ARTIST10-FEET

10-FEET is a Japanese trio formed in Kyoto in 1997 by Takuma, vocals and guitar; Naoki, bass and vocals; and Kouichi, drums. Their loosely punk-based music draws on a range of influences, from ska and bossa nova to hip-hop and metal. Before forming the band, all three had played in groups with different musical styles. After about three years performing at local clubs, they released an untitled demo in 2000 and moved to Tokyo. The independent label Buddy released their singles “April Fool” and May I Help You? in 2001. During the Japanese tour that followed, the band members lived in their van.

Their debut album, Springman, came out in 2002 and was followed by a tour. The group later returned to Kyoto and left its label, then founded Badass, whose first release was the 2003 single “Nil?”. Realife followed in 2004, then 4Rest in 2005 and Twister in 2006. For the remix EP 7 Feet (2007), 10-FEET performed its songs with artists including Minmi and Kj from Dragon Ash. After Takuma developed a throat illness and a comeback show was canceled because of a typhoon in Kyoto, the band resumed activity. In 2008, it released Vandalize and performed in Japan, Taiwan, and the United States. Its sixth full-length album, Life Is Sweet, was released in 2009.