Two landmark albums by Mori wa Ikiteiru, one of the defining bands of Tokyo's 2010s indie scene, return in newly remixed editions personally overseen by the band members. More than a decade after their original release, both albums have been revitalized through brand-new mixes by the band's central creative force, Takuro Okada, bringing fresh depth and clarity to these beloved recordings while preserving their original spirit.
Formed in Tokyo in 2012 around songwriter, guitarist, and producer Takuro Okada, Mori wa Ikiteiru quickly became one of the defining bands of Japan's 2010s indie scene. Drawing inspiration from an expansive range of musical traditions—including country, soft rock, swamp rock, psychedelia, ambient, exotica, tropical music, jazz, blues, African music, classical, and contemporary composition—the band developed a singular sound marked by sophisticated arrangements, exceptional musicianship, and poetic Japanese lyricism.
Their independently released debut CD-R, Hibi no Utakata, became an instant cult favorite, selling out at record stores across Japan despite its DIY origins. In 2013, the band released their self-titled debut album Mori wa Ikiteiru on P-VINE, earning widespread acclaim as one of the landmark releases of Tokyo's flourishing indie movement. Following a successful nationwide tour and appearances at numerous festivals and events, the band performed their first headline concert at Shibuya WWW in Tokyo in 2014 before releasing their second album, Good Night, later that year. Expanding on the lush production and adventurous songwriting of their debut, the album further established Mori wa Ikiteiru as one of Japan's most distinctive contemporary bands.
Although the group disbanded in October 2015, their influence has continued to grow. Their two albums remain modern classics of Japanese independent music, while Takuro Okada has gone on to receive international recognition as a solo artist, producer, arranger, and mixing engineer, further cementing the band's lasting legacy.
