From Shibuya Scramble to Sonic Sanctuary: The Allure of Tower Records
Today’s meeting in Shibuya wrapped up, leaving me with that pleasant hum of accomplishment. Whenever I’m in this vibrant part of Tokyo, one destination invariably calls to me: Tower Records Shibuya.
For countless music aficionados, this isn’t just another record store. It’s a sanctuary promising new sonic discoveries. Especially for the recently resurging cassette tape, its extensive collection makes it a crucial hub in Tokyo. If there were a “best things to do in Tokyo” list specifically for music lovers, Tower Records Shibuya would undoubtedly be a top contender.
I previously wrote about my discovery of Waltz, a fantastic cassette tape specialty store in Nakameguro, stemming from my fascination with the fashion brand C.E (you can read about it here). But even before that, from my student days częstego bywania w Tower Records w Shinjuku, Tower has always been my starting point for musical exploration.
If Waltz is a select shop reflecting the owner’s keen eye, Tower Records Shibuya is more like a colossal music library, stocking everything from major label hits to indie gems, new releases to timeless classics. Their selection of new cassette tapes, in particular, rivals or perhaps even surpasses Waltz in sheer volume.
With a sense of anticipation, I headed to the 6th floor.
The iconic exterior of Tower Records Shibuya, a landmark in Shibuya. This destination for countless music fans always offers new discoveries and excitement.
An Overwhelming Selection: The Cassette Universe on Tower Records Shibuya’s 6th Floor
The cassette tape section at Tower Records Shibuya is located on the 6th floor, right near the entrance to Tower Vinyl Shibuya. It occupies nearly half the floor, with new and used cassette tapes displayed neatly, yet exuding an undeniable energy.
The first thing that catches your eye is the wall of new cassette tapes. It’s a truly breathtaking sight. This is undeniably one of the largest selections in Tokyo. From the latest pop releases to timeless rock masterpieces, cult punk classics, hip-hop/rap anthems, delicate jazz melodies, J-POP hits, and even movie soundtracks – the variety is astounding.
For instance, you’ll find Taylor Swift’s latest in the pop section. The rock corner boasts cassette releases from legends like Linkin Park, Foo Fighters, and David Bowie. Punk enthusiasts can find the raw energy of Bad Brains, while hip-hop heads can discover classics like De La Soul on tape. The jazz shelves resonate with the sweet trumpet of Chet Baker. And the J-POP section. It’s a treasure trove featuring city pop giants like Tatsuro Yamashita, alongside influential artists like Ging Nang Boyz and Spitz. This diversity is the core appeal of the Tower Records Shibuya cassette tape haven.
Used Cassette Tapes: A Treasure Hunt for One-of-a-Kind Finds
Adjacent to the new releases, you’ll find the used cassette tape section. Artists are arranged alphabetically, and while it’s organized, sifting through the sheer volume to find that one gem feels like a proper treasure hunt.
To be honest, when it comes to the selection and ease of Browse used cassettes, I’d personally give Waltz the edge. However, there’s always a chance of unearthing a rare, out-of-print gem এখানে Tower Records Shibuya’s used section. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, an unexpected discovery might just be waiting.
Today’s Mission: In Search of a Rage Against the Machine Rarity
I came with a specific goal today: to find a live Rage Against The Machine cassette that had unfortunately sold out at Waltz.
I scoured the cassette shelves, but it was nowhere to be found. But I wasn’t ready to give up. The 6th floor is also home to the expansive “Tower Vinyl Shibuya,” a haven for analog record enthusiasts. The cassette section alone is worth the visit, but the vinyl selection here is easily among the best for any Shibuya record store.
Clutching a sliver of hope, I headed to the Rage Against The Machine vinyl section. And there it was! The Record Store Day limited edition live analog record I had missed out on. I let out a silent cheer. This is precisely why I love exploring Tower Records.
