married in 1989 and had a daughter. Today, she still releases music.

Ash (Han Soo Yeon) is a Korean singer who re-debuted in 2001 with "A Sad Song". Beforehand, she released an unsuccessful album. Ash was also a CCM singer in America and wrote English lyrics for other Korean singers, including Joanne and Kim Hyung Suk. Besides Korean, Ash speaks English as well. She was born in Saigon, Viet Nam.

I was originally going to upload just Ash's cover, but then I stumbled upon Sandy's as well. So why not just put them both up. Sandy's is probably closer to the original in terms of music, but it doesn't have the same '80s touch. Ash's is rather minimal, and she doesn't show off that powerful voice. "Bizarre Love Triangle" is a classic New Order song and one of my favorite songs of that decade.


 

STEREO VISION
「 WONDER WALL 」 2:46
English, Cover, Punk
Punk Rock Battle Royal 4 [CDA] : GNCL-1075 : 2006.09.06
OFFICIAL WEB

Oasis
「 Wonderwall  」 4:18
English, Alternative, Rock
(What's The Story) Morning Glory? [CDA] : B000002BBY : 1999.10.03
OFFICIAL WEB

STEREO VISION came together in 2001, but did not release albums until 2003. Their first album was Let's go to the party. The members of STEREO VISION are Lupin (vocals), Yasushi (guitars), Hiroshi (bass), Yuichi (guitars), and Shin (drums).

Lupin has some of the best English pronunciation I've heard from the slew of Japanese punk bands invading the indies scene. The band's punk tribute to this Oasis classic is pretty short but fun.


 

mink
「 One Suitcase 」 4:33
English, Pop
beautiful / One Suitcase [CDS] : RZCD-45267 : 2005.10.05
OFFICIAL WEB

Fey
「 Y Aqui Estoy  」 4:14
Spanish, Dance, Pop
Faltan Lunas [CDA] : B000GEU6CC : 2006.08.01
OFFICIAL WEB

Korean singer mink (Made In Korea) debuted on a compilation for rhythm zone artists called RZ the best of rhythm zone 2005. She covered Whitney Houston's "Run To You". Later in 2005, mink released a full debut album. Her first single, beautiful / One Suitcase, featured a song in the live-action film Initial D.

The songwriters of "One Suitcase" most likely sold the music to Fey's label. Anyway, I can't say I like Fey's version too much. Her voice isn't that great and the dance beat is really generic.


 

Tata Young
「 I Must Not Chase The Boys 」 2:56
English, Cover, Pop
Temperature Rising [CDA] : PYCE-6002 : 2006.08.23
OFFICIAL WEB

Play
「 I Must Not Chase The Boys 」 3:16
English, Pop
Replay [CDA] : 2003.06.10
OFFICIAL WEB

Amita Marie Young, or better known as Tata Young, is the daughter of an American father and a Thai mother. She debuted at fifteen-years old as a singer, later becoming an actress, too. In 2004, she released her international English debut, I Believe. It was released all throughout Asia, including Japan where she promoted it for a while. She returned to Thailand in 2005 to release a Thai album, Dangerous Tata. In 2006, she released her second English album, Temperature Rising.

I didn't realize Tata had a new album out. This new one has at least two covers, this and Monica's "For You I Will". I liked Play's version so I'm a little biased. Tata's is rather decent, but the song is kind of immature for her age. At least with Play, it made sense. And sadly, the girls in Play had better voices. Tata's cover has some R&B touches and does away with the rock esque chorus in Play's.


 

HINOIチーム
「 I'M GONNA CARRY ON 」 4:31
Japanese, Cover, Dance, Eurobeat, Pop
NOW AND FOREVER [CDS] : AVCD-16105 : 2006.08.09
OFFICIAL WEB

Nuage
「 Carry On Carry On 」 3:56
English, Dance, Eurobeat, Pop
Sunday [CDA] : AVCD-17500 : 2004.10.20
OFFICIAL WEB

HINOI TEAM is the new quartet led by once solo act Asuka Hinoi. The other three members include Hikaru Koyama, Rina Takenaka, and Keika Matsuoka. Their debut single in 2005 was IKE IKE. Both Asuka and Hikaru were in the group LOVE&PEACE. HINOI TEAM's trademark is to cover ParaPara and Eurobeat songs.

The A-side to HINOI TEAM's latest single doesn't do much for me, but their Nuage cover is rather catchy. Well, isn't that the point of this genre?


 

安室奈美恵
「 THINGS I COLLECTED 」 6:13
Japanese, Ballad, Pop, R&B
GENIUS 2000 [CDA] : AVCD-11756 : 2001.01.26
OFFICIAL WEB

Tamia
「 Things I Collected 」 5:36
English, Ballad, Pop, R&B
Diary of a Mad Black Woman [OST] : B0008ENIZC : 2005.04.19
OFFICIAL WEB

Namie Amuro started off as the lead of the SUPER MONKEYS, but then went solo. Tetsuya Komuro wrote and composed many of her solo songs as well. However, Namie's popularity dropped after she got pregnant and married Sam of TRF. Her hiatus was also affected by the tragic murder of her mother. Namie finally returned to the music scene, but she was not as popular as she was once before. As her music career teetered, Namie took it upon herself to step outside of the box and do different styles of music. Which is what led her to do the urban project group SUITE CHIC. Today, Namie is no longer working with Tetsuya Komuro. Though, she is still a part of the spotlight when it comes to Japanese pop music.

