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Sakanaction
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Sakanaction (Japanese: サカナクション, Hepburn: Sakanakushon; stylised in all lowercase)[1] are a Japanese rock band from Sapporo, Hokkaido. Their music is a fusion of alternative rock, electronic, pop, and new wave styles. The band consists of five members: Ichiro Yamaguchi, Motoharu Iwadera, Ami Kusakari, Emi Okazaki, and Keiichi Ejima.

Key Information

The name Sakanaction is a portmanteau of "sakana" (Japanese for "fish") and "action". In the band's own words, their name reflects a wish to act quickly and lightly, like fish in the water, without fearing changes in the music scene.[2] Their records consistently reach the top 10 positions on Japan's Oricon charts.[3]

Members

[edit]
  • Ichirō Yamaguchi (山口一郎, Yamaguchi Ichirō)
    • Born in Otaru, Hokkaidō, September 8, 1980
    • Vocalist and guitarist
    • Responsible for writing the band's lyrics and music
  • Motoharu Iwadera (岩寺基晴, Iwadera Motoharu)
  • Ami Kusakari (草刈愛美, Kusakari Ami)
    • Born in Tokyo, April 30, 1980
    • Bassist and keyboardist
    • Nicknamed Neesan
  • Emi Okazaki (岡崎英美, Okazaki Emi)
    • Born in Otaru, Hokkaidō, October 5, 1983
    • Keyboardist
    • Nicknamed Zakki or Zakioka
  • Keiichi Ejima (江島啓一, Ejima Keiichi)
    • Born in Sapporo, Hokkaidō, July 8, 1981
    • Drummer
    • Nicknamed Ejii

History

[edit]

Formation

[edit]

Ichirō Yamaguchi, Sakanaction's frontman, originally started a band called Dutchman, in 1998 with his fellow high school mates, including Motoharu Iwadera. It was an indie rock band that was heavily inspired by British indie bands. From 2000 to 2003, they released one maxi single titled Fly, one album titled demonstration, and a single titled "Mikazuki Sunset" that was only sold at live performances.[4] The band did not gain much recognition. In 2004, the members disbanded, leaving Yamaguchi to continue on alone as Dutchman. Yamaguchi began performing as a DJ at night clubs.[5]

Sakanaction was finally created in 2005. When Yamaguchi was working in a record store, he heard the song "Owari no Kisetsu" by Rei Harakami and it became a great motivation for him to create Sakanaction.[6] Yamaguchi founded the band together with Iwadera. In the spring of 2006, the rest of the members joined.[7] Kusakari had just left another band then and was asked to join Sakanaction, Ejima was introduced by a mutual friend, and Okazaki was Yamaguchi's colleague from the record store.

The name "Sakanaction" was created by Yamaguchi and was met with initial resistance from Iwadera. When Yamaguchi asked him what he thought of the name Sakanaction, Iwadera said he hated it but Yamaguchi forced it.[8]

Rise to popularity

[edit]

Sakanaction first attracted attention at the 2006 Rising Sun Rock Festival.[9] The band's first physical release was Go to the Future in 2007. Three songs originally from Dutchman were rereleased as Sakanaction releases - Mikazuki Sunset and Inner World were included in Go to the Future while Word was part of a digital download release, and later made it to Night Fishing.

Some time after the release of Night Fishing, the band made a decision to move from Hokkaido to Tokyo where they could reach out to more people.[10] They were also moved from Victor Entertainment's BabeStar label to the main label.

On August 9, 2008, Sakanaction performed as one of the main acts on one of Japan's top music stations, Music On! in the event called Summer Sonic '08. Sakanaction performed alongside Paul Weller, The Fratellis, Death Cab for Cutie, Cajun Dance Party, Band of Horses, Blood Red Shoes, and These New Puritans. The show aired just three days before the New Year, on December 29, 2008.[11]

On December 26, 2008, they made it to #9 on Billboard's Japan Hot 100 list with their single "Sen to Rei" beating out MAYS's "Kiss (Koi ni Ochite... Fuyu)" and coming in just after Greeeen's "Tobira". Over a course of 4 weeks the single moved from #91 to #9. This was a big accomplishment for Sakanaction as they moved forward in the Japanese music industry.

Mainstream success

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In December 2008, the band announced their third album, Shin-shiro, which was released in January, 2009. The album includes their debut single, "Sen to Rei", The album debuted at #8 on Oricon weekly charts, the first time they got into the Top 10. The band held a national promotional tour, Sakanaquarium 2009, in February and March 2009.[12]

On January 13, 2010, the band released the single "Aruku Around", which hit #3 on the Oricon weekly charts.[13] On August 8, 2010, they made appearances at both the Summer Sonic and the World Happiness 2010 rock festivals in Tokyo.

Sakanaction next released on March 16, 2011, a new single titled "Rookie". Almost seven months since their last single "Identity", "Rookie" centered on club music, pop, and rock. It peaked at #6 on the Oricon weekly charts, although sales were affected by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.

On March 22, the music video for "Aruku Around" picked up awards for Best Rock Video and Best Video of the Year from the 2011 Space Shower Music Video Awards,[14] earning the band more recognition.

