The album for 2010 from Shonen Knife was released in North America on August 31, 2010. The album is "Free Time" and features 10 all-new songs from Shonen Knife, originally released on the Japan CD, with the addition of (2) super bonus tracks! It is released on their U.S. Label, Good Charamel Records. (Album #: GC016). "Free Time" is available online from Good Charamel for $9.99, and other online sources (check listing for online CD Stores, and sources offering Shonen Knife recordings - *HERE*!
The new songs are listed as follows:
1. Perfect Freedom
2. Rock 'n' Roll Cake
3. Economic Crisis
4. Do You Happen To Know?
5. Capybara
6. An Old Stationary Shop
7. Monster Jelly Fish
8. P.Y.O.
9. Love Song
10. Star
11. Rock 'n' Roll Cake (Alternative Version)
12. Capybara (Techno Version)
Price listed for the album from Good Charamel, is $9.99. Shonen Knife fans in other countries can order the album online from Good Charamel, as well! Get your copy now!
An all-new LIVE Video from the Shonen Knife 2009 North American Tour was released in North America on July 27, 2010. The DVD is titled: "SHONEN KNIFE, Live at Mohawk Place 2009 - The Ultimate Live DVD" and features the tour footage and their live appearance at Mohawk Place in Buffalo, New York. The DVD features (17) Live songs from Shonen Knife, and is released on their U.S. Label, Good Charamel Records. (DVD #GC018). "Live at Mohawk Place 2009" is available online from Good Charamel for $16.95. Order your copy now, and relive that amazing "Shonen Knife LIVE" experience that you get with every tour!
The album for 2010 from Shonen Knife was released in Japan on January 6, 2010. The album is "Free Time" and features 10 all-new songs from Shonen Knife. It is released on P-Vine Records. (Album #: PCD-25106). "Free Time" is available online from P-Vine Records, and other online sources (check listing for online CD Stores, and sources offering Shonen Knife recordings - *HERE*!
The new songs are listed as follows:
1. Perfect Freedom
2. Rock 'n' Roll Cake
3. Economic Crisis
4. Do You Happen To Know?
5. Capybara
6. An Old Stationary Shop
7. Monster Jelly Fish
8. P.Y.O.
9. Love Song
10. Star
Price listed for the album from P-Vine Records, is Y2625 (tax included). Shonen Knife fans in other countries can order the album online from P-Vine! Get your copy now, and be ready to rock with Shonen Knife 2010!
The "Super Group" album from Shonen Knife is available in the United States! The album was released on August 25, 2009 on their new U.S. label, Good Charamel Records. (Album #: GC015). "Super Group" features the 10 songs on the previous Japanese release (see below), and a bonus track, "Evil Birds'. It's powerful new Shonen Knife rock... songs & lead guitar/vocals by Naoko, with Etsuko on drums & vocals... and newest member Ritsuko on bass guitar & vocals. Shonen Knife have enjoyed a 27 year career in recording, touring and unique creative style, with a progressive legacy of amazing albums and songs, which are prized by Knife Collectors around the world. They are a 'killer live act' as well. A comment that has been repeated by successive new generations of fans upon hearing a Shonen Knife album or seeing them in live performance for the first time...has been: "As I listened to each song, I got this big wide grin on my face... and 2 weeks later, it's still there!" You can have the "Shonen Knife Experience" for yourself... with the new "Super Group" album, and their upcoming North American Tour which starts on October 16, 2009! The album art design is by Yumiko Okada... and is a different presentation than the Japanese album. Japanese Artist Management is by Atsushi Shibata (TOMATO HEAD) and U.S. Artist Management is by Miyoko Hayakawa.
The track listing is as follows:
1. Super Group
2. Slug
3. Muddy Bubbles Hell
4. Deer Biscuits
5. BBQ Party
6. Pyramid Power
7. Time Warp
8. Na Na Na
9. Your Guitar
10. Jet
11. Evil Birds (bonus track)
The new "Super Group" U.S. Release is available directly from Good Charamel Records, and is priced at $11.99 when ordered from the Label. "Super Group" will also be available at vendors online and at finer music shops across the country.
The new album for 2008 from Shonen Knife is now available in Japan and on the Internet! The band began recording sessions for the songs in the studio in August 2008. It was announced by Naoko on October 2, 2008 that the album would be released in Japan on November 7, 2008. The title of the new album is, "Super Group"! It's powerful new Shonen Knife rock... songs & lead vocals by Naoko, with Etsuko on drums & vocals... and newest member Ritsuko on Bass Guitar & vocals.
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Here is the track listing:
1. Super Group
2. Slug
3. Muddy Bubbles Hell
4. Deer Biscuits
5. BBQ Party
6. Pyramid Power
7. Time Warp
8. Na Na Na
9. Your Guitar
10. Jet
"Super Group" is released in Japan on P-Vine records, CD #PCD-25086. All songs written by Naoko, with the exception of "Jet", by Paul & Linda McCartney. Former Shonen Knife support bassist Hatsue, is bass player on "Time Warp". The album is beautifully packaged and includes a "Super Group" poster insert with full English & Japanese lyrics on the back. Photos by Akira Shibata. Cover art & graphic design by Yumiko Okada.
Online Sources for Shonen Knife CD's and recordings: We have many requests from Fans asking where to find Shonen Knife CD's online, so we have updated the section at the bottom of this page with new information current as of 7/22/08. Please shop wisely online... compare prices on the items you want and... Happy Knife Collecting!
Shonen Knife proudly released their album for 2007 in Japan, on July 6, 2007: "Fun! Fun! Fun! (PCD-25056). The album features (10) all new songs from the band, including new tracks in english: "Barnacle, Flu, Ramones Forever, Las Vegas, and Birthday". Here are some links online that will put you in touch with this new release, and other hot websites that honor the "Greatest Japanese band in the world"... as they continue building their legacy and fan base around the world. Get this album, and get in on the "Fun! Fun! Fun!" with Shonen Knife - an expanding creative force for good in the world - since 1982!
The Official Shonen Knife Website ~ Osaka, Japan.
P-Vine Records, Japan ~ "Fun! Fun! Fun! release information.
Shonen Knife on Amazon.com, Japan ~ Album release information & ordering from Amazon.com in Japan. Special Shonen Knife section!
The Shonen Knife album, "Genki Shock", was released in North America on April 11, 2006, and features include english language versions of the songs (w/Shonen Knife Poster & english lyrics), special changes in packaging, etc. It's a great album and every Shonen Knife Fan will want to add it to their collections - to celebrate 25 years of unique, creative music from the band. The album was released by their U.S. Label, Glue Factory which is a division of Oglio Records, and the details are found here on the Shonen Knife NeXuS in the Knife Cuts section.
A new album of Shonen Knife recordings was released by Universal Records in Japan on July 11, 2006. The album, titled "Golden Best" - features the best of Shonen Knife releases from their Universal years, and more. The music on this recording was selected by Shonen Knife themselves. It is available on the Net, of course - for fans and collectors to order their copy, through CD Universe (CDU#: 7248193), and other online sources. (shop around for the best price for "Golden Best"!) Some disc numbers cited: "Golden Best" - Shonen Knife. Universal Japan. 7224989 (UPCY-6157).
Two new Shonen Knife CDs are now released in Japan! "Shonen Knife: Live in Osaka", and a new tribute album to the band from other Japanese artists: "Fork and Spoon: A Tribute to Shonen Knife". Both are released on P-Vine Records, and were released on June 16, 2006.
Some details on each album:
Shonen Knife: Live in Osaka
P-Vine Records: PCD-25044
Release Date: June 16, 2006
Price: Y2,625 (with tax)
Recorded LIVE at Fandango, Osaka Japan on December 17, 2005. There is a bonus track from the "Live 712 Day Party" in 2004, which features the late Mana Nishiura on drums. The album presents 22 great Shonen Knife songs, including songs from recent albums and early classics... all performed live on stage! This is great live performance album.