Some of Namie's material during this album's release was written by American producer Dallas Austin. So it's no surprise other artists would recycle the material. Both versions are a soft R&B ballad that might lose your attention as the song length increases. I'm not a fan of this song, and would recommend Namie's later B-side "exist for you" over it. As for performance preference, Tamia's voice is smoother and better suited for these type of slow jams.


 

中孝介
「 HERO 」 4:19
English, Ballad, Cover, Shima Uta
Materia [EP] : DRS-0001 : 2005.12.07
OFFICIAL WEB

Mariah Carey
「 Hero 」 4:48
English, Ballad, Pop
Music Box [CDA] : B0000028VT : 1993.08.23
OFFICIAL WEB

Kosuke Atari is from the Amami Islands, and sings in the shimau-uta style. He's had several indies releases prior to his major label debut under Sony in 2006. His first single was sorezore ni. Kosuke, inspired by Hajime Chitose, learned the shimau-uta style and entered singing contests.

While I do like shimau-uta sometimes, Kosuke's rendition of Mariah's classic is kind of irritating. I wonder what Kosuke sounds like when he's not singing in this style.


 

伊藤由奈
「 These boots are made for walkin' 」 3:29
English, Cover, Pop
stuck on you [CDS] : SRCL-6390 : 2006.08.09
OFFICIAL WEB

Nancy Sinatra
「 These Boots Are Made For Walkin' 」 2:41
English, Pop
Boots [CDA] : B000003GYH : 1966.01.01
OFFICIAL WEB

Yuna Ito, of Japanese and Korean heritage, was born in Hawaii. She made her debut in Japan as the character Reira Serizawa in the highly anticipated movie NANA. Along with that, she released a hit single under the "Reira" stage name - ENDLESS STORY. In early 2006, Yuna released her second single, Faith / Pureyes.

Last summer, Jessica Simpson covered this oldie, and it was downright awful. So, I'm weary to hear another revamp. Fortunately, Yuna doesn't have to resort to annoying breathy vocals and actually tries to sing despite how little vocal power is necessary for this track. Yuna just lacks the sultry appeal Sinatra's oozes.


 

Lyrico
「 Scarborough Fair 」 3:11
English, Ballad, Cover, Folk
Voices of Grace [CDA] : SRCL-5495 : 2002.11.20
OFFICIAL WEB

Simon & Garfunkel
「 Scarborough Fair 」 3:19
English, Ballad, Folk
The Best of Simon & Garfunkel [CDA] : B00002MZ41 : 1999.11.16
OFFICIAL WEB

Lyrico, or (Tsuyuzaki Harumi), is a singer with a powerful voice. She originally debuted in 1995 under her real name, but then she started to use the pseudonym "Lyrico" in 2001 with her first Sony Records single, Tears in Christmas.

I'm sure everyone's heard this before. It's based on a traditional English melody. Lyrico's cover is beautiful, and her English is spot on.


 

ACO
「 i know what boys like 」 5:04
English, Cover, Electronic Pop
mask [EP] : KSCL-946 : 2006.02.22
OFFICIAL WEB

The Waitresses
「 I Know What Boys Like 」 3:15
English, Pop
The Best of The Waitresses [CDA] : B000001FZE : 1990.10.23
OFFICIAL WEB

Nagoya native ACO moved to Tokyo and debuted as an R&B singer at eighteen-years old. However, her style drastically changed since then. She is best known for her part on Dragon Ash's big hit "Grateful Days" and DJ Krush's "Tragicomic".

The original is kind of annoying and repetitive so I'm surprised ACO would want to cover it. I just can't take this song seriously.


 

莫文蔚
「 一個人睡 」 4:10
Yi Ge Ren Shui / A Person Sleeps
Mandarin, Alternative, Ballad, Cover, Piano
Ru Guo Mei You Ni [CDA] : SICP-1083 : 2006.04.07
OFFICIAL WEB

Rachael Yamagata
「 Be Be Your Love 」 4:14
English, Alternative, Ballad, Piano
Happenstance [CDA] : B00022KF1A : 2004.06.08
OFFICIAL WEB

Actress-singer-model Karen Mok Man-Wai (or Karen Joy Morris) has a diverse background: her mother is Chinese-German-Persian, and her father is Chinese-Welsh. Karen speaks English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Italian, and some Japanese. She studied Italian literature at the United World College in Trieste, Italy, and at London University in England. Karen debuted as an actress in 1995, and has released several albums. In 2005, she was selected to be in the Taiwanese run of the broadway hit Rent.

I normally don't listen to Rachael, but this song has lyrics that speak to me. Karen's cover sounds the same, but her voice is a little higher than Rachael's lower range.


 

As One & 유승준
「 A Night To Remember 」 3:49
English, Cover, Pop
Best of Live [CDA] : 1999
OFFICIAL WEB

Shalamar
「 A Night To Remember 」 3:34
English, Disco, Pop, Retro
Ultimate Collection [CDA] : B000G1R3CQ : 2006.07.18
OFFICIAL WEB

As One made their debut in Korea around 1999 with the hit song "Day by Day". The R&B duo is made up of Lee Min Young and Crystal Chae. The two are known for their harmonized vocals. Both girls are fluent in English. Yoo Seung Jun (or Steve Yoo) was born in Seoul, but moved to America when young. He had a troubled life growing up, but got his life in order and sent a video of himself displaying his talents (dancing, singing, rapping) to Korean labels. He was eventually signed and released his first album in 1997. After several popular years, Yoo shocked Korea by fleeing the mandatory two year military service for Korean males citizens and became a U.S. citizen. Because of this, he was banned from returningt to Korea and is disowned by fans. Yoo released an album in the Chinese market in 2006.

