Hey there, fellow friends of Japan! Today we’re going to explore a sub-set of Japan: music! And I’m going to introduce you to one band in particular: Ellegarden – one of the best Japanese rock band’s out there.
Punk rock native
I grew up on punk rock music. Groups like Goldfinger, Bad Religion, Offspring, Blink 182 and many more. Growing up in Southern California, these were just local bands. Offspring’s guitarist was a janitor at a rival high school, and Gwen Stefani, pre-No Doubt fame, walked the halls of my best friend’s high school. While my musical tastes have broadened over the years, one So Cal punk band has managed to hold a special place in my heart, and here’s the kicker—they’re not even from Southern California. Ellegarden, the Japanese punk rock sensation that has been my constant companion through the years.
My personal favorite Ellegarden song
This one’s so good, I could’ve sworn it was cover of something.
Fronted by the charismatic Takeshi Hosomi and fueled by the frenetic guitar skills of Shinichi Ubukata, Ellegarden seamlessly blends the So Cal punk vibe with an undeniable rock edge. Their music is a whirlwind of dynamic riffs and infectious energy, but what sets them apart is their ability to convey meaningful and uplifting messages without resorting to the typical punk angst. It’s the kind of music that gets your emotions revved up, making you want to jump around like a moshing maniac.
English Masters
What struck me most about Ellegarden is Hosomi’s exceptional command of the English language. He sings 80% of the band’s songs in English. But he doesn’t just sing in “Japanese English,” (unnaturally pronounced English with incorrect and sometimes nonsensical grammar – a common quirk in the J-pop scene here). No, he belts out lyrics in natural, authentic English. The first time I heard them, I could have sworn it was a new Blink 182 track. It’s this linguistic prowess that adds an extra layer of connection for non-Japanese listeners like me.
Great for lifting your spirits and MOSHING!!
They what?!
From their first album, but still one of their best.
From 2002 to 2008, Ellegarden’s discography was a crescendo of brilliance. Each album outshone its predecessor, and their popularity soared. Although they never quite hit the mainstream, they could fill venues like Makuhari Messe, where I had the pleasure of witnessing their magic live. Alas, right at the peak of their success, they disbanded. The age-old tale of all good things coming to an end.
But hold your tears, dear reader, for in 2018, against all odds, Ellegarden made a triumphant return. There’s even a fantastic documentary on Amazon chronicling their journey. However, while their new album is a pleasant addition, I can’t help but feel it lacks the raw energy and momentum they were building in their prime. A decade of silence left me yearning for more, but I remain optimistic that they’ll continue creating music together.
“I’ve heard they (don’t) suck live”
Now, let’s talk about the live experience. I’ve been lucky enough to attend three Ellegarden concerts, twice during their prime and once after their reunion. The energy they radiate on stage is unparalleled, and they shower the audience with love. However, here’s a quirk of the Japanese concert scene: the infamous lottery ticket system. My wife and I, both avid fans, have attempted to snag tickets to their smaller concerts, but alas, luck has not been on our side. The random dealing out of tickets means you have a very small chance of snagging one. And out of the half dozen times we tried, we never could see them at a local club like Chicken George.
If you’re a fan of rock, pop-punk, or alternative music, I implore you to give Ellegarden a listen. You won’t regret it! Their music transcends borders, and even if you can’t understand the Japanese lyrics (though most are in English), the universal language of rock will undoubtedly speak to your soul. So, turn up the volume, let the music take you on a journey, and who knows, you might just find yourself jumping around with joy too!
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*I don’t use AI for my artwork. These filler images are just for fun and aren’t meant to represent my art so they have been labeled “AI GENERATED.” I want my blog to be enjoyable for you but I don’t have 2-6 hours to draw each image (this blog is done in my free time). If you’re against AI in art, please direct your criticism elsewhere (maybe someone trying to pass off AI generated images as their art). I am not doing that.
So – I don’t think I remember you ever mentioning this group. I will now go to my spotify and see what I can hear.
Oh my gosh, this is completely new to me — I’m going to listen! Do you recommend the documentary on Amazon?