Shonen Knife, the all-female pop-punk band from Osaka, Japan, is still going strong. With their new release, Free Time, the band is heavily touring the world including a stop in Chicago at Schuba’s on September 21st – a show not to be missed. Naoko Yamono, Knife’s only original member since their inception in 1981, brings along with her a new lineup whose raw energy and vibrancy rivals any version of the band to date. One of Kurt Cobain’s favorite acts, Shonen Knife has always been known for their entertaining live show, simplistic lyrics and a distinct garage-punk guitar sound – a formula that has given the band an incredibly loyal cult following throughout the years that continues to grow.
Buzz: Tell me about your latest release, Free Time.
Naoko: Free Time is very powerful pop rock album. We recorded last year and released Japanese version in January this year. In North America, we've just released English lyrics version.
Buzz: Shonen Knife has been together for nearly 30 years. How is touring different today as opposed to the early-mid 80?s?
Naoko: We started to play overseas from 1989. We had just one show in L.A. Then in 1991, we played at 4 cities in U.S. In early-mid 80's we just played in Japan and we've never had a long tour until 1993. Anyway, our shows in early-mid 80's were primitive. We didn't move so much on stage and the tempo of the songs were a little slow. Today, we improved a little and we can - do ROCK on stage. I got used to the tour. I know how to pack my bag.
Buzz: How has your music changed throughout the years?
Naoko: Early Shonen Knife songs were more simple than today. Arrangements were simple, too. My musical skill is a little bit improved, I think but basic spirit is always the same.
Buzz: Along with KISS and The Beatles, you’ve also had many punk/new wave influences when you first began. Are there any bands out there today that inspire you?
Naoko: I mainly like 70's American rock and 70's British hard rock. Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Doobie Brothers, Chicago, Strawberry Alarm Clock… Recently I saw Big Elf and Coheed and Cambria at a music festival in Japan. They were so nice. Their music style is 70's that's why I like them. Ah, Brandt Bjork is nice, too.
Buzz: What are your best memories from working with Kurt Cobain?
Naoko: Kurt wanted to play our song "Twist Barbie" at Nirvana's secret gig and he asked me guitar chords. I taught him and we played the guitar together.
Buzz: What is your favorite thing about playing live?
Naoko: I like to see our fans. When I see our audience smiling during our show, I'm so happy.
Buzz: What are your thoughts about American fans?
Naoko: So nice, kind, they understand Shonen Knife very well.
Buzz: What is the biggest difference about being in an all female band in the U.S.
compared to Japan?
Naoko: I can't see any differences but the musical styles are different. Japanese bands usually sing in Japanese. Naturally, the melody line became Japanese style, which is suitable with Japanese language.
Buzz: What kind of advice would you offer to young female musicians?
Naoko: Keep on Rockin'!
Buzz: What stand out to you as the band’s greatest achievement, whether it be on a
social level or musical?
Naoko: It's too difficult question. Musical.
Thanks Arigato.
