Starboard

Starboard is a Japanese alternative rock trio that emerged in the early 2000s, becoming a staple of the melodic indie-rock and 'emo-rock' scene alongside peers like Oceanlane and WRONG SCALE. Their sound identity is built on a foundation of Western emo influences (think Jimmy Eat World or The Get Up Kids) filtered through a distinctly Japanese melodic sensibility that emphasizes nostalgia and 'mono no aware.'

Throughout their career, they have maintained a consistent lineup, which has allowed for a highly telepathic rhythmic connection between Daisuke Asao's melodic bass playing and Retsu Ushijima's drumming. Their evolution saw them move from the high-energy indie-rock of their debut toward a more expansive, 'mellow' sound on later releases like 'Vegas96,' incorporating elements of surf rock and power pop. Critically, they are respected for their longevity and their ability to maintain an earnest, unpretentious aesthetic in a scene that often drifted toward over-production. They remain a cult favorite for crate-diggers of the 2000s J-rock era.