Vietnamese audiences impressed with traditional Japanese music blended with rock

The fusion of modern rock and traditional taiko drums

Bati-Holic is a Kyoto-based rock band known for its distinctive "Taiko Drum Rock" style. Many bands incorporate traditional elements into their music to create a unique identity. However, few succeed as impressively as Bati-Holic. The fusion of the powerful beats of taiko drums and the lively melodies of the three-stringed guitar creates a bold yet captivating sound.

Formed in 2004 in Kyoto, one of Japan’s cultural hubs, Bati-Holic stands out by combining traditional Japanese instruments, particularly the taiko drum which is commonly used in rituals and festivals in Japan, with the raw energy of modern rock.

The combination of powerful Taiko drums, sharp electric guitars, rich bass and powerful vocals makes the group unique. While deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, their compositions are also influenced by modern genres like punk, alternative rock, and folk rock.

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki speaks ahead of the band's performance at his residence in Hanoi on March 21.

Speaking ahead of the band's performance at his residence in Hanoi, Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki expressed his delight in once again promoting the unique artistry of Bati-Holic to audiences.

He said: "Bati-Holic has been developing its unique style by merging rock with traditional Japanese music. The band has spread its captivating sound internationally and has been well received by audiences abroad."

Bati-Holic's appeal lies not only in their use of traditional instruments but also in their ability to innovate and transform their music. From soft and emotional rhythms to exhilarating and fast-paced beats, the band promises to take listeners on an unforgettable musical journey.

According to Hiroyuki Nakajima, a member of Bati-Holic, the taiko drum plays a crucial role in Japanese festival music as it produces a powerful sound that brings people together. He shared: "When we studied festival music, we found many energetic melodies that could be fused with rock. We then decided to blend these two styles into a new genre. Combining traditional and modern music is challenging since each generation has different tastes and aesthetics. However, we preserve the best elements of traditional music and merge them with modern aspects to create something fresh and exciting".

Bati-Holic’s music is a dynamic blend of wild and thunderous taiko beats with fiery electric guitar riffs, deep bass, and pulsating drum rhythms, creating a soundscape that is both primal and epic. Additionally, traditional instruments like the shinobue flute add a mystical and enchanting layer to their compositions.

Bati-Holic promotes Vietnam-Japan cultural exchange

One of Bati-Holic’s biggest draws is their electrifying stage presence. Their performances embody the spirit of traditional Japanese festivals while maintaining a modern and free-spirited edge.

Director of the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam Yoshioka Norihiko said that over the past decade, alongside Vietnam’s economic growth, its cultural industries, including the music industry, have made significant strides.

According to Director of the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam Yoshioka Norihiko, Bati-Holic’s performances have been highly acclaimed not only in Japan but also internationally, including France, the Republic of Korea, China, the Netherlands, Italy, Vietnam and many other countries.

During their international tour, Bati-Holic made a much-anticipated return to Vietnam, marking their fourth performance in the country. Their last visit was a decade ago, and in previous years, they performed in Hanoi, Hue, Thanh Hoa, and Ho Chi Minh City.

The beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and the warm enthusiasm of the audience in Vietnam have urged us to return and perform again.

Hiroyuki Nakajim - a member of Bati-Holic

With two concerts scheduled at the Youth Theatre in Hanoi on March 22 and at Ben Thanh Theatre in Ho Chi Minh City on March 26, Bati-Holic is set to thrill Vietnamese fans again with their passionate and high-energy music.

Reflecting on their past performances in Vietnam, Hiroyuki Nakajima expressed his lasting impression of the country: "The beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and the warm enthusiasm of the audience in Vietnam have urged us to return and perform again".

The combination of powerful Taiko drums, sharp electric guitars, rich bass and powerful vocals makes Bati-Holic unique.

Bati-Holic's concerts are not just musical events, but they play a crucial role in strengthening Vietnam-Japan cultural exchanges. Through the beats of taiko drums, Vietnamese audiences experience traditional Japanese music in an exciting and contemporary way. The overwhelmingly positive reception from Vietnamese fans also highlights the growing appreciation for Japanese culture.

At the mini-show held at his residence, the Japanese Ambassador affirmed that Bati-Holic's boundary-breaking music exemplifies the diversity of modern Japanese culture. “I hope the performances will help you feel the charm of Japanese culture and inspire even greater interest in Japan. I also hope this event will further enhance cultural exchanges between Japan and Vietnam", he added.

Sharing his enthusiasm for Vietnamese music, Yoshioka Norihiko, Director of the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam, mentioned being particularly impressed by Hoa Minzy’s music video "Bac Bling". He noted: "As each country progresses, finding ways to preserve and promote traditional values while sharing its culture with the world is becoming increasingly important".

He further emphasised that over the past decade, alongside Vietnam’s economic growth, its cultural industries, including the music industry, have made significant strides. This development has not only captured the attention of domestic audiences but has also garnered substantial international interest.

Hanoi audiences are excited with the band's performance.

With their fusion of traditional Japanese instruments and modern rock, Bati-Holic is more than just a band. They are cultural ambassadors who have made great contributions to preserving and promoting Japan’s heritage in a uniquely contemporary way.

Continuing the success of their past performances, their concerts in Vietnam this time promise an unforgettable artistic experience, leaving a lasting impression on Vietnamese audiences. Events like these serve as a bridge that bring the two cultures closer together and foster cooperation and future development between the two nations.

Bati-Holic's members take picture with their fans.