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Pioneering Japanese rockers The Sadistic Mika Band formed in November 1971, led by the husband and wife duo Kazuhiko and Mika Katō. Kazuhiko, already a celebrated figure, married Mika Fukui, a folk singer, in Vancouver in 1970, and their union quickly captured the media's attention. Inspired by the UK's glam rock movement, led by icons like T. Rex and David Bowie, Kazuhiko set out to create a similar buzz in Japan. The original lineup included Kazuhiko on guitar and vocals, Mika taking on the vocal duties, and Hiro Tsunoda on drums. The band's name, a playful nod to John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Plastic Ono Band, reflected their unique blend of humor and musical ambition, with their debut single "Cycling Boogie" launching on Japan's first private label, Doughnut Records. Their eponymous debut album, released in 1973, garnered attention in the UK, leading to an unexpected connection with Bryan Ferry through Malcolm McLaren. This connection paved the way for their second album, 1974's Kurofune, recorded in England and produced by Chris Thomas. Despite its tepid commercial reception, Kurofune later earned acclaim as a cornerstone of Japanese rock, even securing a spot in Rolling Stone Japan's list of the 100 Greatest Japanese Rock Albums of All Time. Following their UK tour and significant recognition, including a memorable appearance on the iconic Old Grey Whistle Test, the band faced personal challenges leading to their dissolution in 1975, following the divorce of Kazuhiko and Mika. Post-breakup, the members embarked on successful individual careers. Kazuhiko Katō evolved into a versatile musician and TV personality, exploring genres and collaborations, including forming Vitamin-Q. Yukihiro Takahashi made a significant impact with Yellow Magic Orchestra and various acting roles. Mika Katō, after marrying and later separating from producer Chris Thomas, ventured into culinary arts and authored autobiographies. Despite their breakup, the band's legacy endured, leading to reunions under different formations that recorded two more studio LPs: Appare (1989) as Sadistic Mica Band and Narkissos (2006) under the name Sadistic Mikaela Band, which featured pop singer Kaela Kimura on lead vocals.
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