Bbq Chickens
BBQ Chickens (often stylized as BBQ CHICKENS) is a Japanese hardcore punk band founded in 2000 by ex–Hi-Standard guitarist Ken Yokoyama. The four members, all longtime friends, joined forces during Hi-Standard’s hiatus, developing a fast-paced and irreverent style that swiftly captured Japan’s punk audience. Their debut album, Indie Rock Strikes Back, sold over 85,000 copies, prompting multiple sold-out concerts and garnering recognition for their offbeat music videos.
Early Formation and Breakthrough
In 2000, Yokoyama (guitar/backing vocals) teamed with childhood allies Hongolian (vocals), Iso (bass), and their original drummer to launch BBQ Chickens. Released in 2001 via Pizza of Death Records, Indie Rock Strikes Back exceeded sales expectations and vaulted the band into national prominence. The group’s raw speed, humor, and comedic onstage demeanor propelled them to acclaim, while their videos stood out for their quirky visuals.
Music Video Awards
The band’s clip for “Sick Guy/Stupid Magazine” landed them “Best Alternative Video” at the 2002 Space Shower Music Video Awards. One year later, they repeated the feat with “Pizza of Death’s Theme/Fat Boy.” These accolades underscored the group’s reputation for marrying frenetic hardcore punk with humorous, sometimes satirical, visual storytelling.
Subsequent Albums and Covers
Across five full-length albums, BBQ Chickens maintained a freewheeling approach. Their third release, Fine Songs, Playing Sucks, was a covers record highlighted by unexpected song choices—an emblem of the band’s preference for mischievous stylistic twists. All their albums were issued on Yokoyama’s Pizza of Death label, enabling them to keep production and distribution fully in sync with their off-the-cuff creative instincts.
Discography
- Indie Rock Strikes Back (2001)
- Goodbye to Your Punk Rock (2002)
- Fine Songs, Playing Sucks (2003)
- Crossover and Over (2011)
- Broken Bubbles (2013)
Band Members
- Hongolian – Vocals (2000–present)
- Ken Yokoyama – Guitar, Backing Vocals (2000–present)
- Iso – Bass (2000–present)
- Andrew – Drums (2009–present)
