Battles: The Japan Connection
American instrumental band Battles, whose unique mix of electronic noise and prog rock, has been winning them plaudits the world over, have always had a special relationship with Japan. It was one of the very first places the band secured a series of back to back shows, playing 11 dates back in 2004, before they’d even released their debut album. It was one, Katoman, an underground promoter (and also the manager of the Shibuya event space, Echo), who spotted the band’s potential and shouldered the costs of bringing them over. Such was the band’s appreciation they later went on to name one of the bonus tracks on the Japan release of their debut album, “Mirrored” after him.
Since then the band have continued to find larger audiences in Japan, with their extensive touring culminating in a tremendous performance on the main stage at this year’s Fuji Rock. Through their time here, Battles have made many friends in Japan, with the band recently inviting Japanese trio, Nisennenmondai, on their October tour of America as well as to play at an All Tomorrow’s Parties event in the UK in December.
Despite the absence of a vocalist, following Tyondai Braxton’s departure in 2010, a combination of masterful musicianship with a driving energy and quality stage production has allowed them to continue to impress with their live performances. Meanwhile their latest album, “Gloss Drop” has seen their sound move away from the wildly progressive King Crimson-esque sound of their debut and towards one that lies somewhere between experimental convalescence and off-kilter rock, with guest vocals provided by the legendary Gary Numan, Kazu Makino of Blonde Redhead and Eye from the Boredoms. Ultimately it’s another great release from Battles, which looks set to keep them visiting Japanese shores for sometime to come. May the Japan connection continue.
Battles will perform in Japan on the following dates:
Nov. 9 Osaka Umeda Akaso
Nov. 10 Nagoya Club Quattro
Nov. 11 Shibuya Ax
See here for ticket details: http://www.beatink.com/Events/BATTLES2011/
Words: Sam Mokhtary
Translation: Sanae Shiromoto
September 21, 2011