This album is dedicated to Mana Nishiura
Various Artists: A Tribute to Shonen Knife - Fork and Spoon
P-Vine Records: PCD-25043
Release Date: June 16, 2006
Price: Y2,625 (with tax)
Track List:
1. Elmer Elevator (Basement Tape) - Hiroto Komoto (ex-High-Lows)
2. Riding on the Rocket - Bloodthirsty Butchers
3. E.S.P. - Beat Crusaders
4. Secret Dance - Masatoshi Mashima (ex-High-Lows)
5. Concrete Animals - Eastern Youth
6. Burning Farm - Zoo Bombs
7. Tortoise Brand Pot Cleaner's Theme - Kazumi Nikaidoh
8. Miracle Woman - Mo'some Tonebenders
9. Buddha's Face - DMBQ
10. Elmer Elevator - Hiroto Komoto (ex-High-Lows)
11. Insect Collector - Seiichi Yamamoto (Rashinban)
All of these bands are well-known in Japanese Rock venues. The High-Lows are extremely popular, but sadly, they are disbanding this year.
(special thanks to Shonen Knife Expert, Mamiko Nakagawa!)
The new Japanese Shonen Knife album for 2005 is now available! The album title is Genki Shock. It features 13 tracks, some in english, and is filled with the delight & surprises that Shonen Knife fans anticipate with each new album release. Here is a complete track listing and other information:
1. Introduction
2. Rock Society*
3. S-P-A-M*
4. Anime Gensyou (Anime Phenomenon)
5. Spider House
6. Megane (eyeglass)
7. A Dark Queen (in english)
8. Shinrin-yoku (forest air bathing & walking)
9. Blue Jeans
10. Under A Pillow (in english)
11. World Map*
12. Broccoli Man
13. Giant Kitty*
(*drums by Etsuko Nakanishi).
Cover Art: Emma.
Special Guest Appearance by Dean Wareham (ex-Luna).
(CDA/PCD-25029)
Release Date: (Japan) June 3, 2005.
The second day of our recording session, Calvin Johnson (from K-records) and his friends visited the studio. They sang and played the guitar on my new song called 'Seiuchi'(it means Walrus). Our recording sessions were fun and went well. I went to Tokyo for photo session this week & the photos will be on the album jacket! Atsuko made our new costumes.
It became a good season for playing TENNIS!"
Cheers,
Naoko
Here is the track listing for the Candy Rock album!:
1. Mass Communication Breakdown
2. Messy Room
3. Wonder Land
4. Walrus (Seiuchi)
5. Virtual Reality
6. Crossword
7. Doubts (or "Mystery") (Na Zo)
8. Monkey Brand Oolong Tea
The Shonen Knife album for Year 2002, was released in Japan on May 23, 2002. The album is "Heavy Songs" and it features (12) all-new songs from the most famous Punk-pop band in the world from Japan - Shonen Knife! The band spent a month and a half in the studio in Osaka, recording the new songs... and even provided fans an ongoing "in-studio" diary of the process, via the Net! Reports on the Studio work were provided by long-time Shonen Knife friend in Japan, Mamiko Nakagawa, and also by their very helpful fan from Hiroshima, Mayuko Matsumoto. During the recording sessions, various guest artists were involved in the recording. Canadian Super-musician, Ron Sexsmith and members of his band, dropped by the studio, and Ron sings a duet with Naoko on the new song "Elephant Insect" - with the guitarist for his band, Tim - doing the lead guitar here. Atsuko plays drums, bass, keyboards and sings on a song of her own composition, "Happy Song"! Naoko did the advanced computer mapping of the tracks, the lead vocals, and played many guitars, keyboards and other instruments throughout. Japanese guitarist Seiichi Yamamoto also performs on the album, with the lead guitar for "Mango Juice" - a track dedicated to the late George Harrison. Shonen Knife support drummer, Mana Nishiura, also performed the percussion for "Mango Juice" and the chorus for "Rubber Band". Here is a personal commentary from Shonen Knife guitarist, Naoko Yamano for all their supporters worldwide:
Dear Friends of Shonen Knife:
We finished our new album "Heavy Songs". This album followed the taste of the last album, "Strawberry Sound", which is not strictly a "band sound", and it is free, creative music. But, the new album includes more punk pop tunes than the last album. I think the sound of this album went back to the starting point of Shonen Knife. It is a very fresh, powerful and colorful
Naoko Yamano
Here is a listing of the new tracks, from "Heavy Songs":
Album Tracks:
A Map Master
Shonen Knife's great "Heavy Songs" album was released in the United States & Canada in 2003 on the "Confidential Recordings" label. The art work on the cover & CD design is slightly different than the original Japanese release, but the track listings are the same. (CON 3008-2).
A Shonen Knife album, long hoped for, was released in Japan, on December 5, 2001. The "Millennium Edition" collection is a "Best Of Shonen Knife" retrospective of their work during their transition from the past millennium - into the new millennium. "Millennium Edition" includes English tracks from "Happy Hour", "Strawberry Sound", "It's A New Find" and some singles. It features 14 of their best songs of the times.. including the rare "Mysterious Drugstore" and the great Christmas single Naoko wrote with Thurston Moore, "All I Want For Christmas"! The album represents the last release of Shonen Knife songs from Universal label and makes available the english versions of songs which are previously unreleased, until now! Here is the track listing:
1. Wild Life
Newsbreak!: The new "Millennium Edition" album is a great collection of Shonen Knife's recent classics. We also have some very early details on the next Shonen Knife album, featuring all new songs, currently scheduled for release in the Spring of 2002 on their own "Burning Farm" label! The formal studio recording sessions will begin in the middle of January 2002 to the end of February. Naoko reports they have many new songs! Celebrate the Holidays with the new "Millennium Edition" Shonen Knife album (in english!!) and get ready for some great new tunes in 2002!
A maxi-single from Shonen Knife was released on their personal "Burning Farm" Label, in Japan! The title of the (3) song CD is "Orange Sun" (Orange No Taiyou). The track listing information is as follows:
1. Orange No Taiyou (Orange Sun)
Tracks 1 and 2, feature Japanese lyrics, and both of them are new songs. Track 2 is a "CM" song, in the concept of the "Yamucha Rou De Mecha Umakarou" (Tea) c/w "Hamigaki" (Brush Your Teeth!) mini-single CD released in Japan in June of 1999! A "CM" song is a "Commercial Message" Song... like "TV Commercial Jingles" here - but, in Japan - if a "CM" jingle is well liked - it can hit the Pop Charts - something rarely seen here. Track 3 is a new recording by Shonen Knife of the Carpenter's song "Top of the World" - which they had previously recorded during the time they were being released in the U.S. on Virgin Records. This recorded version is similar to the first Shonen Knife arrangement of the song, but here - Atsuko is on Bass, and Mana is on drums. Naoko plays all guitar tracks and performs the main vocals. The (3) tracks were all recorded in April 2001, in Osaka, Japan. Release Date for the CD was 6/25/2001.
The Artwork for the new "Orange Sun" CD - was created by Naoko Yamano. It is a bright attractive cover - featuring a cheerful Orange Sun...and a vigorous "herb" sprout! Which, one might well imagine - is sprouting from the "Top of the World"!
You can order this maxi-single CD, released on Shonen Knife's own "Burning Farm" label - from Comfort Record Shop Online in Kyoto, Japan: "Orange No Taiyou" (BF-3CD) 1380Yen = $11.45 U.S. (check current exchange rates, or Ohkura-san's current price listed on the Comfort Website - and the shipping rates there).
HMV Music, Japan also has the new release. 1,380 Yen. You may have to look about for English instructions, however).
AAA
Golden Years Of Rock'n Roll
Rubber Band
Heavy Song
A Boogie Monster
Mushroom Hair Cut
Whatever
Pigmy Jerboa
An Elephant Insect
Computer Language
Mango Juice (for George Harrison)
For online CD Stores, and sources offering Shonen Knife recordings, please click *HERE*
2. Cookie Day
3. E.S.P.
4. It's A New Find
5. Fruits & Vegetables
6. People Traps
7. CM Song
8. One Week
9. Sushi Bar Song
10. Punk Rock Star
11. Banana Chips
12. Mysterious Drugstore
13. Daydream Believer
14. All I Want For Christmas
2. Herbs
3. Top of the World
NeXuS Knifecuts - Links ~ Click here for links to Online sources for Shonen Knife recordings, worldwide! Perhaps you'll find their Orange Sun CD here - or another "treasure"!
