Zeni Geva

Zeni Geva

Zeni Geva is a Japanese noise rock and experimental group from Tokyo, formed in 1987. The band is led by Kazuyuki Kishino, also known as KK Null, who handles lead vocals, guitar and kaosspad. The group is associated with math rock, noise rock, post-hardcore and sludge metal, and its sound is described as prog-hardcore.

Formation and line-up

The band forms in Tokyo in 1987 and remains active. KK Null is a central member, and Tatsuya Yoshida is also part of the group on drums, vocals and kaosspad. Yoshida previously plays with Ruins and Koenji Hyakkei, and he returns to the band in 2009 after earlier playing with Zeni Geva in 1989 and 1990. The verified member list also includes 竹谷郁夫, Fumiyoshi Suzuki, Eito Noro, 藤掛正隆, 田畑満 and 吉田達也.

International reputation

Zeni Geva builds a following in Europe and the United States soon after forming, and this overseas popularity makes them one of the first Japanese bands to tour Europe and the US alongside acts such as Bastro, Crash Worship, Dazzling Killmen, Don Caballero, Eyehategod, Melvins, Neurosis, Pain Teens and Shellac. Their later touring also covers Canada, New Zealand and Australia.

Recordings and labels

The band releases 12 albums on labels including Alternative Tentacles, NUX Organization, Skin Graft and Neurot Recordings. Five of these albums are produced by Steve Albini. Zeni Geva also records two BBC John Peel sessions. Their first CD, Maximum Money Monster, is recorded with Tatsuya Yoshida during his earlier period in the group.

Critical associations

Steve Albini counts Zeni Geva among his favourite bands. He values the breadth of their influences, which he says keeps the music varied and demanding, and he also admires the way they keep Japanese cultural elements in their sound rather than trying to make it more Western.