Four-member Japanese rock band, TOKYO SYOKI SYODO, ended the Tokyo Calling X CEIPA MUSIC WAY PROJECT with a bang. True to their name which translates to Tokyo Initial Impulse, the band delivered spontaneity. As the final performers, their set kept the crowd clamoring for more even as the venue had a strict end time to comply with local ordinances. Sheena (vocals, guitar), Mare (guitar), Asaka (bass), and Nao (drums) returned for the second time to perform as part of Tokyo Calling SXSW 2025, bringing an arrangement of tunes from their discography. Like their performance last year at the Elysium, which was also universally praised, the quartet gave their all to the crowd at the outdoor area of the Mohawk venue.
Their 40-minute set was intense, full of their signature rock sound and laid-back aesthetic. Although their catalog ranges from ballads to high spirited catchy melodies, the set focused on pure punk energy. Ever the crowd surfer, Sheena dove into the audience and was easily carried around from side to side. The stage crew worked tirelessly to ensure her mic cable would continue to reach her as she yelled and sang while being held up. After being safely brought back to the stage, she kept diving back into the crowd again and again throughout the set. Nozomi, Asaka, and Nao held down the fort by keeping the jams going until their vocalist was back on stage.
After their explosive performance, the four members greeted fans at the exit as the venue had to clean up and close out. Some fans who were so enamored by their 2024 SXSW performance came back just to see them. Their intense performance had the entire venue shaking, up to the second and third floor patios. In a brief interview, TOKYO SYOKI SYODO talked to Asia Blooming about their post-concert feelings on what they planned to do for the rest of SXSW.
You had such an amazing show. Can you give me a brief introduction of your band?
Sheena: Dangerous!
How did you get involved with SXSW?
Sheena: We just did.
Did you have any doubts with the language barrier and that you wouldn’t be able to speak to the audience?
Sheena: No problem!
What did you want to do differently this time compared to last time?
Sheena: Actually, it was a sudden decision to do what we did for this show.
When you were crowd surfing, did you plan that?
Sheena: Japanese style!
If you come back next year, what would you like to do?
Sheena: I’d like to DJ!
What would you like to do in Austin while you’re here?
Sheena: The infinite taco challenge and thrift shopping. Do they play music until the morning?
I believe the music shows usually ends around 2AM.
Sheena: We would also like to enjoy the event as part of the audience too!
