Boredoms

The Boredoms are an Osaka-based experimental group led by Yamantaka Eye, formed in 1986. Beginning as a chaotic noise-punk ensemble releasing on Shimmy-Disc and Reprise, they evolved through contact with American noise rock — touring with Sonic Youth and Nirvana — toward increasingly abstract and ritualistic territory. Super æ (1998) and Vision Creation Newsun (1999) marked a shift toward ecstatic drone-rock built on interlocking drum patterns. Their large-scale performances — featuring 77 drummers simultaneously at one point — extended the practice into durational and participatory forms. They remain active in various configurations.