Kazha
Kazha formed in Los Angeles, California in December 2008. Vocalist Kazuha Oda, from which the band gets its name, decided to start the band after a successful solo career—releasing four albums in Japan and working with the likes of pianist Bob James—because she felt it was time to work with like-minded musicians to create the sound she was looking for. After some trial and error, Kazuha finally discovered what she was looking for with Hideki Matsushige on guitar, Zen Takamura on bass, and Rui Aranai on drums.
Because of the eclectic backgrounds of the various members, Kazha represents a new future for world music; a fusion of cultures and musical viewpoints that create their sound. From Kazuha's study of classical and career in pop to Hideki's love of rock and fusion, from Zen's experience in electric and metal to Rui's admiration of R&B and jazz, the band's music appeals to everyone everywhere.
In July 2009, the band returned to their native Japan to record their first album and tour the country. Following the release of the first EP, "Breathe Through Your Dreams," on major Japanese label Victor Entertainment on September 30, the band launched their Asian tour in November, playing some of the biggest music festivals in Japan and Korea, including Metal Goddess in Japan and Fire Rock Festival at Sangsangmadang Concert Hall, produced by major labels in Korea. For health reasons, Zen resigned from Kazha in February and Yota Sato joined to take his place. Currently preparing for the release of their first album, "Overture," in April, the band looks forward to return to the US and making themselves heard.