This song is such a masterpiece. David wrote it when he was just 22 years after watching very controversial movie "Night porter" from 1974. It's my favourite song by Japan... It always brings tears to my eyes. He bought me with that song forever... ❤️
never saw the film, but the song has moments reminicent of the time I first heard them, in the early 80s and then got old enough to finally find the records in the late 80s early 90s in the US. This particular song reminds me of going out in the rain leaving a friend to sleep on my bed after we had spend an entire weekend with our band, playing a number of gigs.. and he didn't go home and fell asleep and it was pouring down with rain, and although I too had survived the mini tour (as the singer) I still did everything everyone else did.. carry equipment and suffer a lack of sleep.. but then I just had to walk out to the shop because I couldn't let him wake up with no food.. and it was pouring down with rain in March.. I came back drenched. The end. My son goes through my mixed tapes and takes note that I put two versions of this song on a tape twice.. of course... it's one of my favourite Japan songs.
@@PlatinumLemur I was too young at the time to know Japan but discovered them and a lot of UK synth pop bands about 15 years ago. I love Japan and am always curious how popular they were in the US if at all.
@@patrick3926 it was difficult for me to find these albums at the shopping mall in a small town..but I got older and found a copy of "the very best of Japan" on cassette tape in 86..and finally Excorcising Ghosts in 1990..that I heard on collage radio in Melbourne, Florida in 83 (WFIT) the appeal was limited but got larger as time went on.
Please explore Tin Drum. It is an outstanding record, and it often goes forgotten in 80s art pop canon. The songwriting is top notch and the band as a whole is on their A game. Also, Ryuichi Sakamoto does appear on Gentlemen Take Polaroids! He collaborated with David on the closing track, "Taking Islands In Africa."
Hi Justin, five months have passed since you put out this video, so I'm confident that my long, personal comment won't bother your acolytes. As much as I love David Sylvian solo albums (Secrets of the Beehive probably makes my top 10 albums of all times), Nightporter peaks above everything he's done. And now my personal experience: in 1984 I was carrying one year compulsary service in the army. Every evening in October, at 5 p.m., I used to leave the compound and reach the lake nearby, seat on a bench, put the headphones on and endlessy listen to Nightporter while the mist was raising above the waters in the twilight. Sometimes it is not only about music and words, but the whole experience of what, when and where.
Mario, Maybe, no other Japan song can transport you better to the story that you just revealed! But almost every Japan song transports you - somewhere far away, strange & new ! That's why they are the most innovative band of the 80's !!!!
I stumbled upon your channel because of this song, as I have been a Japan/Sylvian fan since the 70's. Yes, by this album he had found his voice. This is my favourite album by Japan. It deserves a full album review. If you want to hear David caterwaul (?) his way through an early glam rock song, look up "Adolescent Sex". I think David would burn every copy of his first two albums if he had the power to!
Oh man, I'm so glad you did this song. It's far and away my favourite Japan song. It has this really sublime, soporofic beauty and quality to it. Dark, musically rich and very immersive.
No matter how many thousand's of time's I've played heard, this tune. GOOSE BUMP'S EVERY TIME!!!!!! "I'll sit in my room, wait until Nigh-Life begin's..." 1980 I was but a 13 year old. Played the Live version from Oil On Canvas, in 83 when my very young Aunty past on. Rest In Peace. xXx
Meeting Yuka, when David & Mick Karn lived across the road from each other, he saw Mick's then GF, Yuka out walking in the rain. That was the start of their affair. Or so it seemed to some of us Japan fan's ;-)
My personal favorite Japan track is Still Life in Mobile Homes. The frenetic jumpy bassline over the choppy asian-style keyboards really do it for me. If you really want to hear David Sylvian shrieking in a totally different vocal style I highly recommend a very early Japan track Obscure Alternatives
I have absolutely loved this song since I first heard it, so a bit disappointed that you didn't rave about it as I hoped you would musically (Mick Karns oboe in the background is exquisite imo), but such is subjectivity.If I recall correctly based on a really old article or interview with Sylvian, its actually quite a dark, even sinister song relating to a controversial film.You were almost on the mark stating it was a desperate 'romance', because it would relate to an Italian movie called 'The Nightporter', not recommended viewing I hasten to add, about a sadomasochistic love/relationship revisited between a nightporter in a post war Viennese hotel, and a woman, a concentration camp survivor who was once subjected to his torments where he was a camp commandant, and the compelled resumption of that relationship. Listen to the song again, and you may then sense the intense almost base inescapable and very desolate 'love' affair...so yes, definitely a mood song lol... Tin drum is the album to investigate...glam, yeah go for it, early Roxy Music, New York Dolls...think Sparks album 'Kimono My House' might intrigue you, such a clever, fun and innovative album.
I've just listened to your revue, this song is mesmerising, I used to listen to it over and over again late at night in the dark, you haven't heard it enough to truly appreciate it.
Although very pretty and inspired by Erik Satie, I admit that I don't like the original version of "Nightporter" very much. I prefer the synthetic version of the 1982 “live” album Oil on Canvas (I put “live” in brackets because according to drummer Steve Jansen, only the drums were actually recorded live, the rest being recorded in the studio !). bassist Mick Karn plays a beautiful clarinet part which makes the piece more moving. Try to listen to it to hear the difference ! For more Japan, i suggest two tracks: "Halloween" from the album Quiet Life (1979) with good fretless bass part from Mick Karn who plays saxophone too. we can also hear a little bit more guitarist Rob Dean (which is often put in the background) then "My New Career" from the album Gentlemen Take Polaroids (1980) With another very nice fretless bass and saxophone parts played by Mick Karn and a brief violin solo from Simon House (Hawkwind, David Bowie, Thomas Dolby ...) as a guest. ...... and of course the textures of Richard Barbieri's keyboards !
