toco toco — Season 1, Episode 36: Roa, Rock Band

Episode synopsis

Roa is a rock band founded in 2014 currently based in Tokyo. The band was formed by 6 members, one of them playing the shamisen (Japanese traditional string instrument), adding a Japanese touch to their Western rock influence. Today, we will meet with two members of the band in Sangubashi to visit a ramen restaurant, where the drummer of the band works. After an introduction of the Japanese noodle dish Tsukemen, we will head towards Shibuya to follow the band through the preparation of its first solo concert, that was held at the Shibuya O-crest venue. We will discover the band's members, style and influences, before diving in a concert that will remain in each member's memory. Additionally, the band will be performing its first live overseas in France this July.

About toco toco

toco toco is a program where Japanese artists and creators introduce places in Japan that inspire them. No scripted text or guidance, guests speak naturally and are free to choose any place they like. “toco toco” is the onomatopoeia to describe the sound of footsteps in Japanese, for the walks we go on together with our guests.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1Yusuke Shigeta, digital artist
• E2Soryo Matsumura, tea ceremony master
• E3Michihito Fujii, film director
• E4Hima://Kawagoe, illustrator
• E5Wagashi Asobi, Japanese traditional confectioners
• E6Professor Sakamoto, 8-bit musician
• E7Kyoka, electronic musician and artist
• E8Arisa Katayama, Walking Bicycle project leader
• E9Riyoo Kim, ceramic artist
• E10Fuyuki Kanai, illustrator and performer
• E11Ayaka Matsuno, cookie artist
• E12Montblancs, comedy duo