Long-Awaited Vinyl Release of 'Free Soul Kirinji,' a 2014 Sensation Still Beloved Today!

The million-selling compilation series 'Free Soul,' which has had a profound impact on music culture from the 1990s to the present, continues to resonate with listeners worldwide.

In April 2014, the series released the CD 'Free Soul Kirinji,' a compilation of classic tracks created during the brotherhood era of Takaki and Yasuyuki Horikomi. The release sparked widespread excitement among music fans.

Now, in response to passionate requests from fans, the jewel-like compilation album—curated and supervised by Wataru Hashimoto (SUBURBIA), the mastermind behind 'Free Soul'—will finally be released as a long-awaited vinyl edition.

This richly curated collection spans three labels—Columbia, Warner, and EMI—eras during which Kirinji was active. It features not only representative hits but also hidden gems that exemplify the distinctive 'Free Soul' touch, making it a de facto all-time best compilation.

Beyond tracks from Kirinji's original albums, the selection includes songs released only as singles, self-cover albums, and even solo works by Takaki Horikomi ('Fuyu Kitarinaba') and Uma no Hone ('Moekara'), offering a compelling lineup that appeals not only to longtime fans but also to new listeners.

■ Comment from Wataru Hashimoto (SUBURBIA), Selector and Supervisor

"For the past 12 years, while DJing at Cafe Apres-midi, I've been approached countless times by customers saying, 'I love Free Soul Kirinji.' There have been over 100 such instances, and their follow-up comments generally fall into two categories: 'I treasure the analog version (the 2LP excerpt edition)' and 'I want the vinyl, but it's become a rare item and too expensive to buy.'

Now, I'm thrilled to deliver great news to all of you who love 'Free Soul Kirinji'!

Yes, the fully restored 4LP edition, available at regular price—something I've personally wanted so badly—is finally here!

My feelings about the quality of this content remain exactly the same as 12 years ago, so I'd like to reprint the statement I wrote at the time of the CD release:

"When I was first approached about curating 'Free Soul Kirinji,' I was surprised by the unexpected offer, but immediately felt a surge of excitement—this could become an incredible compilation. At the same time, I faced the delightful dilemma of how to narrow it down to 80 minutes. During our initial meeting, we agreed it should be definitive, so we decided on a 2-disc set. I revisited all their works and selected tracks without hesitation, aiming straight for my sweet spot with full-force passion. I focused on a direct, center-pitch approach, hoping to convey Kirinji's charm to a broad audience of music lovers. Deciding the track order was remarkably smooth—I simply arranged them as I'd want to listen myself. I believe this genuine excitement from the initial offer is what gives the selection its persuasive power.

"It feels like a long-awaited reunion. The anticipation and excitement among my fellow music lovers have already reached boiling point, and I've received enthusiastic responses from devoted Kirinji fans. I'm especially delighted to have included solo masterpieces like 'Fuyu Kitarinaba' (Takaki Horikomi) and 'Moekara' (Uma no Hone). I'm deeply grateful to everyone involved who helped realize my personal best selection across label boundaries. And above all, to the Horikomi brothers—thank you so much for always creating such wonderful music!"

【Product Details】

Title: Free Soul Kirinji

Release Date: September 30, 2026

Catalog Number: COJA-9591-9594

Price: ¥10,909 (excluding tax)

【Track Listing】

Today Is Someone's Birthday (2008)

Nora no Niji (1998)

Kimi no Mune ni Dakaretai (2000)

Koi no Saiten (1999)

Ame o Mikubiruna (1998)

Kadowakasarete (1998)

Mabushigariya (2002)

Ai no Coda (2003)

YOU AND ME (2004)

Kimi no Koto da yo (2008)

Fuyu Kitarinaba (2005)

Moekara (2005)

Drifter (2001)

Aliens (2000)

Sweet Soul (2003)

Good Day Good Bye (2000)

Kimodameshi (2013)

Blind Touch no Orihime (2003)

Asayake wa Ame no Kizashi (2008)

Ame wa Mōfu no Yōni (2001)

Futagoza Graffiti (1998)

Jūyoji Sugi no Kagero (2004)

Naive na Hitobito (2013)

Buta no Yōni (2012)

Love is on line (2006)

Soratobu Shinkaigyo (2010)

Dansōru no Kyūden (1999)

Bluebird (2006)

Itsumo Kawaii (2012)

Ibara ni Kuchizuke o (2012)

Siren no Uta (2000)

【Pre-order Site】

https://lit.link/kirinji

【Profiles】

Kirinji

Formed in 1996 by brothers Takaki and Yasuyuki Horikomi.

(Since 2013, Takaki has continued as the project 'KIRINJI,' while Yasuyuki has pursued a solo career.)

Wataru Hashimoto (SUBURBIA)

Editor, music selector, DJ, and producer. Founder of Suburbia Factory.

Has produced nearly 400 compilation CDs—including 'Free Soul' and 'Cafe Apres-midi'—the most in the world.

His 'Free Soul' series, which transcends eras, genres, and national borders, has sold over one million copies and profoundly influenced music culture since the 1990s.