Here's Five: Shonen Knife's Favourite Japanese Punk Anthems

Japanese punk-pop legends Shonen Knife are returning to Aotearoa next month for a three-stop North Island tour, following the release of their twenty first (!) studio album Sweet Candy Power. Shonen Knife have been rocking out to their oft food-themed offerings since 1981 when they first formed in Osaka, rising to global prominence in the alt-rock soaked 90s era. They've been name-checked by the likes of  Sonic Youth, they toured with Nirvana (who were also fans), and even had their international breakout single ‘Tomato Head’ feature on Beavis and Butthead. Icons of the Japanese punk scene, we challenged the trio to share their five favourite punk anthems from their homeland – enjoy Shonen Knife's expert picks below and catch them this November…

Undertheradar proudly presents…

Shonen Knife

Tuesday 12th November - San Fran, Wellington
Wednesday 13th November - Yot Club, Raglan
Thursday 14th November - Whammy, Auckland

Tickets available HERE via UTR

1. Yellow Machinegun - 'Again'

They are 3 piece women’s hardcore band. They are elegant ladies with smile faces but once they start to play, they will become like beasts. I love that.

2. Extruders - 'An Amplifier On The Bed'

They are very characteristic. They vocalist / bassist’s vocal is whisper voice. The guitar sound is like synthesiser. Drums is like a rhythm box. Very artistic. So cool!

3. Convex Level - 'Knife'

Irregular rhythm and relaxing vocal with progressive rock style bass are great. Their music style is very special.

4. Watsusi Zombie - 'Big Bhudda Beat'

Shouting style vocal is so nice. The guitarist plays hard rock style phrases. I love that. The lyrics is fun and a bit of ironical. It is good, too.

5. 50 Kaitenz - 'Vinyl Change The World'

Their music style is basically 3 kinds. 50’s style rock’n’roll, Ramones style punk pop, retro Japanese pop songs. Singing well and playing music instruments well. They are wearing matching suits and have mushroom hair cut. It’s attractive.