The Watanabes
The Watanabes are an international indie folk pop band performing and recording in Tokyo, fronted by two British brothers on guitar and vocals, an American keyboardist and a Japanese rhythm section.
The group began life in the orange-laden prefecture of Ehime, and named themselves Watanabe in tribute to the warm and friendly people of the region, whilst also alluding to The Smiths. The initial inspiration however came from Toru Watanabe, the slightly troubled and over nostalgic protagonist in Haruki Murakami’s novel, Norwegian Wood.
According to Tokyo Weekender, they are one of Tokyos best known indie bands, while Time Out Tokyo call them Tokyos answer to The Smiths. Japanzine magazine simply asks, Youve heard of The Watanabes, surely? Everyone has!
The Watanabes release their new 5 track EP Draw What You Like at major record stores across Japan and worldwide as a digital download on 29th September 2014. The record has already received airplay and positive reviews from the BBC’s Mark Forrest and Amazing Radio’s Beth Elfyn.
You can find out more on The Watanabes at their website, Facebook Page, Twitter Feed, or their SoundCloud page.
Check out “Yuriko Yuriko” by The Watanabes right here:
