Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra
Encyclopedia
, commonly abbreviated by fans as Skapara or TSPO, is a Japanese ska
and jazz
band officially formed in 1988 by the percussionist Asa-Chang, and initially composed of over 10 veterans of Tokyo's underground scene. At the time, the band's sound was unlike that of any of its contemporaries in the then fledgling Japanese ska scene, and over the course of the past 21 years, their innovation has proved to have been very influential on Japanese music
as a whole. Its sound, the product of the musical influences of its numerous members, is an eclectic mix of traditional ska
, jazz
, and rock
. In the vein of many other more traditional ska acts, many of Skapara's songs are purely instrumental. Since its inception, the band has gone on several nationwide tours of Japan, and have toured extensively worldwide. They have collaborated with several vocalists outside of their band, including Shiina Ringo
, Akira Kobayashi
, Kyōko Koizumi
, Schadaraparr, PUFFY
and Tamio Okuda
. They also performed the Japanese theme song to the PlayStation 2
game Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
, entitled Black Jack.
. At this time the 'classic' lineup of the band included: Asa-Chang (percussions), Tsuyoshi Kawakami (Bass), Tatsuyuki Aoki (drums), Yuichi Oki (keyoards), Marc Hayashi (guitar), Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta (alto sax/agitate man), Gamo (tenor sax), Atsushi Yanaka (baritone sax), Nargo (trumpet), Masahiko Kitahara (trombone) and Cleanhead Gimura (vocals). Yuhei Takeuchi (alto sax) was part of the original lineup, but left in 1990, though he has re-joined the band live on several occasions.
While the band worked on their fifth album, vocalist Cleanhead Gimura lost his ongoing battle with brain cancer and died. Grand Prix was released in 1995 as a tribute to the singer. This record continued the band’s progression into a more pop-oriented sound, and it featured a number of guest musicians and singers. As far as live performances, Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta essentially became the front-man for the band, though it should be noted that depending on the specific piece being played, any of the band's members can be front man or singer.
1996 saw the release of , which toned back the pop stylings of Grand Prix. This marked the first appearance on record of new percussionist Hajime Ohmori. During the band’s visit to Thailand, Alto Sax/Agitate Man Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta was involved a motorcycle accident, suffering damage to his legs. He missed out on some shows, but after recovery decided to continue performing, in many cases carrying a cane, or just sitting down while playing. Shortly thereafter Toru Terashi left the band.
After this album, the band decided to leave Epic Records, as there was a feeling that the label had not been able to properly convert their popularity into record sales. They signed with indie label Avex Trax, who also created an exclusive imprint for Skapara, Justa Record. The band recruited Rui Sugimura (brother of Cleanhead Gimura) as a full-time singer. This would become the band’s most prolific period, with a number of releases, including the Arkestra album, various 12” and 7” records (which included remixes from Arkestra songs as well as completely new tracks), the Hinotama Jive EP, the soundtrack to the video game Incredible Crisis
, and several tribute album appearances. The band embarked on an ambitious tour of Japan (documented on the DVD Ska Evangelists on the Run). Since no official guitarist had been hired yet, they toured with the two guitarists that worked on the album: Takashi Kato (of Lost Candi) and 會田茂一 (of El Malo).
During the Arkestra tour, original drummer Tatsuyuki Aoki died in a train accident. He was temporarily replaced by Tatsuya Nakamura
(Blankey Jet City
and Losalios). At the end of the tour, Kin-Ichi Motegi (ex-Fishmans
) also filled in. Rui Sugimura left in mid 1999 as well. Takashi Kato became a permanent member of the band.
For their next record, Stomping on Downbeat Alley, the band invited three guest singers: Yusuke Chiba (Thee Michelle Gun Elephant
), Tajima Takao (Original Love, Pizzicato Five
) and Tamio Okuda
(Unicorn
). The album and singles were a huge success and a gig at Yokohama Arena (with all three guest singers) was released as Downbeat Arena. The band also embarked on a European tour which was documented on the DVD Catch the Rainbow.
High Numbers was a more low-profile release, having mostly instrumental tracks, along with Kin-Ichi Motegi’s first lead vocal track, "Ginga to Meiro". 2004’s Answer was a similar affair.
For 2006’s Wild Peace, the band once again recruited three guest vocalists: Chara
, Hanaregumi, and Hiroto Komoto (The High-Lows
). As with Downbeat Alley these singles became huge hits, and the band also recorded a DVD at the final show for the tour, with all three singers. They once again toured Europe with this record. The DVD Smile was released to document this tour.
