54-71

For almost a decade, 54-71 have been ferociously touring in and out of Japan, justifying their reputation as one of the most groundbreaking bands that have ever come out of the country.
Always wowing audiences with their sheer concentration and explosive energy on stage, they are said to have "one of the tightest rhythm sections in the world," playing distinctively stoic yet juicy beats, with influences ranging from hip hop to soul, to funk and to rock. This is complemented with carefully placed guitar lines and inimitable blasts of rapping, which goes back and forth between thrilling tension and sly humor. Simply put, they utilize minimal means to maximum effect.
The strength of their live performances has to be seen to be believed, and has so far led them to tour Japan and US with the likes of Deerhoof and Battles. They have also been invited to share the bill with a wide range of artists including The Roots, Why?, Joanna Newsom, Hella, Gang Gang Dance, No Age, Enon and Unsane.
Recently rejuvenated as a quartet with the addition of a new guitarist, they have started working on a new full-length album slated for release in Spring 2008. -Koki Yahata,P-VINE Records(JP)