This is a great song if you want something upbeat and positive to groove to. As One and Yoo Seung Jun's cover is good, too, but Yoo just raps rather than actually sings.

☆ MP3s are 128 kbps and not ripped from promotional videos
☆ Leave a comment if you download
☆ If you don't download anything, please do NOT comment
☆ Only those with Livejournal accounts may request
☆ Leave requests in the comments with "REQUEST" in the subject. Be specific as to what song(s) you ask for.
☆ Check your emails/comments because I will often answer requests ASAP.
☆ Don't hotlink
☆ Don't repost these songs elsewhere without credit please

FILE EXPIRATION : 7/26



GTS
「 Everlasting Love feat. mink  」 5:39
English, Dance, House, Pop
Rhythm Paradise [CDA] : AVCD-17909 : 2006.07.05
OFFICIAL WEB

GTS write music and remix rather than actually sing in their own songs. The trio is made up of Gee, DJ Turbo and Satoshi Hidaka. Many of their remixes of popular songs include "Groove That Soul" in the title. Artists that they have remixed for include BoA, Mariah Carey, DOUBLE, Folder 5, HAL, Ayumi Hamasaki, LISA, MAX, Shinhwa, and many others.

Korean born mink (Made In Korea) lends her English skills on a fast paced and upbeat GTS track. It's different from mink's usual stuff, but it might grow on you.




楊丞琳
「 理想情人  」 4:24
Li Xiang Qing Ren / Ideal Lover
Mandarin, Pop
Ai Mei [CDA] : 2004.09
OFFICIAL WEB

Yang Cheng Len was born in Taiwan, but also lived in Hong Kong for a while. At fifteen, she was in the group 4 In Love, where she gained her nickname "Rainie". 4 In Love disbanded in 2002, and Rainie went on to star in dramas. Her first solo album, Ai Mei, came out in 2004.

Requested by aoisakana. This is pretty nice mellow pop song with a bright chorus.




椎名林檎
「 真夜中は純潔 」 4:16
mayonaka wa junketsu / Midnight Is Pure
Japanese, Pop, Ska
mayonaka wa junketsu [CDS] : TOCT-22155 : 2001.03.28
OFFICIAL WEB

Shiina Ringo (Yumiko Shiina) is a popular artist who debuted in 1998 with the single koufukuron. She is known for her eccentric styles that make her music unique. Shiina is also easily recognized for her nasally voice. In 2004, Shiina joined her band Tokyo Jihen. Their debut single was Gunjou Biyori.

Requested by its_seiana. Shiina performs this upbeat and weird track with Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra. It's not your typical angsty Ringo, but it's kind of fun nonetheless. Just think of whacky spy music.




B'z
「 SAFETY LOVE 」 4:11
Japanese, Pop, Rock
Kimi no Naka de Odoritai [CDS] : R10A-114 : 1989.05.21
OFFICIAL WEB

B'z is a popular rock duo made up of Koshi Inaba and Takahiro (Tak) Matsumoto. They debuted in 1988 with the single Dakara Sono Te wo Hanashite. B'z has gathered numerous #1 hits over the years. Both Koshi and Takahiro have solo careers as well.

Catchy synthesized pop rock and Koshi's voice make "SAFETY LOVE" a fun treat. It's also on their second album.




松浦亜弥
「 遠距離の恋愛 」 3:46
enkyori no renai / Long Distance's Love
Japanese, Acoustic, Ballad, Pop
momoiro kataomoi [CDS] : EPCE-5141 : 2002.02.06
OFFICIAL WEB

Aya Matsuura, or better known as Ayaya to her fans, debuted in 2001 with the single Dokkidoki! LOVE Mail. She is a modern version of the popular idol singers from the '80s. Aya's style is very cute and sugary, but she is known to show a slightly more serious style, too. Much like other Hello! Project artists, Tsunku produces and writes the majority of her music.

This is a different side of Ayaya compared to the title track the single comes from. "enkyori no renai" is a pretty acoustic pop ballad.




제이
「 너의 향기 」 3:35
Nuh Ei Hyang Ki / The Very Scent of You
Korean, Pop
Blue [CDA] : SRCD-3518 : 1998.11
OFFICIAL WEB

J (Jung Jae Young) is Korean-American, and speaks English fluently. In 2000, she became popular in Korea with her second album I.N.L.O.V.E. The song "Uh Jeh Chuh Ruhm" (Just Like Yesterday) was a hit, and helped redefine Korea's R&B scene. After her fourth album, J took a break and returned to America. Finally, J returned with her fifth album in 2004.

Requested by nicccccc. Fans of Elva Hsiao's "Cappuccino" might be surprised to learn that her version is a cover of this J song. J's got the sultry voice, but Elva's version might be more familiar.




