Photo of Ian by Tod Seelie.
Japanther is one of the hardest fucking bands in Brooklyn right now. They sound like Iron Maiden, Throbbing Gristle, and Lightning Bolt gave birth to a squealing little baby with flaming guitars for arms. Their shows are chaotic and danger-charged lovefests, and they are frighteningly dedicated to keeping it underground.
VICE: The name Japanther has this weird menacing ring to it.
Matt: A tough band name is key in the wash of bullshit out there right now. Your logo is important too. It needs to be something that can be easily spray-painted.
How many guys are in your band?
Two. I play bass and a Casio SK1 and sing. Ian plays drums, cassettes, and sings.
So what would you say is the combined weight of Japanther? Like, 320 or so?
[either ignoring or misunderstanding the question] Touring and playing live are the key aspects of Japanther. Support from kids. Sellin’ shirts. Also having loud amps. And getting busted sucks.
Have you played a lot of shows?
Around 87, but that includes jumping on other band’s bills and playing in the street. One show was in a bathroom.
Have you got any good performance injuries?
Yeah. Three black eyes (both of us), serious butt finger, bruised ego, sprained ankle, swollen knee, and foot burns. But who fuckin’ cares about our bodies? You gotta go for the gusto.
Are there any ideologies that Japanther pledges allegiance to?
One must never forget the Three R’s: Read, Write, and Ride your bike.
QUINN MORRISON
Japanther’s South of Northport is out now on tapesrecords.
