- Japan -
"Quiet Life"
- Japan Notes -
Founded in 1974 by David Sylvian (vocals, guitar, keyboards), Steve Jansen (drums), and Mick Karn (bass guitar) ... Richard Barbieri (keyboards) and Rob Dean (lead guitar) joined in 1975
Genres considered - Art Pop, New Wave, Glam Rock, Synthpop, Post-Punk
Influenced New Romantic style in the UK in the 1980s (unintended influence ... follow the link for a fascinating read)
9 Top 40 hits in the UK ... "Quiet Life" No. 19 in October 1981
"Ghosts" (1982) - No. 5 hit single in the UK
Point of intrigue -
The band broke up in December 1982 just as they were becoming a commercial success in the UK and on an international level. They briefly reunited in the early 1990s under the name Rain Tree Crow.
Point of intrigue -
Early into their career, Japan failed to impress in their native UK and faced negative reaction from audiences and critics. The band was somewhat more accepted in the U.S.
- Discography -
Adolescent Sex (1978)
Obscure Alternatives (1978)
Quiet Life (1979)
Gentlemen Take Polaroids (1980)
Tin Drum (1981)*
*Japan's first record to be certified in the UK - Silver within one month of release and Gold within four months of release.
Rain Tree Crow (1991)*
*Reunion album
There is a sense of sad irony for this band - parting ways just as they were becoming a success. They even disbanded once more after the reunion album. There is always bound to be friction in any band and splitting is always a possibility.
I cannot help but wonder Roger Taylor's piqued interest in Japan (as a band) with such little reception early on and for the most part. New Romantic scene? Unique genres coming into their own? Perhaps we should consider Quiet Life (the album).
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