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The golden age of Japanese comic bands: A historical journey to enjoy the masterpieces once more.

A Japanese comic band where music and comedy are exquisitely harmonized.

From Hachiji Hana and the Crazy Cats, through Frankie Sakai & The City Slickers, to The Drifters, the golden era captivated many with solid musicianship and skillful gags.

A history of comic bands that expanded their stage from vaudeville and variety halls to television and the record market, achieving a unique evolution.

Alongside nostalgic classics, we invite you into a special world woven from laughter and music.

Japan’s golden age of comedy bands: A historical journey to enjoy the masterpieces once more (21–30)

National Sake-Drinking Festival Song of Japanbarakūda

A duo consisting of Keiji Okamoto (vocals) and Beethoven Suzuki (guitar).

This “Nihon Zenkoku Sakenomi Ondo” was released at the end of 1979 and became a huge hit by riding the wave of the party season.

This served as a turning point that established the so-called “party song” genre as a staple.

Impossible!bakufū suranpu

Made his major debut in 1984.

While releasing numerous timeless classics that are still sung today, such as “Runner” and “Under the Big Onion,” his wild early-stage performances have now become legendary.

Packed with gags, “Muri da!” was the third single, released in 1985.

Japan’s Golden Age of Comedy Bands: A historical journey to enjoy the masterpieces once more (31–40)

temple (tera/テラ/寺)THE Namuzu

THE Namu’s “Tera • Terra • Temple” MV
temple (tera/Tera/寺) THE Namuzu

THE Namuz was formed in 2018 as a one-of-a-kind comic band that deftly fuses Buddhism and rock.

Led by frontman Bon Higaneda, an active monk whose family runs a temple, the lineup features funeral home staffer Satori Nehanzaki, the mysterious Kyomugen Soushi, and kimono-clad drummer Ogami Oga.

Their 2020 mini-album “Orin-pic” showcased unique tracks that skillfully incorporate the sounds of wooden fish drums (mokugyo) and temple bells (orin).

Their 2022 album “Nam-Story at the Altar” features songs with a superb balance of humor and musicianship.

After appearing on the popular TV show “Tamori Club,” the band drew increased attention, including coverage from overseas media, expanding their reach.

Highly recommended for music fans seeking a fresh kind of entertainment where Buddhist aesthetics intertwine with rock sound.

convenience storeBuriifu & Torankusu

Major debut in 1998.

A male guitar duo.

They released numerous gag songs such as “Aonori” and “Sanadamushi,” gaining popularity—especially among younger audiences—as a kind of “comic-song version of Yuzu.” They disbanded in 2000 and made their major comeback in 2016.

Party in the DarkYuuyami ni izanai shi shikkoku no tenshi-tachi

Party in the Dark: Music Video of the Jet-Black Angels Enticed by the Twilight
Party in the DarkYuuyami ni izanai shi shikkoku no tenshi-tachi

Yuyami ni Izayoi shi Shikkoku no Tenshi-tachi is a five-member comic-style loud rock band that weaves humor and intense sound into a uniquely immersive world.

Based in Atsugi, Kanagawa, they began activities in 2013 and have drawn attention for a musical style rooted in loud rock while skillfully incorporating elements of pop, metal, and anime songs.

In 2024, they produced their first best-of album, “10th Year of Yuyami ni Izayoi shi Shikkoku no Tenshi-tachi,” featuring newly re-recorded versions of past tracks alongside new songs.

They also successfully completed a co-headlining tour celebrating their milestone 10th anniversary year.

Alongside their music career, they are active on YouTube, and their live performances are popular for production that emphasizes a strong sense of unity with the audience.

Their music, a perfect blend of powerful performance and comedic flair, is highly recommended for those seeking energetic sounds.

Ginza Kan-kan GirlDadi Takechiyo & Tokyo Otoboke CATS

Ginza Kankan Musume Daddy Takechiyo & Tokyo Otoboke Cats
Ginza Kan-kan GirlDadi Takechiyo & Tokyo Otoboke CATS

A legendary comic band that made their major debut in 1978.

Their explosive, over-the-top stage shows got them banned from numerous live houses.

After disbanding in 1981, they’ve reunited several times; the video is from around 1990, during their second reunion.

Even then, their flashy spectacle was absolutely overwhelming.

Ouch!ratoruzu

A parody band of the Beatles created for a comedy show broadcast by the BBC in the UK in 1976.

In Japan, Eric Idle—well known from Monty Python—is the central member.

It’s obvious at a glance that the source material for this video is “Help!”