Just catching up on a bunch of your previous postings. Japan!!! The whole album: "Gentlemen..." is brilliant. "Nightporter" is heartbreaking. If you ever get a chance to see Liliana Cavani's 1974 film Nightporter with Dirk Bogarde and Charlotte Rampling, this will never sound the same to you again. Haunting doesn't quite cover it. Cheers to you Justin! (And for giggles you gotta hear Japan's cover of Barbra Streisand's "Don't Rain On My Parade." A campy gem.
Japan was ahead of its time when they started, make up, glamour with modern synthesiser & guitar laced songs before the British New Romantic movement that spawned Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet and many others. "Quiet Life" the album was the starting poing of the Japan people know. The title song "Quiet Life" or "All Tomorrow's Parties" represent them well. If you want to listen the famous sound of the bassist Mick Karn, please choose song "Alien" from the album "Quiet Life". Karn also plays saxophone and clarinet. Some elements of Sylvian's solo career can be heard on "Nightporter" To my ears, there's the odd circus or carousel vibe in this. Perhaps it is the rolling piano with the waltz tempo.
You could also say that Japan were taking cues from already established styles from bands like New York Dolls, Roxy Music and David Bowie (not to mention plenty of electronic bands and artists from the 1960s onwards), not forgetting Eric Satie in this piece. Japan, not particularly ahead of their time, but adapting what was already around them and making some excellent music in the process. A great band nonetheless.
I always thought of it that Japan didn't ride the wave of the pop zeitgeist, they were in the trough. Accused of being passe when they burst on the scene and ahead of their time when they pulled the plug.
Love Japan, so underrated. Tin Drum is a masterpiece, any David Sylvian would be most welcome! Waves is a personal favorite, with Krishna Blue a close second!
Although Richard Barbieri (later of Porcupine Tree) was Japan's keyboard player and David Sylvian would often play keyboard / piano in live performance, apparently Steve Jansen would sometimes play piano parts on recordings because of his rhythmic ability. Probably is David on this though - there's an Old Grey Whistle Test performance where he accompanies himself on this.
Hey Justin I've been recently reminded of this beautiful song and your video has inspired me to learn how to play the Piano parts Keep up the good work
How come no one is suggesting David Sylvian "River Man", "Ink in the Well", "Red Guitar" Nostalgia"??? These are the good David Sylvian songs that live with me forever.
Wow, I really do feel old now... this album is 40 years old. Gosh it brings back a few memories. All good. Thanks for giving it a review. It would be great if you could give the band The Fixx a try if you could cram them into your busy schedule.... If you are going to try then "Reach the Beach" would be a great song to start with. They aren't as classically oriented as Japan are but I think they have as much of a style that they make their own. Stay safe and Keep on Rocking.
Looked at your list of songs to review -- instant subscribe! Kate Bush, Camel, Dead Can Dance, David Sylvian, Ultravox, Steely Dan...how could I say no? Thank you for offering a unique perspective on the first time review concept.
Has anybody mentioned Rain Tree Crow the group. It’s Japan in disguise. They reunited in 1991 and produced an LP of the same name. It was like a Sylvian project with assistance from the others.
So pleased you got round to this. It very much is mood music I think. I've always found it hauntingly beautiful. It is difficult to choose un Sylvian Japan because that voice is at the heart of it but perhaps their cover of Smokey Robinson's Second That Emotion but I'd urge a listen to the Tin Drum album.
You know whats been cool, there are groups that I've always said I would get around to listening someday, and you are in that same wavelength and since you love prog, I get the push I need to take the journeys. having said that, ty for getting me started on Japan. I've listened to a little of Sylvian, looking forward to this. I would have never ever got around to hearing Japan. TY
@Olivves thank You Very Much. I will do that. I'm not overly hooked with this song. I've only heard one other song by them, that I loved, can't remember the name.
I forgot how much I love Nightporter. Oh my. The music itself is so beautiful, but then to add in his voice and I just become a puddle. I’m here for any and all content that includes Sylvian. ☺️💕 For more Japan that is less like his solo work I’d suggest Gentlemen Take Polaroids or My New Career.
Great reaction. Mick Karn on oboe, btw. If you want "Not solo Sylvian", try Automatic Gun or Obscure Alternatives - his voice is still amazing, but you can really get the other band members input - I just worry you won't like them as they are so different. If you want to test the water, In Vogue from Quiet Life. Awesome Mick bassline, great swirling guitars from Rob, atmospheric keyboards from Rich and the outro..well, they just get into a groove.
I first started to like Japan with the release of 79's 'Life In Tokyo' but It wasn't until the release of the 'Polaroids' album that they became my No1 band of the time, 'Night Porter' was and still is my top Japan track, 'Sons Of Pioneers' (Tin Drum) comes close though... I know that 'Adolescent Sex' & 'Obscure Alternatives' are very different to the Japan most know they are still more than worth a listen.... 'Deviation', 'Suburban Berlin' are good & personally I always loved their cover of Barbara Streisand's 'Don't Rain On My Parade'...
