Esplanade Presents: toe

toe is a Japanese instrumental rock music group. While mentioned in many post-rock circles, their song structure and dynamics are similar to many popular math rock artists.

toe is composed of Kashikura Takashi on drums, Mino Takaaki on guitar, Yamane Satoshi on bass guitar, and Yamazaki Hirokazu on guitar. toe has formally played with this line-up since the band’s inception in 2000. They are currently one of three bands on the indie label Machu Picchu, along with the bands Mouse On The Keys and Enemies.

The vast majority of the music is instrumental and features the swift and acute drumming of Takashi. The band is also known for its melodic, clean guitar settings. Additionally, the compositions have repetition from typical rock motifs, but use very subtle changes in beat and rhythm to form a unique sound. The band has changed their sound over their musical tenure by incorporating acoustic guitars, Rhodes piano, and vibraphones in their most recent releases.

The beauty of their majestic music is that it sounds as if mystical harmonies and raw emotion is being churned out at the same time. Their explosive live performances have left fans across the globe spellbound. Their inspiring performance at Fuji Rock Festival 2010 has recently been the most memorable.

In December 2009 they released their new album For Long Tomorrow and in July 2010 they released their second DVD CUT_DVD.

(1hr, no intermission)

$40, $48*
(*For ticket purchased on day of performance)