Japanese music aficionados have a knack of tuning into the musical zeitgeist. Post-rock, Brit-pop and grunge all had substantial audiences in Japan before the rest of the world caught up.

If this trend holds true, then expect Tucson, Az., to be added to the map of American musical meccas that covers Seattle, Wash., Athens, Ga. and Chicago, Ill.

Tokyo's Saidera Records, a side project of Seigen Ono, best known for his experimental bossa nova recordings and work with fashion label Comme Des Garcons, has become Tokyo's main conduit to Tuscon's musical melange.