I know I'm late to the party, but base player Mick Karn had a fantastic single called "Sensitive". Sadly very much a slipped disc of the 80's but worth tracking down.
Hi Justin, I just came here for your sylviangasm. This is a very beautiful song. *Atmospheric*. Puts pictures in your head. Early 20th century Central European decadence, sorrow and all that jazz. Perhaps.
I love this band. I bought this album when it was first released. This song is so melancholic and moody. Have you had a chance to give an ear to the album Obscure Alternatives? It's really different, as is the album Adolescent Sex. And from GTP, Ain't That Peculiar and note all of it's incarnations (David Lee Roth, Peter Gabriel, Marvin Gaye...).
New subscriber here my fave japan song, try these The Judgement Is The Mirror by Dali's Car who were Mick Karn (Japan) & Pete Murphy (Bauhaus), Stay Close by Steve Jansen (Japan & David's brother) & Yukahiro Takahashi (Yellow Magic Orchestra) & anything by The Dolphin Brothers who were Steve Jansen & Richard Barbieri
I played the album "Exorcising Ghosts" over and over while painting.. and doing my art homework and a project that won me three thousand USD- my good luck charm.-
Ryuichi Sakamoto does feature on this album, but not Nightporter. Keyboards by Richard Barberi..all the musicianship in Jspan was top notch, especially the sadly missed Mick Karn, and David's brother on drums. Probably already mentioned but Rain Tree Crow album is a sort of Japan mark 2 album and is stunning.
You could definetly do some videos on Dead Bees. Its my personal favorite album along with Gone To Earth, i bought them both on vinyl when they were reissued last year. While i love every album he has put out, i think Blemish is probably my 3rd favorite tbh. It is the most uniquely depressing album i've ever heard. The Heart Knows Better is one of my favorites from Blemish, but the title track Blemish is also really good. From Dead Bees i'd say that Krishna Blue, The Scent of Magnolia, Pollen Path and Wanderlust are the big bangers for me but as i said i love it all really :). I like nightporter, its a great moody track that for me fits well as background music, but i like their songs that are more unique and artsy/avant-garde in composition. Life Without Buildings, The Art Of Parties, Sons Of Pioneers, Aint That Peculiar (Marvin Gaye "cover"), My New Career, In Vogue and Halloween.
I didn't like Japan when they were "current", though I only heard the odd single on the radio. As time went on I opened up to them and bought this album. I don't play it often, but I do like every track on it. I must get a second Japan album.
Was listening to the new Greg Lake today while at medical appointments. Then I get back and hear this from Japan,now I'm really depressed!Great track and from a Greg Lake fanboy I would suggest the newest version of his "Closer To Believing" Peace & health to you & yours from ferretfret in Ct.
Influenced by the moody and erotic film The Night Porter with Dirk Bogarde. Great song. Try "Ghosts" by Japan from similar period. Brilliant studio and live versions on utube.
This song could easily have come from one of David Sylvian’s solo albums. I love this song. So melancholic with ‘simple’ music behind the singing. Visions of China, and Ghosts are also excellent songs (among many other).
Definitely more Japan please. Their debut album 'Adolescent Sex" is extraordinary and quite different in tone compared to the later work. Has glam rock elements but much grittier. You will be impressed. All their albums are worth exploring Tin Drum is another stand out. If you would like to hear a very different David Sylvian then this is the place to start
Excellent song one of my favourites, but your right, this song was "the" first that showed the way Sylvian was leaning towards . "Still life in mobile homes". Tin Drum. Would be a perfect song for you to feature. It shows what an incredible group of musicians they all were. The bass on this track by Mick Karn is simply amazing, and the song itself is quite complex.
Well, I liked this Justin 😊 Love the piano riff, playing.. Quite beautiful butty. 😊 Nightcrawler hmm. I've always liked is voice tbh. So different to anyone else Justin. 👍 The synths are gorgeous too.. Very trance like imo. Have to check this album out I think butty. 😊 Very dreamy, very nice. Grea stuff Justin. I really liked this.
Hello Justin. Try to listen to The Nighporter again with the work of modern composer Eric Satie in mind. Gentlemen Take Polaroids is a good album to discover the band Japan. You picked out the most intimate and Sylvian solo-ish track on it. The rest of the record brings us the full band swinging. I would suggest Methods Of Dance as your next pick. Dive deeper, you will like their music as much as I like your comments.
this is my first listening of Japan. I dig what I've heard of Sylvian's solo stuff, but I especially love his collaborations with Robert Fripp. please don't take this as a negative review, but what I hear here is music for a carousel in a depression -themed amusement park. a couple minutes from the end, each horse individually leaps off, destined for the nearest dog food factory.
Quite honestly, It wouldn't surprise me, if you had no clue, in horses, carousels, amusement parks - and definitely not in anything pertaining to Sylvian & Japan !!!
This song as you prob know , is based on the movie starring Dirk Bogarde and Charlett Rampling, it’s about a Nazie SS officer who had a strange love affair with a female prisoner, after the war he goes into hiding as a night Porter, but she reappears and the affair starts again, based on a true story , amazing movie , fantastic song.