이정현
「 Time Machine 」 4:21
Korean, Dance, Pop, Trance
I ♡ Natural [CDA] : 2002.11
OFFICIAL WEB

Lee Jung Hyun made her music debut in 1999 with the hit song "Wah". She followed with five albums. In late 2004, she released a single in Japan. Her song "Heaven" is featured in the hit drama Beautiful Days. At sixteen-years old, Jung Hyun debuted in the movie Petal. In 2006, she co-starred in the Korean-Japanese drama Rondo.

This is one of those infectious and dramatic dance songs with a pretty arrangement that leaves me enamored. I appreciate Lee Jung Hyun trying to test her vocals towards the end, even if it is for a moment.




浜崎あゆみ
「 Endless sorrow "Original Mix" 」 5:29
Japanese, Ballad, Pop, Rock
Endless sorrow [CDS] : AVCD-30254 : 2001.05.16
OFFICIAL WEB

Ayumi Hamasaki is one of the reigning queens of Japanese pop music. She has more control over her own career than a lot of other singers in Japan. Including production, composition, and lyrics. Ayumi officially debuted with the single poker face in 1998, but she did have an indies single called NOTHING FROM NOTHING released in 1995.

Requested by littlewinter. This is one of my favorite Ayumi songs. It's a beautiful ballad with shades of piano and rock.




AKB48
「 Dear my teacher 」 4:24
Japanese, Pop
Sakura no hanabira tachi [CDS] : AKB-101 : 2006.02.01
OFFICIAL WEB

AKB48 is short for Akihabara48. The name implies that there are 48 members, but there are currently only 36 girls. They're divided into two teams: the A team has 20 girls and the K team has 16 girls. AKB48 is on an independent label and is produced by Yasushi Akimoto. They debuted in February 2006 with the single Sakura no hanabira tachi, and followed with Skirt, Hirari in June that year. The A team members are Natsumi Hirajima, Michiru Hoshino, Tomomi Itano, Nozomi Kawasaki, Haruna Kojima, Hitomi Komatani, Atsuko Maeda, Kayano Masuyama, Minami Minegishi, Rina Nakanishi, Risa Narita, Tomomi Ohe, Ayumi Orii, Mai Oshima, Yukari Sato, Mariko Shinoda, Minami Takahashi, Hana Tojima, Kazumi Urano and Shiho Watanabe. The K team members are Sayaka Akimoto, Kaoru Hayano, Yu Imai, Tomomi Kasai, Kana Kobayashi, Yuka Masuda, Natsumi Matsubara, Sae Miyazawa, Kayo Noro, Megumi Ohori, Manami Oku, Erena Ono, Yuko Oshima, Natsuki Sato, Ayana Takada and Ayaka Umeda.

Requested by thamy. At first listen, the B-side to AKB48's debut caught my attention first. Although the A-side isn't bad. "Dear my teacher" is midtempo disco pop. AKB48's singing skills are rather dull, but that's to be expected from a group this big.




Do As Infinity
「 sense of life 」 4:14
Japanese, Acoustic, Pop, Rock
TRUE SONG [CDA] : AVCD-17205 : 2002.12.26
OFFICIAL WEB

Dai Nagano had been working on other artists' music, but he wanted to start a group of his own. With vocalist Tomiko Van (Ban) and guitarist Ryo Owatari, his group was complete. They became Do As Infinity, and debuted in 1999 with the single Tangerine Dream. Their style was pop alternative for the mainstream. In 2001, Dai removed himself from the spotlight, and no longer appeared with the group in videos, pictures or live performances. However, he was still part of the trio as composer and producer. Finally in 2005, Do As Infinity announced that they were disbanding and Tomiko was going solo.

The melody here is simply nice and Tomiko's voice flourishes.




m-flo
「 So You Say 」 5:11
Japanese, Acoustic, Pop, Soul
Hands [CDS] : RZCD-45009 : 2000.02.16
OFFICIAL WEB

VERBAL (Korean) and TAKU graduated from St. Mary's International School in Japan. Afterwards, they went to America as exchange students. Upon their return, they decided to form a group of their own. VERBAL had known LISA (Columbian-Japanese) since junior high, so he asked her to audition. Finally, m-flo was born. Their official debut single was the tripod e.p. in 1999. Instantly, Japan became intrigued by these bilingual artists who blended rapping and R&B with unique beats. TAKU acted as the composer while VERBAL rapped and LISA did vocals. Finally, LISA left m-flo in 2002 to focus on her solo career. Presently, m-flo is recruiting guest vocalists for their future releases. So far, the rotating vocalists have included Crystal Kay, melody., Ryohei Yamamoto, DOUBLE, Emi Hinouchi, BoA, AI, Dragon Ash, Wheesung, Sowelu, Rie fu and more.

"So You Say" is not the hyper electronic R&B you'd expect from original m-flo. It's actually only LISA on this track; no VERBAL rap. Anyway, it's worth a listen if you want some background music.




[iksi:d]
「 Again 」 5:11
English, Acoustic, Ballad
Recovery and Reload [CDA] : SRCL-5435 : 2002.10.19
OFFICIAL WEB

[iksi:d] is a duo made up of Kyo Kodama (vocals) and Ryo Kimura (producer, music). They debuted with the single She's Down in 1999, and seems to have disbanded in 2002 after their first album. Their songs "Jounetsu" and "HEY YOU !!~Ushinatte wa naranaimono~" were featured in the anime Tokyo Underground.

