Are you interested in discovering what your favorite Japanese artists live like day by day? Of course you are! French television program, toco toco, does just that, and this week gives great insight into Japanese rock band, Roa. Even though it’s a French program, they are English subbed, so no need to fret over your minimal French knowledge.
Roa is a fairly new band formed in 2014 that who takes great inspiration and influence from western bands. However, they mix those western influences with a touch of traditional Japanese music with the inclusion of a shamisen player. The video takes viewers into the drummer’s part-time job, which is a ramen restaurant, and then the members give a short introduction of the band. Shortly after, they showcase their performance during lives, giving a great impression of their sound and style.
This isn’t the only time toco toco has invited musicians to their show. Kenji Kawai, the composer for the much acclaimed anime, Ghost in the Shell, has also been a guest for the show, who took viewers shrine visiting. As well as Kawai Kenji, Sawai Miku has also been featured on the show. Miku is a singer who sang and composed the second ending theme for the popular slice of life anime, Kimi to Boku, and has also worked with other popular animes such as Kill la Kill, and Akame ga kill! Sawai Miku took viewers vintage-cloth shopping with her.
Musicians aren’t the only artists featured in the show. People from diverse jobs such as designers, DJs, Youtubers, and mangakas have also been invited to show people a little bit of their daily life. Among them is also mangaka Koyama Chuya, famous for his Uchuu Kyoudai (Space Brothers) manga.
This show is amazing for learning what the artists and creators of Japan are like, but also great for learning about the not-so-well-known places all over Japan, places that one wouldn’t think to visit as a tourist. Give the videos a try and let yourself be indulged in Japanese culture!