Probably my favorite song from Japan or solo... wanted to waltz but, sadly the lady declined my invitation to dance. ;( I’d like to hear David S.... Sancious! Transformation album is a desert island album for me. Think about it. Peace and waltz Music
Japan were huge in the UK in the early 80's but they seemed to have disappeared off the airwaves since. Try one of their biggest hits: Ghosts. Weirdness and beauty.
Japan as a group, and Sylvian as an artist are in my opinion the most underrated musicians of the eighties without any shadow of a doubt. Followed them / him from the late 70’s and few musicians can match their ability and mood
IF YOU LOVE DAVID SYLVIANS SOLO WORKS THEN YOU'LL LOVE NIGHT PORTER. IT'S ONE OF MY FAVORITE JAPAN SONGS THE FEATURES DAVID'S STRONG VOCALS. CLOSE YOUR EYES AND ENJOY
This is a bit different for a Japan song. Definitely a "mood" song. Other songs have much more drum/bass etc. Besides this my faves from this album are the song, Gentleman Take Polaroids, Swing, and Taking Islands in Africa.
Silky. Rich. Art. It’s a truly a painting, a song where the mood cuts through and invades what may have been at least not depressed. Ok, so I’m not clinically depressed but I don’t feel like doing much now either. Someone please, for the love of God, find something “fun” in the Japan catalog! Haha
A strange love story indeed! Inspired by the Dirk Bogarde/Charlotte Rampling film of the same name - a sadomasochistic Third Reich nightmare. Also, I hadn't noticed the huge Satie influence in the piano. Compare with Gymnopédie No. 1.
Because of your love for David Sylvian, I’d like to recommend another artist to you: John Grant. To me, they both have a similar certain quality, yet they are both uniquely themselves in their musical expression. John’s voice is a beautiful baritone, and his lyrics tell a story. ‘Glacier’ is a particularly poignant example th-cam.com/video/K3BzvWPYo94/w-d-xo.html
Didni like it when a was young and have tried again now thinking a missed something but not. Quiet life not bad. But chose the theatre of hate and spear of destiny great underestimated bands with something to say. Aw best Mac.
This song is such a masterpiece. David wrote it when he was just 22 years after watching very controversial movie "Night porter" from 1974. It's my favourite song by Japan... It always brings tears to my eyes. He bought me with that song forever... ❤️
Right, i am old enough to know the movie which lead me to the song. And seriously, JP, put some more Japan on your playlist, it's nearly all good.
My fav sinc by them too and I love all they music 🔥
never saw the film, but the song has moments reminicent of the time I first heard them, in the early 80s and then got old enough to finally find the records in the late 80s early 90s in the US. This particular song reminds me of going out in the rain leaving a friend to sleep on my bed after we had spend an entire weekend with our band, playing a number of gigs.. and he didn't go home and fell asleep and it was pouring down with rain, and although I too had survived the mini tour (as the singer) I still did everything everyone else did.. carry equipment and suffer a lack of sleep.. but then I just had to walk out to the shop because I couldn't let him wake up with no food.. and it was pouring down with rain in March.. I came back drenched. The end. My son goes through my mixed tapes and takes note that I put two versions of this song on a tape twice.. of course... it's one of my favourite Japan songs.
@@PlatinumLemur I was too young at the time to know Japan but discovered them and a lot of UK synth pop bands about 15 years ago. I love Japan and am always curious how popular they were in the US if at all.
@@patrick3926 it was difficult for me to find these albums at the shopping mall in a small town..but I got older and found a copy of "the very best of Japan" on cassette tape in 86..and finally Excorcising Ghosts in 1990..that I heard on collage radio in Melbourne, Florida in 83 (WFIT) the appeal was limited but got larger as time went on.
I used to be totally enthralled by "Taking Islands in Africa" off the same album. Couldn' stop listening to it.
Please explore Tin Drum. It is an outstanding record, and it often goes forgotten in 80s art pop canon. The songwriting is top notch and the band as a whole is on their A game.
Also, Ryuichi Sakamoto does appear on Gentlemen Take Polaroids! He collaborated with David on the closing track, "Taking Islands In Africa."
My first Japan album, totally agree 👍🏻🤗💛🧡
More Japan please, such a great band
Hi Justin, five months have passed since you put out this video, so I'm confident that my long, personal comment won't bother your acolytes. As much as I love David Sylvian solo albums (Secrets of the Beehive probably makes my top 10 albums of all times), Nightporter peaks above everything he's done. And now my personal experience: in 1984 I was carrying one year compulsary service in the army. Every evening in October, at 5 p.m., I used to leave the compound and reach the lake nearby, seat on a bench, put the headphones on and endlessy listen to Nightporter while the mist was raising above the waters in the twilight. Sometimes it is not only about music and words, but the whole experience of what, when and where.
So so true Mario, its a great scenic song
Mario,
Maybe, no other Japan song can transport you better to the story that you just revealed!
But almost every Japan song transports you - somewhere far away, strange & new !
That's why they are the most innovative band of the 80's !!!!
I stumbled upon your channel because of this song, as I have been a Japan/Sylvian fan since the 70's. Yes, by this album he had found his voice. This is my favourite album by Japan. It deserves a full album review. If you want to hear David caterwaul (?) his way through an early glam rock song, look up "Adolescent Sex". I think David would burn every copy of his first two albums if he had the power to!
Oh man, I'm so glad you did this song. It's far and away my favourite Japan song. It has this really sublime, soporofic beauty and quality to it. Dark, musically rich and very immersive.
