BRATS: The Japanese Sister Duo That Rocked from Childhood to Stardom
In the vibrant music scene of Tokyo, few stories are as remarkable as that of BRATS, the all-female rock band that began as a childhood dream and evolved into a powerful force in Japanese rock music. When sisters Rei and Aya Kuromiya formed the band in August 2011, they were just 10 and 12 years old respectively, yet their ambition and talent would soon captivate audiences across Japan and beyond.
The band's name perfectly captured the rebellious spirit that would define their journey. Rei chose "BRATS" because of her own self-described "brat-like personality," a characteristic that would fuel their music's raw energy and authentic emotion. Their debut performance at Shibuya Club Quattro in August 2012, coinciding with the release of their first demo CD Gangan Do it!, marked the beginning of what would become a transformative musical odyssey.
BRATS experienced significant evolution during their career, including a pivotal pause in activities in March 2015. During this period, Rei temporarily joined the group Ladybaby, while the band redefined their musical direction. This hiatus proved crucial to their artistic development, as they emerged in December 2016 with a harder, more mature rock sound that reflected their growth as both musicians and individuals.
The turning point came with Ainikoiyo, the opening theme for the anime To Be Hero, which showcased their new hard rock style. This transformation wasn't merely aesthetic—it represented the band members' coming of age and their desire to express more personal artistic visions. As Rei explained, their newfound confidence allowed them to pursue a more rock-oriented direction without doubt about their future.
Their musical journey reached new heights with the release of their self-titled debut album BRATS in 2018. The album featured theme songs from anime series and Japanese films, including Nounai Shoukyo Game from the film Slavemen. This release demonstrated their versatility and ability to create music that resonated both within and beyond traditional rock audiences, reaching number 111 on the Oricon chart and establishing their commercial viability.
BRATS expanded their reach internationally, performing their first overseas concert in Seoul, South Korea, in 2019, followed by appearances in Taiwan and the United States. These international performances, including their show at Anime Los Angeles in 2020, proved that their music transcended cultural boundaries and connected with diverse audiences worldwide.
The band's second studio album Karma, released in 2020, marked another evolutionary step in their sound. However, this period also brought challenges, as guitarist Hinako departed due to creative differences, leaving the core sister duo to continue their musical journey. Despite these changes, BRATS continued to release music and perform, maintaining their commitment to authentic rock expression.
Throughout their career, BRATS drew inspiration from various rock and punk influences. Rei's musical awakening came from seeing SCANDAL perform when she was just 10 years old, while the band collectively embraced the energy and rebellious spirit of Japanese and international rock acts. This diverse range of influences helped shape their unique sound that blended traditional rock elements with contemporary Japanese musical sensibilities.
The band's legacy extends beyond their recorded music to include their impact on young musicians and their demonstration that age should never be a barrier to artistic expression. Their journey from child performers to accomplished rock musicians inspired countless young artists and proved that authentic passion and dedication could overcome any obstacles.
In March 2024, BRATS announced the suspension of their activities indefinitely, marking the end of an era that spanned over a decade of musical evolution. Their story remains a testament to the power of sibling collaboration, artistic growth, and the enduring appeal of rock music that speaks from the heart. From their early days as young performers to their final shows as seasoned musicians, BRATS created a unique legacy in Japanese rock that continues to inspire new generations of artists.