Burning Farm Label, the personal indie label of Shonen Knife, released a special limited-edition cassette tape to celebrate the first live show by Shonen Knife w/Drummer Mana Nishiura, which took place on May 4, 2001. They appeared under a "secret name" for this show ("712") - but most fans figured out it would actually be Shonen Knife performing, and not 'really' a new band signed to the Burning Farm label! A big turnout of Shonen Knife Fans was reported, and the band performed (10) of their great songs:
1. KONNICHIWA (Welcome to our Show!)
2. Flying Jelly Attack
3. Power of Money
4. Insect Collector
5. BUTTERCUP(I'm a Super Girl)
6. Sesame
7. Nya Nya
8. Wild Life
9. Riding On The Rocket
10.Cobra vs. Mongoose
This show was in Osaka at the "Fandango" showcase, where Shonen Knife performed along with a hit band from Sister/Benten Records of Tokyo, called Mummy the Peep Show (also from Osaka!), and (2) other Japanese bands: Overcoat & Starfish.
The new cassette was quickly "sold out", as only 712 special numbered copies were produced, for this event! It contained one (1) brand new song by the band, called "The Power of Money". (Burning Farm: BF-2CT).
Shonen Knife recently did a remix for an album tribute to long-time Japanese Singing Star (& "51 year old cool guy!" says Naoko), Eikichi Yazawa. Many great Japanese artists are featured on this album, which is titled: "Joy Ride". Contributors include (by my best translation) Shonen Knife, The High-Lows, PM9r's, Buffalo Daughter, Eel Ale Brewer, The Neatbeats, Guitar Wolf, Sads, Takuma Tanikawa, the Collectors... and more! Shonen Knife did a remix of a hit Yazawa tune, "Hurricane". Naoko reports that the original track was "rock", but she arranged it to a "Disco" style! "It became Fun!" she says! The "Joy Ride" tribute album was released in Japan on March 28, 2001.
On November 14, 2000, a CD benefiting H.E.A.R. (Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers) was released worldwide. The CD is titled "HEAR THIS!", and was released on Sub City Records (SCO14-MCD) (a subsidiary label of Hopeless Records). It features well-known alternative bands, including Shonen Knife, The Avengers, Scared of Chaka, White Trash Debutantes, John Cougar, actor Peter Coyote, Motorchrist, and others. The featured Shonen Knife track is "It's a New Find" - a song previously unreleased in the U.S.A.
H.E.A.R. is a non-profit grassroots health organization dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers of debilitating and often irreversible hearing loss and tinnitus due to exposure to excessively loud sound levels in music; whether it is from playing music; attending concerts, dance clubs, raves, using stereo earphones; or playing amplified systems too loudly. H.E.A.R. was founded by a musician and a physician for musicians, DJs, recording Engineers, music industry personnel, and all music fans (especially young people). Shonen Knife were contacted in 1999 to be a part of this, and they were very happy to contribute to the CD project.
You can order this CD online from Sub City Records. Price is $9.98 (calif. residents add sales tax - automatically added in the online order form...) and shipping is free (included in the price). Or, check your local record store.
A tribute album to Craig McCracken's famed "Powerpuff Girls", was released by Rhino Records/Cartoon Network, on July 18, 2000! (Rhino R2 75848) The album features songs by artists who have inspired the "Powerpuff Girls" series on TV, and who in turn, are inspired by the series themselves! Shonen Knife contribute a powerful new song to the collection, "Buttercup (I'm A Super Girl)" - written by Naoko Yamano especially for this tribute. It's great Shonen Knife rock style - all the way! Other artists contributing to the album include: Devo, Frank Black, The Apples in Stereo, Optiganally Yours, Komeda, Dressy Bessy, Bis, The Sugarplastic, Cornelius, The Bill Doss... and Bis - who wrote and perform the end theme for the show. This is a fun album for kids of all ages... and a perfect project for a Shonen Knife song! Get your copy of "Heroes and Villains: Music Inspired by the Powerpuff Girls" today, and help the Powerpuff Girls save the world before bedtime!
The "Strawberry Sound" album was released on 2/19/2000. Shonen Knife recorded all new tracks in Japan, and completed final mastering of the "Strawberry Sound" album in New York in mid-December 1999. A new U.S. Label deal is now being pursued by the band. Naoko said in 1999, that "Strawberry Sound" is "like the history of great rock n roll" - with diverse styles of songs. There are (15) total tracks (and a secret bonus track)! Here is the track listing, and other information:
"Strawberry Sound" - Shonen Knife
Song Titles:
Release Date: 2/19/2000.
Universal Victor, Japan (MVCH-29043) Price est: Y3045 (tax incl.) or Y2900 (tax out).
1. Side 1
2. Buggy Bug
3. Wild Life
4. Nya Nya
5. Gokiburu
6. Super Big Black Bass
7. CM Song
8. Side 2
9. Punk Rock Star
10. Sesame
11. Kaiki Game
12. Chinese Disco
13. Mosquitoes
14. Mayonaise Addiction
15. Synthesizer (Bubble Houkai)
(16. Unlisted Bonus Track!)
Note that "Side 1" and "Side 2" are also song titles.
The Graphics Design Art for the album, is by the award-winning New York East Village-based Artist, Rodney Alan Greenblat. Rodney previously produced an award-winning children's interactive CD, and he is very popular in Japan for his Sony Gamestation characters, TV Stage Set Designs and graphics work in the music industry. It just happens, that Shonen Knife are one of his favorite bands! The teaming up of Rodney and Shonen Knife for this album package... is perfect!
The meaning of "Gokiburu" is: "pretend like Gokiburi (cockroach)."
"CM Song" means: TV Commercial Song.
"Kaiki Game" means: "Mysterious Game".
"Bubble Houkai" means the collapse of the Japanese "Bubble Economy". In the 80s, Japanese economy was "good time", but in the '90s - it was broken... the prosperity was just like "Bubble".
The First Shonen Knife Indie-label production, "Shonen Knife Present Wonder World Vol. 1" - is available online from Japan and through the U.S. Fan Club! (Complete Details follow in this section!) To Order this CD from the U.S., (or anywhere) - please visit the Comfort Records Shop Online, in Kyoto, Japan! Don't miss this opportunity to secure your copy of the FIRST release on the new Burning Farm Label from Shonen Knife.
The world of Shonen Knife record collecting is evolving. It is obvious to many serious collectors, that the value of Shonen Knife recordings has been traditionally underrated and under-reported by the record collecting "industry". Endless attempts have been made by critics over the years, to compare Shonen Knife to many other bands... and it could be predicted: There were no recognizable "markers" to which critics could peg Shonen Knife when their first recordings were being heard: No band was comparable to the unique musical genesis that was Shonen Knife. They forged their own musical category, and it has been heavily imitated... but never, in it's pure essence, duplicated. The Shonen Knife recordings - early and recent - endure beautifully in their immediate youthful enthusiasm, amazing phrasing, conceptual design - and musical honesty. They write songs that you cannot get out of your head - and they do it consistently. Shonen Knife are not "candy-pop" girls... they are original, human, cutting edge musicians and each new album has reflected their personal growth. To own all of their recordings since the beginning - is a walk through time on a wonderful journey in song with three Osaka women who remained true to their original vision: Celebrate the daily rituals of our lives - and enjoy the journey.
There is still opportunity to build an historic Shonen Knife music collection. Listings are provided at the end of this section for Online Sources for their recordings. Knife Cuts
strives to provide accurate information on Shonen Knife's recent LPs, CDs and Videos - facts needed to get a "Knife Collection" up-to-date. "Knife Cuts" is updated whenever new information is received.
An important resource for Knife Collectors is found in the Pete Kitsch Shonen Knife Discography - the most complete listing of Shonen Knife recordings on the Web.
For online CD Stores, and sources offering Shonen Knife recordings, please click *HERE*
A Shonen KnifeCD Single (3") was released in June, in Japan! The single is titled "Yamucha Rou De Umakarou" c/w (coupled with...)
"Hamigaki", and it was released in Japan on Shonen Knife's parent label, Universal-Victor (MVDH-9017). Release date: June 18, 1999. Kappa-chan Mamiko, Shonen Knife Missionary in Japan, reports: "Yamucha" is Chinese food and "Rou" means like "store" or "house". It is like, 'House Tea'."
Naoko spoke about the second song, "Hamigaki" "We can listen to "Hamigaki" on a TV program called "Minna-no Uta" (Everyone's song) on NHK (Japanese National Television) in June and July. The program is (one) that NHK broadcasts their recommended songs to all Japanese nation." "Shonen Knife's song was chosen as a national recommendable song!"Hamigaki" means "brush your teeth". I didn't intend only for a younger audience. Everybody needs to brush their teeth. Right?"
"Yamucha" seems a popular name - applied to many pleasurable things in Japan. The new single songs, are from a commercial recording project that involved Naoko and Atsuko for a popular brand of chinese tea (manufactured in Japan). The tea is called "Yamucha", (see information following...) and "Yamucha", or the "taking of tea" is certainly popular with everyone. There are special "Yamucha" luncheons for airlines passengers from Japan to Hong Kong. "Yamucha" is the name of a popular warrior in the Japanese Anime' series, "Dragonball", and there is also a newsy Japanese "Netzine" by the name, as well. A video for "Yamucha-rou" is also featured on Japanese TV, with Naoko in a leading role.
Shonen Knife: "Yamucha Rou De Umakarou" (c/w) "Hamigaki": Universal-Victor (MVDH-9017) 6/18/99.
Shonen Knife announced their own Independent Record Label in Japan! Naoko told the Shonen Knife NeXuS in July, that they have launched an Indie Label: Burning Farm Records is named after their first "studio-produced" album... and the announcement was made on the Internet, on July 21, 1999... exactly 16 years-to-the-date after their Burning Farm album was originally released in Japan.
The first project featuring Shonen Knife in the roll of Producers, was released in Japan, July 20, 1999! "Shonen Knife presents: Wonder World, Vol. 1"! Over the past several years, Shonen Knife have actively promoted new bands that open/perform with them in Japan at their "Wonder Tour" shows. They have carried that interest forward with their new record label.
The first recognition of Shonen Knife in the west came from the album "Every Band Has A Shonen Knife Who Loves Them", released in 1989 - which featured many Western bands doing cover versions of Shonen Knife songs. This was remarkable, because their records were not released in the West until 1990.
"Shonen Knife present Wonder World, Vol. I" represents a favored project of the band to feature promising amateur bands and promote them on their tours. Long-time Shonen Knife Manager, Atsushi "Tomato Head" Shibata is actively producing. "Shonen Knife Presents Wonder World Vol.I", is the reverse concept of "EBHASKWLT" - That U.S. album was "Other bands perform Shonen Knife". In "Wonder World" 1999, Shonen Knife are producing new alternative & amateur Bands - and a Tour is planned which could well involve many of them in concert with Shonen Knife to promote the album.
The album was produced March 1999, in collaboration with Japanese musicians Solar in their Fukuoka studio. The bands included on the album, and their prefectures (districts) are:
Here are the Details you will need to order your copy of this CD:
Shonen Knife Presents "Wonder World Vol. 1"
Fans worldwide can order this First Release on the new Burning Farm label, directly from Japan, or through the U.S. Shonen Knife Fan Club ("Knife Collectors")! Please visit the Comfort Records Shop Online in Kyoto, Japan! Mr. Ohkura is the first to offer the new Burning Farm CD on the Internet! His site is easy to order from... and he gives great service to U.S. Fans. Use an International POSTAL Money Order when placing an order from the U.S. (not a "Bank Order!). Easy details for ordering, are on his site. He has a great selection of hard-to-get Japanese Shonen Knife Recordings - at fair prices! Order your copies today!!
The new Mini-album commemorating Tomoe Shinohara's 20th birthday. Songs written by Shinohara herself, with numerous artists supporting this effort including Buffalo Daughter ("TV" - track 2) and Naoko Yamano of Shonen Knife, who contributed and performs on a new song called "Alligator" (track 3).
CDA Price: 2500 (Yen)
Naoko Yamano, Lead Guitarist for Shonen Knife wrote and contributed a track to this 8-5-98 release from Tomoe Shinohara. The song is called "ONE PEACE", and the credits listed for this track on the CD are:
Song produced by: Naoko Yamano (Shonen Knife)
Tomoe Shinohara is a famed model/actress/singer - featured in many Japanese commercials for everything from Cosmetics to Cars. Very cute and vibrant personality! To visit the Shinorer's Club, please click *Here*! This is her second album. Japanese Techno-rock group, Buffalo Daughter - who've collaborated with Shonen Knife previously, and recently produced an album with Takako Minekawa - are featured on track 6, on a song called "PAREIDO", (Parade).
The 1998 Fuji Rock Festival (2) CD Set is out - featuring individual tracks by each of the primary bands who performed there. Shonen Knife appear on the 1st CD, on Track #10... performing their hit song in Japan, "Banana Chips"! This tune was featured as the closing theme for the Japanese cartoon show, "Mii Fa Pu", and easily drew recognition and great response from the Fuji Rock Fans there that day! Other bands include Sheena and the Rokkets, Prodigy, Ben Folds Five, Asian Dub Foundation, Audio Active, Tokyo No. 1 Soul Set and Nick Cave.. This is a "pricey" import, being a 2-CD set.... but Shonen Knife Completists will want to add this rare track from Shonen Knife Live at the Fuji Rock Festival, to their "Knife Collection"! Title: "Fuji Rock Festival '98 in Tokyo Live" - Various Artists. Smash/Polydor POCP-7341/2.
One of the hottest indie labels in Japan, is Sister Records - a label dedicated to Japanese girl bands. And, one of the hottest bands on the label,is Lolita No. 18
The Lolita's started together in High School in 1989 - have since toured and recorded in the U.S. and are a tight, accomplished band! They write melodic songs and jam them in your head - first class delivery - Punk! In 1998, Lolita No. 18 recorded an album called "Fubo Love NY" in New York, with Joey Ramone and Daniel Rey producing! As yet unreleased in the U.S., it's a great introduction to Lolita No. 18. Fubo Love NY was released in Japan about the time Shonen Knife were on their U.S. "Happy Hour" Tour, and jamming here in memorable shows with both Joey and Markey Ramone in Los Angeles and New York!
Lolita No. 18 recently released their "10th Anniversary Album" on Sister Records, called "Yalitamin". They had previously appeared on the Japanese Indie Release (1997) "Naritaina! Shonen Knife" - a Tribute Album (all Japanese bands playing Shonen Knife songs...) and did a great cover of Antonio Baka Guy as their tribute to SK there.
On "Yalitamin", we find Shonen Knife laying down their wall-of-sound instrumental backup - for Lolita No. 18 to sing the vocals on Riding on the Rocket - one of the great SK anthems! They rock this song together - and it's definitely something that Knife Collectors should know about. The packaging is good: full-color booklet, great photos... picture box sleeve and 36-page booklet, with a jewel box CD case. Songs include covers of "Be My Baby", "Video Killed the Radio Star", plus new songs "Honey Dance", "The Teacher I Love" - ending with the combined forces of Shonen Knife backing Lolita No. 18 - for Riding on the Rocket!
Shonen Knife members recently did some recording for a commercial film (for TV) for a brand of oriental teas and soft drinks, in Japan! The product is called "Yamucha" and you can visit their home page by clicking
*Here*. The commercial song is reportedly very popular with younger kids, and it is now being released as a new Shonen Knife single. Here are some photos of the session, courtesy of Shonen Knife Planet in Japan!
This is the remixed version of 'Atom Kids - Tribute to the King 'O.T.'' which was a tribute album dedicated to Osamu Tezuka, 10 years after his death (released on November 26th, 1998). Musicians in Japan grew up on Tezuka's 'Atom (Astro Boy)', aware that he created a truly inspired and original music legacy along with his animations. This remix of the Atom Kids Tribute album features (10) tracks, including "Iron Atom", remixed by Naoko Yamano, and remixes by EYE (Boredoms), Cibo Matto and Sugizo.
