Kanashibari

An eccentric gem of the Japanese avant-pop underground, the group's bizarre sound melds traditional festival music (matsuri-bayashi) with frenetic new wave and complex zolo structures. Fronted by the uniquely theatrical vocals of Kiyohiko Semba, the complex rhythmic arrangements feature prominent traditional percussion interacting with synthesizers and electric guitars. It is an intensely manic, highly original work of cultural fusion.