Japan

Led by lead singer David Sylvian and his brother Steve Jansen (drums), Mick Kahn (fretless bass), Richard Barbieri (keyboards). On the fringe of 80s New Romantic scene. Their first really memorable hit was 'Quiet life', from the album of the same name. Their last studio album was 'Tin-drum', featuring Cantonese Boy, Visions Of China, Ghosts. Split about 1982. David Sylvian co-wrote the theme to 'Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence' (starring David Bowie), with Ryuichi Sakamoto, who also was in the film.The theme was called 'Forbidden Colours'.

Suggest an update

Author of this article:

SteveAustin

Contributors to this article:

There are no contributors yet

Do You Remember Japan?

Roxxy on 2011-11-12 19:09:38

Sakamoto is an excellent actor, he was brilliant as Capt. Yonoi in 'Merry Christmas Mr.Lawrence'. It was based on Lawrence van der Post's novel 'The Seed and The Sower', which I thoroughly recommend reading. Japan had such a haunting, eerie sound, and were the very embodiment of the Oriental elements that were embraced by the New Romantic movement. Terrific band, quite intellectual in many ways- their lyrics are really thoughtful and intelligent, and their melodies so atmospheric.