Shonen Knife have contributed a track to a new Tribute CD in Japan. Entitled "Iron Atom", (or "Mighty Atom") - the song is a pop anthem over many years in Japan with fans of cartoon animation. The album is called "Atom Kids: Tribute to the King "O.T.", dedicated to Legendary Japanese Artist, OSAMU TEZUKA, creator of Astroboy and other great Japanese cartoon favorites.
Here are the credits, in english, for the track performed by Shonen Knife on the "Atom Kids" CD:
Words: Tanigawa Syuntaro
vocal/guitar/programming by Yamano Naoko
This is a beautiful tribute album of Tezuka animation songs, and newly-written songs, by top musicians leading the Japanese music scene of the 90s. The booklet is done in a collage of the characters created by Osamu Tezuka - master of the art... on embossed gold & silver foil. Many great Japanese/International artists are featured on tracks: The Boredoms, El-Malo, Sean Lennon/Yuka Honda/Miho Hatori/Cibo Matto, Mari Nomiya, You, Cosa Nostra, Dimitri From Paris - among others. Sean Lennon sings "The Astroboy Theme Song" on the album, and appears on the Cibo Matto track as "The Magic Voice". Available from Warner Music Japan: WPC6-8522.
ATOM KIDS Tribute To The King''O.T''
Here is the track listing for the U.S. Release of Happy Hour - (Big Deal BGD 9055):
1. Shonen Knife Planet
Some of the tunes on the Happy Hour album are: "Dolly" (cool groove - great visuals), "Sushi Bar" (features background vocals by the Presidents of the United States of America, "Banana Chips" (the first power single from the new album in Japan), and "His Pet" (amazing visuals from Naoko about a Pet Carp, which may be 200 years old! (Ozzy should be verrrry afraid!). "Catch Your Bus" - rocks! Great melody song from Michie - screaming good lead guitar from Naoko! Shonen Knife also do a cover version of the Monkees classic, "Daydream Believer". You've heard the Monkees original version (a personal favorite) and Anne Murray's lilting vocals in her cover of this song - now you get to hear Shonen Knife punk it up - in a perfect rock treatment for the '90s!
Check out the new song about a "Jackalope"! Michie saw one of those postcards about (4) years ago - that features a big Jackrabbit with Antelope horns! Very popular postcard around parts of Texas and Wyoming! As Shonen Knife Freaks everywhere know - "there are many strange animals - take a look and see!" - the "Jackalope" certainly amongst them. Michie was inspired to write this song upon seeing this "funny little bunny with horns". You're also going to get the English recording of Hot Chocolate, previously only available on the Japanese mini-album CD "It's A New Find"! Hot Chocolate Guitar Riffs really work on this song about mel-mel-mel-mel...mel-ting, by Naoko!
Note: "Huge Snail", a quite short, but charming & chiming little song... about a snail's journey in the garden - was originally in the track lineup (as song #13) - but was not included in the final release. It was a "concept piece" by Michie... but it is noted that Shonen Knife, like any band - have many songs in development at all times - and choose from them for the albums. The "Huge Snail" song was included on a limited Big Deal Advance Promo (U.S.) distributed in white cardboard sleeves (BGD 9055). The promo CD is silver with black lettering/track listings, & comes in a slim white cardboard sleeve w/Big Deal logo/track listing on front. There were no "bonus" tracks on the US Release of "Happy Hour", as there were with the previous "Brand New Knife" release in 1997.
Shonen Knife completed the recording of the "Happy Hour" CD here in L.A. in December. Final "trackdown" (TD) mixing was completed in Los Angeles at Westlake Studios. This album was Produced by Shonen Knife, and the recording work was primarily done in Osaka, Japan, with drum tracks completed in Los Angeles. Some engineering for the production involved John X, who previously worked on an album by The Rolling Stones and production for the recent Shonen Knife recording of "It's a New Find"(MVCH-14001).
A new book featuring Shonen Knife Tour Diaries, Drawings, Legends and Photos from their earliest days as a band in 1981 - through their 1997 Pacific and N. American Tour - was released in Japan in synch with the new "Happy Hour" Album - in the month of June. Long a favorite project of the band, this book is a colorful, unique document - unlike any book every released by a Rock Band. It is a compelling look into the story of Shonen Knife from the members themselves. "Shonen Knife Land", was released by a Japanese Publishing firm, "Little More" books. (ISBN4-947648-73-2). English translations were done in the USA by Carl Freire Japanese-English Translations.
However, the book is not available in the United States at this time. Shonen Knife brought the book with them on the 1998 "Happy Hour" US Tour to sell... and both the book, and the T-shirts for the tour - sold out well before the tour ended!
A Shonen Knife Single CD was released in Japan on April 22, 1998. "Banana Chips"! was released there in two different formats. A Universal Victor 5" CD (cover featured above) was released (MVCH-12002) featuring the following tracks:
1. Banana Chips
Also, the Single was released in Japan in "Mini-CD" format: The 3" CD version from Universal Victor (MVDH-9006) features cover art with the characters from the "Mii Fa Pu" Television Show in Japan. Following is the track listing for the 3" Mini-CD release of "Banana Chips":
1. Banana Chips
Here is the Cover Art for the Japanese release, 3" Mini-CD of "Banana Chips":
The Shonen Knife single, "Banana Chips" - is being used as the ending theme song for a Saturday Morning Cartoon Show in Japan at this time! The song is slated to be used on the show for a year. The name of the show is "Mii Fa Puu", and best information is that the title refers to the first syllable of the three cartoon segments that make up the show.
A Shonen Knife recording for the Carpenter's Tribute Album, "Top of the World" is featured the recent major motion picture from Disney, The Parent Trap". "Top of the World" is used to kick off the action at the first of the film, and is included on the Soundtrack CD! (Hollywood Records - HR-62167-2:) Shonen Knife previously had great success with their cover version of "Top of the World" - which was featured in a 1995 Microsoft TV Commercial, and in the film soundtrack for "The Last Supper". Their mini-CD release in Japan, "Wonderwine" - had tunes written for a Japanese film, "I Hate Studying". There seems to be a compatibility with Shonen Knife music and movies.
The Bacharach Tribute Album from Big Deal: Big Deal Records in New York, released a "Tribute to Burt Bacharach" CD - featuring many bands signed to the Big Deal Label. Shonen Knife open the tribute with a straight-forward cover (done with pure Shonen Knife style & enthusiasm) of "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head", and the cover art, drawn by the great Jack Davis, of Mad Magazine fame - features "cartoon versions" of Shonen Knife and other Big Deal label artists. Very cool! Shonen Knife Freaks will want a copy of this CD, and the new Shonen Knife track of "Raindrops"! CD Information: "Big Deal Recording Artists perform the songs of Burt Bacharach: What the World Needs Now..." Various Artists - (Big Deal 9050-2).
News from Japan: The Shonen Knife Album project released in Japan (only) on October 22, 1997 - is "Ultra Mix" and was released by Shonen Knife's primary label, Universal Victor, Japan (MVCH-19001) . Price: \2079 yen, tax incl.). It features "Ultra Remixes" of Shonen Knife songs from "Brand New Knife", and others. Some of the "Ultra-mixers" who are involved in the project include: Tei Towa, Ken Ishii, Hide, Alec Empire, bis, Stereolab, Buffalo Daughter & Shonen Knife - featuring the Bison Brothers. This is a very exciting project, and a unique follow-up to the "Super Mix" CD released on January 22, 1997 in Japan. Following is complete information on the content of the "Ultra Mix" Album:
Shonen Knife "Ultra Mix":
(1997: Release Date, Japan: 10/22/97. Price: \2079 yen, tax included).
Song listing:
WONDER WINE. (Sweet Robots Mix) - remixed by Towa Tei.
Info:
The Shonen Knife U.S. Tour Video '97 was released in Japan (only... at this time) on October 22, 1997. Entitled "Blast Off!" (MVVH-6. Price: \4704 yen, tax incl.) - it features Shonen Knife performing Live songs from "Brand New Knife" during the tour, interviews with the band and with fans along the tour route, "great moments" from the tour with Shonen Knife, and the best opportunity ever for rock music fans to own a great live tour video featuring "the only band that matters": Shonen Knife!