Perfect Future soon followed, with more jazz leanings, and only one guest vocalist, Fumio Ito (of Kemuri
). Kin-Ichi Motegi also recorded a vocal track for this album. A few months after the release of Perfect Future, Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta decided to officially leave the band in order to concentrate on healing his legs, due to the accident suffered in 1996. This leaves a big void in the band’s live performance, as Hiyamuta’s role was that of agitate man, talking to crowds and essentially operating as front man. The band has decided not to replace him, thereby remaining as a nine piece.
In early 2009 Paradise Blue was released, with the first line-up difference in almost a decade. This marks the 20th anniversary since the band’s first EP was released, and they have been busy touring Japan in support of the album.
2010 saw the release of World Ska Symphony, featuring guest vocals from Tamio Okuda
, Crystal Kay
, and Kazuyoshi Saito.
Ska
Ska |Jamaican]] ) is a music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1950s, and was the precursor to rocksteady and reggae. Ska combined elements of Caribbean mento and calypso with American jazz and rhythm and blues...
and jazz
Jazz
Jazz is a musical style that originated at the beginning of the 20th century in African American communities in the Southern United States. It was born out of a mix of African and European music traditions. From its early development until the present, jazz has incorporated music from 19th and 20th...
band officially formed in 1988 by the percussionist Asa-Chang, and initially composed of over 10 veterans of Tokyo's underground scene. At the time, the band's sound was unlike that of any of its contemporaries in the then fledgling Japanese ska scene, and over the course of the past 21 years, their innovation has proved to have been very influential on Japanese music
Music of Japan
The music of Japan includes a wide array of performers in distinct styles both traditional and modern. The word for music in Japanese is 音楽 , combining the kanji 音 with the kanji 楽...
as a whole. Its sound, the product of the musical influences of its numerous members, is an eclectic mix of traditional ska
Ska
Ska |Jamaican]] ) is a music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1950s, and was the precursor to rocksteady and reggae. Ska combined elements of Caribbean mento and calypso with American jazz and rhythm and blues...
, jazz
Jazz
Jazz is a musical style that originated at the beginning of the 20th century in African American communities in the Southern United States. It was born out of a mix of African and European music traditions. From its early development until the present, jazz has incorporated music from 19th and 20th...
, and rock
Rock and roll
Rock and roll is a genre of popular music that originated and evolved in the United States during the late 1940s and early 1950s, primarily from a combination of African American blues, country, jazz, and gospel music...
. In the vein of many other more traditional ska acts, many of Skapara's songs are purely instrumental. Since its inception, the band has gone on several nationwide tours of Japan, and have toured extensively worldwide. They have collaborated with several vocalists outside of their band, including Shiina Ringo
Shiina Ringo
, known by her stage name , is a Japanese singer-songwriter, music composer and music producer. She is also the founder and lead vocalist of the band Tokyo Jihen.She describes herself as ""....
, Akira Kobayashi
Akira Kobayashi
is a Japanese actor. His nickname is .- Biography :He successfully became an actor in the Nikkatsu Corporation. He attended Meiji University but left before graduating. Kobayashi made his debut in 1959 in the film Nangoku Tosa o Ato ni Shite . He also starred in the TV series "Wataridori" and...
, Kyōko Koizumi
Kyoko Koizumi
' is a Japanese singer and actress. Her music is released through Victor Entertainment . She is also known by the nickname Kyon Kyon. She had singles reach the Top ten for 12 consecutive years between 1983 and 1994, a female solo artist record, until this was broken by Namie Amuro...
, Schadaraparr, PUFFY
Puffy
Puffy can refer to one of the following:* Puffy or Puffy AmiYumi , a Japanese pop duo** Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, animation series about fictional adventures of Puffy AmiYumi** Puffy: P.S...
and Tamio Okuda
Tamio Okuda
is a singer, songwriter, and producer. He started his career in 1986 as a member of the band Unicorn. After Unicorn broke up, Okuda moved on to a solo career in 1994 with the single "Ai no Tame ni." He has written and composed many songs for various artists, particularly Puffy...
. They also performed the Japanese theme song to the PlayStation 2
PlayStation 2
The PlayStation 2 is a sixth-generation video game console manufactured by Sony as part of the PlayStation series. Its development was announced in March 1999 and it was first released on March 4, 2000, in Japan...
game Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus
Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus is a platform stealth video game created by Sucker Punch Productions, and released on the Sony PlayStation 2 in 2002, subsequently republished as a "Greatest Hits" title. The game was followed by two sequels, Sly 2: Band of Thieves and Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves...