On July 20, 2011, Sakanaction released their second single of the year, "Bach no Senritsu o Yoru ni Kiita Sei Desu.". This release helped them to gain even more popularity through Sakanaction's first ever live performance on the popular music variety show, Music Station.[15]

Their fifth album, Documentaly, was released on September 28, 2011,[16] reaching a peak of #2 on the Oricon weekly charts, the highest the band has ever charted. The band also embarked on the Sakanaquarium 2011 DocumentaLy tour beginning October 1. The Makuhari Messe leg of the tour was later documented on a live DVD and Blu-ray released on March 28, 2012.

In February, the band played live overseas for the second time, in Taiwan, together with rock bands Avengers in Sci-Fi and Lite under the same artist management Hip Land Music Corp. On March 20, 2012, Sakanaction took home awards for Best Rock Video and Best Video of the Year at the 2012 Space Shower Music Video Awards for "Bach no Senritsu o Yoru ni Kiita Sei Desu."[17] This was the band's second consecutive year winning the coveted Best Video of the Year award. Starting April, the band also started to host their own regular radio show, Sakana Locks!! on popular radio station Tokyo FM.[18]

Continued national success

[edit]

Their sixth single, "Boku to Hana", was released on May 30.[19] The title track was used as the theme song of primetime medical drama 37-sai de Isha ni Natta Boku: Kenshui Junjō Monogatari, the first time the band has collaborated with a drama, thus giving them more exposure.[20] Sakanaction continued to garner more attention as vocalist Yamaguchi composed and wrote the song "Moment" for the popular veteran boy band SMAP, who were label mates. The song was used as the theme for 2012 Summer Olympics broadcasts on television channel TBS, and was released in a single on 8 August 2012.[21]

On 29 August 2012, their seventh single "Yoru no Odoriko" was released. The song was used in Mode School commercials as well as a station ID for Space Shower Television. In addition, Sakanaction was allowed to perform again for the second time on Music Station.[22] Their eighth single "Music" was tied up with Fuji TV primetime drama, dinner, with the title track as its theme song, making it the second time the band's music was used for a drama.[23] The single was released on 23 January 2013, for the first time selling at 500 yen, compared to their usual singles being priced at 1000 yen and above.[24]

Again, for the third year running, Sakanaction managed to grab an award at the 2013 Space Shower Music Video Awards. They were awarded Best Artist, with their representative works being the music videos for "Boku to Hana" and "Yoru no Odoriko".[25]

The band released on 13 March 2013 their self-titled sixth album, which clinched the top spot on Oricon Weekly Charts, their first release to do so.[26] For the album, Sakanaction went on a sold-out nationwide tour starting 30 March. They also included a supplementary tour in Taiwan to play there for 2 days. The band released their first vinyl record, titled Inori EP on 26 June 2013, containing remixes of two songs from the album.[27]

With their sixth album and accompanying tour's success in 2013, they were invited to perform for the first time on NHK's prestigious music show Kōhaku Uta Gassen on 31 December.[28]

Sakanaction went on tour in early 2014.[29] They have also announced the release of a new single, "Goodbye" / "Eureka", for 15 January 2014. "Eureka" is tied-up with the film "Judge!" as its ending theme song.[30]

Singles from their album entitled 834.194 have also found success on YouTube. For example, the single "Shin Takarajima" has 147,000,000 views, and "Wasurerarenai no", released on June 21, 2019, has enjoyed over 23 million views.[31] In videos, many of the albums' serious topics are offset by vivid and playful situations such as cheerleading, retro celebrity appearances, and people who transform into other objects.

In late 2021, they announced their eighth and ninth studio albums, アダプト (Adapt), and アプライ (Apply).[32] Adapt was released on March 30, 2022. It was preceded by two singles, プラトー (Plateau), and ショック! (Shock!).

Discography

[edit]
Studio albums

Tours

[edit]
Go to the Future Release Tour

2007.05.11 Tokyo・Shimokitazawa Era
2007.05.12 Osaka・Live Square 2nd LINE
2007.05.13 Aichi・Club JB'S

Go to the Future Release One-Man Live

2007.05.27 Hokkaido・Bessie Hall

Sakanaction Live in Okinawa 2007

2007.10.19 Okinawa・Naha Central

Tour 2008 "Night Fishing is Good"

2008.03.01 Nagasaki・stugio DO
2008.03.02 Fukuoka・Beat Station
2008.03.04 Hiroshima・Namiki Junction
2008.03.08 Hokkaido・Penny Lane 24
2008.03.20 Miyagi・Club Junk Box
2008.03.23 Tokyo・Shibuya Club Quattro
2008.03.27 Aichi・Apollo Theater
2008.03.29 Osaka・Shinsaibashi Club Quattro

Sen Live

2008.12.20 Hokkaido・Cube Garden

Rei Live

2008.12.20 Hokkaido・Cube Garden

Sakanaquarium 2009 Shinshiro

2009.02.14 Kyoto・Kyoto Muse
2009.02.15 Aichi・Nagoya Club Quattro
2009.02.27 Fukuoka・Beat Station
2009.03.01 Osaka・Bigcat
2009.03.03 Okayama・Image
2009.03.04 Hiroshima・Namiki Junction
2009.03.07 Tokyo・Akasaka Blitz
2009.03.11 Nagano・Live House J
2009.03.12 Ishikawa・Vanvan V4
2009.03.14 Niigata・Club Riverst
2009.03.15 Miyagi・Macana
2009.03.20 Hokkaido・Penny Lane 24
2009.03.21 Hokkaido・Penny Lane 24