Here is the complete information on the content of the 1997 Blast Off! Tour Video:
01. SHONEN KNIFE: (Naoko Yamano) (Intro Theme: "Good Morning Shonen Knife Freaks!"
Shonen Knife Blast Off! was:
A Shonen Knife CD mini-album, and a music video - were released in the U.S.A. on September 9, 1997. Here is the official press release from Big Deal, as it was posted on the Shonen Knife Usenet Newsgroup :
Subject: SHONEN KNIFE NEWS
"Big Deal recording artists Shonen Knife will be releasing a new mini-album and video on September 9. The Explosion! EP features both the English and Japanese versions of the title track (from their most recent smash album Brand New Knife) as well as four very special songs - the first live Shonen Knife performances ever commercially released in the United States! Recorded live at their jam-packed show at New York City's Irving Plaza , these songs offer America's first glimpse of the band onstage, and convey the joyous excitement of a Shonen Knife concert extravaganza. These rare live treats make the Explosion! EP not just a strong second single but a marketable collector's item. Sure to please the diehard fan with its beat-the-bootleg mentality and the Knife novice with its delicious pop beats and wry lyrics, Explosion! detonates nationwide in September".
(conclusion of the Big Deal Press Release)
CD Album Info: Shonen Knife: Explosion! - Big Deal 9047-2
Tracks on the new "Explosion!" CD are as follows:
1. Explosion! (English)
The Live Tracks were recorded at the Shonen Knife performance at Irving Plaza, in New York City on May 3, 1997.
The Shonen Knife Album released in Japan late last year, "Brand New Knife" - was released in the U.S. on March 18, 1997, on "Big Deal" Records in New York, an Independent label distributed by "Caroline" Records. The initial U.S. Release of "Brand New Knife" includes (7) *Bonus* tracks, in the form of the Japanese versions of the songs. They are only "referred to" on the sticker on the front of the U.S. CD & are not listed on the CD. They simply follow in the CD order of the English versions, after the "One Week" song ends the English recordings. This serves to incorporate all the material found on the initial Japanese release of the album, as well as the English versions of the songs found on the initial 1996 (EC) European Community limited release. This was to be a "limited edition release"! Following the U.S. Tour in April/May 1997 - the word originally, was that the *Bonus* tracks would be discontinued , and the U.S. CD would be subsequently released featuring only the English Versions of the songs. The "subsequent U.S. pressings" would feature the same track lineup as the English version noted above, released in the European Community - without the (7) bonus tracks in Japanese. This has not occurred, however - the bonus tracks remain on the U.S. CD. For online sources of Shonen Knife recordings, please click *HERE*
There *are* some "variations" in the Big Deal U.S. release of interest to Knife Collectors, however: On early printings of the sleeve inserts, "E.S.P." was misspelled as "E.X.P." and in the booklet, a line in "Frogphobia" is written, "So m4any things that I am scared of". This typo first appeared in the European Community release of "Brand New Knife" in 1996, and is found there and in the booklet for the Big Deal U.S. release of "Brand New Knife" - (which is a replica of the EC release booklet... photos are cropped slightly different). There are (2) variations of the US "Brand New Knife" CD on Big Deal: The intiial printing/cd release with the "E.X.P." mis-spelling on the back sleeve, featured a Pink CD, with a Pink inner plastic center & blue-green lettering. No track listing on the CD. However, the "corrected" variation from Big Deal, where the "E.X.P." was corrected to "E.S.P." - features a Red CD with a red plastic center. So, there are (2) different CD variations in the U.S. Big Deal release of "Brand New Knife". For Collectors, the EC (European Community - English version) has a Dark Blue CD with Red/Silver Lettering & and blue plastic center. The 13 tracks are listed on the CD. This version can occasionally be found in the U.S.... it has a blue sticker on the front: "English "1996 recording" Version". The original Japanese release, features different cover art, a beautiful full-color booklet, (E.S.P. is spelled correctly on the back), and a Red CD with Blue/silver lettering, & tracks are listed on the CD. Any further information or questions on these variations - please contact me at the EMail address
1. Explosion!
Also, the first single from "Brand New Knife", was the song, "E.S.P.", and a video was released for the song in the USA as well. Information on the Promo single is: Shonen Knife - E.S.P. - Big Deal CD BGD-P35-2 - It features 2 tracks: "E.S.P." - (English Version) 3:30, and "E.S.P." - (Japanese Version) 3:29. The instrumental track on both versions is the same - the only difference is the vocals in english or japanese, on the (2) tracks.
The Vinyl L.P. version of "Brand New Knife" - features the same order of tracks as the L.P. - but does not include the (7) Bonus Tracks in Japanese. It does include, however, a collectors 7" vinyl single - with cardboard picture sleeve. The 7" enclosed with the L.P. features the songs "Explosion/Loop di Loop" on "This Side" and the songs "E.S.P./One Week" on "That Side". The L.P. is Pink Vinyl and the 7" single enclosed is Yellow Vinyl.
"Brand New Knife" L.P. BGD-9035-1
MCA Victor released a coolShonen Knife mini-album in Japan, on April 23, 1997! The title of the CD is: "It's a New Find" and it includes *all new* Shonen Knife Songs!
Here is the track listing for It's A New Find! - MVCH-14001:
It's A New Find (English) - mixed by John X - Vocals by Naoko/Shonen Knife
The Cover Art for "It's A New Find" was designed by Chip Wass.
MCA Victor released the Shonen Knife "Super Mix" album in Japan! Release date was January 22, 1997! This is a "Tribute Album" of a different sort! What MCA has done is take the original master tapes of pre-"Let's Knife" recordings, and invite various musical artists and producers to do re-mixes of the songs with samples from the original tunes! Those participating in this project include Keigo Oyamada, Keiichi Sokabe, Takkyu Ishino, Thurston Moore, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Moichi Kuwahara, Roger Manning, Thurston Moore - and Shonen Knife! Michie made a pre-release comment that, in effect, the album, rather than attempting a state of "cool", is aiming to be humorous. After listening to my copy, I feel this is a very good project for Shonen Knife to be associated with. The new "Supermix" CD is funky, fun, JUNGLE, and a Sonic Circus for the ears! I learned something from this new album, too: I need better speakers in my car!! This is a very good techno read on the music of Shonen Knife, and when the album opens with "Good Morning, Shonen Knife Freaks..." - you know the unique musical inspiration that has always been associated with Shonen Knife - is still "cutting edge"! It would certainly appear so, from the cool Cover Art on this CD, by Kozic.
I'd like to add that my copy was provided by Mr. J. Page Porrazzo, who brought an advance copy from Japan for me, when he travelled to the L.A. area to visit with family at Christmas. Page and I listened to it together here at my apartment, raving about these great tracks & completely enjoyin the album. Thanks for a great Christmas present, Page-san!
No plans to release the "Supermix" album in the U.S. have been announced. Tower Records has imported it into some stores. This is a great album, & very unique.
Here are the details on the CD release of the Shonen Knife "Super Mix" album in Japan.
SHONEN KNIFE: "Super Mix"
Tracks (CD Release):
Shonen Knife - supermixed by Keigo Oyamada.
Here is the track lineup for the Vinyl pressing, scheduled for release in Japan (ONLY) on February 5, 1997... the mixes should be the same as the CD, different order being the exception:
Shonen Knife
There are reportedly two approaches taken on this album: One was to use only little clips of the lead vocal track.... everything else being newly created without new involvement by Shonen Knife. The other was to simply embellish the original recordings. It all works together VERY well!! It is noted that, with the exception of the tune "Shonen Knife" (from their "712" album) - all the original tracks "supermixed" on this album were originally available on the initial U.S. Release, "Shonen Knife". Further information on this album release will be posted as received.
1. Explosion!
Track Listing for the "Wonder Wine" CD Single, (MCA Victor, Japan - MVCD-12001):
1. Wonder Wine (*See notes:)
*NOTES: Variations in mixes/differences between the album (Japanese version), and "Wonderwine" CD single follow:
*"WONDER WINE": There are major differences in the Album version, and the version on the "Wonder Wine" CD single: On the album, following the drum intro, the song starts with a bass line, then fuzz guitar chords enter. The album version is in Japanese/english, and the CD Single version is in english. On the CD Single, following the drum intro, there is an added speedy linear lead guitar line with the bass line, and the fuzz guitar chords enter over that. Also, the album version features a fuzz guitar lead solo which repeats in length again. On the CD Single, there is a Wah-wah guitar solo, followed by a Bass Guitar solo with a "double-time" tempo feeling, then another Wah-wah guitar solo, followed by a Bass Guitar solo line again! At the end of the Album version, the lead guitar "slides" up and tags the song. I don't recall that being obvious in the CD single. The Album version runs at 3:10, while the CD Single runs 3:27.
