Circle Arts Records presents its first compilation album, Circle Arts Compilation Vol.1, out September 25, 2026.Created as “a place where music and people meet,” this compilation brings together artists from Japan and abroad, crossing time, borders, genres, and generations.We hope these songs will open new doors for listeners, artists, and everyone who encounters them.

Circle Arts Compilation Vol.1

Press Release

Circle Arts Records Announces the Release of Its First Compilation Album, "Circle Arts Compilation Vol.1," on September 25, 2026Circle Arts Records is pleased to announce the release of its first compilation album, Circle Arts Compilation Vol.1, scheduled for September 25, 2026.The album brings together a diverse lineup of artists from Japan and abroad, celebrating musical connections that transcend genres, regions, and generations. The participating artists are as follows:Saigenji
dahlia
Perfect Circle Project
Richard John
ophill
Li Li Radio
kokodsten
Long Island
Energy Flow
Think DifferentRelease InformationTitle: Circle Arts Compilation Vol.1
Label: Circle Arts Records
Release Date: September 25, 2026
Distribution: Available on major digital streaming platformsContactCircle Arts Inc. / Circle Arts Records
Website: https://music.circle-arts.jp/

Concept

Creating a Place Where Music and People MeetCircle Arts Compilation Vol.1 was conceived not merely as a collection of songs, but as a place where new connections can emerge through music. We hope this project will inspire encounters that go beyond time, geography, and genre, bringing listeners and artists together while also fostering new relationships among musicians themselves.Comment from Madoka Kimura (Circle Arts Inc.)Through the medium of a compilation album, I wanted to create a place where people could meet beyond the boundaries of time and place—not only listeners and artists, but musicians from different backgrounds and generations.When I first began my musical activities with Perfect Circle, I was invited to participate in compilation albums by many independent labels, including Happiness Records, Good Music Records, LSN, and File Records.The people I met, the music I encountered, and the conversations we shared through those projects remain with me to this day, regardless of how much time has passed.It is my sincere hope that the new connections born from this compilation will open doors to the next stage for both listeners and artists alike.

Artists

Saigenji

Born in 1975, raised in Okinawa, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. A singer-songwriter whose music is based on South American folklore and Brazilian music. He has participated as a guest vocalist and guitarist in various artists' works and live performances. He has also provided songs, participated in tribute albums, sung and performed in films, anime, and commercials, and written and composed numerous songs. On radio, his original compositions have been selected as the opening theme for J-WAVE's flagship program "Saúde! Saudade" for four consecutive terms since 2004. He has performed live overseas in places such as Singapore, Paris, Seoul, Bangkok, Taiwan, and Myanmar, captivating audiences with his energetic performances.He has also made numerous appearances at outdoor festivals such as Fuji Rock Festival, Summer Sonic, Rising Sun Rock Festival, and Sunset Live.He has released 12 albums to date, including live and greatest hits albums.

dahlia

dahlia is a Japanese duo formed by Kaori (vocals, lyrics, and artworks) and Kanichi Saito (bass, songwriting, and programming). Emerging from the rich musical landscape that gave rise to Shibuya-kei, they have developed their own distinctive style, which they call "nouvelle pop music"—a sophisticated blend of French pop, jazz, bossa nova, film music, and Japanese indie pop sensibilities.The group released their debut album, Table Talk, in 1998, followed by June Fool in 1999, establishing a sound characterized by graceful melodies, refined arrangements, and a cosmopolitan aesthetic. Their artistic journey continued with Happiness Records, where they released quatrieme in 2001 and the 14-track album le mode d'emploi in 2003.Kaori's delicate vocals and visual artistry, combined with Kanichi Saito's inventive songwriting and programming, have shaped a musical world that is both nostalgic and timeless. Drawing from the traditions of French pop and bossa nova while embracing the creative freedom of Shibuya-kei, dahlia continues to offer listeners an elegant and uniquely Japanese interpretation of modern pop music.

Perfect Circle Project

Perfect Circle Project is a Japanese soft rock and bossa nova project formerly known as Perfect Circle. After years of songwriting, arranging, and collaborations with artists including Saigenji and dahlia, the project now enters a new chapter under its current name.Musically, Perfect Circle Project draws inspiration from the elegant pop craftsmanship of Claudine Longet, Burt Bacharach, The Beach Boys, Todd Rundgren, and the sophisticated productions of Tommy LiPuma. Blending lush harmonies, Brazilian influences, and timeless melodies, the project embraces the spirit of classic soft rock while creating music with a distinctly contemporary sensibility.  For this compilation, AKIKO K. of Li Li Radio joins as the new vocalist, reviving the musical vision that has always been at the heart of the project—warm, melodic, and beautifully arranged songs that celebrate the golden age of sophisticated pop music.

