BIOGRAPHY

Sometimes described as the "Japanese Asian Dub Foundation," Brahman does in fact draw on Indian culture and music. But unlike their UK brethren's blend of drum 'n' bass, punk and Indian melodies, Brahman cite ska and hardcore as their musical inspirations, topping it off with elements of Indian and Japanese traditional music.

After a self-titled demo tape found its way to monster indie label Toy's Factory in 1995, the quartet was signed, releasing their debut mini-album 'Grope Our Way' in 1996. The album earned the band a loyal following in the Tokyo underground, where their sound struck a chord with a youth culture beginning to look beyond its fixation with things Western and directing its eyes towards Asia.

The mini-album 'Wait and Wait' followed in 1997 which has sold 30,000 copies to date, and 'A Man of the World' in 1998 selling 300,000 copies, confirming Brahman's status as a key member of Japan's burgeoning alternative music scene. A heavy schedule of gigs at live houses across the nation and appearances at the Air Jam 2000 festival also helped to bring the band national attention, seeing audiences of 30,000 people.

While appearances in fashion spreads in the glossies have lost them some credibility in the eyes of indie fanatics, Brahman have also showed a conscience, participating in the 1999 Tibetan Freedom Concert. Undoubtedly one of the most intriguing units on the band scene. They played at the Street Beat Festival in Rome in 2003 to an audience of 10,000 people. Brahman is now beginning to set their sights overseas.