We’re back with this week’s edition of Oricon Flashback. This is where we look back on what topped Oricon this week 5, 10, 15, and 20 years ago. Think of it as a way to reminisce and learn about the past of Japanese music.

This week’s guests were AKB48 and flumpool.

AKB48 – Bokutachi wa Tatakawanai

flumpool – Toaru Hajimari no Joukei ~Bookstore on the hill~

The Music Jacket Promotion Committee has awarded their prizes for the best cover art of the past year. Out of the the many nominees, the Grand Prize went to Shiina Ringo for her self-cover album “Gyakuyunyuu ~Kouwankyoku~.” Secondary awards went to Aimer for her EP “Dareka, Umi wo. EP” and to Pink Floyd for their album “Towa.” A special prize was awarded to Denki Groove for their mini album “25.” Check out the winning covers after the jump!

This week’s guests were Golden Bomber, BREAKERZ, Kara, and Tomomi Kahala.

Golden Bomber – Shinda Tsuma ni Niteiru

BREAKERZ – WE GO

Kara – Summer☆gic

Tomomi Kahala – Hajimari no Uta ga Kikoeru

Three-piece rock band Pirokalpin just released their second major album “a new philosophy” this week on May 13th.  In support of this new record the band have published the PV for its lead track “Wonder World” to their official Youtube channel.

This music video focuses on the band performing the song in the dark of night, supported only by a small pavilion of lights.  The unique setting allows the PV to play with shadows and silhouettes to great effect and provides an engaging and intriguing visual experience.

You’ll find the full music video for “Wonder World”, as well as the track list for “a new philosophy” just beneath the cut, so stick around a little bit longer.

Hey Arama Japan! It’s Friday so it’s Open Post time! Feel free to chat with your fellow readers about whatever you like! Enjoy!

This week’s guests were A.B.C-Z, Takahata Mitsuki & Yu Shirota, AKB48, Nishiuchi Mariya, KANA-BOON, flumpool, and Arashi.

A.B.C-Z – Shower Gate

Takahata Mitsuki & Yu Shirota – Yume wa Hisoka ni (Duet version)

AKB48 – Bokutachi wa Tatakawanai

Nishiuchi Mariya – Arigatou Forever…

KANA-BOON – Nandemo Nedari

flumpool – Toaru Hajimari no Joukei ~Bookstore on the hill~

Arashi – Aozora no Shita, Kimi no Tonari

In just under two weeks popular singer/songwriter Superfly will finally be releasing her new album “WHITE” for public consumption.  Ahead of this brand new studio release, she has now chosen to publish a pair of PVs for the album’s lead tracks “Beautiful” and “A HA HA”.

The music video for “Beautiful” features Superfly wandering across a mountain field and is shot in a striking monochrome style which is gradually overcome by greater and greater bursts of color.  A HA HA’s video is a much simpler affair which samples shots from the song’s recording process and cuts them together with footage of Superfly’s visit to the United States.

Check out the PVs for both new songs below and look forward to the full release of Superfly’s “WHITE” on May 27th.