, entitled Black Jack.
Early Beginnings
The band’s first release was 1989's eponymous six track EP, released on vinyl by local independent label Kokusai Records. That record’s acceptance, coupled with the band’s already notorious live shows, got them a deal with Epic RecordsEpic Records
Epic Records is an American record label, owned by Sony Music Entertainment. Though it was originally conceived as a jazz imprint, it has since expanded to represent various genres. L.A...
. At this time the 'classic' lineup of the band included: Asa-Chang (percussions), Tsuyoshi Kawakami (Bass), Tatsuyuki Aoki (drums), Yuichi Oki (keyoards), Marc Hayashi (guitar), Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta (alto sax/agitate man), Gamo (tenor sax), Atsushi Yanaka (baritone sax), Nargo (trumpet), Masahiko Kitahara (trombone) and Cleanhead Gimura (vocals). Yuhei Takeuchi (alto sax) was part of the original lineup, but left in 1990, though he has re-joined the band live on several occasions.
1990s
was released in 1990, and includes their first big hit, Monster Rock. Within a year, the band was playing Tokyo’s respected Budokan arena in front of 10,000 screaming fans. After their second album, , original guitarist Marc Hayashi left the band and was replaced by Toru Terashi. Their third album, Pioneers, marked the last recording of the band with founder Asa-Chang, who decided to pursue a solo career. Fantasia was recorded as a 10 piece with no permanent replacement on percussion.While the band worked on their fifth album, vocalist Cleanhead Gimura lost his ongoing battle with brain cancer and died. Grand Prix was released in 1995 as a tribute to the singer. This record continued the band’s progression into a more pop-oriented sound, and it featured a number of guest musicians and singers. As far as live performances, Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta essentially became the front-man for the band, though it should be noted that depending on the specific piece being played, any of the band's members can be front man or singer.
1996 saw the release of , which toned back the pop stylings of Grand Prix. This marked the first appearance on record of new percussionist Hajime Ohmori. During the band’s visit to Thailand, Alto Sax/Agitate Man Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta was involved a motorcycle accident, suffering damage to his legs. He missed out on some shows, but after recovery decided to continue performing, in many cases carrying a cane, or just sitting down while playing. Shortly thereafter Toru Terashi left the band.
After this album, the band decided to leave Epic Records, as there was a feeling that the label had not been able to properly convert their popularity into record sales. They signed with indie label Avex Trax, who also created an exclusive imprint for Skapara, Justa Record. The band recruited Rui Sugimura (brother of Cleanhead Gimura) as a full-time singer. This would become the band’s most prolific period, with a number of releases, including the Arkestra album, various 12” and 7” records (which included remixes from Arkestra songs as well as completely new tracks), the Hinotama Jive EP, the soundtrack to the video game Incredible Crisis
Incredible Crisis
Incredible Crisis, known in Japan as , is a PlayStation video game developed by Polygon Magic. The game was first published in Japan by Tokuma Shoten on June 24, 1999...
, and several tribute album appearances. The band embarked on an ambitious tour of Japan (documented on the DVD Ska Evangelists on the Run). Since no official guitarist had been hired yet, they toured with the two guitarists that worked on the album: Takashi Kato (of Lost Candi) and 會田茂一 (of El Malo).
During the Arkestra tour, original drummer Tatsuyuki Aoki died in a train accident. He was temporarily replaced by Tatsuya Nakamura
Tatsuya Nakamura
is a Japanese musician....
(Blankey Jet City
Blankey Jet City
Blankey Jet City was a rock and roll/rockabilly trio from Japan.- Members : Vocals, Guitar* He also plays in Sherbets and Jude and was a part of Ajico...
and Losalios). At the end of the tour, Kin-Ichi Motegi (ex-Fishmans
Fishmans
Fishmans was a Japanese dub music band formed in 1987, and are known for their unique sound and the distinctive vocals of lead singer Shinji Sato.-Biography:...
) also filled in. Rui Sugimura left in mid 1999 as well. Takashi Kato became a permanent member of the band.
