Japanese Edition CDs

Several rock bands often don't have the opportunity to tour in Japan despite having large fanbases in the Land of the Rising Sun. The costs and logistics of sending band members, including their crew and gear, make it difficult to do so. In addition, Japanese domestic albums cost more than those imported from outside of the country. To justify the higher price tag for a CD and to please their diehard Japanese fans, record labels and bands make an effort to include Japan-exclusive tracks in some of their album releases.

Instead of the usual shot glass or refrigerator magnet, a favorite souvenir of mine is Japan released albums. Here are a few records that I gathered from my trips to Japan with links to the exclusive tracks.

1. New Found Glory - Not Without a Fight

Bonus track for Japan: I'm the Fool

New Found Glory's 2009 release of Not Without a Fight in Japan is a prime example of a band's appreciation for Japan. With this additional track, the album's tracklisting is increased to 13 as opposed to the measly 12 that I jammed out to in the 9th grade. Not including "I'm the Fool" in the US release exemplifies the specialness of a Japanese bonus track. This track hits heavy with its aggressive rhythm guitar intro followed by a catchy guitar riff that circles around your head. You'll probably sing the chorus for a week straight after hearing this track. This track is definitely more than just a song that didn't make the mainstream release because the record label said it doesn't work. Fans back at home are definitely deprived by not having this track readily available.

2. Ben Folds - Way to Normal

Bonus tracks for Japan: Way to Normal, Frownee Song (Feeble Anthem), Cologne (Piano Orchestra Version)

What's interesting about Ben Folds' Japanese release of Way to Normal is that the title track was only available in Japan. A title track usually defines an entire record but Mr. Folds saved this one for his Japanese fans. What reminds me of some kind of epic 80s theme song, the title track is full of classic Ben Folds writing. "Frownee Song (Feeble Anthem)" starts off with a marching rhythm that carries the entire song and its message of giving in to love. "Cologne (Piano Orchestra Version)" sounds like it was pulled straight from a movie scoring studio. I found it difficult to decide if I like the original or the piano orchestra version more. Although I didn't live and breathe Ben Folds' Way to Normal the same way I did NFG Not Without a Fight, the three Japanese bonus tracks are definitely worth a listen.

3. OK Go - Oh No 

Bonus tracks for Japan: Down for the Count, Here It Goes Again (Surf Mix)

Before you refer to your memory of viral treadmill choreography, just know that OK Go is a great rock band with a diverse sounding discography. "Down for the Count" clarifies this with a majority acoustic track backed by a full band. Nowhere near the energy from the only track that you probably know from them. This bonus Japanese track can be used as a gateway to the band on its own. The surf mix version of "Here It Goes Again" is refreshing to hear after listening to the original version constantly throughout the years whether passively or actively. The band should probably play this version live as they too are probably tired of hearing this song.

The next time you're in Japan and looking for a unique souvenir, I recommend hitting the record store to search for some of your favorite albums.