A Brief History of Japanese Reggae Pop
From Jamaican roots to Tokyo Riddims, lovers rock, and tropical city pop

Thursday 2nd July, 6:30–9.00pm at tokyobike

To celebrate the launch of our new record section, tokyobike and Time Capsule will host a special listening session led by Kay Suzuki.

Titled “A Brief History of Japanese Reggae Pop”, the session will explore how Jamaican and British reggae influenced Japan’s music culture in the 1970s and 1980s, eventually shaping a distinctly Japanese interpretation of reggae, lovers rock, city pop and tropical pop.

Centred around Time Capsule’s acclaimed compilation series Tokyo Riddim 1976–1985 and Tokyo Riddim Vol. 2 1979–1986, Kay will play selected tracks from the records alongside related music that helps trace the wider story - from imported reggae sounds to the unique Japanese productions that emerged in their wake.

A special audiophile sound system will be installed, creating an intimate listening environment for music, conversation, and cultural discovery.

Join us for an informal evening that's open to friends, collaborators and the wider creative community connected to tokyobike and Time Capsule.