2000s
2000’s Full Tension Beaters was a full on Ska record, and their first album to be released outside of Asia (by Grover Records in Germany). Even though Motegi was still working as support drummer during this recording, it was the first record with the band’s most stable line-up, consisting of Yanaka, Gamo, Nargo, Kitahara and Hiyamuta on the horn section, Oki on keyboards, Kawakami on Bass, Ohmori on percussions, Kato on guitar and Motegi on drums. The lineup would remain the same until 2008.For their next record, Stomping on Downbeat Alley, the band invited three guest singers: Yusuke Chiba (Thee Michelle Gun Elephant
Thee Michelle Gun Elephant
Thee Michelle Gun Elephant was a Japanese garage rock band formed in 1991.-History:The band was formed in 1991, while the members were students at Tokyo's Meiji Gakuin University. They later drew influence from The Roosters...
), Tajima Takao (Original Love, Pizzicato Five
Pizzicato Five
Pizzicato Five was a Japanese pop group best known to audiences in the West in their later incarnation as a duo of Maki Nomiya and Yasuharu Konishi...
) and Tamio Okuda
Tamio Okuda
is a singer, songwriter, and producer. He started his career in 1986 as a member of the band Unicorn. After Unicorn broke up, Okuda moved on to a solo career in 1994 with the single "Ai no Tame ni." He has written and composed many songs for various artists, particularly Puffy...
(Unicorn
Unicorn (Japanese band)
Unicorn is a Japanese rock band, formed in 1986, consisting of Koichi Kawanishi , Tamio Okuda , Isamu Teshima , Kazushi Horiuchi , and Yoshiharu Abe . They reunited in 2009....
). The album and singles were a huge success and a gig at Yokohama Arena (with all three guest singers) was released as Downbeat Arena. The band also embarked on a European tour which was documented on the DVD Catch the Rainbow.
High Numbers was a more low-profile release, having mostly instrumental tracks, along with Kin-Ichi Motegi’s first lead vocal track, "Ginga to Meiro". 2004’s Answer was a similar affair.
For 2006’s Wild Peace, the band once again recruited three guest vocalists: Chara
Chara
-Geography:*Chara , a rural locality in Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia*Chara Airport located there*Chara River, a river in Russia-Science:*Chara , a genus of algae in the family Characeae...
, Hanaregumi, and Hiroto Komoto (The High-Lows
The High-Lows
were a popular Japanese punk rock band that was formed in 1995. The band stopped all activities in November 2005 and broke up.-Members:* Hiroto Kōmoto – vocals* Masatoshi Mashima –guitar* Sakito Shirabe – bass* Kenji Ōshima – drums* Mikio Shirai – keyboards...
). As with Downbeat Alley these singles became huge hits, and the band also recorded a DVD at the final show for the tour, with all three singers. They once again toured Europe with this record. The DVD Smile was released to document this tour.
Perfect Future soon followed, with more jazz leanings, and only one guest vocalist, Fumio Ito (of Kemuri
Kemuri
Kemuri was a Japanese ska-punk band formed in 1995. They have an upbeat sound with positive lyrics which they refer to as PMA . While the majority of the songs are in English, they do also sing in Japanese....
). Kin-Ichi Motegi also recorded a vocal track for this album. A few months after the release of Perfect Future, Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta decided to officially leave the band in order to concentrate on healing his legs, due to the accident suffered in 1996. This leaves a big void in the band’s live performance, as Hiyamuta’s role was that of agitate man, talking to crowds and essentially operating as front man. The band has decided not to replace him, thereby remaining as a nine piece.
In early 2009 Paradise Blue was released, with the first line-up difference in almost a decade. This marks the 20th anniversary since the band’s first EP was released, and they have been busy touring Japan in support of the album.
2010 saw the release of World Ska Symphony, featuring guest vocals from Tamio Okuda
Tamio Okuda
is a singer, songwriter, and producer. He started his career in 1986 as a member of the band Unicorn. After Unicorn broke up, Okuda moved on to a solo career in 1994 with the single "Ai no Tame ni." He has written and composed many songs for various artists, particularly Puffy...
, Crystal Kay
Crystal Kay
Crystal Kay Williams , known by her stage name Crystal Kay, is a singer and songwriter from Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan...
, and Kazuyoshi Saito.
Former
- Yuhei Takeuchi on Soprano Sax, FluteFluteThe flute is a musical instrument of the woodwind family. Unlike woodwind instruments with reeds, a flute is an aerophone or reedless wind instrument that produces its sound from the flow of air across an opening...
