Japanese indie rocker Shugo Tokumaru is a virtual unknown in the States. This, however, has not stopped him from creating album after album of endearing, upbeat indie pop-rock (for which he records almost every instrument by himself, at home on his laptop). He has even started to gain a following that includes the likes of Animal Collective and Jens Lekman.
The release of Exit can only cause his fanbase to broaden. The album is a more refined, whimsical version of his former efforts, offering a mix of pure pop songs, weird musical interludes and beautifully slow, rolling tunes. With this odd, fun collection of songs, Shugo Tokumaru could most closely be compared to The Books or maybe even be considered a Japanese Sufjan Stevens.
More diverse than previous effort Night Piece, Exit is less simple and sedate, which both aids and hinders the work. On some tracks, the enthusiastic melodies become more annoying than charming, and the strange combination of instruments (which includes a toy piano, accordion and xylophone, among others) may turn off some listeners. What is undeniable is that Shugo Tokumaru brings a refreshing level of earnestness to his music — he cares and now it’s time for listeners to take notice.
