This weird Japanese instrument is equal parts horrifying and satisfying

If it’s not organizing the world’s first VR porn festival, Japan is home to many weird creations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TkbPovwq5o

Look at that little dance at the end.

Meet Otamatone, a friendly-looking, eighth note that doubles as a musical instrument.

By pressing the note’s stem, sounds play from a speaker located inside its head. When you pinch and move is mouth, these sounds change — truly magical.

What an unforgettable opening.

Even though these videos make it seem like its easy to play, it’s actually extremely obnoxious. When I got my hands on one during a stay in Tokyo, I barely managed to get two notes out.

That’s why it’s mind-blowing that an enormous online community is uploading videos of covers performed with the instrument. Please enjoy this curated selection of the very best videos and resist the urge to buy an otamatone yourself.

Adding depth to a track by using multiple Otamatones — bringing a tear to my eye.

This Japanese YouTuber has an inexplicable love for Brazil, and decides to play Otamatone to the classic Brazilian song Lambada.

There’s also a very big one. Nobody knows why.