Sakanaquarium 2009 kikUUiki

2010.04.02 Osaka・Namba Hatch
2010.04.09 Aichi・Club Diamond Hall
2010.04.11 Niigata・Club Junk Box Niigata
2010.04.16 Miyagi・Darwin
2010.04.17 Fukushima・HipShot Japan
2010.04.24 Kagoshima・Caparvo Hall
2010.04.25 Fukuoka・Drum Logos
2010.04.28 Hiroshima・Namiki Junction
2010.04.29 Okayama・Image
2010.05.01 Kyoto・Kyoto Muse
2010.05.02 Ishikawa・Kanazawa AZ
2010.05.08 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2010.05.15 Tokyo・Shinkiba Studio Coast
2010.05.23 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2010.05.28 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo

Sakanaquarium 21.1(B)

2010.10.08 Tokyo・Nippon Budokan

Sakanaquarium 2011 "Zepp Alive"

2011.06.18 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2011.06.20 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2011.06.22 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2011.06.23 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2011.06.27 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo
2011.06.28 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo

Sakanaquarium 2011 DocumentaLy

2011.10.01 Niigata・Niigata Lots
2011.10.02 Ishikawa・Kanazawa Eighthall
2011.10.07 Miyagi・Zepp Sendai
2011.10.09 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2011.10.12 Hiroshima・Club Quattro
2011.10.14 Fukuoka・Zepp Fukuoka
2011.10.15 Kumamoto ・Drum Be-9 V1
2011.10.17 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2011.10.19 Osaka・Namba Hatch
2011.10.20 Osaka・Namba Hatch
2011.10.22 Okayama・Crazymama Kingdom
2011.10.23 Kochi・Caravan Sary
2011.11.06 Chiba・Makuhari Messe
2011.11.10 Kyoto・KBS Hall
2011.11.11 Kyoto・KBS Hall

Sakanaquarium 2012 "Citta'Alive"

2012.05.29 Kanagawa・Club Citta'

Sakanaquarium 2012 "Zepp Alive"

2012.05.31 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2012.06.05 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2012.06.06 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2012.06.08 Miyagi・Zepp Sendai
2012.06.12 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2012.06.13 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2012.06.15 Fukuoka・Zepp Fukuoka
2012.06.18 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo
2012.06.19 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo

Sakanaquarium 2013 sakanaction

2013.03.30 Miyagi・Tokyo Electron Hall
2013.04.06 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2013.04.07 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2013.04.10 Kyoto・Kyoto KBS Hall
2013.04.11 Kyoto・Kyoto KBS Hall
2013.04.13 Niigata・Niigata Lots
2013.04.14 Niigata・Niigata Lots
2013.04.20 Kouchi・Kouchi Bay5 Square
2013.04.21 Hiroshima・Hiroshima Blue Live
2013.04.24 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2013.04.25 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2013.04.27 Fukuoka・Zepp Fukuoka
2013.04.28 Fukuoka・Zepp Fukuoka
2013.05.18 Chiba・Makuhari Messe
2013.05.19 Chiba・Makuhari Messe
2013.05.22 Osaka・Osaka-jo Hall
2013.06.01 Okinawa・Okinawa Otoichiba

Sakanaquarium 2013 sakanaction in Taiwan

2013.06.14 Taiwan・The Wall Taipei
2013.06.15 Taiwan・The Wall Taipei

Sakanaquarium 2014 "Sakanatribe"

2014.01.23 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo
2014.01.24 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo
2014.01.29 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2014.01.30 Osaka・Zepp Osaka
2014.02.01 Hiroshima・Ueno Gakuen Hall
2014.02.02 Kagawa・Sunport Hall Takamatsu
2014.02.07 Miyagi・Tokyo Electron Hall Miyagi
2014.02.08 Miyagi・Tokyo Electron Hall Miyagi
2014.02.11 Ishikawa・Kanazawa Bunka Hall
2014.02.15 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2014.02.16 Hokkaido・Zepp Sapporo
2014.02.25 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2014.02.26 Aichi・Zepp Nagoya
2014.03.01 Niigata・Niigata Terrsa
2014.03.07 Fukuoka・Zepp Fukuoka
2014.03.08 Fukuoka・Zepp Fukuoka
2014.03.11 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo
2014.03.12 Tokyo・Zepp Tokyo

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Sakanaction is a Japanese rock band formed in , , in 2005, known for fusing with electronic, pop, and new wave influences. The band's name is a portmanteau of the Japanese words sakana () and action, symbolizing their adaptive approach to music, much like navigating their environment. They achieved mainstream success with their major label debut in 2007 under Victor Entertainment, consistently charting in the top 10 on Japan's rankings. The group consists of five core members: Ichirō Yamaguchi (vocals and guitar), Motoharu Iwadera (guitar), Ami Kusakari (bass and keyboards), Emi Okazaki (keyboards), and Keiichi Ejima (drums). Led by frontman Yamaguchi, who handles lyrics and composition, Sakanaction's sound features literary, introspective themes paired with nostalgic folk melodies and club-oriented rhythms, creating a distinctive style that bridges performances with electronic production. Their discography includes acclaimed albums such as Night Fishing (2008), DocumentaLy (2011), and the ADAPT (2022), which explored themes of adaptation in a changing world. Sakanaction has earned numerous accolades, including being the first rock band to win the Best Music Award at the 39th in 2016 for their contributions to film soundtracks. They have headlined major outdoor festivals, conducted sold-out national arena tours—such as their innovative 2019 tour with a 6.1-channel system—and performed at the prestigious 64th in 2013. In 2015, the band launched "NF," an event series and independent label under Victor Entertainment that integrates music with cultural and artistic elements, further expanding their influence beyond traditional rock. During the , they adapted by hosting large-scale online live shows in 2020 and 2021, and in 2025 released the single "Kaijuu" while embarking on the nationwide SAKANAQUARIUM 2025 "Kaijuu" tour, demonstrating their ongoing resilience and commitment to fan engagement.

