Bands and musicians BANDS

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'.


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Do You Remember Japan?

Do You Remember Japan?

  • Anonymous user
    on
    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.
  • Anonymous user
    on
    I was hugely into Japan in the 80's especially Richard Barbieri ! always aspired to be as cool as david sylvian