Urbangarde

Urbangarde (アーバンギャルド, Ābangyarudo)** is a Japanese band active since 2002. Based in Tokyo, the current lineup consists of Yoko Hamasaki, also known as Yokotan (vocals), Temma Matsunaga, also known as Tenma (vocals) and Kei Okubo (keyboards). Former members include guitarist Zeze Shin, known as Shinsama, drummer Kyoichi Kagiyama, known as Kyouchan, and Kei Yachimura, known as Yashi, who was a keyboardist during the band's early stages. Urbangarde's music is characterized by a blend of electronic, pop, rock, and various other musical styles. The band's lyrics often address social issues in Japan, such as the high suicide rate, teen prostitution, teen pregnancy, death, and disease. The band's name is a fusion of the word "urban" and the French term "avant-garde," meaning experimental or innovative.