"The Needle / Japan - Emerging" is a playlist that showcases the cutting edge of new music, featuring tracks that traverse the globe while underscoring the vibrancy of Japan's emerging music scene. This playlist starts strong with Talib Kweli and Madlib's compelling "Assata's Code," setting a tone of deep lyricism and innovative beats. Tracks like "Rational Man" by Kula Shaker and "爆熱マイソウル" by メジロライアン add an eclectic mix of philosophical rock and Japanese pop. Adding to the colorful palette, Dos Monos and Otomo Yoshihide blend hip-hop with avant-garde jazz in "QUE GI."

Get immersed in the ambient tones of "Somewhere Blue" by phritz and the energetic rhythms of "TAKE OFF" by SALU. Japan's influence is palpable with the inclusion of songs like "HETERODOXY" by ELFENSJóN and "Follow your arrows" by SSGIRLS, offering a glimpse into new pop revolutions. "The Needle / Japan - Emerging" captures the synergy between global influences and modern Japanese artistry, deftly weaving tracks across genres from contemplative jazz explorations like Shabaka's "As The Planets And The Stars Collapse" to smooth EDM vibes in "Feeling Good" by Hypaton and David Guetta. This playlist is a sonic journey that brings together diverse musical landscapes into a cohesive nod to both innovation and tradition.