No matter how many thousand's of time's I've played heard, this tune. GOOSE BUMP'S EVERY TIME!!!!!! "I'll sit in my room, wait until Nigh-Life begin's..." 1980 I was but a 13 year old. Played the Live version from Oil On Canvas, in 83 when my very young Aunty past on. Rest In Peace. xXx
Meeting Yuka, when David & Mick Karn lived across the road from each other, he saw Mick's then GF, Yuka out walking in the rain. That was the start of their affair. Or so it seemed to some of us Japan fan's ;-)
Love this always have, 💜💜. This is one of the songs I want played at my funeral.🙏
My personal favorite Japan track is Still Life in Mobile Homes. The frenetic jumpy bassline over the choppy asian-style keyboards really do it for me. If you really want to hear David Sylvian shrieking in a totally different vocal style I highly recommend a very early Japan track Obscure Alternatives
Gentlemen Take Polaroids is Japan’s best album. Well done for featuring this underrated masterpiece.
My favorite Japan song , i still have the same hair style as David Sylvian in 1980 aithough a bit shorter and im now 57 .
I have absolutely loved this song since I first heard it, so a bit disappointed that you didn't rave about it as I hoped you would musically (Mick Karns oboe in the background is exquisite imo), but such is subjectivity.If I recall correctly based on a really old article or interview with Sylvian, its actually quite a dark, even sinister song relating to a controversial film.You were almost on the mark stating it was a desperate 'romance', because it would relate to an Italian movie called 'The Nightporter', not recommended viewing I hasten to add, about a sadomasochistic love/relationship revisited between a nightporter in a post war Viennese hotel, and a woman, a concentration camp survivor who was once subjected to his torments where he was a camp commandant, and the compelled resumption of that relationship. Listen to the song again, and you may then sense the intense almost base inescapable and very desolate 'love' affair...so yes, definitely a mood song lol... Tin drum is the album to investigate...glam, yeah go for it, early Roxy Music, New York Dolls...think Sparks album 'Kimono My House' might intrigue you, such a clever, fun and innovative album.
Such a beautiful song. Thank you for listening and sharing. Japan were simply awesome and a hugs influence on the early 1980's music scene in the UK.
I've always loved this song, it's like Eric Satie wrote Gnossiennes for David to sing to. More please!
You know, thats a good point. Didn't even think of Satir, but now that you mention it...
@@JustJP David was extremely influenced by him in the time when they were recovering GTP 😊
I think that David Sylvian and Hector Zazu reference Satie in A Victim of Stars.
Great analogy, now you’ve mentioned it, I totally get that vibe.
@@auldreekie7768 Thank you.
So happy to see you appreciate this wonderful band when most people have forgotten or never heard of them!!!!
Ah, my favourite band of all.
Takes me straight back to a 15/16 year old me in 1981.
I've just listened to your revue, this song is mesmerising, I used to listen to it over and over again late at night in the dark, you haven't heard it enough to truly appreciate it.
Although very pretty and inspired by Erik Satie, I admit that I don't like the original version of "Nightporter" very much. I prefer the synthetic version of the 1982 “live” album Oil on Canvas (I put “live” in brackets because according to drummer Steve Jansen, only the drums were actually recorded live, the rest being recorded in the studio !). bassist Mick Karn plays a beautiful clarinet part which makes the piece more moving. Try to listen to it to hear the difference !
For more Japan, i suggest two tracks:
"Halloween" from the album Quiet Life (1979) with good fretless bass part from Mick Karn who plays saxophone too. we can also hear a little bit more guitarist Rob Dean (which is often put in the background) then "My New Career" from the album Gentlemen Take Polaroids (1980) With another very nice fretless bass and saxophone parts played by Mick Karn and a brief violin solo from Simon House (Hawkwind, David Bowie, Thomas Dolby ...) as a guest. ...... and of course the textures of Richard Barbieri's keyboards !
i agree the clarinet in the live version really brings the song out more
Just catching up on a bunch of your previous postings. Japan!!! The whole album: "Gentlemen..." is brilliant. "Nightporter" is heartbreaking. If you ever get a chance to see Liliana Cavani's 1974 film Nightporter with Dirk Bogarde and Charlotte Rampling, this will never sound the same to you again. Haunting doesn't quite cover it. Cheers to you Justin! (And for giggles you gotta hear Japan's cover of Barbra Streisand's "Don't Rain On My Parade." A campy gem.
Japan was ahead of its time when they started, make up, glamour with modern synthesiser & guitar laced songs before the British New Romantic movement that spawned
Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet and many others. "Quiet Life" the album was the starting poing of the Japan people know. The title song "Quiet Life" or "All Tomorrow's Parties"
represent them well. If you want to listen the famous sound of the bassist Mick Karn, please choose song "Alien" from the album "Quiet Life". Karn also plays saxophone and clarinet.
Some elements of Sylvian's solo career can be heard on "Nightporter" To my ears, there's the odd circus or carousel vibe in this. Perhaps it is the rolling piano with the waltz tempo.
You could also say that Japan were taking cues from already established styles from bands like New York Dolls, Roxy Music and David Bowie (not to mention plenty of electronic bands and artists from the 1960s onwards), not forgetting Eric Satie in this piece. Japan, not particularly ahead of their time, but adapting what was already around them and making some excellent music in the process. A great band nonetheless.
@@mandylorien314 Mm, They got recording contract in 1977 and were formed 1974.