Band members

Current lineup

Sakanaction has maintained a stable five-member lineup since its formation in 2005, with no changes to the group over nearly two decades. All members hail from , primarily the area. The core of the band is led by (born September 8, 1980, in , ), who serves as and , as well as the founder who shaped the group's early vision. In 2022, Yamaguchi was diagnosed with depression and took a hiatus from activities until the band's 2024 comeback. Complementing him on guitar is Motoharu Iwadera (born March 11, 1981, in , ), a longtime collaborator from Yamaguchi's high school days in Hokkaido. In 2022, Iwadera was involved in a reported scandal, prompting a band apology and partial tour postponements, though the lineup remained intact. Handling bass and keyboards is Ami Kusakari (born April 30, 1980, in but raised in from a young age), bringing a foundational rhythmic presence to the ensemble. On keyboards and backing vocals, Emi Okazaki (born October 5, 1983, in , ) adds melodic depth and vocal layers. Rounding out the rhythm section is drummer Keiichi Ejima (born July 8, 1981, in , ), whose precise playing anchors the band's dynamic sound. This consistent configuration has allowed Sakanaction to evolve musically while preserving its original chemistry.

Musical roles and contributions

Ichiro Yamaguchi serves as the lead songwriter, producer, and for Sakanaction, primarily handling vocals, guitar riffs, and electronic programming that shape the band's fusion of rock and electronic elements. His role extends to composing , often drawing from computer-based production techniques influenced by his DJ background, which allows him to integrate programmed beats and atmospheric textures into the core sound. As the , Yamaguchi guides the overall vision, yet the process remains collaborative, with the group finalizing arrangements before lyrics are added. Motoharu Iwadera provides complementary guitar work, including rhythmic support and lead lines that reinforce the band's rock foundation and add textural depth to both studio recordings and live performances. Ami Kusakari provides the rhythmic foundation through her bass lines, which ground the band's dynamic compositions with warm, punchy low-end support, while her occasional keyboard work adds subtle atmospheric layers to enhance the electronic-rock blend. Her contributions emphasize stability and groove, particularly in tracks that balance organic instrumentation with synthesized elements, helping to propel the music's forward momentum during live performances. Emi Okazaki drives the electronic aspects via her keyboard arrangements, creating intricate synth patterns and piano elements that infuse depth and progression into Sakanaction's sound, complemented by her backing vocals which add harmonic richness and vocal texture. These layers often build the ambient and melodic backdrops, allowing the band's songs to evolve from rock-driven verses to expansive electronic choruses. Keiichi Ejima's drumming merges rock propulsion with electronic beats, incorporating drum programming for studio recordings and adapting those rhythms live to maintain the band's hybrid energy. His versatile style supports the tempo shifts and percussive intensity, ensuring seamless transitions between acoustic and digital elements in performances. The band's five-member dynamic fosters democratic input in arrangements, where Yamaguchi's direction is balanced by group veto power, enabling collective refinement of tracks from initial demos to final mixes. This approach has evolved from their early rock-oriented setup toward a more integrated electronic fusion, reflecting shared creative playfulness.

Musical style and influences

Core musical elements

Sakanaction's core sound fuses with electronic music, blending pop structures over dance-oriented beats to create a distinctive, genre-blurring aesthetic. This integration draws on J-rock and indie roots while incorporating clean electronic elements, resulting in compositions that balance accessibility with experimental edges. Central to their style are guitar-driven rock elements that often transition into synth-heavy sections, featuring rich, melodic guitar lines layered with lush synthesizers for dynamic builds. Percussion plays a pivotal role through layered arrangements that merge organic acoustic drums with programmed electronic loops and beats, providing rhythmic depth and propulsion. The band's production emphasizes live instrumentation—such as guitars, bass, and —alongside electronic , prioritizing organic interplay over purely synthesized sounds to maintain a tactile, band-centric feel. Okazaki's contributions, via synth layers, further enhance these textural shifts. Lyrically, Sakanaction explores themes of urban isolation and introspection, often employing natural metaphors like birds and rivers to convey loneliness and yearning for connection, delivered in Ichiro Yamaguchi's emotive, poem-like style.

