Description
Label Review.
2017 album. Lilac vinyl.
Our Overview.
Half Japanese is one of the most influential bands of all time. Fronted by our 2014 "Artist in Residence" Jad Fair, a man famous for once statingthat "the only chord I know is the one that connects the guitar to the amp". Half Japanese spearheaded the DIY and Lo-Fi movements, influencing countless bands such as Sonic Youth, Neutral Milk Hotel, Daniel Johnston, and perhaps most notably, Kurt Cobain (who ranked Half Japanese amongst his top 50 favourites, had them open the "In Utero" tour, and was wearing their t-shirt when he died).
Wildly eccentric and humorous, the energetic ‘Hear The Lions Roar’ is an art rock record where Jad’s expertly thrown out lyrics remain optimistic and fresh alongside a fierce and compelling rhythm section. Featuring a cohort of past musicians from the 90’s, their dexterous instrumentation brings further depth to Jad’s songs.
The addition of guest musicians baritone horn player Lydia Fischer and cellist Sophie Bernadou brings more uplifting moments to the record including the title cut. ‘Attack Of The Giant Leeches’ and ‘The Preventers’ share an innocence that harks back to the band’s younger years when their songs were centred around horror movies, tabloids and women.
“With Jad Fair at the helm for over four decades, the highly revered Half Japanese still remain “the ultimate expression of punk’s dictum that rock should be accessible to anyone who wanted to pick up an instrument and play” AllMusic