You know when you go to a mamak shop or Good Price and see those brightly coloured plastic toy 'instruments' that you would buy for kids to bang away on? Well, someone (Japanese, of course) had the idea to basically turn that into an actual musical instrument. 

I present you: The Otamatone. 

The Otamatone originated in Japan in 1998, thanks to the creative minds at CUBE Works and Maywa Denki. This playful music instrument boasts a quirky, note-inspired design that has captured the imagination of many. But it wasn't until its official release in 2009 that it became one of Japan's best-selling musical toys. The instrument's popularity skyrocketed due to its simplicity and unique sound, making it a favourite among both musicians and enthusiasts worldwide.

What perhaps most stands out is the way it blends ingenuity and playfulness. The instrument looks like a whimsical eighth note with a face that "sings" through a silicone mouth. Its invention aimed to democratise music-making, turning aesthetics into sound. It combines the absurdity of a cartoonish tadpole with the ability to produce delightful electronic tones. When else can you say that a musical instrument has two eyes on it. 

But perhaps the best thing about the otamatone is watching people play covers on it - covering iconic songs with remarkably absurd and hilarious results: 

If that didn't make you chuckle a little, I would be slightly worried about your joyless existence. 

And as always, stay weird, Japan.