V/A "Techno Kayō Vol. 1 - Japanese Techno Pop 1981 - 1989" 2xLP

Compiled by Dubby & Antal, Techno Kayō Volume One is a dancefloor-friendly selection focusing on Japanese proto-techno, electro-pop, and synthpop from the 1980s. Pressed at 45RPM. Comes with OBI and insert with liner notes.

In late-1970s Japan, a new and unique “genre” called techno kayō emerged, blending catchy pop melodies with the futuristic sounds of synthesizers and drum machines. Rooted in the older kayōkyoku style, it was influenced by European electronic acts like Kraftwerk, but had a distinctly Japanese flair. Artists such as Yellow Magic Orchestra pioneered this retro-futuristic sound, creating music that felt both nostalgic and ahead of its time.

Dubby, owner of the legendary record shop Ondas in Tokyo, was one of the first to make Japanese music available to the outside world. He has teamed up with Antal, co-founder of the Amsterdam-based, Rush Hour Records, to release the first in a series of compilations.

Artwork from Johann Kauth (Stenze Quo)