Pizzicato Five

Pizzicato Five (often known simply by the initials P5) is a Japanese pop group best known to audiences in the West in their later incarnation as a duo of Maki Nomiya and Yasuharu Konishi. The group, widely credited (along with Flipper's Guitar) with spearheading the shibuya-kei movement of Tokyo in the 1990s, is known for eclectic and energetic compositions that often sound like "new" releases from the late 1960s hipster scene. The catchphrase "A New Stereophonic Sound Spectacular" captured the group's ironic stance and eager attitude. The group broke up in March 2001.

Pizzicato Five was a hugely prolific group during its 16-year-long existence, usually releasing at least an album each year in addition to various EPs and remix albums.

Members
Yasuharu Konishi (小西康陽). Only founding member to stay with the group until the end. Songwriter, bass, keyboards, vocals.
Keitarō Takanami (高浪慶太郎 later changed his name to 高浪敬太郎 Keitarō Takanami, and was also known as "K-taro"). Guitar and vocals.
Mamiko Sasaki (佐々木麻美子). Lead vocalist until 1987.
Ryō Kamomiya (鴨宮諒). Keyboards.
Takao Tajima (田島貴男). Lead vocalist 1987-1990.
Maki Nomiya (野宮真貴). Lead vocalist from 1990. · close