V.A. - ALFA/YEN Records 1980-1987: Techno Pop and Other Electronic Adventures in Tokyo (LITA Exclusive) (2LP)

City pop and techno-pop fans, this is the ultimate treasure you’ve been waiting for! The definitive compilation of Japan’s iconic ALFA/YEN Records catalog from 1980-1987 is now available at STOKYO WORLD, imported directly from Japan as a Light In The Attic exclusive 2LP release.

The 1980s were a golden age for Japanese pop, with the rise of "city pop" captivating the world. At the same time, another revolution was quietly taking place—the birth of techno-pop, spearheaded by the legendary Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO) and their groundbreaking use of computer-controlled beats and cutting-edge recording technology. This new genre redefined music production, creating a sound that was precise, futuristic, and irresistibly groovy.

At the heart of this movement was the ALFA/YEN Records label, established in 1982 by two YMO icons, Haruomi Hosono and Yukihiro Takahashi. YEN became a playground for experimental and innovative artists, producing high-quality music that still resonates today. Though the label ceased operations in 1985, its influence can still be felt in modern electronic music and Japan’s thriving indie scene.

This 2LP compilation showcases the best of ALFA/YEN Records, bringing together a star-studded lineup of artists who defined the era: YMO, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Haruomi Hosono, Yukihiro Takahashi, and Jun Togawa, as well as groundbreaking acts like Testpattern, Interior, and Hajime Tachibana. Each track is a masterpiece, capturing the essence of Tokyo’s vibrant electronic scene in the 1980s.

Tracklist:

1. SEOUL MUSIC - YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA
2. ZOOT KOOK - SANDII
3. Sakisaka to Momonai No Gokigen Ikaga One Two Three - You An’ Me Orgasmus Orchestra
4. Drip Dry Eyes - Yukihiro Takahashi
5. SUKI-SUKI-DAISUKI - Jun Togawa
6. Parallelisme - Miharu Koshi
7. Bikkuri Party No Theme - Haruomi Hosono & Yukihiro Takahashi
8. Sakasa Kenjin Eagas - Apogee & Perigee
9. Yumemiru Yakusoku - Haruomi Hosono
10. ROCK - Hajime Tachibana
11. riot In Lagos - Ryuichi Sakamoto
12. Radarman - Jun Togawa
13. Platonic - Haruomi Hosono
14. BEAT THE RAP - Super Eccentric Theater
15. Rap Phenomena - YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA
16. LEXINGTON QUEEN - Ryuichi Sakamoto
17. Chanel No #5 No On The Rock - Sheena
18. Beach Girl - TESTPATTERN
19. FLASHBACK - Yukihiro Takahashi
20. Automne Dans Un Miroir - Tamao Koike
21. Ascending - INTERIOR

Why This Album is a Must-Have:

This isn’t just a record—it’s a time capsule. Each track is a piece of history, celebrating the golden era of Japanese techno-pop and city pop. From YMO’s "Rap Phenomena" and Ryuichi Sakamoto’s "Riot in Lagos" to the quirky genius of Jun Togawa and the experimental vibes of Testpattern, every song is a journey into Tokyo’s vibrant 1980s music scene.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of YMO or a crate-digger looking to immerse yourself in the sounds of Japanese electronic music history, this 2LP set is essential for your collection. With its exclusive release from Light In The Attic and direct import from Japan, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of music history.