I always thought of it that Japan didn't ride the wave of the pop zeitgeist, they were in the trough. Accused of being passe when they burst on the scene and ahead of their time when they pulled the plug.
Love Japan, so underrated. Tin Drum is a masterpiece, any David Sylvian would be most welcome! Waves is a personal favorite, with Krishna Blue a close second!
Waves and Krishna are very good!
Yes, they are.
Great taste, i actually preferred the live version of Wave than the album version.
One word to describe this track, "goosebumps"
Although Richard Barbieri (later of Porcupine Tree) was Japan's keyboard player and David Sylvian would often play keyboard / piano in live performance, apparently Steve Jansen would sometimes play piano parts on recordings because of his rhythmic ability. Probably is David on this though - there's an Old Grey Whistle Test performance where he accompanies himself on this.
BRAVO AMIGO,...ME PARECE FANTÁSTICO QUE HABLE DE ESTA CANCIÓN. ES UNA DE LAS CANCIONES DE MI VIDA.
Looking forward to this!!!!!
Edit after listening... THANK YOU!
If you like Japan, treat yourself to their live album Oil on Canvas
Ty Leon!
Literally subscribed because of your honesty in reacting to artists you believe you could enjoy as opposed to artists forced on you to enjoy.
Hey Justin
I've been recently reminded of this beautiful song and your video has inspired me to learn how to play the Piano parts
Keep up the good work
Every time I hear it now I wish I'd known it when i was actually studying piano. I'd love to learn this.
What to review? SYLVIAN AND FRIPP - The First Day!
Yes and Damage,Inc.
I love the song Damage.
The video for Damage is pretty much worth watching as well as it is pretty haunting.
Yes! 😍
Cafe Europa is a great song indeed.
Excellent song to wind down with
@Paul-Martin Scheib very "feeling good and calm" album. I love to listen to it when I'm in love or traveling.
How come no one is suggesting David Sylvian "River Man", "Ink in the Well", "Red Guitar" Nostalgia"??? These are the good David Sylvian songs that live with me forever.
Its because Sylvian is my favorite artist of all time, so I've heard em all lol :)
Red Guitar is beautiful, been playing it continuously since I discovered it last year
@@justinebourke9449 absolutely, its fantastic!
@@JustJP 👌👌👌
What a wonderful reaction. Bravo.
Wow, I really do feel old now... this album is 40 years old. Gosh it brings back a few memories. All good. Thanks for giving it a review. It would be great if you could give the band The Fixx a try if you could cram them into your busy schedule.... If you are going to try then "Reach the Beach" would be a great song to start with. They aren't as classically oriented as Japan are but I think they have as much of a style that they make their own.
Stay safe and Keep on Rocking.
johnpbh, I saw the Fixx open for the Moody Blues ~84. Pittsburgh.
20 years ago I had a friend who actually was a nightporter. I played him this song and he loved it. He said it was so true to life.
I have been listening to this for 40 years
Never heard of it but very much like it. Almost hypnotic.
A band i have been on the fringes of for years i really needed the kick start to dive deeper cheers
That’s Porcupine Tree’s keyboard player, Richard Barberri, playing piano.
Love this song. love it.
Looked at your list of songs to review -- instant subscribe! Kate Bush, Camel, Dead Can Dance, David Sylvian, Ultravox, Steely Dan...how could I say no? Thank you for offering a unique perspective on the first time review concept.
Thanks Ocean! I appreciate it and hope you enjoy 😊
My favourite band💜
Has anybody mentioned Rain Tree Crow the group. It’s Japan in disguise. They reunited in 1991 and produced an LP of the same name. It was like a Sylvian project with assistance from the others.
Yup! Ive listened to them in the past, but have to revisit for a refresher
So classy.
So pleased you got round to this. It very much is mood music I think. I've always found it hauntingly beautiful. It is difficult to choose un Sylvian Japan because that voice is at the heart of it but perhaps their cover of Smokey Robinson's Second That Emotion but I'd urge a listen to the Tin Drum album.
Its a brilliant haunting song
You know whats been cool, there are groups that I've always said I would get around to listening someday, and you are in that same wavelength and since you love prog, I get the push I need to take the journeys. having said that, ty for getting me started on Japan. I've listened to a little of Sylvian, looking forward to this.
I would have never ever got around to hearing Japan. TY
@Olivves thank You Very Much. I will do that. I'm not overly hooked with this song. I've only heard one other song by them, that I loved, can't remember the name.
Thank you Glenn, glad you're enjoying the journey with me
I forgot how much I love Nightporter. Oh my. The music itself is so beautiful, but then to add in his voice and I just become a puddle. I’m here for any and all content that includes Sylvian. ☺️💕 For more Japan that is less like his solo work I’d suggest Gentlemen Take Polaroids or My New Career.
Ty TY!
@@JustJP And how much of Rain Tree Crow have you heard?
Great reaction. Mick Karn on oboe, btw. If you want "Not solo Sylvian", try Automatic Gun or Obscure Alternatives - his voice is still amazing, but you can really get the other band members input - I just worry you won't like them as they are so different. If you want to test the water, In Vogue from Quiet Life. Awesome Mick bassline, great swirling guitars from Rob, atmospheric keyboards from Rich and the outro..well, they just get into a groove.
love it, Japan !!