(left 4/1990) - Masayuki "MARC" Hayashi on GuitarGuitarThe guitar is a plucked string instrument, usually played with fingers or a pick. The guitar consists of a body with a rigid neck to which the strings, generally six in number, are attached. Guitars are traditionally constructed of various woods and strung with animal gut or, more recently, with...
(left 6/1992) - Asa-Chang on percussion (left 3/1993)
- Left the band in order to pursue other projects.
- Cleanhead Gimura on vocalsSingingSinging is the act of producing musical sounds with the voice, and augments regular speech by the use of both tonality and rhythm. One who sings is called a singer or vocalist. Singers perform music known as songs that can be sung either with or without accompaniment by musical instruments...
(died 4/23/1995)- The band's frontman. Died following a battle with brain cancer.
- Toru Terashi on guitarGuitarThe guitar is a plucked string instrument, usually played with fingers or a pick. The guitar consists of a body with a rigid neck to which the strings, generally six in number, are attached. Guitars are traditionally constructed of various woods and strung with animal gut or, more recently, with...
(joined 7/1993, left 1/1998) - Rui Sugimura on vocals (joined 2/1998, left 2/1999)
- Tatsuyuki Aoki on DrumsDrum kitA drum kit is a collection of drums, cymbals and often other percussion instruments, such as cowbells, wood blocks, triangles, chimes, or tambourines, arranged for convenient playing by a single person ....
(died 5/2/1999)- Killed in a rail accident.
- Tatsuyuki Hiyamuta on Alto SaxophoneAlto saxophoneThe alto saxophone is a member of the saxophone family of woodwind instruments invented by Belgian instrument designer Adolphe Sax in 1841. It is smaller than the tenor but larger than the soprano, and is the type most used in classical compositions...
, GuitarGuitarThe guitar is a plucked string instrument, usually played with fingers or a pick. The guitar consists of a body with a rigid neck to which the strings, generally six in number, are attached. Guitars are traditionally constructed of various woods and strung with animal gut or, more recently, with...
(left 7/17/2008)- Left to focus on healing and recovery from an injury received to his right foot in Thailand from a motorcycle accident in 1996 that had been hindered by constant travel and performances. He has expressed interest in returning after his recovery has been completed.
Studio albums
- Skapara's Intro (スカパラ登場) - (05/01/1990 Epic Records)
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra (東京スカパラダイスオーケストラ) - (12/01/1990 Epic Records) Re-issue on Epic Records of the debut 12".
- World Famous (ワールドフェイマス) - (06/21/1991 Epic Records)
- Pioneers - (03/21/1993 Epic Records)
- Fantasia - (04/21/1994 Epic Records)
- Grand Prix - (06/21/1995 Epic Records)
- Tokyo Strut (トーキョー・ストラット) - (09/02/1996 Epic Records)
- Arkestra - (8/26/1998 Avex Trax)
- Full-Tension Beaters - (07/26/2000 Avex Trax) (07/04/2003 Grover Records)
- Stompin' On Down Beat Alley - (05/22/2002 Cutting Edge)
- High Numbers - (03/05/2003 Cutting Edge)
- Answer - (03/09/2005 Cutting Edge)
- Wild Peace - (6/7/06 Cutting Edge)
- Perfect Future - (3/26/08 Cutting Edge)
- Paradise Blue- (2/4/09 Cutting Edge)
- World Ska Symphony- (3/10/10 Cutting Edge)
- Goldfingers - (Mini-Album 10/27/2010 Cutting Edge)
Singles
- Monster Rock - (04/21/1990 Epic Records)
- Countdown To Glory (栄光へのカウントダウン) - (01/21/1991 Epic Records)
- Hole in One (ホールインワン) - (06/21/1991 Epic Records)
- World Famous Remix - 12/25/1991 Epic Records)
- Burning Scale - (12/02/1992 Epic Records)
- Tiger of Marai (マライの號) - (05/01/1993 Epic Records)
- Gold Rush - (08/21/1993 Epic Records)
- Happening (ハプニング) - (10/23/1993 Epic Records)
- Blue Mermaid (ブルーマーメイド) - (12/12/1993 Epic Records))
- Happy Go Lucky - (09/07/1994 Epic Records)
- Tokyo Deluxe (東京デラックス) - (01/21/1995 Epic Records)
- Watermelon - (04/28/1995 Epic Records)
- Jam - (07/21/1995 Epic Records)
- Rock Monster Strikes Back - (07/21/1996)
- Hurry Up!! - (04/21/1997 Epic Records)
- Does Love Exist? (愛があるかい？) - (04/22/1998 Avex Trax)
- Dear My Sister - (07/08/1998 Avex Trax)
- Hinotama Jive (火の玉ジャイヴ) - (05/12/1999 Avex Trax)
- Devote to the Battle Melody (戦場に捧げるメロディー) - (11/17/1999 Avex Trax)
- Filmmakers Bleed ~Decisive Battle on the Summit~ (フィルムメイカーズ・ブリード～頂上決戦～) - (06/21/2000 Cutting Edge)
- Peeled Orange (めくれたオレンジ) - (08/08/2001 Cutting Edge)
- Great Singing Bird Sky (カナリヤ鳴く空) - (12/12/2001 Cutting Edge)
- Beautiful Burning Forest (美しく燃える森) - (02/14/2002 Cutting Edge)
- The Galaxy and Maze (銀河と迷路) - (02/05/2003 Cutting Edge)
- A Quick Drunkard - (06/04/2003 Cutting Edge)
- Map of the World (世界地図) - (05/25/2004 Cutting Edge)
- Stroke of Fate - (07/08/2004 Cutting Edge)
- Farewell My Friend (さらば友よ) - (2004 Cutting Edge) Limited edition sold only at ANSWER TOUR concert venues
- Tsuioku no Lilac (迫憶のライラック) - (12/14/2005 Cutting Edge)
- The Sapphire Star (サファイアの星) - (02/15/2006 Cutting Edge)
- The Star Spangled Night (星降る夜に) - (05/10/2006 Cutting Edge)
- KinouKyouAshita - (10/07/2009 Cutting Edge)
- Ryusei to Ballade (流星とバラード)- (1/27/2010 Cutting Edge)
- Break into the Light～約束の帽子～／The Sharing Song～トリコのテーマ～（3/16/2011 Cutting Edge）
- Sunny Side of the Street (All Good Ska is One/Twinkle Star~Tayorino Hoshi~) (8/3/2011 Avex)
Vinyl Releases
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra (東京スカパラダイスオーケストラ) 12" - (1989 Kokusai Records)
- Skapara's Intro (スカパラ登場) - (1990 Epic Records)
- World Famous (ワールドフェイマス) LP - (06/21/1991 Epic Records)
- World Famous Remix 12" - (10/28/1991 Epic Records)
- Just a Little Bit of Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra (04/21/1994)
- Happening (ハプニング) 12" - (1995 Epic Records)
- Fantasia - (1995 Epic Records) Promo 12" with selections from Fantasia
- Rock Monster Strikes Back 12" - (08/13/96 Epic Records)
- The Movin' Dub (On the Whole Red Satellites) 7" - (1998 Justa Record)
- Jon Lord 7" - (1998 Justa Record)
- One Night 12" - (1998 Justa Record)
- Ska Jerk 12" - (1998 Justa Record)
- Abracadabra 12" - (1998 Justa Record)
- Ring O' Fire 12" - (1998 Justa Record)
- Jazzie Speaks 12" - (1999 Justa Record)
- Theme of Lupin III Pt. I & II 12" - (2000 Justa Record)
- Best(1989～1997) LP (11/07/2002 Epic Records)
- Afro Art Remixes 12" - (12/2002 Afro Art Records)
- Downbeat Selector 7" Box Set- (2002 Cutting Edge) The 4 Downbeat Alley singles on vinyl.
- High Numbers LP - (03/05/2003 Cutting Edge)
- Full-Tension Beaters LP - (07/04/2003 Grover Records)
Collaborations / Splits
- Oka o Koete (with Kyōko KoizumiKyoko Koizumi' is a Japanese singer and actress. Her music is released through Victor Entertainment . She is also known by the nickname Kyon Kyon. She had singles reach the Top ten for 12 consecutive years between 1983 and 1994, a female solo artist record, until this was broken by Namie Amuro...
) (1990 Victor Entertainment) - Akira Bushi Akira no Jin to Paradise (with Akira KobayashiAkira Kobayashiis a Japanese actor. His nickname is .- Biography :He successfully became an actor in the Nikkatsu Corporation. He attended Meiji University but left before graduating. Kobayashi made his debut in 1959 in the film Nangoku Tosa o Ato ni Shite . He also starred in the TV series "Wataridori" and...
) (1995) - Watermelon (with ) (04/28/1995 Epic Records)
- Beauty & Stupid Tokyo Ska VersionHi-Ho/Good Bye"Hi-Ho"/"Good Bye" is a double A-side single by hide, released on December 18, 1996. The music for "Beauty & Stupid Tokyo Ska Version" is performed by Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra...
