The Japanese seem to have done many things better than us yanks over the years. Now, more than ever, they are rocking better than us as well. The latest in a long list of quality pop combos to come from The Land of the Rising Sun would be Shizuoka's Kabochack.

This all-girl three piece crafts American Indie-Pop songs that could melt the coldest heart and play them with a sweetness and proficiency seldom heard. Despite a few sniffs from the Japanese majors, Kabochack has managed to fly under the radar while developing a healthy and hearty following in the Japanese pop underground. During a short and limited US tour last year (with nothing but a demo tape to promote) they impressed the Ojet brass so much, they offered the Kabochack gals a record deal on the spot! The result? A six-song CD-EP called "The King of Pumpkins" that showcases the best of Kabochack's sunshine super-sounds.

This is convertible music. This is skipping work and going to the beach music. This is a slight drunk in the afternoon music. You might want to heed this warning: insulin is recommended prior to listening.