Artists

fra-foa

Biography

Perhaps the best word to describe fra-foa is "menacing." The band specializes in slow-tempo rock that doesn't relent in its harshness.

Mikami Chisako has drawn comparrisons to Cocco, although Mikami tends to be rougher with her voice. In video clips, the two singers share a similar stage presence.

According to the band, there's no special meaning to the name "fra-foa." They were drawn to the sound of the phrase, saying it implied a sense of floating.

Although hard on the surface, fra-foa's music does have an ethereal quality deserving of its onomotopaeic name.

Formed in Sendai in 1998, fra-foa played steadily for two years before signing a recording deal with independent label Toy's Factory. The band released its first single in May 2000, later following up with a full-length album (Chuu no Fuchi) in January 2001.

fra-foa released more singles and worked with Dr.StrangeLove's Takamune Negishi on its second album, 13 Leaves. The album was released in 2002 and fulfilled the band's contract with Toy's Factory.

In late 2002, Mikami announced she had gotten married and was pregnant. fra-foa took a break from touring till after she delivers in May 2003.

In 2004, fra-foa resumed its live shows, while Mikami released her debut solo single, "Fundamental/ride", in October 2004 and acted in a short film. Her debut solo album followed a month later.

The band self-released two DVD compilations before calling it quits in 2005.

Members

Mikami Chisako: Vocals
Takahashi Seiji: Guitars
Hiratsuka Manabu: Bass
Sasaki Koji: Drums