Influences and evolution

Sakanaction's musical influences draw heavily from acts such as Oasis and , which shaped the band's rock melodies and emotional structures. These elements combined with inspirations from electronic artists and club , infusing rhythms and pulsating beats into their compositions. Additionally, subtle melodic undertones reflect influences from Japanese folk traditions, evident in the band's incorporation of direct, evocative phrasing reminiscent of folk singers like Masato Tomobe and Wataru Takada. Frontman Ichiro Yamaguchi's personal experiences in the club scene in profoundly impacted the band's direction, fostering a hybrid "pop-dance" style that merges accessible pop sensibilities with club-oriented energy. His early exposure to nightclub DJing further encouraged a drive toward creating music that bridges underground excitement with broader appeal, drawing from acts like QURULI and . The band's sound evolved from a guitar-rock focus in their pre-2010 work, emphasizing emotional UK-style rock influences, to a more balanced integration of electronic elements during the 2010–2015 period. Post-2015, their music shifted toward experimental soundscapes, featuring heavier synth layers and minimalist arrangements that explore progressive and adaptive forms. This continued in subsequent releases, including the 2023 albums Tsuki no Utsutsu ~ Rearrange works ~ and Tsuki no Maboroshi ~ works ~, which reimagined earlier tracks with updated electronic production, and the 2025 single "", maintaining their fusion of rock and electronic elements. Conceptually, Sakanaction's early output employed "night fishing" metaphors to evoke themes of patient searching in obscurity, as seen in their foundational works. Later developments transitioned to "adaptation" motifs, mirroring broader technological shifts in music consumption and production during the digital era.

History

Formation and early years (2005–2007)

Sakanaction was formed in 2005 in , , when vocalist and guitarist disbanded his previous project, Dutchman, which had shifted toward computer-based music production, and assembled a new lineup. Yamaguchi recruited guitarist Motoharu Iwadera, bassist Ami Kusakari—whose prior band had recently ended—keyboardist Emi Okazaki from a previous collaboration, and drummer Keiichi Ejima, a connection through a former guitarist. This formation marked the band's transition to a more collaborative rock-electronic sound, initially drawing from a rock-heavy style influenced by . In its early days, Sakanaction focused on building a presence in the local Hokkaido music scene, where members balanced their creative pursuits with day jobs, performing in small venues and clubs. This period emphasized experimentation with electronic elements alongside rock foundations, setting the stage for their evolving style. The band helped generate initial interest with their appearance as a newcomer act at the Rising Sun Rock Festival in Ishikari, , where they performed on August 18, 2006, drawing attention from local audiences. By early 2007, the band signed with Victor Entertainment's sub-label BabeStar, transitioning to a major label. Their major debut came on May 9, 2007, with the release of the album Go to the Future, recorded and produced in over a single month. The album showcased their blend of rock and electronic sounds through tracks like the single "Word," which highlighted Yamaguchi's songwriting and the group's dynamic interplay. This release solidified their foundational sound while addressing the logistical hurdles of operating from 's relatively isolated music ecosystem.

Rise to popularity (2008–2011)

In 2008, Sakanaction released their second studio album, Night Fishing, on January 23 through Victor Entertainment's BabeStar imprint, which showcased their evolving blend of rock and electronic elements while building on their indie roots. The album was supported by the single "Sen to Rei," released on December 10, 2008, marking their first major-label effort and helping to expand their audience beyond Hokkaido. That year, the band relocated from Sapporo to Tokyo to pursue broader exposure in the national music scene, a move that positioned them for greater industry access and visibility. The following year, Sakanaction issued Shin-shiro on January 21, 2009, their first release after the Tokyo relocation and a shift to Victor's main roster, emphasizing a more pronounced electronic production style that distinguished them in the J-rock landscape. The album debuted at number 8 on the weekly albums chart, signaling their rising commercial traction and attracting increased media attention, including appearances programs that introduced their sound to wider audiences. This period marked the band's transition from regional indie festivals to national recognition, solidifying their niche in electronic-infused rock. By 2010, Sakanaction released their fourth album, kikUUiki, on March 17, which peaked at number 3 on the chart and further highlighted their experimental electronic leanings with tracks like "Aruku Around," the lead single from January 13. The album's promotion included their first nationwide tour, SAKANAQUARIUM 2010, spanning multiple cities and drawing larger crowds as the band honed their live electronic-rock fusion. Follow-up single "Identity," released August 4, reinforced this momentum with its upbeat, percussion-driven energy, contributing to growing fan engagement through TV performances and festival slots. Sakanaction's breakthrough arrived in 2011 with the September 28 release of DocumentaLy, their fifth album, which debuted at number 2 on the chart and captured their most polished electronic-rock synthesis to date. The lead single, "Bach no Senritsu wo Yoru ni Kiita Sei Desu.," issued July 20, reached number 8 on the in its debut week, selling over 15,000 copies and becoming their first major hit with its Bach-inspired electro-pop hook. This success propelled sold-out arena performances, transforming their fanbase from niche indie supporters to a mainstream following attuned to their unique genre-blending style.

Mainstream success (2012–2016)

In early 2013, Sakanaction released the single "Music" on January 23, which served as a lead track for their self-titled sixth studio album, sakanaction, issued on March 13 via Victor Entertainment. The album debuted at number one on the weekly albums chart, selling 83,000 copies in its first week and marking the band's first chart-topping release. This period also saw the band's initial foray into international performances, including their first headlining shows in at in on June 14 and 15 as part of the Sakanaquarium 2013 tour. The band's innovative music videos garnered recognition at the 2013 Space Shower Music Video Awards, where they won the Best Artist category, highlighting their third consecutive year of accolades in video production from the event. By 2015, Sakanaction expanded into media soundtracks with Motion Music of Bakuman, composed for the live-action film adaptation of the manga Bakuman, released on September 30. The score earned the Outstanding Achievement in Music award at the 39th Japan Academy Prize in 2016, praised for its integration of electronic and rock elements to complement the film's dynamic narrative. That September, the single "Shin Takarajima," tied to the film's promotion, became a defining hit, blending retro synth-pop with upbeat rhythms and achieving widespread airplay as the band's signature track. These releases solidified Sakanaction's commercial stature, with sakanaction certified by the RIAJ for over 100,000 physical shipments and the band accumulating more than 400,000 total sales by the end of the period. Their work also extended to brand collaborations, including a tie-up with Shiseido's ANESSA line, aligning their sound with themes of vitality and summer energy.

