The Oral Cigarettes: Exploring the Rise of a Japanese Alternative Rock Band
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## Introduction
In the world of Japanese alternative rock, one band has been making waves with their unique sound and captivating performances. The Oral Cigarettes, stylized in all caps, is a four-member band hailing from Nara Prefecture. Since their formation in 2010, they have gained a loyal following and achieved significant success in the music industry. In this article, we will delve into the history, discography, and achievements of The Oral Cigarettes, shedding light on their journey to becoming one of Japan’s most prominent alternative rock bands.
History: From Humble Beginnings to Major Label Success
The Oral Cigarettes began their musical journey in 2010 in Nara, Japan. Their first demo album, “N ōsatsu A-Type,” was released in October of the same year. This independent release showcased the band’s raw talent and laid the foundation for their future endeavors. In March 2011, they followed up with their first independent album, “Tsuki ni Hoete, Aware…,” which further solidified their unique sound and gained them recognition in the local music scene.
Building upon their early successes, The Oral Cigarettes released their second independent album, “Shingetsu to Ohitsujiza,” in February 2012. This album showcased their growth as artists and caught the attention of music industry professionals. It wasn’t long before the band signed with A-Sketch, a prominent record label, in 2012. This major label debut marked a significant turning point in their career and opened doors to new opportunities.
The band’s first major label single, “Kishi Kaisei Story,” was released in July 2014, followed by their debut major label album, “The BKW Show!!,” in November of the same year. These releases propelled The Oral Cigarettes into the mainstream alternative rock scene, garnering critical acclaim and increasing their fanbase exponentially. With each subsequent release, the band continued to push boundaries and experiment with their sound, solidifying their reputation as innovative musicians.
Band Members: The Creative Force Behind The Oral Cigarettes
The Oral Cigarettes is composed of four talented individuals, each bringing their unique skills and personalities to the band. At the forefront is Takuya Yamanaka, the lead vocalist and guitarist. His powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence have become synonymous with The Oral Cigarettes’ sound. Akira Akirakani complements Takuya’s vocals with his bass guitar skills and backing vocals, adding depth and richness to their music.
Shigenobu Suzuki is the band’s lead guitarist, known for his intricate guitar riffs and melodic solos. His contributions to The Oral Cigarettes’ sound are instrumental in creating their signature alternative rock sound. Rounding out the band is Masaya Nakanishi on drums, providing the driving force behind their energetic performances. Together, these four musicians form a cohesive unit, delivering electrifying live shows and captivating studio recordings.
Discography: A Catalog of Sonic Adventures
Over the years, The Oral Cigarettes have released an impressive discography, showcasing their evolution as artists and their commitment to pushing boundaries. Their studio albums, independent releases, and singles have all contributed to their meteoric rise in the music industry. Let’s take a closer look at some of their notable releases:
Studio Albums
- “The BKW Show!!” (November 2014)
- Featuring tracks like “Kirai” and “Kishikaisei Story,” this album propelled The Oral Cigarettes into the mainstream alternative rock scene.
- “Fixion” (January 2016)
- With hits like “Kyōran Hey Kids!!” and “Amy,” this album showcased the band’s growth and experimentation with their sound.
- “Unofficial” (February 2017)
- Known for tracks such as “Dip-Bap” and “5150,” this album further solidified The Oral Cigarettes’ unique sound and gained them critical acclaim.
- “Kisses and Kills” (June 2018)
- This album, featuring songs like “Mō Īkai?” and “Black Memory,” showcased the band’s maturity and versatility as musicians.
- “Suck My World” (April 2020)
- The most recent album by The Oral Cigarettes, it includes tracks such as “Bug” and “Enchant,” which further explore their sonic boundaries.
Independent Albums and EPs
The band’s independent albums and EPs played a crucial role in shaping their sound and establishing their presence in the music scene. Notable releases include “Tsuki ni Hoete, Aware…” (2011) and “Shingetsu to Ohitsujiza” (2012), which showcased their early potential and laid the groundwork for their future success.
Singles and Digital Releases
The Oral Cigarettes have also released numerous singles and digital releases throughout their career. Some notable singles include “Kishi Kaisei Story” (2014), “Tonariau” (2017), and “Wagamama de Gomakasanaide” (2019). These singles have not only showcased the band’s ability to create catchy and memorable tracks but have also served as theme songs for popular anime series like “Noragami Aragoto” and “Revisions.”
Filmography: Bringing Their Music to the Screen
In addition to their musical achievements, The Oral Cigarettes have also made their mark in the world of visual media. They have released video albums that capture the energy and excitement of their live performances, allowing fans to experience their music in a whole new way. One notable video album is “Unofficial Dining Tour 2017 at Nippon Budokan,” which showcases their electrifying performance at the prestigious venue.
Awards and Nominations: Recognizing Their Artistic Excellence
The have received recognition for their artistic achievements through various awards and nominations. In 2014, they won the CD Shop Awards in the Regional Production category for their album “Orange no Nukegara, Watashi ga Ikita Ai no Akashi.” They have also been nominated multiple times for the Space Shower Music Awards in the Best Rock Artist category, solidifying their status as one of Japan’s most respected alternative rock bands.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of The Oral Cigarettes
The Oral Cigarettes have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Japanese alternative rock scene. With their unique sound, captivating performances, and commitment to pushing boundaries, they have garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. As they continue to evolve and experiment with their music, it’s clear that The Oral Cigarettes will remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of alternative rock. So, if you’re looking for a sonic adventure, be sure to check out The Oral Cigarettes and immerse yourself in their captivating soundscapes.
Disclaimer: The Oral Cigarettes is a registered trademark of their respective owners. This article is written for informational purposes only and does not endorse or promote any specific band or their music.
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