The Tanoshii Crew is back—and this time, they’re not just delivering music. They’re delivering a full-bodied cultural experience.
After the success of last summer’s City Pop 1994 EP by Rukatama—marking the first vinyl release outside Japan by Tama–chan—the well-loved Tanoshii Records returns with a brand-new, genre-crossing compilation: Tanoshikatta Vol. 1. Currently live on Kickstarter, this project is more than a vinyl release—it’s a sonic bridge between generations, genres, and geographies.
And if you love Japanese music history, city pop, underground grooves, or dreamy anime-style tracks—this one’s for you.
🎶 What’s Tanoshikatta Vol. 1?
The name Tanoshikatta means “It was fun“—a perfect summary of the journey this compilation promises. Curated by the Italy-based Tanoshii Crew, this is a lovingly selected mix of rare grooves, dreamy tracks, experimental noise, electro funk, Balearic disco, idol anthems, and more.
Here’s a taste of what’s on deck:
- JUMA. – Originally released on cassette in 1982, this dreamy 80s track Night Chapel sounds like it was pulled straight from an analog horror film reel.
- Zen Oikawa. – Former Ghibli director and cosmic music pioneer. His track Flow brings timeless elegance from Japan’s underground.
- nii-otto. – Artist, illustrator, and now musician. Her nostalgic and anime-like “Tenmonmushi” feels like a lost OP theme from a cozy 90s show.
- Yuma Ogata feat. Kohei Uchida. – Bringing Hiroshima’s natural beauty into Balearic beats, this is sunshine in soundwaves.
- Hoodoo Fushimi. – Japanese electro funk legend. The Noudashi – Redline Mix appears on vinyl for the first time ever.
- Saya. – The Obscure Idol strikes hard with Rhythm – Heartbeat, a powerful rave-inspired anthem made for big stages.
- GARUDA (Yuffie Sakimura). – Idol meets metal meets industrial, with Mōsugu yuki ga and Silent Kill both ready for your anime soundtrack playlists.
- Mogre Mogru. – Experimental avant-garde with a meditative closer, Hope (Kakera), recorded live and meant to transport.
It’s eclectic. It’s emotional. And it’s a celebration of Japan’s rich, diverse, and sometimes overlooked sonic world.
🛍️ Rewards for Backers
Tanoshikatta Vol. 1 isn’t just about the music—it’s about community, creativity, and collectible joy. Here’s what you can grab if you back the project:
- 💿 Tanoshikatta Vol. 1 12” Vinyl
- 📖 Tanoshii Magazine “alpha” – with an exclusive Zen Oikawa interview
- 🧢 Totebags, T-shirts, hoodies with exclusive “Tanoshikatta” art
- 🧵 GARUDA-themed apparel including shirts and towels
- 💝 And more merch surprises on the way!
All physical products are printed in Europe to avoid supply issues, and if the campaign reaches its goal, the release is slated for autumn 2025.
As we approach the midpoint of the campaign, the Tanoshii team is also thrilled to announce a special promotion for all backers!
In an effort to reach the campaign’s main goal as soon as possible—and to celebrate everyone who believed in this vision—we’re offering a free bonus vinyl to anyone who pledges for a physical reward by Saturday, July 19, at 23:59 (your local time).
✨ That’s right:
If you pledge for one vinyl, you’ll receive two—with no additional shipping costs.
And yes, this offer is also valid for existing backers! Whether you joined at the start or just found us, you’re part of this celebration of music, creativity, and Japanese artistry.
🌍 Why This Matters
This project is a love letter to Japan’s independent music scene. It’s also a rare opportunity to own a piece of underground Japanese music history—pressed on vinyl, packed with visual flair, and made for international fans who care about culture, not just trends.
For collectors, DJs, music nerds, and lovers of all things tanoshii—this is the one to back.
👉 Support the Kickstarter here:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/octagonstudio/tanoshikatta-volume-1-round-two
Let’s make some noise together!