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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 (31–40)

Hawaii OndoTonosama Kingusu

Tonosama Kings, who recorded a million-seller with “Namida no Ayatsuri,” were once a comic band active on variety entertainment shows.

Even after switching to a singing career, they released gag-flavored songs; among them, the two tracks “Hawaii Ondo” and “Brazil Ondo” are well-known gems to those in the know.

Thus Spoke Zarathustra, and othersDonkii Karutetto

A four-member band formed in 1964 by Yasushi Ono after leaving The Drifters.

They had high musical quality and earned popularity among adults with a classic music-comedy style that mixed in gags.

Leonardo Kuma, holding the upright bass in the back, was not a member.

Folk Song A La CarteTamagawa Karutetto

Tamagawa Quartet: “TV Appearance in 2000”
Folk Song A La CarteTamagawa Karutetto

In vaudeville-style comic performances, groups that use musical instruments in their routines are called “boys.” The Tamagawa Quartet, which came from the rokyoku (narrative singing) world, is a prime example and used to be in high demand on New Year’s entertainment programs.

In live radio recordings, they often used local folk songs as material.

Z is in great formPAN

PAN “Z is doing great” (Official Music Video)
Z is in great formPAN

PAN’s live performances, which leapt from Osaka’s underground scene to the national stage, captivate with a unique worldview where music and comedy blend in perfect harmony.

Since forming in 1995, they’ve fused elements of rock, punk, and alternative, continually enthralling audiences with humorous lyrics and high-energy shows.

They made their major debut in 2000 with the album “Takoyaki,” and solidified their reputation as a formidable band with achievements like winning the TEEN’S MUSIC FESTIVAL two years in a row.

Backed by the commanding stagecraft honed through over 100 shows a year—and playful touches like handing out bread to the crowd—they radiate an unmistakably singular presence.

They’re the perfect band for music fans seeking a fusion of fiery rock sound and laughter.

I want to hug you.Tōkyō Bītoruzu

Tokyo Beatles – TOKYO BEATLES – I Want to Hold Your Hand
I want to hug you.Tōkyō Bītoruzu

As the name suggests, they are a Beatles tribute band.

They debuted in 1964, one month after the original Beatles dominated the U.S.

Billboard charts.

In 1993, a CD reissue co-produced by Eiichi Ohtaki and Fumio Takada became a hot topic.

Golden age of Japanese comedy bands. A historical journey to enjoy the masterpieces once more (41–50)

Boyoyon Rockmanga michi

This project etched an unusual episode into the history of Japanese comic bands.

Formed in April 1989 around Kenji Ohtsuki and Yuichiro Uchida, Manga-do was a temporary unit born from a radio program.

Centered on members of Kinniku Shōjo-tai, with participation from JUN SKY WALKER(S), the songs they produced drew a major response, reaching No.

10 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Their sound, which exquisitely blended hard rock with gags, became a hot topic on TV and radio at the time, suggesting new possibilities for comic bands.

Although their activities ended with the conclusion of the radio program, they left a unique mark from the perspective of fusing music and comedy.

They’re recommended for those who want to enjoy both music and humor.

Mob-Style Kung FuNekura Tōkī

Necry Talkie MV “Mob-Style Kung Fu” / NECRY TALKIE – Mob Nari no Kung Fu
Mob-Style Kung FuNekura Tōkī

A five-piece rock band that captivates with catchy melodies and cynical lyrics.

Rooted in pop rock, their one-of-a-kind sound deftly fuses alternative and indie pop, setting a new benchmark for the high-sensibility music scene.

Since forming in 2017, they’ve steadily honed their craft with self-produced releases, making their major-label debut in 2019 with the album “ONE!”.

After numerous national tours and festival appearances, they released the album “FREAK” in 2021.

The vivid musicianship of the five members and their exhilarating live performances keep music fans hooked.

The contrast between bright melodies and introspective lyrics creates a world that’s perfect for listeners seeking their next musical discovery.