Titan Manga has announced a new license sure to strike a chord with manga and music lovers alike: Ryoichiro Kezuka’s Record Journey (Onban Kikou). This exciting acquisition promises a unique blend of slice-of-life storytelling and musical exploration, adding another gem to Titan Manga’s diverse catalog.
What is Record Journey?
Record Journey is a manga series written and illustrated by Ryoichiro Kezuka. The series began in 2023 and is published by Kadokawa Shoten in Japan. Vega-Dupuis also announced they would be publishing the title for France in 2025. The manga is known for its unique format, resembling a 7-inch record, and its collection of interconnected short stories that revolve around music, memories, and emotions.
According to MangaDex, Record Journey is serialized in the comic magazine Aokishi. The volumes collect a series of short stories centered around a girl working in a record store in Tokyo.
Synopsis
Through a collection of vinyl records inherited from her grandfather, a young woman discovers stories of artists from different countries. These stories explore their dreams and the obstacles they face in various settings, from countries ruled by ruthless governments to pirate radio stations broadcasting from the sea.
Another synopsis mentions: “A collection of short stories that traces the memories and feelings contained in records, including the secrets of records left by a grandfather, an underground record store that sells banned pop music, and an old jukebox in a diner in the near future.”
The series weaves together tales of music, memories, and human connection across different eras and countries. Each story offers a glimpse into the lives of musicians and music lovers, highlighting the power of music to transcend boundaries and evoke deep emotions.
Themes
- Music as a universal language: The manga explores how music connects people from different backgrounds and cultures.
- Memories and nostalgia: Each record carries personal and historical memories, which are revealed through the stories.
- The power of human connection: The characters find solace and understanding through their shared love of music.
- Dreams and aspirations: The manga portrays artists pursuing their passions despite facing numerous challenges.
About Ryoichiro Kezuka
Ryoichiro Kezuka (毛塚了一郎) is a Japanese manga artist known for his distinctive art style and poignant storytelling. Kezuka’s works often explore themes of memory, music, and human connection. Aside from Record Journey, Kezuka’s other works include:
- GIVE ME A CUE!
- Millefiori Bunny
Titan Manga’s Expanding Lineup
Titan Manga has been actively expanding its catalog with a variety of exciting titles. In addition to Record Journey, some of their recent acquisitions include:
- Ghostly Darkness of Kanata: A supernatural horror manga series by Noct Koike.
- Stray: A crime thriller manga by Ryu Kamio and Yu Nakahara.
- Gran Familia: A manga series by Kenji Hamada about a conflict between humans and demi-humans.
- Isekai Metaller: A comedy action series by Kasuga Dragon about a metalhead who finds himself in a heavy metal fantasy world.
- Sanda: A manga by Paru Itagaki, the creator of Beastars.
These new licenses demonstrate Titan Manga’s commitment to bringing diverse and engaging stories to English-speaking audiences.
Anticipated Release
While an exact release date for Record Journey has not yet been announced, it is expected to be available in late 2025 or early 2026. Keep an eye on Titan Manga’s official website and social media channels for updates!
Manga fans can look forward to immersing themselves in the heartfelt stories and musical journeys of Record Journey when it arrives.