Oasis Reunions and a Tatsuro Yamashita “Melodies” Encounter
Buoyed by my early success, I continued my exploration. The Oasis corner featured a special display celebrating the band’s reunion. It was a poignant sight, given how eagerly fans worldwide had awaited this news. While I didn’t find any rare items, it reaffirmed the timeless power of their music.
Then, a vibrant pop-up corner caught my eye. It was a special store celebrating the cassette tape release of Tatsuro Yamashita’s iconic album, “Melodies.” Since only a portion of Yamashita-san’s work is available on streaming services like Apple Music, owning his music on physical media like records or cassette tapes feels particularly special.
Purchasing the “Melodies” cassette came with a bonus gift. And next to it, a peculiar gachapon machine! For 500 yen, you could get a pin badge featuring Tatsuro Yamashita’s album art. I had to try it. I turned the crank and out popped a “CIRCUS TOWN” pin. Not the “FOR YOU” I was hoping for, but a unique souvenir nonetheless.
The Quiet Battle with Temptation (and a Few Graceful Retreats)
As I wandered through the store, an endless stream of enticing items vied for my attention. The “Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury” soundtrack, a 2-LP set, was priced at ¥8,800. The “Unicorn Gundam” soundtracks (Parts 1 and 2) were also quite dear. YOASOBI’s “Idol” 12-inch EP was nearly ¥5,000. The Chemical Brothers’ vinyl selection was impressive, but the prices prompted a quiet retreat.
The desire for more is endless, but one cannot acquire everything. This, I tell myself, is part of the charm of record store Browse – and sometimes, a necessary exercise in restraint.
Today’s Haul and the Blissful Listening Session Back Home
My visit lasted about 40 minutes. After careful consideration, I headed to the checkout with Rage Against The Machine’s “Live On Tour 1993” analog record and Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Melodies” cassette tape.
Back home, I immediately set them up on my turntable and cassette deck. The Rage Against The Machine live album perfectly captured the band’s raw energy and early ferocity; the sound quality was excellent. It delivered an immersive live experience that studio albums simply can’t replicate.
Then came Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Melodies.” Listening to this album on cassette was a distinct pleasure. From the opening notes of “Kanashimi no Jody (She Was Crying),” I was drawn into its sweet and melancholic world. The masterful sequencing, right through to “Christmas Eve” on Side B, never allows for a dull moment – a true work of pop artistry. It’s an album you want to listen to on repeat. The upbeat rhythm of “Koukiatsu Girl” also felt wonderfully suited to the analog warmth of the tape.
CityNomix’s Tips for Navigating Tower Records Shibuya’s Cassette Tape Scene
When hunting for cassette tapes at Tower Records Shibuya, a few tips can be helpful. Information about cassette releases can be surprisingly scarce on the official Tower Records website, and pre-release images are often unavailable. Therefore, I find that the quickest way to get the latest store updates is by following their official Instagram account. They often post about new cassette tape arrivals, so it’s a must-follow.
However, popular cassettes are often released in limited quantities and sell out quickly. I once missed out on The Clash’s live cassette at Waltz, only to luckily find it later at Tower Records Shibuya. I’ve also stumbled upon rare finds like a new Foo Fighters cassette and U2’s “Songs Of Surrender” [Exclusive Mint Green Cassette] (supposedly a Universal Music Store exclusive, yet I found it for around ¥1000!). So, frequent checks and decisive action are key.
Conclusion: Why Tower Records Shibuya Captivates Cassette Tape Fans
Tower Records Shibuya is more than just a place that sells cassette tapes. It’s a venue that fosters new musical encounters and rediscoveries, offering an immersive experience of enjoying music through physical media. The joy of finding that one special tape amidst its vast collection, and the dedicated time spent listening to your acquisitions – these are the elements that irresistibly draw music fans in.
If you have even a passing interest in cassette tapes, or if you’re looking for an excellent Shibuya record store, I highly recommend a visit to the 6th floor of Tower Records Shibuya. A unique discovery surely awaits you.
Tower Records Shibuya
Official Website: https://towershibuya.jp/blog
Google Map :