Riot On The Grill

Formed in December 1998 in Japan, Ellegarden made their explosive debut with the 2001 release of their self-titled album. Over the next six months, the band did an amazing four nationwide tours, managing to insert countless street and in-store performances in between. Music festivals have been a major part of their music resume, with appearances at top-level Japanese events such as the Rising Sun Festival and Summer Sonic (which also featured Oasis, Weezer and The La's). They also appeared as the opening act for Sum 41's Japanese tour in early 2005. Vocalist/guitarist Takeshi Hosomi utilizes both English and Japanese, adding an extra touch to the positive lyrics and punkish power-pop that defines the band. An instant hit among Japanese youth, achieving extreme popularity almost equal to that of major-label bands, Ellegarden are undoubtedly the premier power-pop band in Japan.