*"WIND YOUR SPRING": There are differences between the album (Japanese version) and the version (In English) on the "Wonder Wine" CD Single: The CD Single version begins with the sound of a spring (like a mega-alarm clock!) being "wound up", but this is not heard on the Album mix. Also, there is a different lead guitar solo on the album version, than is heard on the CD Single! The Album mix runs 3:29, and the CD single runs 3:37.
Track Listing for the *"E.S.P." CD Single, (MCA Victor, Japan - MVCD-12002):
1. E.S.P. (Japanese Version - *See notes)
*"E.S.P.": The version of "E.S.P." on the Japanese version of the album, is the same as the mix that is the first track on the Japanese "E.S.P." CD Single. Both run at 3:11.
*"LOOP DI LOOP": There are no differences in the mix on the album, and the mix heard on the "E.S.P." CD Single.
The song is also featured in a film, "The Last Supper" - available on the Soundtrack album from TVT Records (TVT 7010-2). (With the possible exception of a Sam Phillips' tune and the oldies track from The Toys, "A Lover's Concerto" - there is no other reason to purchase this CD! haha!) The song was also RUMORED to be included on a 1994 Compilation CD from A&M Records titled "How Many Cats Can You Fit In A Bucket?" - Quite hard to find this. However, I have a copy and there is NO Shonen Knife track on this promo CD. The (2) songs that Sonic Youth and Redd Kross contributed to the "If I Were A Carpenter" CD are the first (2) tracks on this promo. There is a "secret" final track of Karen Carpenter singing their song, "Sing", but the Shonen Knife remake of "Top of the World", is not on this promo CD. "Top of the World" was also released on the Virgin album, "The Birds and the B-Sides" (see information following). The band does not recognize this release. "The Birds & The B-Sides" was released after Shonen Knife had left that label, and it was done without their knowledge. They "wonder about it..." but have not listened to it.
Tower Records released their first "In-store" CD-Rom for Windows/Mac use, in late 1996. It featured many reviews of CDs in stock and was only ".99 cents"! Who says a "buck" can't buy something cool anymore? The Shonen Knife CD "The Birds and the B-Sides" is listed on this Tower CD-Rom, with a cover photo, a (rather retro...) review of the group and there are three audio clips of tunes from that album. "Heat Wave", "Gomi Day" and "Fruit Loop Dreams". Also, it features a review of a CD from Wesley Willis called "Rock 'n' Roll Will Never Die" - which consists of tribute songs to various groups - with one listed for Shonen Knife. Unfortunately, I have now have a report that the "Wesley Willis Fiasco" is no more! Apparently, the "Fiasco" was too much, and the band split! But, hey! Rock 'n' Roll will never die!
The Sultans of Ping were "Of The Knife"! On the Sultans' 1993 album, "Casual Sex at the Cineplex" Shonen Knife contributes a spoken intro, and there's a photo of SK with Niall of the (now) "Sultans" (Formerly "Sultans of Ping"). Also, on the Sultans of Ping CD Single, "Michiko" - they feature a previously unreleased cover version of the Shonen Knife song, "Miracles" (Michie)! Knife Collectors, take note!! Cover art on the U.S. version of "Michiko", is different than the Japanese version.
A punk band on Lookout Records, The Mr. T. Experience does a punkster version of the Shonen Knife classic, "Flying Jelly Attack" on their album "Making Things With Light". It's a rave, and their "light bulb joke" and the rest of the album is pretty cool, too!
A
CD Collectors: watch for a rather scarce promo item in the used bins here in the U.S.A. - it's called "Broadcaster" and features "Tomato Head" by Shonen Knife, as well as cuts by Green Day, Sonic Youth, and others. (Transworld Publications TWF01) 1994. It has a cardboard sleeve with a white background, black lettering and blue "Fender Broadcaster" imagery.
MCA Victor (Japan) has re-released 4 of Shonen Knife's original CDs there! They all include bonus, previously unreleased tracks, and excellent color booklet inserts!
Many people send email and inquire as to where to order Shonen Knife Recordings. With that in mind, here is a list of some sources on the Internet, where fans can find Shonen Knife CD albums & singles, Cassettes and Vinyl Records. The Shonen Knife NeXuS - Los Angeles! is not affiliated with these suppliers in any way - The information is provided here for Fans of the Knife to help them find the CDs and other recordings they are seeking! Anyone with information on these or any other reliable source for their recordiings - or with reports of delays in receiving your orders with these sites - drop me a note here with the info!
Note: Comfort Records moved their shop a year or so ago. If I can locate the new site, I'll update this source!
Got a favorite CD/Music site? Submit it to us! Anyone with information on their experience in ordering from these sources would be welcome to submit your opinion on the service, reliability, time period from order to shipping, prices, value... etc. Other collectors could benefit from your input! Domo arigato!
art design: Naoko Yamano
Burning Farm Label Debut!
"Shonen Knife Presents Wonder World, Vol. I"
Various Artists: Burning Farm/BF-1CD. Y2100. (10 bands)
Release date: July 20, 1999.
"Dream and Machine" - Tomoe Shinohara
Release Date: 3/25/99
Warner Artists
HDCA-10002
"Megaphone Speaks" - Tomoe Shinohara (Shinoler)
Guitar, Chorus, Pianica, Percussion: Naoko Yamano
Drums: Atsuko Yamano
Bass: Atsushi Shibata
Ki/oon Records
CDA Price: 3059 (Yen)
Release Date: 8/5/98
KSC2-236
Fuji Rock Festival '98 in Tokyo Live!
(Sister Records: CRCS-1007).
(L:) Naoko recording Commercial. (R:) Session in Progress!
ATOM KIDS REMIX:
Warner Music, Japan
Artist : Various Artists
CDA WPC6-10008 3059 Yen (USD 26.35)
Release Date: 2/24/99>
Atom Kids - Tribute To The King "O.T." (Warner Music Japan WPC6-8522)
Music: Takai Tatsuo
Arranged by: Shonen Knife
Produced by: Shonen Knife
drums/chorus by Yamano Atsuko
bass/chorus by Nakatani Michie
recorded & mixed at Japan Overseas Studio
Artist : VARIOUS
CDA WPC6-8522 3059 Yen (USD 26.35)
11/28/98 (Release Date)
The 1998 Shonen Knife album title is "Happy Hour"! It was released in Japan and N. America on June 23, 1998. The most cohesive, tight album from Shonen Knife yet, the album is filled with the feeling of "Shonen Knife Live!". The band has created a new pop masterpiece, with this all-new material. In this, Shonen Knife determined to return to their earlier sound - very live, and the songs are completely convincing that Shonen Knife continue to write music like no one else - songs which endure and impact listeners on many levels. That keen Shonen Knife trademark "edge" - is very much "in the mix". This album rocks! It's going to be one of the fun things in your future days.
2. Konnichiwa
3. Cookie Day
4. Hot Chocolate
5. Sushi Bar
6. Fish Eyes
7. Banana Chips
8. Dolly
9. Jackalope
10. Gyoza
11. Catch Your Bus
12. People Traps
13. His Pet
14. Daydream Believer
The Japanese recording of Happy Hour was released in Japan on June 23, 1998 - simultaneously with the U.S. Release. However, the configuration is different. The art work, package design, CD color and track listings are significantly different. Here is the information on the Japanese release of "Happy Hour":
Shonen Knife: "Happy Hour" - Universal-Victor, Japan. MVCH-29020.
(18) Tracks: (5)in Japanese, (12)in English.
Track Listing:
1. Shonen Knife Planet (English)
2. Konnichiwa! (English)
3. Cookie Day (Japanese)(doesn't include the "cookie-cookie" intro of english version. Different vocal treatment on Chorus background.)