Some more [iksi:d] was requested by kimoi, nicccccc and gemtiger. Kyo attempts to sing in English on this acoustic song.




伊沢麻未
「 Orange sunshine 」 3:59
Japanese, Dance, Pop
Orange sunshine [CDS] : SECL-419 : 2006.06.21
OFFICIAL WEB

Asami Izawa debuted with an indies single, Power of Ring, in 2004. She signed with Sony, and released a mini-album, AIA, in 2005. Her first single, Fly Away, was released that same year.

I uploaded this because I thought it might interest those who like CLAZZIQUAI. They produced this. "Orange sunshine" is a bit like their music, but not really since it lacks that experimental acid pop sound. It's an upbeat summer tune and Asami's voice is nice.




DOUBLE
「 MY SISTA (featuring DJ Tonk from NAKED ARTZ) 」 5:29
Japanese, R&B
BED [CDS] : FLCF-3730 : 1998.10.21
OFFICIAL WEB

DOUBLE was originally a duo of made up of sisters Takako and Sachiko. Their older sister influenced the two with R&B albums she had brought back from America. However, Sachiko suddenly passed away in the summer of 1999. After grieving, Takako finally returned as a solo artist, but she kept the name of DOUBLE to remember Sachiko. The sisters taught themselves English, and write their own music. Takako released her first solo single, handle, in 2000. She's released five (including the English version of double) solo albums since then.

Classic DOUBLE is always great for a soothing slow jam.




Landon Pigg
「 Can't Let Go 」 3:52
English, Acoustic, Pop, Soft Rock
LP [CDA] : 2006.07.25
OFFICIAL WEB

Landon Pigg, born in 1983 in Nashville, moved to Chicago at a young age. Back in Nashville, his father encouraged him to study music. His first album, LP, came out in the summer of 2006. His better known songs include "Can't Let Go" and "Sailed On". He also has an EP available online.

I stumbled upon Pigg while browsing iTunes. His semi-rich voice is similar to other young male singers (less raspy than Teddy Geiger, though) and "Can't Let Go" has poetic lyrics.

☆ MP3s are 128 kbps and not ripped from promotional videos
☆ Leave a comment if you download
☆ If you don't download anything, please do NOT comment
☆ Only those with Livejournal accounts may request
☆ Leave requests in the comments with "REQUEST" in the subject. Be specific as to what song(s) you ask for.
☆ Check your emails/comments because I will often answer requests ASAP.
☆ Don't hotlink
☆ Don't repost these songs elsewhere without credit please

FILE EXPIRATION : 7/13

R E A D Keep leaving those requests. There still isn't enough for a big request update. But also read the rules concerning requests. In the meantime, I will try to compile a list of every song I have available for requests.



ARIA
「 Slow Jam feat. 童子-T 」 4:52
Japanese, R&B
Slow Jam [CDS] : RZCD-45381 : 2006.06.28
OFFICIAL WEB

ARIA debuted in late 2005 with the single Beautiful life. Before then, she released music under avex trax as Asuka. She then switched to avex trax's rhythm zone sublabel. Her first album as ARIA came out in the summer of 2006.

This is a pretty R&B ballad with some soft rapping from DOHZI-T. Something about the melody sounds like it sampled the intro to Roxette's "It Must Have Been Love".




KISS
「 착하게 살자 」 3:20
Chak Ha Geh Sal Ja / Let's Live Kindly
Korean, Club, Pop, Urban
First Album [CDA] : DYCD-1163 : 2001.12.23
OFFICIAL WEB

KISS was a Korean trio that debuted in 2001. Their first song "Yuhja Ee Ni Kka" (Because I'm A Girl) featured a popular music video that included the actor Shin Hyun Joon. Unfortunately, the song and group itself never was as popular as the video. KISS' followup song was "Juhn Hwa Ba Duh" (Answer The Phone), but they only promoted it for a very short time. Eventually, KISS disbanded and solo artist Mina (a.k.a. Miss World Cup) covered "Juhn Hwa Ba Duh" for her own debut. KISS was made up of Jini, Umji and Mini. Jini is from Ohio, and tried to work on a solo career, but nothing besides some demo songs has come to fruition.

sejee requested some KISS stuff. Their first song is a misleading one because it doesn't represent their style at all. Their album is mostly R&B flavored pop and dance songs. "Chak Ha Geh Sal Ja" is definitely something you could hear in a trendy setting. It's a fun mix of urban and pop.




中孝介
「 思い出のすぐそばで 」 4:37
omoi de no sugu soba de
Japanese, Ballad, Folk, Traditional
omoi de no sugu soba de [CDS] : ESCL-2835 : 2006.06.28
OFFICIAL WEB

Kosuke Atari is from the Amami Islands, and sings in the shimau-uta style. He's had several indies releases prior to his major label debut under Sony in 2006. His first single was sorezore ni. Kosuke, inspired by Hajime Chitose, learned the shimau-uta style and entered singing contests.

This song is used in the new movie Chakushin Ari Final (from the One Missed Call series). Kosuke's got a good voice (if you like this type of singing style), but "omoi de no sugu soba de" isn't as good as "sorezore ni". Regardless, it's a soothing song.