I first started to like Japan with the release of 79's 'Life In Tokyo' but It wasn't until the release of the 'Polaroids' album that they became my No1 band of the time, 'Night Porter' was and still is my top Japan track, 'Sons Of Pioneers' (Tin Drum) comes close though... I know that 'Adolescent Sex' & 'Obscure Alternatives' are very different to the Japan most know they are still more than worth a listen.... 'Deviation', 'Suburban Berlin' are good & personally I always loved their cover of Barbara Streisand's 'Don't Rain On My Parade'...
I know I'm late to the party, but base player Mick Karn had a fantastic single called "Sensitive". Sadly very much a slipped disc of the 80's but worth tracking down.
From his album Titles. Saviour Are You With Me is another great track from it.
Amazing song!!!...Whenever I hear this beautiful song I get goose bumps...Besides this, only Forbidden Colours.
Forbidden Colours is amazing! Especially the last chorus when he pushes it out a bit
Without a doubt J.P.!...And Ryuichi Sakamoto's instrumental is wonderful, David's voice fits him like a glove.
Hi Justin, I just came here for your sylviangasm. This is a very beautiful song. *Atmospheric*. Puts pictures in your head. Early 20th century Central European decadence, sorrow and all that jazz. Perhaps.
Hha ty Harri!
I love this band. I bought this album when it was first released. This song is so melancholic and moody.
Have you had a chance to give an ear to the album Obscure Alternatives? It's really different, as is the album Adolescent Sex.
And from GTP, Ain't That Peculiar and note all of it's incarnations (David Lee Roth, Peter Gabriel, Marvin Gaye...).
I love the live version from the double live album Oil on Canvas. Glad to see you react to it.
New subscriber here my fave japan song, try these The Judgement Is The Mirror by Dali's Car who were Mick Karn (Japan) & Pete Murphy (Bauhaus), Stay Close by Steve Jansen (Japan & David's brother) & Yukahiro Takahashi (Yellow Magic Orchestra) & anything by The Dolphin Brothers who were Steve Jansen & Richard Barbieri
Canton b/w Visions of China 7 inch was my introduction to Japan. I’ve been a fan ever since
I played the album "Exorcising Ghosts" over and over while painting.. and doing my art homework and a project that won me three thousand USD- my good luck charm.-
Ryuichi Sakamoto does feature on this album, but not Nightporter. Keyboards by Richard Barberi..all the musicianship in Jspan was top notch, especially the sadly missed Mick Karn, and David's brother on drums. Probably already mentioned but Rain Tree Crow album is a sort of Japan mark 2 album and is stunning.
You could definetly do some videos on Dead Bees. Its my personal favorite album along with Gone To Earth, i bought them both on vinyl when they were reissued last year. While i love every album he has put out, i think Blemish is probably my 3rd favorite tbh. It is the most uniquely depressing album i've ever heard. The Heart Knows Better is one of my favorites from Blemish, but the title track Blemish is also really good. From Dead Bees i'd say that Krishna Blue, The Scent of Magnolia, Pollen Path and Wanderlust are the big bangers for me but as i said i love it all really :).
I like nightporter, its a great moody track that for me fits well as background music, but i like their songs that are more unique and artsy/avant-garde in composition. Life Without Buildings, The Art Of Parties, Sons Of Pioneers, Aint That Peculiar (Marvin Gaye "cover"), My New Career, In Vogue and Halloween.
Nice! Blemish is very uniquely depressing as you said, lol. Krishna Blue and Wanderlust are amazing, as is Thalheim
Such a underrated band
I didn't like Japan when they were "current", though I only heard the odd single on the radio. As time went on I opened up to them and bought this album. I don't play it often, but I do like every track on it. I must get a second Japan album.
I suggest to you "Tim Drum" . I also love to dead "Gentleman take a Polaroid" but Tim Drum in my opinion is Japan's masterpiece.
Was listening to the new Greg Lake today while at medical appointments. Then I get back and hear this from Japan,now I'm really depressed!Great track and from a Greg Lake fanboy I would suggest the newest version of his "Closer To Believing" Peace & health to you & yours from ferretfret in Ct.
Lol! Well I hope you're having a great day today!
@@JustJP Much better today,check out the Greg Lake. Thanks and Peace to you and your family.
Some suggestions: David Sylvian and Ryuichi Sakamoto - Bamboo Music. Japan tunes: Swing, Obscure Alternatives, Still Life in Mobile Homes.
Ah yeah, Bamboo Music is great!
Sylvians references to weather in his music is "emotional weather". Bad weather is pain and/or fear of being emotionally hurt.
Influenced by the moody and erotic film The Night Porter with Dirk Bogarde. Great song. Try "Ghosts" by Japan from similar period. Brilliant studio and live versions on utube.
This song could easily have come from one of David Sylvian’s solo albums. I love this song. So melancholic with ‘simple’ music behind the singing.
Visions of China, and Ghosts are also excellent songs (among many other).
Great choice Justin 🤗🙏🏻💙☮️
Ty😁
Definitely more Japan please. Their debut album 'Adolescent Sex" is extraordinary and quite different in tone compared to the later work. Has glam rock elements but much grittier. You will be impressed. All their albums are worth exploring Tin Drum is another stand out. If you would like to hear a very different David Sylvian then this is the place to start
I totally agree with your suggestion
Excellent song one of my favourites, but your right, this song was "the" first that showed the way Sylvian was leaning towards .
