is a Japanese rock band formed on October 8, 2006. They consist of vocalist and bassist Margarette Hiroi, guitarist Katzuya Shimizu and drummer Kenzo. The name, which means "pilgrimage to eighty-eight places," is reminiscent of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Their music combines elements of jam band, heavy metal, alternative, psychedelic and progressive rock styles. All lyrics are written by Hiroi and often contain references to religion, such as Buddhism or Shinto, and different yÃ
Âkai. All albums are released through their own label, PPR.
The mascot character, who appears on numerous album covers, was created by Japanese animator and nicknamed .
They performed outside of Japan for the first time at Eurockéennes Music Festival in France, on July 7, 2019.
Members
Current
- â vocals, bass and lyrics (2006âÂÂpresent)
Described on the official site as
A native of Yoshida (now Uwajima, Ehime).
He started playing the bass in junior high school, describing that time as "practicing until midnight and listening to music all night long."
Briefly played in Green Milk from the Planet Orange until their disbandment in 2008. Also provided bass for the track "Alice" on the 2017 album Bootleg by Kenshi Yonezu.
Has named Ningen Isu as one of his artistic influences; the two bands have also performed together once in 2014. His other favorite artists include King Crimson and Eastern Youth.
His notable bass guitar design used in most of the band's first videos is a custom-made "Alien" model, crafted by Japanese guitar maker Nobuaki Hayashi (Atlansia).
- Katzuya Shimizu â guitar (2006âÂÂpresent)
Described on the official site as
Learned classical piano as a child and started playing the guitar at age 15. Cites Steve Vai and Van Halen as the main influences on his playing style.
Outside of band activities, he is giving guitar lessons and participating in recordings of other projects. Has provided guitar for the soundtracks of Nights of Azure and various Atelier video games by Gust.
- â drums (2006âÂÂpresent)
Described on the official site as
A native of Ehime prefecture, Shikoku island.
Started playing the drums in 5th grade. Named X Japan as having been one of the favorite bands to play to during his high school years.
Since 2019, he has also been playing in a band named .
Discography
Studio albums
Live albums
Extended plays
Singles
Videos
Video albums
Music videos
Guest appearances
Acting performances
Appeared as a fictional band , with singer as the vocalist
References
External links