蕭亞軒
「 幸福的地圖 」 4:37
Xing Fu De Di Tu / Map of Happiness
Mandarin, Dance, Pop
Beautiful Episode [CDA] : 2004.07.19
OFFICIAL WEB

Taipei native Elva Hsiao (Xiāo Yàxuān) was going to John Casablancas College in Vancouver before her debut in 1999. She was spotted during a singing contest. Her first self-titled album featured the hit song "Cappuccino", a cover of J's Korean song "The Very Scent of You". Elva picked her English name from a Spanish story she read as a child. She also picked up some English while studying in Canada, and trained with Hikaru Utada's vocal coach. Elva has released seven studio albums, and a best of album so far. She's also appeared in the films Infernal Affairs and The Butterfly Lovers.

This almost sounds like a Japanese song (unless it is a cover). Anyway, Elva's music isn't always catchy, but I like this.




Kyla
「 Feel 」 3:53
English, Dance, Pop, Urban
Beautiful Day [CDA] : 2006.07.03
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Kyla (Melanie Hernandez Calumpad) is a popular, young R&B artist in the Philippines. She made her debut in 1999 with the song "Bring It On" off her first album Way To Your Heart. She has four albums today.

When she's not bogged down with the typical power ballad, Kyla gives in to that soulful musical side. "Feel" is an urban dance track that easily could have escaped from American radio airplay.




白鳥マイカ
「 こわれ者 」 4:16
kowaremono / Fragile Things
Japanese, Ballad, Piano, Pop, Soft Rock
kowaremono [CDS] : PCCA-70075 : 2004.05.19
OFFICIAL WEB

Songwriter Maika Shiratori (born in 1976) debuted in 2001 with the single Shelter. She studied at Cambridge University in England after high school.

"kowaremono" has a pretty chorus that makes me more interested in listening to Shiratori's stuff. Her voice is rather nice, too. If you like melodic songwriter pop, give this a try.




VOX-IV
「 My Love To You 」 4:51
Japanese, Ballad, Pop
My Love To You [CDS] : CRCP-10002 : 2000.10.25
OFFICIAL WEB

VOX-IV is a vocal group made up of K-CO, Mitch, Kohjiro and Qomolangma. They debuted in 1999 with the single Keep The Faith, and disbanded in 2001 with THE BEST GROOVE.

This song has more elements of R&B than I expected. I could hear this playing in the background of a wedding reception.




仲間由紀恵
「 心に私がふたりいる 」 4:51
kokoro ni watashi ga futari iru / In My Heart There Are Two Of Me
Japanese, Pop
tooi hi no Melody [CDA] : ESCL-9050 : 2002.07.01
OFFICIAL WEB

Born in Urasoe, Okinawa in 1979, Yukie Nakama grew up to be an actress, idol and singer. Her dramas include Gokusen and Love 2000; she's starred in the movies G@me, Gamera 3: Advent of Iris, Ring 0: Birthday and Shinobi.

"kokoro ni watashi ga futari iru" was used as the opening of the anime Haunted Junction, but don't let that scare you away. It's still along the lines of anything Nami Tamaki could release, and it's rather catchy.




FUZZY CONTROL
「 UK 」 4:13
English, Acoustic, Rock
CHICKEN [EP] : VICL-61179 : 2003.09.27
OFFICIAL WEB

FUZZY CONTROL is a three piece band that debuted in 2003. It's led by Juon, an Okinawan native born to musician parents. He moved to Tokyo with his family, and started to listen to his parents' record collection from the '70s and '80s. Juon developed a taste for rock, and debuted as a solo artist at only fifteen-years old. After a few releases, Juon moved on to forming FUZZY CONTROL. The other members include Satoko (drums) and Joe (bass). Their first release was the single, SHINE ON.

Something about Juon's voice reminds me of Brett Scallions of Fuel sometimes. "UK" isn't a very Fuel-esque song, but it's nice change of pace from the energetic styles of FUZZY's other stuff.




キャラバン
「 everyday (homework2001) 」 4:28
Japanese, Acoustic, Pop, Rock
Heavenly [EP] : AFCA-035 : 2005.04.27
OFFICIAL WEB

Caravan has lived in Venezuela, South America as well as Japan. Back in Japan, he started a short lived band in middle school. Eventually, he came to work in the music industry behind the scenes. Caravan worked with YUKI (of JUDY AND MARY) for a few of her works before finally releasing some of his own solo albums on a small label. In 2005, Caravan signed with avex trax's rhythm zone sublabel and released his first major label single, DAY DREAM. He followed with an album, Wander Around, in 2006.

If you like Jack Johnson's kind of style, I'd give Caravan a listen. It's that soft male songwriter pop laced with some minor rock and soul elements.




더더
「 가리워진 꿈 」 4:37
Ga Ri Wuh Jin Kkeum
Korean, Alternative, Pop, Rock
The More The Better [CDA] : 1997.11
OFFICIAL WEB

The The is a modern rock Korean band that started off with vocalist Park Hye Kyung. However, she left after two albums to go solo. Han Hee Jung became the new vocalist for the third and fourth albums. A best of album was released in 2005. The other members of The The include Kim Young Joon (guitar), Lee Chang Hyun (bass) and Kim Tae Jong (drums).

Park Hye Kyung and Han Hee Jung have very different voices. Park's is higher and possibly stronger, but Han's is low and really suited for angsty ballads. "Ga Ri Wuh Jin Kkeum" is one of my favorite The The songs from the first album. It's got a slightly dated alt-rock sound and a lot of references to dramatic '80s synth.