Continued career and recent activities (2017–present)

Following the release of their 2013 album sakanaction, Sakanaction entered a period of reduced group activity from 2017 to 2021, during which the band issued sporadic singles while frontman Ichiro Yamaguchi pursued individual endeavors. In 2019, they released the single "Nylon no Ito," tied to a collaboration with the film Katsuben!, and the double A-side "Wasurerarenaino / Moth," the latter serving as the theme for the drama Kamen Rider Zero-One. By 2021, the single "Plateau" appeared as part of a commercial tie-in with Santen Pharmaceutical. Yamaguchi, meanwhile, focused on solo production work and personal projects, including contributions to soundtracks and exploratory compositions amid the band's hiatus-like phase. In 2022, Sakanaction marked their return with the concept album Adapt, released on March 30 after a nine-year gap since their previous full-length effort, emphasizing themes of adaptation and transition from online performances to live settings amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The album featured tracks like "Shock!" (theme for the drama Lupin no Musume) and "Plateau," blending electronic elements with a shift toward minimalism in arrangement. A companion project, Apply, followed in conceptual form, further exploring adaptive music structures; the companion project Apply remains in development as of November 2025, focusing on "application" themes. This release revitalized the band's presence, bridging their experimental roots with contemporary production techniques. From 2023 to 2024, the band extended their resurgence through touring and media contributions, including Yamaguchi's solo nationwide tour "Natsukashii Tsuki wa Atarashii Tsuki 'Mirage'" in late 2023, which concluded with a streamed performance at Garden Theater on January 14, 2024. Sakanaction then launched the arena tour SAKANAQUARIUM 2024 "turn," comprising 15 shows across eight venues from April 20 to July 10, 2024, highlighting material from Adapt alongside earlier hits. Their work also extended to , with "Shock!" continuing relevance in dramatic soundscapes, underscoring their ongoing influence in visual media. In 2025, Sakanaction announced the single "Kaijū," released as the opening theme for the anime Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, which premiered in 2024. This preceded their extensive SAKANAQUARIUM 2025 "Kaiju" tour, a 34-date national run starting in January, designed to immerse audiences in thematic "monster" motifs drawn from the single. brought celebrations for the 10th anniversary of their seminal single "Shin Takarajima," including special events and retrospectives. The year closes with a performance at On Stage on December 12 at Tokyo Garden Theater, affirming their sustained popularity. As of November 2025, Sakanaction maintains a robust presence in Japan's music scene, balancing experimental innovation with broad accessibility.

Discography

Studio albums

Sakanaction's debut studio album, Go to the Future, released on May 9, 2007, by BabeStar, marked the band's entry into the music scene with a rock-focused sound characterized by raw and new wave elements. The album features eight tracks, including highlights "Mikazuki Sunset" and "Amefura," which showcase the band's early blend of live instrumentation and electronic influences. It peaked at number 105 on the , reflecting modest initial commercial reception with limited sales figures below 100,000 units. The second album, Night Fishing, issued on , 2008, by BabeStar, explored atmospheric themes inspired by nocturnal and introspective moods, with ten tracks emphasizing ambient electronic textures alongside rock structures. Key highlights include the title track and "Black Eyed," which highlight the band's evolving production techniques. It achieved a higher peak of number 28 on the compared to the debut, though sales remained under 100,000 copies, indicating growing but still niche appeal. Shin-shiro, released on January 21, 2009, by Victor Entertainment, introduced more prominent electronic elements to the band's palette, with eleven tracks that experiment with synth-driven compositions and subtle rock undertones. Standout tracks like "Sen to Rei" and "Aruku Around" exemplify this shift toward a more polished, electro-rock hybrid. The peaked at number 8 on the , signaling increased visibility, but sales did not reach certification thresholds. The 2010 album kikUUiki, released on March 17 by Victor Entertainment, embraced a hybrid style, featuring twelve tracks that fuse upbeat electronic beats with pop sensibilities and energy. Highlights such as "Years" and "" demonstrate the band's maturation in creating infectious, rhythm-heavy pieces. It reached number 10 on the , with sales under 100,000 units, underscoring the band's rising popularity in the alternative scene. DocumentaLy, the fifth studio , came out on September 28, 2011, via Victor Entertainment, and adopted a documentary-style production approach, drawing from real-life inspirations and field recordings across thirteen tracks. Notable entries include "Boku to Hana" and "Yoru no Odoriko," which explore personal and societal narratives through layered electronic and arrangements. It peaked at number 2 on the , certified by the RIAJ for over 100,000 copies shipped, with total sales exceeding 100,000 units. The self-titled sakanaction, released on March 13, 2013, by Victor Entertainment, presented a mature sound with fourteen tracks that refined the band's electro-rock fusion into more sophisticated, introspective compositions. Tracks like "" and "Years (2013 ver.)" highlight this evolution, emphasizing emotional depth and innovative production. It topped the at number 1 and earned certification from the RIAJ, with sales surpassing 100,000 copies. 834.194, issued on June 19, 2019, by NF Records, delved into experimental territories as a with eighteen tracks across digital formats, incorporating abstract soundscapes and genre-blending experimentation. Highlights include "Wasurerarenaino" and "Kagero," which push boundaries with unconventional structures and thematic ambiguity. It peaked at number 2 on the , with over 100,000 units sold but no RIAJ certification. The latest studio album, Adapt, released on March 30, 2022, by NF Records, revolves around a conceptual of and transformation, featuring nine tracks that narrate personal and societal change through dynamic electro-rock soundscapes. Key tracks such as "" and "Adapt" embody this theme with bold, adaptive musical shifts. It reached number 2 on the , with sales approaching 100,000 units but not yet certified as of 2025. As part of the ADAPT project, it is followed by rearrange works released in 2023, including Tsuki no Utsutsu ~ Rearrange works ~.

