Kroi is a five piece funk/soul/jazz/disco/R&B/rock/hip-hop/pop band from Tokyo.
Yes, that is a lot of genres.
They were one of Yaffle‘s (Fujii Kaze‘s producer) top 5 favorite artist picks of the year, and they just released the Sakamoto Days season two OP, Method, last month.
Now is the perfect time to join in on Kroi, so here is an intro to their music.
Not a fan of neon green bowl cuts just yet? Keep reading (:
- Who is Kroi?
- Keeping it Real as a Rising Artist
- Kroi’s Anime OPs
- Kowloon Generic Romance
- Recommendations
Who is Kroi?
The name Kroi comes from the word “Kuroi“, Black, in Japanese. That is the color you get when you mix the rainbow together, and that is Kroi’s style – taking the best out of every genre and making it their own.
They are always trying new things, playing with unique sounds, and fusing genres. And having tons of fun while doing it.
Just when you get into their groove, vocalist Leo will bring out some bongo drums and give the hardest bongo solo you’ve heard in your life. They rarely do the same thing twice, and always keep the energy high.
Keeping it Real as a Rising Artist
Recently, thanks to a soul and funk revolution going on in Japan, Kroi has started to get some traction out of the local scene and gain a wider audience.
That doesn’t mean dulling their colors or turning down the fun.
Just last year, they had their second free live show, this time outside next to the ocean at Yokohama’s Red Brick Warehouse.
Anyone could come and listen. The crowd was enjoying cold beers and dancing, and there were even some fireworks! My friends and I had an unforgettable (free) time thanks to Kroi.
Some of Kroi’s recent achievements in the past month include Leo’s collab with Fender Japan, their first live show in the UK, and being nominated at the first Music Awards Japan (basically, the Japanese Grammys) for the best indies artist.
They also have a great sense of humor, despite being some serious musicians.
There isn’t much translated yet, like their hilarious radio shows or Instagram lives, but here is a music video showcasing their adventures in America.
I translated an interview with all of the members if you are interested in learning more about their music inspirations and personal story.
Kroi’s Anime OPs
Thanks to Kroi’s genre bending style and adventurous nature, they craft OPs that match perfectly with each show’s story and visuals.
SAND LAND
Kroi was chosen to make the opening song for Akira Toriyama‘s SAND LAND. The anime is about the a water hoarding kingdom in a barren desert.
Kroi shot their MV in an actual California desert during their trip to America.
I like how they took the time to film the music video in an actual desert to match the theme of the show.
I ended up watching SAND LAND thanks to Kroi and ended up enjoying it a lot! I never watched Dragon Ball (I know…) but I fell in love with Toriyama’s art style while watching SAND LAND.
BUCCHIGIRI!
Leo takes a simple word “Sesame” and fleshes it out into a full high-paced funky song.
Underninja
Leaning more into rock here, lots of energy and another great OP.
(This anime is getting a live-action version soon, and Creepy Nuts is set make that song!)
Sakamoto Days
Kowloon Generic Romance
Kroi was chosen to create the song for the live action movie of the anime and manga Kowloon Generic Romance. The whole setting is cool, again filmed onsite in HK, but outro scene is absolutely beautiful!
Recommendations
As you can imagine, Kroi has a sweet offering of genres and tempos for whatever mood you are in.
If you like sitting through full albums, I recommend listening to “Lens” all the way through. It might change your perspective on music, like it did for me.
But for now here a few of the Kroi staples.
Fire Brain – Funk/Hip Hop
The classic! A great funky riff.
Horn – Soul/Rock
Something about the song and MV make me instantly happy. Maybe its all the clean bright colors.
One of Kroi’s easiest listening songs, even for those less into the instrumental and technical side of songs.
Shincha – R&B
I hope one day that Kroi gets on Tiny Desk. Until then, we have the next best thing. If slower songs are your thing, you will enjoy this one!
The chorus, “Oi Ocha“, is a brand of green tea.
Balmy Life – Hip-hop/Pop
Balmy Life is a live show staple for Kroi. The Talk Box solo from their keyboard player, Chiba, always gets a big round of applause and fires up the crowd.
Are you hooked yet? Give their album Lens a listen and let me know what you think!
If you have a favorite song (or need deep cut recs from an obsessed fan) let me know below!!
Until next time. ❤
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