4. Hot Chocolate (English)
5. Sushi Bar (Japan)
6. Fish Eyes (English)
7. Banana Chips (Japanese)
8. Dolly (Japanese)
9. Jackalope (English)
10. Gyoza (English)
11. Catch Your Bus (English)
12. People Traps (Japanese)(vocal treatment by Naoko differs from English version).
13. His Pet (English)
14. Cookie Day (English)
15. Sushi Bar Song (English)
16. Banana Chips (English)
17. Dolly (English)
18. People Traps (English)
Shonen Knife Book Release!
Japanese Shonen Knife Single: "Banana Chips"!
2. Banana Chips (EYE Mix)
3. Banana Chips (Bomb Dub Mix)
4. Banana Chips (Kenji Sato Mix)
2. Dolly
3. Banana Chips (karaoke version)
Shonen Knife song featured on Japanese Cartoon TV Show:
1998 - Bandai Corp.
WIND YOUR SPRING: (bis Mix)
MAGIC JOE: (Ken Ishii Mix)
KEEP ON ROCKIN': (Alec Empire Mix)
TOWER OF THE SUN: (hide Mix)
HOT CHOCOLATE: (Stereolab Mix by Tim Gane) - from Shonen Knife "It's A New Find" Japanese CD release.
BUDDHA'S FACE: (Buffalo Daughter Mix)
E.S.P.: (Shonen Knife featuring Bison Brothers Mix) Bison Brothers are: Atsushi Shibata & Masakazu Iwata - Additional Productions by BB + Keisuke Saitoh, Tsutomu Oikawa
A&R Director: Masakazu Iwata (Universal Victor)
Artist Management: Atsushi Shibata (Tomato Head)
A&R International: Norio Yamamoto (Universal Victor)
Color Illustrated by: Kozic
Designed by: NANA 97
Photographed by: Akira Shibata (Shibata Studios)
SHONEN KNIFE: ULTRA-MIX - - 1997 Universal Victor, Inc. Tokyo, Japan. MVCH-19001.
Shonen Knife "Blast Off!" Video - released in Japan!
02. E.S.P. (Naoko Yamano)
03. WONDER WINE (Naoko Yamano)
04. MAGIC JOE (Naoko Yamano)
05. LOOP DI LOOP (Shonen Knife)
06. WIND YOUR SPRING (Naoko Yamano)
07. EXPLOSION! (Naoko Yamano)
08. KEEP ON ROCKIN' (Naoko Yamano)
09. LAZYBONE (Naoko Yamano)
10. FROGPHOBIA (Michie Nakatani)
11. FRUITS & VEGETABLES (Michie Nakatani)
12. BUDDAH'S FACE (Naoko Yamano)
13. ONE WEEK (Naoko Yamano)
Video Clips:
14. IT'S A NEW FIND (Naoko Yamano) - Directed by: Kazuhiro Mishima
15. E.S.P. (Naoko Yamano) - Directed by: Matty Sidle
16. WONDER WINE (Naoko Yamano) - Directed by: Atsushi Shibata
17. REDD KROSS (Naoko Yamano) - Directed by: Dave Markey
Directed by: David Markey
Camera Operators: David Markey, Louis Gonzalez, Atsushi Shibata, Daniel Clark, David Travis, Vann Frazier (spelled as Van Frasier in the credits), Peter Giammanco III
Cover Art by Naoko Yamano (Photograph: Shin Jinushi)
A&R Director: Masakazu Iwata
Artist Management: Atsushi Shibata (Tomato Head)
Executive Producer: Jun Usami
Studio Recordings Produced, Engineered and Mixed by: The Robb Brothers (Bruce, Joe, Dee)
SHONEN KNIFE BLAST OFF! - - Universal Victor, Inc. MVVH-6.
Second U.S. Single from "Brand New Knife" released: "Explosion!"
Date: 14 Jul 1997 02:47:05 GMT
2. Explosion! (Japanese)
3. E.S.P. (Live)
4. Loop-di-Loop (Live)
5. Wind Your Spring (Live)
6. One Week (Live)
"Brand New Knife" - 1997 Shonen Knife U.S. Release! All the info!
Followup: There is no indication at this time that the Brand New Knife CD on Big Deal has been released in any other configuration other than it's initial U.S. release with the added Bonus Tracks of the songs in Japanese.
Here are the tracks on the U.S. Release of "Brand New Knife", from Big Deal:
2. Wind Your Spring
3. The Perfect World
4. E.S.P.
5. Loop Di Loop
6. Wonder Wine
7. Magic Joe
8. Fruits & Vegetables
9. Tower Of The Sun
10. Keep On Rockin'
11. Frogphobia
12. Buddha's Face
13. One Week
Bonus tracks sung in Japanese:
14. Explosion!
15. Wind Your Spring
16. E.S.P.
17. Wonder Wine
18. Fruits & Vegetables
19. Tower Of The Sun
20. Frogphobia
"Brand New Knife" - Vinyl L.P. version on Big Deal records
"Collectors 7" vinyl single (comes with L.P.): BGD 9035-7
Shonen Knife: "It's A New Find!" Japanese mini-album!
Hot Chocolate (English/Japanese)
- Vocal by Naoko
Anyway You Want It - Vocals by Naoko/Shonen Knife (Cover of song by "Angel" - from their album: "Helluva Band" -Mercury CD 314 510 956-2)
Mysterious Drug Store (New song by Michie - Vocals by Atsuko)
It's A New Find (English) - ("Atarashii Hakken": New Discovery Mix)
Hot Chocolate (English/Japanese) - (Stereolab Mix - mixed & arranged by Tim Gane of Stereolab)
It's A New Find (English) - (I've Gone Berzerk Mix) - mixed by John X
Shonen Knife "Supermix" CD released in Japan!
MCA Victor, Japan - MVCD-20002
Parrot Polynesia - supermixed by Keiichi Sokabe.
Elephant Pao Pao - supermixed by Takkyu Ishino.
Cannibal Papaya - supermixed by Thurston Moore.
Insect Collector - supermixed by Ryuichi Sakamoto.
Burning Farm/Banana Leaf - supermixed by Moichi Kuwahara.
Twist Barbie - supermixed by Roger Manning.
Tortoise Brand - supermixed by Shonen Knife.
Parrot Polynesia
Cannibal Papaya
Tortoise Brand Pot Scrubbing Cleaners Theme
Elephant Pao Pao
Insect Collector
Burning Farm/Banana Leaf
Twist Barbie
"Brand New Knife" debuts in Japan and Europe!
2. Wind Your Spring (* See notes following)
3. The Perfect World
4. E.S.P. (*See notes following)
5. Loop Di Loop (*See notes following)
6. Wonder Wine (*See notes following)
7. Magic Joe
8. Fruits & Vegetables
9. Tower Of The Sun - Click HERE for a picture of the actual "Tower Of The Sun"!
10. Keep On Rockin'
11. Frogphobia
12. Buddah's Face
13. One Week
Shonen Knife "Wonderwine" CD Single released in Japan
2. Merman
3. Wind Your Spring (*See notes:)
Shonen Knife "E.S.P. CD Single released in Japan
2. Loop Di Loop
3. E.S.P. (English Version)
4. E.S.P. (Original Karaoke)
Shonen Knife Microsoft Commecial: "Top Of The World"!
Shonen Knife review/audio clips on Tower Records first "In-store CD-Rom".
Shonen Knife - Songs covered by other Bands/Artists.
Compilation album has been released: "Japanese Homegrown, Vol. 2" is now available from Gianormus Records, #CD ORA 1009 - and features many popular Japanese bands, including the Shonen Knife track, "Lazy Bone".
Shonen Knife - Final Virgin release: "The Birds & the B-Sides"
Reissues of Early Shonen Knife CDs in Japan - w/bonus tracks:
Here's the info you'd need to order them:
"Do The Knife" CD Single in Japan! Features "Do The Bartman!"
Limited Edition 7" vinyl - Michie & Japanese Beetles: "Cookout"!
"Naritaina! Shonen Knife! Japanese bands SK Tribute CD!
Previously listed links to Sources for Shonen Knife recordings. Some of these may no longer be valid, but until they can be reviewed - we'll leave them here. A "Grab Bag" of resources, perhaps?
Knife Cuts ~ Return to top of this section.
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