Singles and EPs

Sakanaction's singles and EPs have served as essential promotional tools, highlighting their fusion of rock, electronic, and pop elements while often including B-sides that explore experimental themes. These releases have frequently tied into cycles, with emphasizing visual storytelling to complement the band's conceptual approach. Early indie efforts gave way to major label outputs under Victor Entertainment, building their fanbase through digital and physical formats. The band's transition to major status began with the digital single "Word," released on December 5, 2007, as a double A-side with "Sample." This debut major release introduced their signature sound to a broader audience and promoted their second album Night Fishing. In 2008, "Black Eyed" followed as a key track-turned-single, further solidifying their electronic rock style during the Night Fishing era. The 2009 single "Identity" marked a milestone, peaking at #22 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and featuring an enhanced CD edition with a DVD containing the music video directed by Hideaki Sunaga. "Light Dance," released in 2010, continued this momentum with its upbeat tempo and B-side "Years," supporting the kikUUiki album promotion. 2011 brought breakthrough success with "Bach no Sen, Seishun no Teema" (full title "『バッハの旋律を夜に聴いたせいです。』"), which debuted at #1 on the charts and earned platinum certification from the RIAJ for over 250,000 physical units shipped. The single's , inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach's compositions, showcased the band's thematic depth and included the B-side "Years (Album Ver.)." The EP Inori, issued in 2013 as a limited 12-inch vinyl, offered and instrumental versions of tracks like "Inori Shinryaku-sha," providing fans with a deeper dive into their production techniques. The 2013 single "Music" reached #5 on the charts, with its energetic video and B-side "Orion" contributing to the self-titled album's hype; it later achieved RIAJ platinum status for digital downloads exceeding 250,000 units. "Shin Takarajima," released September 30, 2015, peaked at #5 on the and #1 on the , where it charted for an impressive 124 weeks, becoming an enduring hit with its nostalgic, synth-driven vibe and B-side "Bamboo Island." Post-2015, the band shifted toward digital-only releases, including the 2019 EP Wasure rarenai no / , which blended emotional ballads with electronic textures as part of the SoftBank Music Project and promoted the compilation 834.194. In 2025, "Kaijū" emerged as a major tie-in, serving as the opening theme for the series Orb: On the Movements of the Earth (broadcast from ). The single debuted at #2 on the and featured a released on March 15, emphasizing themes of and societal chains through symbolic imagery.

Tours and live performances

Major arena tours

Sakanaction's major arena tours, known as the SAKANAQUARIUM series, have been central to their live performances, evolving from national hall circuits to large-scale productions incorporating multimedia elements. These tours typically promote recent albums while showcasing the band's signature blend of rock and electronic music through elaborate stage designs and visual effects. The earliest significant arena tour, SAKANAQUARIUM 2009 Shinshiro, supported the release of the album Shin-shiro and ran for two months from February to March 2009, featuring 13 national hall performances across Japan. This tour marked the band's transition to larger venues, with setlists emphasizing tracks from Shin-shiro and introducing basic light shows to enhance the atmospheric soundscapes. Following the 2010 album Kikuuiki, the SAKANAQUARIUM 2011 DocumentaLy tour promoted DocumentaLy with 15 dates at 13 venues from October to November 2011, culminating at Makuhari Messe on November 5. Innovations during this tour included the world premiere of Ninja Light technology, a synchronized LED lighting system that created immersive visual patterns aligned with the music, drawing over 20,000 fans to the finale. Entering their peak popularity period, the SAKANAQUARIUM 2013 tour supported the self-titled album sakanaction with 19 sold-out dates at 14 arenas from March to June 2013, beginning in Kawasaki and including the band's first headlining show in . The tour finale at on May 19 highlighted custom visuals and thematic setlists drawing from the album's electronic influences. The subsequent SAKANAQUARIUM 2015-2016 "NF Records launch tour" celebrated the band's independent label shift, comprising 38 performances across major arenas from October 2015 to April 2016, including stops at Hokkai Kitaeru, , and a landmark show at on October 27. These tours featured enhanced multimedia productions, such as projected graphics and fan-synchronized lighting, solidifying Sakanaction's reputation for innovative live experiences. After a hiatus influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SAKANAQUARIUM Adapt Tour in 2021-2022 marked the band's return with over 20 dates from December 2021 to January 2022, spanning venues like Aichi Sky Expo, Osaka Castle Hall, Marine Messe Fukuoka, and Nippon Budokan. Promoting the album Adapt, the tour reproduced the four-story "Adapt Tower" stage structure from prior online streams, integrated a new spatial sound system, and blended hybrid digital elements like pre-recorded visuals with live fan interactions via mobile apps. The SAKANAQUARIUM 2024 “turn” tour, held from April to July 2024, featured 15 performances across 8 venues nationwide, including a finale at on July 9–10. This tour continued the band's emphasis on immersive productions with advanced lighting and sound design. The most recent major tour, SAKANAQUARIUM 2025 "," launched on January 25, 2025, at Sagami Women's University Green Hall and concluded with additional performances at K Arena Yokohama on August 26-27, encompassing 34 shows across 17 nationwide venues. Themed around the new single "," it featured evolving setlists with conceptual narratives, custom visuals depicting monstrous motifs, and hybrid formats including a live stream of the Yokohama finale for global audiences. Throughout their arena tours, Sakanaction has consistently innovated with Rhizomatiks-designed projections, audience participation via light-up devices, and post-pandemic digital integrations to deepen immersion.

Festival appearances and special shows

Sakanaction made their live debut at the Rising Sun Rock Festival on August 18, 2006, in Ishikari, , where they performed as part of the festival's newcomer lineup. The band returned to the event multiple times, including performances on August 16, 2008, and August 15, 2009, establishing an early presence in Japan's scene. Their first appearance at came in , with subsequent shows in 2018 and beyond, highlighting their growing stature among major outdoor events. They also performed at SONICMANIA on August 16, 2024, at , and at Sweet Love Shower on August 31, 2024, at Yamanakako Kouryuu Plaza Kirara. The band's international reach expanded through targeted shows in , beginning with a performance at the HighApps in event on February 24, 2012, alongside acts like LITE and avengers in sci-fi. This was followed by additional dates, including a solo show at in on June 15, 2013, as part of the Sakanaquarium 2013 tour extension. Further engagements included two supplementary performances in during the 2019 Sakanaquarium "" tour, marking a return after six years. Between 2013 and 2015, these outings formed the core of their early Asian activities, focusing on key markets like to build overseas audiences. Special shows have included immersive residencies and promotional events, such as the Aichi Triennale 2019 "Kurayami" program, where Sakanaction delivered seven performances from August 7 to 11 at the Aichi Prefectural Arts Theater, blending live music with spatial installations as part of the triennale's artistic framework. Upcoming is their participation in On Stage Tokyo 2025 -Year-End Special- on December 12 at Tokyo Garden Theater, a collaborative year-end showcase featuring multiple artists. In 2015, they contributed to the live-action film premiere through their theme song "Shin Takarajima," performing select tracks to promote the soundtrack during the October 3 release event. During the , Sakanaction adapted to restrictions with online streaming events, notably SAKANAQUARIUM Hikari ONLINE on August 16, 2020, a full-production streamed worldwide and later released as a Blu-ray. This was followed by the two-day SAKANAQUARIUM HIKARIUM ONLINE on August 15–16, 2020, incorporating acoustic elements and archived footage to maintain fan engagement remotely. Anniversary celebrations have featured unique one-offs, including the 10th anniversary of "Shin Takarajima" in October 2025, with a special behind-the-scenes video release on and exclusive merchandise drops like snow domes, commemorating the track's cultural impact. These events underscore Sakanaction's approach to blending festival energy with experimental, audience-focused specials.

Awards and nominations

Music video and artist awards

Sakanaction garnered significant recognition for their innovative music videos and artistic contributions beginning in 2012, aligning with their rise in mainstream popularity. The music video for their single "Bach no Senritsu wo Yoru ni Kiita Sei Desu.," directed by Hidenobu Tanabe, won Best Video of the Year at the 2012 Space Shower Music Video Awards, selected from 50 nominees for its creative blend of classical influences and electronic visuals. This accolade highlighted the band's ability to fuse rock with electronic elements in visually compelling formats. In 2013, Sakanaction received the Best Artist award at the Space Shower Music Video Awards, acknowledging their overall impact and innovation in the electronic-rock genre. The same year, they earned a nomination for Best Rock Video at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan (VMAJ) for "Yoru no Odoriko," further cementing their reputation for boundary-pushing artistry. These honors underscored Sakanaction's growing influence during their mainstream success phase.

Film and anime contributions

Sakanaction's involvement in and has highlighted their versatility, blending elements with narrative-driven media to earn specialized accolades. The band's soundtrack for the 2015 live-action Bakuman, titled Motion Music of Bakuman, earned the Excellence Award for Music at the 39th in 2016. This recognition celebrated their innovative score, which integrated and dynamic compositions to enhance the 's of the about aspiring manga artists. In the same year, Sakanaction contributed "Tabun, Kaze." as the theme for Shiseido's Anessa sunscreen commercial campaign, a track that showcased their atmospheric sound design tailored for visual media. This period also saw the band nominated for Best Group Artist at the Space Shower Music Awards, underscoring their broader creative impact. Sakanaction's 2025 anime contribution, the opening theme "Kaijū" for Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, marked their return to thematic songwriting after a hiatus, with the track debuting at No. 1 on Oricon's digital single chart. A limited-time collaboration music video blending the song with anime footage amassed over 8 million views, followed by a second collaboration video in May 2025 that further engaged fans through extended storytelling elements. The song also topped winter 2025 anime karaoke rankings, reflecting strong resonance in anime circles. These media tie-ins, including the Japan Academy Prize honor, have broadened Sakanaction's reach beyond rock audiences, attracting enthusiasts and viewers through interdisciplinary acclaim and viral digital engagement.

References

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