The end of the year is approaching, which means — if you're not stuck in the house watching popular music show "Kohaku Uta Gassen" with Grandma — it's time to party hard. For those who like beats, there are tons of dance-music events across the country. We've sifted through the press releases and found the ones worth checking out.
Before the new year starts, m-flo (who has announced a new album for February 2013), FPM and Perfume producer Yasutaka Nakata will kick off the end-of-year-party rush at m-flo Bonenkai 2012 at ageHa in Koto Ward, Tokyo, on Dec. 21 (11 p.m.; ¥4,500 in advance; www.ageha.com). For Tokyoites who don't want to head to Koto Ward for the night, Metronomy member Gbenga Adelekan, aka Olugbenga, will be coming back to Trump Room in Shibuya Ward for a one-off set on Dec. 21 (10 p.m.; ¥2,000 with Facebook discount). Also appearing will be Boys Get Hurt, Give Me Wallets and more.
Club Asia is the place to be for those near Tokyo on Dec. 30. Kaikoo × clubasia Thank You 2012 (11 p.m.; ¥3,000 in advance, www.clubasia.co.jp), featuring artists such as U-zhaan × mabanua, who's known as one of the best acts from Kaikoo; and dance unit Atak Dance Hall by Keiichiro Shibuya, who composed an opera featuring virtual pop star Hatsune Miku last month. On Dec. 31, clubasia Countdown Party 2012 to 2013 (9 p.m.; ¥4,000) will feature producer Nakata, dubstep pioneer Goth-Trad, and indie-scene favorite De De Mouse. A bottomless barrel of sake is set to be on hand, let's hope that risk pays off.