TRINITY
「 Time Over (Original Mix) 」 4:55
Japanese, Dance, Pop
Time Over [CDS] : AVCD-30178 : 2001.01.31
OFFICIAL WEB

TRINITY debuted in the summer of 2000 with the single Just the way to love. The members were Yumi, Moca and Nao. In early 2001, the trio stopped releasing music.

"Time Over" is pretty much in the style of any dramatic dance pop that (old) dream has released.




Flunk
「 On My Balcony 」 3:10
English, Acoustic, Electronic, Pop
Morning Star [CDA] : 2004
OFFICIAL WEB

Flunk is a Norwegian electronic pop band. The members are Anja Oyen Vister (vocals), Ulf Nygaard (producer), Jo Bakke (guitarist) and Erik Ruud (drums). Flunk's rise to fame was a cover of New Order's "Blue Monday" in 2002. An album, For Sleepyheads Only, followed and Flunk received positive reviews. Today, Flunk's music is quietly making its way overseas to America.

I like this song's layering and Anja's soft vocals. "On My Balcony" is rather catchy and cheers me up.

☆ MP3s are 128 kbps and not ripped from promotional videos
☆ Leave a comment if you download
☆ If you don't download anything, please do NOT comment
☆ Only those with Livejournal accounts may request
☆ Leave requests in the comments with "REQUEST" in the subject. Be specific as to what song(s) you ask for.
☆ Check your emails/comments because I will often answer requests ASAP.
☆ Don't hotlink
☆ Don't repost these songs elsewhere without credit please

FILE EXPIRATION : 7/7

R E A D Updates are infrequent nowadays since I am busier with college. No theme this week and I may hold off on those for a while. I've noticed that people are not reading the rules and it's annoying. I've given warnings, but it might just be time to ban violators. Here are rules I would like to emphasize.

- Please do not comment if you don't download anything.
- Those without a Livejournal account can download, but cannot request. Only those with an account can request.
- Don't request complete albums/singles. I won't upload them. If possible, try to be specific with what song(s) you request.

I would like to put more requests in future entries. So feel free to make one in the comments. Sorry to those whose requests have been unanswered in past entries (feel free to request again). If you request something that's been uploaded recently, I'll just try to upload the song for you via YouSendIt.

Thank you for reading.



坂本真綾
「 Tシャツ 」 5:12
T-Shirt
Japanese, Piano, Pop, Rock
Lucy [CDA] : VICL-60702 : 2001.03.28
OFFICIAL WEB

Maaya Sakamoto originally started out as a seiyuu for the anime Tenkuu no Escaflowne as the character Hitomi. She also sung the opening theme, "Yakusoku wa Iranai". Soon, Maaya was in high demand as a seiyuu in other anime as well as a singer. She continuously works with composer Yoko Kanno, and is known for singing in English.

"T-Shirt" sounds like something Rie fu would sing, but Maaya's voice is a little more innocent sounding.




CORE OF SOUL
「 Sweet Dreams 」 4:28
Japanese, Acoustic, Pop
Natural Beauty [CDA] : TOCT-24740 : 2002.02.27
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CORE OF SOUL, once known as CORE OF SUN, is a pop alternative band led by vocalist Fukiko Nakamura. Rui Song plays the guitar and bass, and Keisuke Iizuka programs. They signed with TOSHIBA-EMI, and debuted in 2001 with the single Photosynthesis. CORE OF SOUL finally disbanded in 2006.

Fukiko sounds lovely (as usual) as she sings along with this simple acoustic tune.




JNE
「 First Kiss 」 4:01
Thai, Ballad, Pop, R&B
Feel Her Move Feel Her Groove [CDA] : RSCD-0093 : 2006.06.10
OFFICIAL WEB

Thai pop singer JNE (Jenny) released her first album in 2006.

This is a fairly decent slow R&B-styled pop ballad. JNE isn't going to win any kudos for a fantastic voice, but she has her moments.



JAMOSA
「 言えないよ feat. CORN HEAD 」 5:34
ienai yo / Can't Say
Japanese, Pop, R&B
ienai yo [CDA] : PRHY-1004 : 2006.04.26
OFFICIAL WEB

Bilingual R&B singer-songwriter Jamosa, whose father is Japanese and mother is Taiwanese Aboriginal, has lived in America, Japan and Korea. She's toured with Michael Jackson, and debuted in Japan with a mini album called Reminiscing. In 2005, she returned after a long hiatus with an EP called STANDING STRONG. Jamosa has worked with DefTech, DJ KAORI, I-DeA, L-VOKAL, Miss Monday and SPHERE of INFLUENCE.

"ienai yo" is poppier than most of JAMOSA's stuff and CORN HEAD's appearance is a little startling considering how laidback the song is.




許同恩
「 Beautiful Lie 」 3:51
Mandarin, Pop, Rock
Bu Zhun Ku [CDA] : 2006.06.20
OFFICIAL WEB

Taiwanese singer Rebecca Hsu (Tong En Hsu) debuted in June of 2005 with a single called Tong En and an album called Zuo Zi Ji. She released her second album in 2006.

If you like poppy, radio friendly girl rock, "Beautiful Lie" is a nice pick. It's inoffensive and has a nice chorus.




