Tee

Tee is a Japanese rapper and performer from Japan, born in 1982. The name is also used for The Earth Explorer, a Japanese progressive rock group that begins in 2005 as a cover band called EURO EXPRESS.

Early history

The group starts out playing covers of progressive rock bands including PFM and AREA. After about a year, it changes its name to THE EARTH EXPLORER and begins performing original material. At this stage, the music is instrumental and uses flute as a lead element in the band’s sound.

Recordings and live work

In July 2007, the group records live versions of some of its demos and issues the album First Voyage - Live in Crazy Jam later that year. It tours Japan through much of 2007 and 2008, and the live release helps it establish a reputation among Japanese progressive rock fans as a European-sounding act.

Studio album and name change

In late 2008, the band begins recording its first studio album, The Earth Explorer. On release of the album, it adopts TEE as its official name.

Festivals and influences

The group is invited to perform at the Poseidon festival in Japan in late 2008. It cites influences including Premiata Forneria Marconi, AREA, Samla Mammas Manna, Pendragon, King Crimson and Genesis.