Rekishi is a conceptual pop treasure. Created by singer-songwriter Ikeda Takafumi, he launched the project with an eponymous debut album in 2007, subverting preconceived notions about Japanese history by framing colourful, contemporary sonics with jazzed-up traditional costumes. By adding everything from funk and jazz to rock and pop to his heady musical brew, Takafumi continues to bring history to life—on his own terms.