Ikimono Gakari

They may not be as popular as other Japanese bands and artists like Utada and Morning Musume, but Ikimono-gakari is one of a kind.

The lead singer, Kiyoe Yoshioka, has such a great personality and a strong, beautiful voice. She, unlike a lot of singers, doesn't really dress up when she performs, but rather wears something that anybody else would have in their closet. Sometime really comfy, and I think that's really nice.

Other members are: Hotaka Yamashita, who plays the guitar and harmonica (which, is usually included in their songs), and Yoshiki Mizuno, who also plays the guitar and vocals.

And they sound just as great live, as they do on the CD. Most bands and artists don't sound as well live, so I think that's great. And even though their songs aren't, well, "Kawaii!!!", as most people like (Since most of the time, a lot of people seem to like bands such as Morning Musume, because the girls and songs are so "Kawaii" and stuff), I think they're beautiful, warm, and just what a song should be. You can always expect a great performance by them. They won't dance, mind you, but Kiyoe's voice will blow you away!

They're a wonderful J-Pop/Rock band, and anyone should give them a chance. Their music is a refreshing change; Don't get me wrong. I like Utada, Arashi, and other bands and artists, but they have something that's totally different. Nothing can compare to Ikimono-gakari. (: