Peacock Theater Los Angeles, CA
Contact: kelly@kelleemackpr.com
Web: ceipa.net
Players: Ado, Atarashii Gakko!, Yoasobi
Japanese music and culture was celebrated as matsuri’25 brought three of the most influential contemporary acts—Ado, Atarashii Gakko!, and Yoasobi—to one stage. Organized by the Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association, this one-night sold-out event aimed to support and drive the fundamental globalization and sustainable growth of the Japanese music industry, with the purpose of bridging the gap between Japanese musicians and U.S. audiences.
J-pop duo Yoasobi, composed of producer Ayase and singer-songwriter Ikura, kicked the night off with an energetic set of their biggest hits. The duo was accompanied on stage by a live band that elevated Ikura's lively vocals. The group is known for its infectious melodies and vibrant visuals. Ayase and Ikura are natural on stage and really know how to pump up their fans with their words and interactions. Yoasobi’s music is often used in anime and movies—their most popular being Oshi no Ko's theme song “Idol"—so it was no surprise that they had the entire venue dancing and chanting along to every tune.
If anyone could pull off a one-of-a-kind set, it’s the four-member girl group Atarashii Gakko! Everyone screamed in surprise as Rin, Suzuka, Kanon, and Mizyu appeared from the venue aisles wearing their signature school uniforms and holding big white flags over their heads. The quartet stole the night with their impressive dance choreography (which was created by the members themselves!) and chaotic theatrics. For “Arigato,” each member performed holding a broomstick—playfully using it like a microphone stand or a fake guitar. While for the viral hit “Otona Blue,” the group let loose with their signature head-shaking dance. Atarashii Gakko! does a good job at letting each member shine in the spotlight. Together is when the magic happened as the group's harmonies were the real showstoppers.
Closing the night was one of the biggest solo artists in Japan: Ado. The singer-songwriter began her career uploading cover songs to YouTube from her bedroom, before making her major debut in 2020 with the hit single "Usseewa." No photos or recordings of any kind were allowed for Ado's set as she keeps her identity anonymous. The singer performed inside a cage-like box coined the “Ado Box” where her body is hidden in-between the darkness of the shadows. Ado has incredible vocal prowess and stamina. Matsuri’25 was filled with electrifying music and a lively atmosphere, demonstrating that Japanese music can succeed here in the States.
