TOKYO FAN CLUB is the exciting new collaboration from acclaimed producers Luke Brancaccio, Gai Barone and vocalist Kiki Cave.
The trio today release their debut album We Live Electric on John Digweed’s Bedrock Records following a remix of Horses from renowned Greek producer Echonomist as supported by Dubfire, Andhim, Super Flu, Jimi Jules, Adana Twins amongst others.
We Live Electric showcases Tokyo Fan Club’s hypnotic and unique sound, presented over two parts as mixed by Bedrock label boss, John Digweed.
Part 1 is a dancefloor focused, ‘80s / ‘90s influenced half, whilst Part 2 presents more of a soundscape, ambient album to highlights both sides to Tokyo Fan Club’s sound.
Tokyo Fan Club told us: “We Live Electric started as an idea, a concept for outpouring all our favourite electronic music influences into one cohesive sound which grew into something that consumed us through lockdown. It’s emotive, it’s delicate, it’s unique and our most honest mature work to date. An amalgamation of three people’s visions perfectly rounded into a soundtrack for our time.”
To mark the release of the long player we caught up with them this week and asked them to talk us through a playlist of some of the music that inspires them. Listen and read what they had to say about the music they chose below.
Laurie Anderson – O Superman
One of our all timae favourite tunes. This must have been so strange sounding when it first came out and the video is awesome. Stripped back genius at its very best.
Q Lazzarus – Goodbye Horses
We get chills every time whilst listening to this. Made massive by the Silence of The Lambs Movie but a fantastic new wave classic that gets us going every time we hear it. Really doesn’t get much better.
Ultravox – Vienna
A bit of an obvious one this but possibly one of synth waves most iconic tunes and a timeless classic that , although tres cheesy, is definitely worth its place in the hall of fame. Incidentally, Vienna is also the birthplace of Kiki Cave (our singer).
College & Electric Youth – A Real Hero
OK this is the first of 2 cheats in this list but we couldn’t resist putting this wondrous record on here. Probably one of the best written records of the decade that catches all the magic from the 80’s & 90’s. College & Electric Youth we salute you.
Brian Eno – An Ending (Ascent)
Brian Eno is a bit of a god to us. Almost everything he touches is gold. Was hard to pin down one tune we loved from him but ‘An Ending’ is possibly one of the best tunes ever made. Chilled but incredible.
Billy Idol Eyes – Without A Face
This was remade for the Drive soundtrack but in our eyes this can’t be beaten. Emotive and sinister at the same time, Billy idol absolutely knocks it out the park with a fab video to boot. This tune has really influenced us in so many ways.
John Carpenter – Main Title
Escape From New York is an absolute classic and has a soundtrack to die for. Utter cheese fest but nothing whiffs about this. Not many people know that besides being an amazing movie director John Carpenter was a fantastic music producer.
New Order – Blue Monday
What can we say about this that hasn’t already been said. Possibly one of the best tunes ever made and the Hardfloor remix was immense (still sounds huge today). Head down and just dance the nights away.
Giorgio Moroder – (Theme From) Midnight Express
Midnight Express was an amazing movie but an uncomfortable watch, though this little gem made it slightly easier. Giorgio Moroder has influenced most in dance even if they have no idea who he is and if you don’t, what have you been doing. Mesmerising record that definitely deserves a place on this list.
Kavinsky & Love Fox – Night Call
And the second cheat on this list would not be complete without the genius of Kavinsky, he is the 80’s & 90’s personified. And this tune from the amazing movie Drive says it all. Absolutely amazing.