Richard John

Richard John is a British singer-songwriter known for his beautifully crafted original songs and warm, understated performances. With little more than an acoustic guitar and his distinctive voice, he creates music that feels both personal and universally comforting.Drawing inspiration from the elegance and rhythmic charm of bossa nova, Richard's compositions are filled with sweet melodies, gentle grooves, and a natural sense of intimacy. His songwriting captures everyday emotions with sincerity and grace, allowing each song to unfold like a quiet conversation.Whether performing live or recording in the studio, Richard brings a timeless quality to his music. His simple yet expressive approach highlights the beauty of melody and storytelling, offering listeners a moment of calm and warmth in an increasingly busy world.

ophill

ophill is a Japanese rock band whose music is deeply rooted in the traditions of blues while embracing the language and emotions of contemporary Japanese songwriting. Their sound combines heartfelt lyrics, dynamic performances, and a strong sense of musicianship, creating songs that are both powerful and intimate.A defining element of the band's identity is its exceptional guitar work. From carefully crafted tones to expressive phrasing, every note reflects a deep appreciation for the heritage of blues and rock music while maintaining a distinctive voice of its own. The interplay between melody, rhythm, and lyrical storytelling gives their music a timeless quality that resonates across genres.Whether performing energetic rock numbers or more reflective compositions, ophill delivers an authentic and emotionally rich musical experience. Their commitment to craftsmanship and honest expression continues to earn them a growing audience within Japan's independent music scene.

Li Li Radio

Li Li Radio is a Japanese indie dream pop project featuring vocalist and lyricist Akiko-K. and keyboardist, composer, and producer Madoka Kimura. Their music blends dream pop, bossa nova, Chinese pop influences, and contemporary indie aesthetics into a sound that is both nostalgic and modern.Characterized by whispered vocals, warm harmonies, and atmospheric arrangements, Li Li Radio creates intimate songs that invite listeners into a world of quiet emotion and imagination. Inspired by artists such as Men I Trust and The Marías, their music gently connects Eastern and Western influences with a distinctive sense of melody and mood.The group also draws inspiration from the songwriting traditions of Burt Bacharach, Antônio Carlos Jobim, and Brian Wilson, bringing timeless musical craftsmanship into a contemporary setting. Through delicate performances and immersive soundscapes, Li Li Radio offers a unique and soothing experience that resonates beyond genres and borders.

kokodsten

kokodsten is a Japanese duo that crafts minimalist and comforting music using guitar, bass, Nintendo DS systems, portable keyboards, and compact effects pedals. Their distinctive sound combines simple, repetitive guitar phrases with charming lo-fi textures, creating intimate and deeply relaxing soundscapes.Known for their frequent live performances, the group transforms inexpensive and unconventional instruments into rich musical experiences filled with warmth and personality. Their music embraces the beauty of simplicity, allowing space, texture, and subtle melodies to take center stage.An essential part of kokodsten's identity is the gentle voice of vocalist Kobayashi, whose memorable singing brings an emotional depth to their understated arrangements. The result is a unique musical world that feels nostalgic, peaceful, and quietly uplifting.

Circle Arts Compilation Vol.1

Long Island

Long Island is a Japanese electronic duo featuring Nagata, who performs with synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines, and Shimasaki, whose bass and melodica bring warmth and human expression to the group's distinctive sound.Rooted in the spirit of dub music, Long Island combines electronic production with live performance, creating spacious grooves and richly textured soundscapes. Their music balances hypnotic rhythms with subtle melodic elements, resulting in an atmosphere that is both energetic and deeply immersive.Known for their powerful live shows, the duo delivers a remarkably balanced sonic experience that captivates audiences from the very first note. By merging electronic experimentation with organic musicianship, Long Island continues to build a unique musical world that moves effortlessly between contemporary electronic music and the timeless essence of dub.

Energy Flow

Energy Flow is an instrumental solo project created by composer and producer Madoka Kimura, exploring a distinctive approach to lo-fi hip-hop and chill beats. Inspired by the beauty of simple sounds and inexpensive equipment, the project embraces a deliberately raw and nostalgic aesthetic while maintaining a strong sense of musicality.Rather than following the conventions of typical lo-fi music, Energy Flow places a special emphasis on unusual chord progressions and memorable melodies. Rich harmonic movements and expressive themes give each track its own character, creating listening experiences that are both relaxing and emotionally engaging.Combining mellow grooves with melodic storytelling, Energy Flow offers a refreshing alternative to standard lo-fi beats—music designed not only for comfort and concentration, but also for listeners who appreciate harmony, composition, and a deeper musical journey.

Think Different

Think Different is an instrumental solo project by Madoka Kimura, exploring a more organic and jazz-oriented approach to contemporary beat music. Distinguished by its expressive piano playing and natural-sounding drums, the project blends mellow rhythms with rich harmonic textures and memorable melodies.Drawing inspiration from jazz, free soul, and instrumental pop, Think Different places melody and atmosphere at the center of its music. The warm piano lines and relaxed grooves create an inviting sound that feels both nostalgic and timeless, offering listeners a sense of comfort and emotional depth.While sharing a lo-fi sensibility, the project embraces a more live and organic aesthetic, with arrangements that reflect the spirit of classic free soul and jazz-influenced music. The result is a gentle and melodic listening experience that moves beyond genres and speaks to listeners who appreciate sophisticated harmony and laid-back grooves.