Joburg girl band to go international
JOBURG - Local girl band, Japan and I, have conquered the local festival scene and are set to perform in Barcelona, Spain at the Primavera Pro Sound Festival later this month.
Japan and I, made up of three multi-talented women who go simply by the names Angela, Mandy and Dee Dee, found their love for music during their school days. They formed the band at the end of their final year at school, after which they performed at open mic sessions and for small crowds around the city.
It was on an open mic stage that they were prompted to enter the South African Indie Music Week competition organised by International Music Exporters South Africa.
A number of bands advanced to the final stages of the competition, with Japan and I being one of them. The performances of the finalists were recorded and sent off to international music festivals around the world for potential signing opportunities.
International festival producers saw potential in the band and now the girls will embark on a journey into the international music industry, starting with the upcoming tour to Barcelona from 28 to 30 May.
The Joburg-based band’s sound was described by Mandy as punk rock which then progressed to a more rock and roll sound.
The girls are not only musically inclined, but also business-smart, realising that the market for their music in South Africa may not be as big as in other parts of the world. For that reason they have taken this opportunity to perform internationally and they’re running with it.
“I am so excited to be going to this international festival and being a part of something like this,” said Mandy.
Their new album, Rise of the Duchess Army was released this year and they’re planning a big city tour of South Africa when they return from Barcelona.
Have you heard Japan and I? Comment below, and let us know what you think of the music.