冨田ラボ
「 しあわせのBlue feat. YOSHIKA 」 5:30
Shiawase no Blue / Blue of Happiness
Japanese, Pop
Shiplaunching [CDA] : AICL-1731 : 2006.02.22
OFFICIAL WEB

Keiichi Tomita (Tomita Lab) was born in 1962 in Hokkaido. His mother was a musician and influenced her son's gift. He learned to play the guitar in junior high school. Today, he works with other artists as well as writes music himself. He has worked with MISIA, SOULHEAD, Crystal Kay, m-flo, YOSHIKA, and many others. Keiichi employs singers to perform his music. He released his first album Shipbuilding in 2003.

YOSHIKA lends that soft, kind of sultry voice to this low R&B-influenced tune.




ストレイテナー
「 奇跡の街 (RADIO FREAK EDIT) 」 4:18
Kiseki no Machi / Road of Miracles
Japanese, Ballad, Pop, Punk, Rock
LOST WORLD'S ANTHOLOGY [CDA] : TOCT-25271 : 2004.01.21
OFFICIAL WEB

Horie Atsushi (vocals, guitar, piano) and Nakayama Shinpei (drums) formed STRAIGHTENER in 1998, but didn't release a recording until 2001. They formed their own label, Ghost Records, before finally signing with TOSHIBA-EMI in 2003. Hinata (bass) joined later. 

"Kiseki no Machi" is very westernized sounding. I could hear it on the radio because it's a pop laced punk ballad. Very easy on the ears.




Uptown
「 Stay 」 3:37
English, Hip-Hop, Pop
Vol. 1 [CDA] : 1996
OFFICIAL WEB

The Korean hip-hop group Uptown had a very mixed roster when it started out. The original members were Chris Jung, Carlos Galvan, Steve Kim and Tasha Reid (Yoon Mi Rae). The members rapped as well as sing. Tasha, who was only sixteen-years old when she joined Uptown, eventually left to join the duo Tashannie and then finally go solo. Uptown disbanded in 2000. Uptown was reincarnated into a duo, Uptown 3000, with Carlos and Steve. After a series of legal troubles, Uptown made its return in 2006 with new female member Jessica H.o. (who released a solo single prior).

If you want to hear Tasha pre-everything she is now, listen to the original Uptown. She sounds young (which she was) and "Stay" is just poppy enough to not scare non-hip-hop listeners away. I think another song was sampled for the beat, but I'm not sure. The lyrics are all in English, and the members rap as well as sing here.




Silly
「 hate me more than anything 」 3:58
English, Soft Rock, Soul
Public Property [CDA] : CTCR-14457 : 2006.02.22
OFFICIAL WEB

Silly is a band with an R&B style. The members, all from Osaka, are Akane (vocals), Wataru (guitar) and Kadoyan (bass). Their first indies release was the 2001 album Mutual Concessions. In 2003, they were signed to avex trax's Cutting Egde label, and released the single, about us. In 2004, they released another full-length album, intentional scheme. Akane had a solo album, too.

Silly continues to push that soul-filled rock style that they're known for. Akane's voice shines here on "hate me more than anything".




松橋未樹
「 Secret place 」 3:50
Japanese, Dance, Pop
Destiny [EP] : GZCA-5010 : 2002.01.30
OFFICIAL WEB

Miki Matsuhashi had a brief career while with the GIZA label. Her song "Destiny" was used in the anime Detective Conan. She debuted in 2001 with the single time stands still, followed by two more singles. She only has one album, Destiny, that was released 2002.

I can see why Miki didn't last in the industry - she sounds like every other GIZA artist. Musically, she's not original either, but "Secret place" is good for an upbeat listen.




蔡健雅
「 跟你借的幸福 」 5:00
Gen Ni Jie De Xing Fu / The Happiness I Borrowed From You
Mandarin, Acoustic, Pop
I Do Believe [CDA] : 2001.04.20
OFFICIAL WEB

The critic favorite Tanya Chua was born in Singapore, and speaks English fluently. She is a singer-songwriter with a folk pop style. Tanya can play the guitar and the harmonica, too. She debuted in 1997 with an all English album entitled Bored. In 2006, she released a two disc best of album.

Tanya's always good for emotional acoustic ballads.




ajapai
「 Believe feat. MAY NAKABAYASHI 」 4:31
Japanese, Dance, House, Pop
unaffected [CDA] : AICL-1747X : 2006.05.24
OFFICIAL WEB

Producer-songwriter ajapai debuted in 2001, but signed with Sony Music Japan in 2006. His first single Koe wo kasanete features Daichi Miura. He followed up with the album unaffected.

May Nakabayashi's voice layers over this upbeat house track.




American Hi-Fi
「 The Rescue 」 3:17
English, Pop, Rock
Sound of Superman [VA] : B000EULJYC : 2006.06.13
OFFICIAL WEB

American Hi-Fi (American High Fedelity) is a band from Boston, Massachusetts. They released a self-titled debut in 2001 and their song "Flavor of the Week" was a hit. They released two studio albums afterwards in 2002 and 2005 respectively. American Hi-Fi tries to describe the American lifestyle through their music. The band members include Stacy Jones (vocals, guitar), Jamie Arentzen (guitar), Drew Parsons (bass) and several different drummers. Stacy has played in other bands, including Cleo and Veruca Salt.

"The Rescue" is featured in the commercials for Superman Returns, and the lyrics kind of follow the storyline, too. Anyway, American Hi-Fi's music typically doesn't try to be too poignant, but they almost get away with it here.