Group A, often styled as group A, was a Japanese experimental music duo formed in Tokyo in 2012. The band is known for its eclectic blend of electronic, industrial, and avant-garde music, combined with a striking visual aesthetic that often includes performance art elements. The duo originally consisted of Tommi Tokyo (synthesizers, vocals, and visual productions) and Sayaka Botanic (violin, tapes, and visuals), who met in Tokyo’s underground music scene.
Members
Tommi Tokyo
Originally from Tokyo, Tommi handled synthesizers, vocals, and visual productions for group A. Her background is in visual arts, which profoundly influences the band’s aesthetic, from live performances to music videos. Her approach combines aggressive electronic sounds with haunting vocals, creating a unique blend of audiovisual storytelling.
Sayaka Botanic
A violinist and visual artist, Sayaka brought an experimental edge to the duo with her unconventional use of the violin and tapes. Her ability to manipulate traditional instruments to produce otherworldly sounds complemented Tommi’s synths and vocals, setting the stage for group A’s distinctive sound.
Discography
- “A” (2013) – Their debut release showcased a raw and primitive form of noise mixed with industrial and minimal wave elements.
- “INITIATION” (2015) – This album marked a more cohesive and refined approach to their music, incorporating dark, rhythmic beats with haunting string arrangements.
- “70 + a = ” (2016) – Continuing their exploration of sound, this release combined live recordings and studio sessions, featuring a mix of noise, spoken word, and atmospheric sounds.
- “anOther” (2017) – In collaboration with other artists, this work featured remixes and collaborations that expanded their sound into new realms.
What They Are Doing Now
After several years of active collaboration and touring internationally, including performances in Europe and an established presence in the Berlin experimental music scene, the band underwent changes. Sayaka Botanic decided to leave the duo to pursue her own artistic projects, focusing more on her visual arts career.
Tommi Tokyo has continued the project solo, further exploring the intersection of music and visual art. She remains active in the music scene, performing under the name group A and other collaborations, and has also been involved in multimedia art installations and performances across various venues in Europe and Japan.
group A, both as a duo and as a solo project by Tommi Tokyo, has left a significant mark on the experimental music scene, known for their challenging and innovative approach to sound, visuals, and performance. Their music continues to inspire a cult following and influences new generations of artists in the realm of avant-garde and experimental art.
