Murabanku digitally released their single “Oume Kaido” on Wednesday, October 23, under their new label, “Techi Records.”
Formed in Aichi in 2018, Murabanku is an instrumental band now based in Tokyo. Known for their unique “Sucharaka Core” sound, they seamlessly blend genres, moving freely from traditional jazz to exotica, game music, hip-hop, drum ‘n’ bass, and beyond. In 2023, they performed at SUMMER SONIC, and with the addition of new members in 2024, the band has evolved into its current six-member lineup. Recently, they were featured in the October 9 issue of POPEYE magazine, which included a special on bands, garnering them further attention.
This release, their first in about two years and the first with the current lineup, features three tracks that capture the generational vibe of their members, primarily born in 1997, often considered the inaugural wave of Generation Z. The title track pays homage to the street culture of Japan’s Heisei era, which they grew up with, infused with love and respect. The single also includes “A Message Has Arrived,” inspired by imagined messages from aliens, and a re-recording of “Murabanku-Bushi (Alternative Version),” making for a danceable expression of what they call “Our Street.”
Murabanku will hold a solo concert on Saturday, October 26, at Tsumazuku Honya Hall in Kawagoe, Saitama. On Friday, November 29, they will host their self-produced event PARTY PEOPLES vol.1: Unleash the ‘A’ Inside You at BASEMENTBAR in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo. The event will feature a trio performance by Skirt, and a one-night-only collaboration is also planned.
Commentary by Chikato Tsuchiya (Leader)
M1. Oume Kaido
Our own take on “street” culture—
Back in elementary school, we’d gather in parks and play together on our DS consoles, and I think those moments are a part of street culture, too.I’ve always admired B-boys but often wondered if I was really part of that scene. Looking back, I realized I was also part of Heisei street culture, so I wanted to create music that captures our version of street life in an authentic way.
Of course, skateboarding and dance are cool, but back then, I was equally inspired by videos on Nico Nico Douga of people performing otaku-style dances in pedestrian areas. This song ties together our nostalgic version of the 2000s street culture with our own offbeat, genuine approach—expressing it with love and respect.
M2. A Message Has Arrived
We chose to release this as a single instead of an EP to highlight the A-side and B-side as distinct tracks. Even though I mainly listen to streaming myself, I wanted to bring a bit of the physical CD experience into this.That’s how A Message Has Arrived was born. I thought it would be fun if a message from aliens appeared in the middle of the track—something totally inexplicable. So, we included a message from aliens, just as it was. Nowadays, those little moments of “What?” are probably one of the biggest luxuries. Enjoy it.
M3. Murabanku-Bushi (Alternative Version)
Modern game soundtracks now have fuller audio, but back in the DS days, hardware limitations meant that creating realistic sounds wasn’t easy—we had to rely on samples or modular synths to get the right vibe. Hearing that sound brings back memories of taking my games to my grandmother’s house on Saturdays and secretly playing under the covers at night.This track was crafted to reflect our style—a concept that’s fully programmed but feels like a live performance, capturing who we are as a band.
Comment from Taichi Imamura (Techi Records / Cafe Kuuwa)
From here on out, I’m teaming up with Murabanku! This is Taichi Imamura from Techi Records!
Their latest release is packed full with Murabanku’s “now”—three tracks filled with every bit of their passion and energy! We live each day to the fullest! Pedaling our bikes with everything we’ve got! Sometimes dancing joyfully! Let’s choose the music that colors our lives for ourselves!So, if you’d like, get through each day with Murabanku’s music alongside you!
That’s what I’ll be doing!
Murabanku – “Oume Kaido”
Tracklist:
M1. Oume Kaido
M2. A Message Has Arrived
M3. Murabanku-Bushi (Alternative Version)
Cover Art: Shota Urakawa
Release Date: Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Label: Techi Records
Streaming Link: https://friendship.lnk.to/Cycling_MURABANKU
Murabanku Solo Live “Dokan”
Date: Saturday, October 26
Doors Open / Show Starts: 16:45 / 17:30
Venue: mibunka | Tsumazuku Honya Hall
Address: 4-22-13 Kasumigaseki Kita, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-1109
Tickets: ¥3,000 (plus 1 drink)
Reservations: https://forms.gle/bJSBTyFHhm4siEBg6
Murabanku Self-Produced Live “PARTY PEOPLES vol.1: Unleash the ‘A’ Inside You”
Date: Friday, November 29
Doors Open / Show Starts: TBD
Venue: Shimokitazawa BASEMENTBAR
Lineup: Murabanku / Skirt (Trio Format)
Tickets: ¥3,000 (plus 1 drink) / Student Discount ¥2,000 (plus 1 drink)
Reservation Link: https://t.livepocket.jp/e/9iptp