(music for hideHide (musician), better known by his stage name hide , was a popular Japanese musician. He was primarily known for his work as lead guitarist of the heavy metal band X Japan from 1987 to 1997...
) (1996) - Decameron (with Naoto TakenakaNaoto Takenakais a Japanese actor, comedian, singer, and director from Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture affiliated with From First Production. He is married to idol singer and actress Midori Kinouchi.-Director:*Munō no Hito *119...
) (1997) - Spanish Hustle (with Malawi Rocks) 12" (2000 Justa Record)
- Mayonaka wa JunketsuMayonaka wa Junketsuis Japanese singer Shiina Ringo's 6th single and it was released on March 27, 2001.The distributor is Toshiba EMI / Virgin Music.- Outline :In this single, Shiina Ringo canceled partnership with Seiji Kameda who arranged her songs together till then, and she asked the musicians of various genres to...
(with Ringo Shiina) (2001) - Hazumu Rhythm (ハズムリズム)(with PuffyPuffyPuffy can refer to one of the following:* Puffy or Puffy AmiYumi , a Japanese pop duo** Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, animation series about fictional adventures of Puffy AmiYumi** Puffy: P.S...
) (2006) - L-O-V-E (with Rico RodriguezRico RodriguezRico Rodriguez MBE , also known as Reco or El Reco, is a ska and reggae trombonist. He has recorded with many producers, including Karl Pitterson, Prince Buster, and Lloyd 'Matador' Daley...
) (2006) - Secret Code (with KinKi KidsKinKi Kidsis a Japanese duo consisting of Koichi Domoto and Tsuyoshi Domoto under the talent agency Johnny & Associates. Although the members share the same surname, the only relation they have to each other is that they both hail from the Kinki region, hence the duo's name....
) (2008)
Live albums
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra Live (東京スカパラダイスオーケストラライブ) (03/21/1991 Epic Records)
- Gunslingers -Live Best- (03/14/2001 Avex Trax)
- On Tour (02/04/2004 Cutting Edge)
- Perfect Future: Live at Montreux Jazz FestivalMontreux Jazz FestivalThe Montreux Jazz Festival is the best-known music festival in Switzerland and one of the most prestigious in Europe; it is held annually in early July in Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva...
(3/26/08 Cutting Edge) (bonus live cd with first pressing of Perfect Future)
Comp Tracks / Tributes
- Respectable Roosters - A Tribute To The RoostersThe RoostersThe Roosters were a Japanese rock band that mixed punk, blues-rock, ska and straightforward rock and roll.-History:They formed in 1979 in the Hakata ward of Fukuoka. Although there were four different lineups throughout the life of the band—all centered around guitarist Hiroyuki Hanada--Shinya Ohe...
: "Rosie" (1999) - Welcome to the Plastic World: "Cards" (1999)
- Ska Stock: Tribute to the Skatalites: "Shot in the Dark" (studio version)
- Punch the Monkey Vol II: "Lupin the 3rd '78" (1999)
- Tribute to Yellow Magic OrchestraYellow Magic OrchestraSakamoto first worked with Hosono as a member of his live band in 1976, while Takahashi recruited Sakamoto to produce his debut solo recording in 1977 following the split of the Sadistic Mika Band...
: "Simoon" (2004) - Tribute to Haruomi HosonoHaruomi Hosono, also known as Harry Hosono, is a Japanese popular musician, best known internationally as a key member of the rock band Happy End and the pioneering electronic music band Yellow Magic Orchestra.-Biography:...
