SCANDAL IN CONCERT:
Japanese all-female pop punk quartet Scandal has been rocking the land of the rising sun for nearly a decade, but recently their melodic, spunky sound has earned them a growing international fanbase. In 2014 the group released their sixth album Hello World, an aptly-titled introduction for global audiences to their upbeat sound and edgy songwriting. Unlike many J-pop groups that have been meticulously put together by record labels, Scandal formed while still in high school, and their live shows reflect their DIY origins with scrappy, punk-inspired performances. From their brightly colored schoolgirl uniforms to catchy songs like "Departure" and "Runner's High", Scandal always treat ticket buyers to an electric concert experience full of energy, personality, and first-rate musicianship.
BACKGROUND SNAPSHOT:
Scandal was formed in Osaka in 2006 by a group of high school students who got their start performing on the streets of the city's bustling shopping districts. After signing with indie label Kitty Records they issued several singles before getting picked up by Epic Records Japan. Their label debut, 2009's Best Scandal, peaked at No. 5 on Billboard's Japanese albums chart, leading to extensive touring and a New Artist Award at the 51st Japan Record Awards. Their 2010 follow-up fared even better, peaking at No. 4 and spawning the hits "Shunkan Sentimental" and "Taiyo to Kimi ga Egaku Story". The band toured extensively to sold-out Asian crowds in 2012-13 while continuing to release albums and lend their songs to popular anime TV shows. In 2014 the band greeted their growing international fanbase with their sixth album Hello World, a punchy release full of anthemic tunes that forms a perfect addition to their boisterous sets on tour.