Manga Corps - An archive of Japanese hardcore, gabba and otaku rave artefacts

This book is the first of its kind: a visual collection documenting over a decade of flyers and artifacts from Japan's hardcore techno scene, spanning the 1990s to the early 2000s. Through distortions, speedcore, and earth-shaking bass, a graphic world takes shape—one that the outside world, especially beyond Japan, has rarely seen. This isn't just an archive—it's a portal into an alternative aesthetic born of cyberpunk, otaku culture, and the visual impact of manga. Across 200 pages, DIY styles, improbable illustrations, eerie mascots, and chaotic designs come together to tell the story of an underground scene that danced to its own beat, far off the radar of the West. More than a book, it’s a rave capsule launched from the past, now finally landing in your hands. From Osaka's first hardcore raves to Tokyo’s explosion of the genre, the influence of gaming culture, and collaborations that defied expectations, this collection showcases the true grit and creativity of a movement that carved its own path. And it's not just a relic—it's a living legacy. The frenetic energy and experimental aesthetics of Japan's hardcore techno scene laid the groundwork for some of today's most radical musical and cultural phenomena. From hyperpop to breakcore, from the collision of video games and music to the rise of glitch art, the influence of this underground movement continues to shape modern genres and aesthetics. It’s a bold testament to how Japan’s rave culture helped define the sound and visuals of tomorrow. This book isn't just about flyers—it's a living testament to the birth of Japan's hardcore techno scene, a piece of history that continues to resonate today.