Theatre Brook is a classic example of a band that follows its own musical vision regardless of prevailing trends. Since the band was founded in Tokyo in 1986, Theatre Brook has specialized in an intense, funky brand of rock that's firmly rooted in the '70s. They're probably the only Japanese band ever to have covered a tune by semi-obscure '70s Canadian band Lighthouse: "One Fine Morning," an uptempo, jazzy tune which Theatre Brook performs with admirable panache and which typifies their...

Theatre Brook is a classic example of a band that follows its own musical vision regardless of prevailing trends. Since the band was founded in Tokyo in 1986, Theatre Brook has specialized in an intense, funky brand of rock that's firmly rooted in the '70s. They're probably the only Japanese band ever to have covered a tune by semi-obscure '70s Canadian band Lighthouse: "One Fine Morning," an uptempo, jazzy tune which Theatre Brook performs with admirable panache and which typifies their style. The band started out as trio consisting of singer/songwriter Taiji Sato, bassist Takashi Nakajo, and turntable operator Akihiro Yoshizawa, who were augmented during live performances by various "support members." These days only Sato and Nakajo are regular members of the band. Theatre Brook's undoubted leader is Sato, who sings with a passion and sense of commitment that's sometimes lacking in J-pop. Besides being a gutsy singer and inspired songwriter, he's also a fine lead guitarist. The band's first release was a 1988 vinyl mini-album simply titled Theatre Brook, which the group distributed itself. Theatre Brook got a big break when they opened for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in January 1990. The group signed a deal with Shimokitazawa, Tokyo-based management/label group UK Project and later with Epic/Sony Records. Although they've released a string of generally excellent albums over the years and are without doubt one of Japan's best live acts, Theatre Brook has never made it into the upper reaches of the J-pop stratosphere, as they are apparently content to be a steady-selling album act.