Nippon Pop: Sounds from the Land of the Rising Sun

Provides a strong visual introduction to the bands and personalities behind the Japanese music scene -- Includes the history of Japanese pop music and examines current trends in indic, acid jazz, techno, ambient, rap, the Avex dance boom, and much more -- Introduces the music emerging in Japan, the world's second largest music market In Nippon Pop, Billboard magazine's Japan bureau chief Steve McClure delves into the rich and fascinating world of Japanese pop music. Moving confidently through Japanese pop music history as well as the current scene, the author highlights many of the musical treasures to be found in this multi-billion dollar business. Beginning with a background introduction to some of the major stars that have come out of the Japanese scene, he focuses on current trends, including the Shibuya sound, indie bands, acid jazz, techno, and ambient rap.