Rock · JP · Active since 2006

a flood of circle

Gritty, whiskey-stained blues rock that hits like a shot of adrenaline. Raw vocals and overdriven guitars for long nights and defiant moods.

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Intro

Formed in 2006 in the fertile musical ground of Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, a flood of circle (AFOC) has carved out a unique space in the Japanese rock landscape by doubling down on blues-rock fundamentals in an era of increasingly digital production. Led by the distinctive, raspy vocals of Ryosuke Sasaki, the band's sound identity is defined by a 'leather jacket' aesthetic: raw, overdriven, and unapologetically masculine.

Their career arc is marked by resilience, having survived the mysterious disappearance of original guitarist Masashi Okaniwa in 2009 and several lineup shifts, eventually solidifying with bassist Hisayo and guitarist Tetsu Aoki. Culturally, they represent the bridge between the 'Rock'n'Roll Revival' of the mid-2000s and the modern alternative scene, maintaining a dedicated cult following through relentless touring and a high-octane live reputation. Critical consensus highlights their ability to modernize the 12-bar blues structure into high-energy alternative rock anthems. They are frequently associated with the 'Shimokitazawa sound,' yet their heavy reliance on soulful, gritty textures separates them from the more math-rock or pop-leaning acts of that district.

Our Catalog14 Albums · 2009 · 2025
The Sound · Center of GravityWeighted across the artist's discography. Tap a trait for examples.
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