: "アブソリュート・エゴ・ダンス" (2007) - Sirius〜Tribute to UEDA GEN〜: "-6m" (2008)
- Tribute to Unicorn: "I'm A Loser" (2007)
DVD
- Ska Evangelists On the Run Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra 1998>>1999 - (03/29/2000 Avex)
- Down Beat Selector (09/04/2002 Cutting Edge)
- Down Beat Arena～Yokohama Arena (Down Beat Arena～横浜アリーナ7.7.2002(完全版) - (07/7/2002 Cutting Edge)
- Europe Tour 2003 Road-Move DVD (Catch the Rainbow (Europe Tour 2003 ロード・ムーヴィーDVD「Catch the Rainbow」) - (03/03/2004 Cutting Edge)
- Skapara at Cabaret (スカパラatキャバレー) - (03/10/2004 Epic)
- Live Grand Prix - (03/10/2004 Epic)
- 18540617 - (03/10/2004 Epic)
- 15th Anniversary Live Since Debut 2004.10.22 - (01/01/2005 Cutting Edge)
- Wild Peace Tour Final @ Saitama Super Arena (Wild Peace Tour Final @ さいたまスーパーアリーナ) - (05/3/2007 Cutting Edge)
- Smile- A Film by Koichi Makino - (09/12/2007 Cutting Edge)
- and TOKYO SKA goes on... - (3/10/2010 Cutting Edge)
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Kokugikan & Tokyo Ska Paradise Taiikukan Live - (12/12/2010 Cutting Edge)
Videos
- Skapara Video (スカパラビデオ) - (12/01/1991 Epic)
- Osamu's Amazing Songs (音曲の乱) - (03/25/1992 Epic)
- TOKYOSKA: Everytime We Say Goodbye - (08/08/1992 Epic)
- World Series from Tokyo Ska - (02/12/1992 Epic)
- Skapara at Cabaret (スカパラatキャバレー) - (12/12/1993 Epic)
- Live Fantasia - (04/21/1994 Epic)
- Video Fantasia - (04/21/1994 Epic)
- Live Grand Prix -(12/01/1995 Epic)
- 18540617 - (11/21/1997 Epic)
- Ska Evangelists On the Run Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra 1998-1999 - (11/17/1999 Avex)
Soundtracks
- Tokyo Deluxe Original Soundtrack (東京デラックスオリジナルサウンドトラック) (1995)
- Incredible CrisisIncredible CrisisIncredible Crisis, known in Japan as , is a PlayStation video game developed by Polygon Magic. The game was first published in Japan by Tokuma Shoten on June 24, 1999...
! Original Soundtrack (とんでもクライシス！オリジナルサウンドトラック) (1999) - New Moral Battle Homicide Original Soundtrack (新仁義なき戦い謀殺オリジナルサウンドトラック) (2003)
- HEROES (One Piece 3D Movie Soundtrack)- (3/16/2011 Cutting Edge)
Band Compilations
- gifted WINTER SELECTION (12/01/1993 Epic Records)
- JUST A LITTLE BIT OF TOKYO SKA PARADISE ORCHESTRA (vinyl)(04/21/1994)
- THE BEST SELECTION (THE BEST SELECTION (タイ盤）(rare) (1996)
- MOODS FOR TOKYO SKA: WE DON'T KNOW WHAT SKA IS (11/21/1997 Epic Records)
- JUSTA RECORD COMPILATION Vol.1 (07/23/1999 Avex Trax)
- BEST(1989～1997) (11/07/2002 Epic Records)
- SKA ME CRAZY: THE BEST Of TSPO (03/14/2005 Anagram Records)
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra: Best of Tokyo Ska 1998~2007 - 26 songs selected by Kin-ichi Motegi (03/21/2007 Cutting Edge)
Tsuyoshi Kawakami and His Mood Makers
(Tsuyoshi Kawakami, Nargo, Hajime Ohmori)- Tsuyoshi Kawakami and His Mood Makers (川上つよしと彼のムードメイカーズ) - 2001.12.12
- Moodmaker's mood - 2003.08.06
- Floatin Mood - 2004.07.28
- Sparklin' Mood - 2004.12.01
Sembello
(Yuichi Oki)- Sembellogy - 2003.08.06
- The Second Album - 2004.11.25
- Kairos - 2006.06.07
Speed King
(TSPO + Fantastic Plastic Machine + Dr Ys + KMP + OCHICHY)- SPEED KING - 2000.02.21
Losalios
(Takashi Kato)- Sekaichizuwa Chinoato - 1999.11.10
- Colorado Shit Dog - 2002.05.01
- School Of High Sense - 2002.10.26
- The End Of The Beauty - 2003.09.03
- ゆうれい船長がハナシてくれた こと - 2005.05.25
Compilations Curated By Band Members
- Frank Zappa Compiler - 1999
- Big Bang Blow: Japanese Jazz selected By Nargo, M.Kitahara & Gamo of TSPO - 2003
- JUSTA RECORD presents: 'The 3rd Era of Ska~EURO AUTHENTIC SKA COLLECTION' - 2004.07.28
- JUSTA RECORD presents: 'The 3rd Era of Ska~NORTH AMERICAN SKA COLLECTION' - 2005.03.30