"Still life in mobile homes". Tin Drum. Would be a perfect song for you to feature. It shows what an incredible group of musicians they all were. The bass on this track by Mick Karn is simply amazing, and the song itself is quite complex.
Ty Paul!
Well, I liked this Justin 😊
Love the piano riff, playing.. Quite beautiful butty. 😊
Nightcrawler hmm.
I've always liked is voice tbh. So different to anyone else Justin. 👍
The synths are gorgeous too.. Very trance like imo.
Have to check this album out I think butty. 😊
Very dreamy, very nice.
Grea stuff Justin. I really liked this.
Hello Justin. Try to listen to The Nighporter again with the work of modern composer Eric Satie in mind. Gentlemen Take Polaroids is a good album to discover the band Japan. You picked out the most intimate and Sylvian solo-ish track on it. The rest of the record brings us the full band swinging. I would suggest Methods Of Dance as your next pick. Dive deeper, you will like their music as much as I like your comments.
Good point, it is quite reminiscent of Satie
this is my first listening of Japan. I dig what I've heard of Sylvian's solo stuff, but I especially love his collaborations with Robert Fripp. please don't take this as a negative review, but what I hear here is music for a carousel in a depression -themed amusement park. a couple minutes from the end, each horse individually leaps off, destined for the nearest dog food factory.
Nice visual. Japan is really good if you like synth pop - check out Gentlemen take Polaroids or quiet life
Quite honestly,
It wouldn't surprise me, if you had no clue,
in horses, carousels, amusement parks -
and definitely not in anything pertaining to
Sylvian & Japan !!!
Do you know the Sylvian/Fripp album The First Day? That'd be a great album to review, but not sure what its copyright status is.
Soothing new age with haunting vocals. He always reminds me of Mark Knopfler at first.
This song as you prob know , is based on the movie starring Dirk Bogarde and Charlett Rampling, it’s about a Nazie SS officer who had a strange love affair with a female prisoner, after the war he goes into hiding as a night Porter, but she reappears and the affair starts again, based on a true story , amazing movie , fantastic song.
Probably my favorite song from Japan or solo... wanted to waltz but, sadly the lady declined my invitation to dance. ;(
I’d like to hear David S.... Sancious!
Transformation album is a desert island album for me. Think about it.
Peace and waltz Music
Piano was played by David and Richard Barbieri, synths by Richard.
It's terrific, but this song is atypical of the rest of the album - "Swing" and "My New Career" are more what you might call traditional Japan tracks.
My New Career is my favourite Japan track
My New Career hit me straight in the feels, personally it's their best song, and a bitch to play on Bass
For a bit of funky Japan - Rhodesia
Sooooo good 🔥
Japan were huge in the UK in the early 80's but they seemed to have disappeared off the airwaves since. Try one of their biggest hits: Ghosts. Weirdness and beauty.
Japan as a group, and Sylvian as an artist are in my opinion the most underrated musicians of the eighties without any shadow of a doubt. Followed them / him from the late 70’s and few musicians can match their ability and mood
IDK. Have to listen again. 🦻🦻
Once had dinner with David Sylvian. He was a friend of the guy my sister dated.
IF YOU LOVE DAVID SYLVIANS SOLO WORKS THEN YOU'LL LOVE NIGHT PORTER. IT'S ONE OF MY FAVORITE JAPAN SONGS THE FEATURES DAVID'S STRONG VOCALS. CLOSE YOUR EYES AND ENJOY
Nice.
If you hadn' t mentioned the year, I would not have guessed this was from 1980.
Mick on Oboe!🗿
My New Career! Swing! Methods of Dance!🗿
This is a bit different for a Japan song. Definitely a "mood" song. Other songs have much more drum/bass etc. Besides this my faves from this album are the song, Gentleman Take Polaroids, Swing, and Taking Islands in Africa.
Silky. Rich. Art. It’s a truly a painting, a song where the mood cuts through and invades what may have been at least not depressed. Ok, so I’m not clinically depressed but I don’t feel like doing much now either. Someone please, for the love of God, find something “fun” in the Japan catalog! Haha
Lol!
Take a listen to Methods of Dance! Such an epic song!
A strange love story indeed! Inspired by the Dirk Bogarde/Charlotte Rampling film of the same name - a sadomasochistic Third Reich nightmare. Also, I hadn't noticed the huge Satie influence in the piano. Compare with Gymnopédie No. 1.
Japan is sooo underrated
Japan ! Very Cool. Used to listen to them a lot. Television is a great track. Check it out
The song Television in my opinion it's one of the " very" Japan songs you can check out.
Because of your love for David Sylvian, I’d like to recommend another artist to you: John Grant. To me, they both have a similar certain quality, yet they are both uniquely themselves in their musical expression. John’s voice is a beautiful baritone, and his lyrics tell a story. ‘Glacier’ is a particularly poignant example th-cam.com/video/K3BzvWPYo94/w-d-xo.html
Didni like it when a was young and have tried again now thinking a missed something but not. Quiet life not bad. But chose the theatre of hate and spear of destiny great underestimated bands with something to say. Aw best Mac.
Check out the all female Japanese female progressive rock band Ars Nova. They are very influenced by Emerson Lake and Palmer. Great music.
Tin Drum... Cantonese Boy, Visions of China. Live versions on OGWT are great
Do VISIONS OF CHINA by Japan. It has a unique bassline and supercool drum beat. Their best song.
I work regular nights..things seem different