Here's Five: Shonen Knife

Shonen Knife are some of the longest standing pop-punks in the business. Formed back in 1981 and having tucked an impressive 19 studio albums under their belts during the last three decades, the Osaka trio still rock out as hard as they always have. Their latest full length effort, Overdrive, was released early last year and musically draws from classic American rock of the 1970s such as Kiss, Thin Lizzy and Deep Purple. The lyrics, however, still tread on vintage Shonen Knife territory and discuss subject matter that ranges from noodles and shopping to fortune cookies and dancing. The three-piece landed in Auckland this week to undertake a four-date of the country so UnderTheRadar took the opportunity to ask founding member Naoko Yamano to tell us five of her favourite tracks from the era of hallmarked by big hair, huge riffs and dudes donning eyeliner....

1. Judas Priest - Breaking The Law
I love the guitar riff and the vocal of Rob. The lyrics are great, simple and aggressive. I will go to see their show next month in Japan. I can't wait!

2. Heaven and Hell - Heaven and Hell
I really like Dio's vocal. He is one of my favorite vocalists. This song is so groovy. I went to their show more than five years ago. It was like a heaven. I'm sad that Dio died.

3. Black Sabbath - Paranoid
The sound of antique taste takes me to a higher dimension.

4. Boston - More Than A Feeling
The beautiful singing voice is so great. Tom is a genius to make the unique approach of the guitar.

5. Thin Lizzy - Boys Are Back In Town
Phil Lynott is really rock. The song is very pop. Twin guitar is so cool, too.

Shonen Knife are kicking off their four-date tour tonight at Kings Arms Tavern, head over here for full dates and to buy tickets.