Japanese editions and Japanese imports are the domestic pressings of any foreign-released record in Japan. Most Western music sold in Japan is pressed and distributed domestically.[1] These releases typically feature one or more bonus tracks not included on standard pressings of the same record elsewhere. These extra songs can be unique songs that are entirely exclusive to the Japanese release, although they may be remixes or demo recordings of other songs off of the record, or non-album singles that did not previously get a physical release. Additionally, these albums often include liner notes and translations of the lyrics into Japanese.[1][2] Due to the bonus content and geographic confinement, these editions are more highly sought after by record collectors.[3]

The Japanese edition of a record can be visually distinguished by the addition of a cardboard obi, which is generally folded over the left side of the cover. In this context, these obi are commonly called spine cards in English, particularly by collectors.[4]

Reason

In Japan, the cost to manufacture CDs and vinyls can be up to 30 to 40 percent more than overseas, thus it is usually cheaper for Japanese buyers to import one from elsewhere, rather than buy one produced domestically.[5] To incentivise domestic shoppers to buy the physical releases manufactured in Japan, labels often add extra tracks that are not otherwise available on the standard edition.[4][6]

See also

References

  1. 1 2 Condry, Ian (2004–2009). "Cultures of Music Piracy". International Journal of Cultural Studies. 7 (3): 343–363. doi:10.1177/1367877904046412. ISSN 1367-8779.
  2. ↑ Matsue, Jennifer Milioto (2015), "Conclusion: The Future of Japanese Music", Focus: Music in Contemporary Japan, Routledge, doi:10.4324/9781315762852-10/conclusion-future-japanese-music-jennifer-milioto-matsue, ISBN 978-1-315-76285-2, retrieved 2023-06-05
  3. ↑ Davies, James (2022-07-12). "What Makes Japanese Vinyl Records So Special?". Tokyo Weekender (in Japanese). Retrieved 2023-07-03.
  4. 1 2 Wheatley, Chris (4 May 2022). "Why Japanese Bonus Tracks Are a Thing – Explained". Loudwire. Retrieved 26 February 2023.
  5. ↑ Sam (6 May 2018). "A Look at Japanese Bonus Tracks and How Songs Find New Life Overseas". The Source. Source Digital, Inc. Retrieved 26 February 2023.
  6. ↑ Pollard, Alexandra (26 February 2015). "14 Truly Amazing Japanese Bonus Tracks". Gigwise. Retrieved 26 February 2023.


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