KiZUNA are a lively, acoustic trio that is passionate about Japanese music and media! Their members are vocalists Angel, Jess, and guitarist-producer Oli from South-West Sydney. For JAM FEST 2024, they are also excited to feature pianist Adrian, their first guest performer. KiZUNA are fascinated by the power of animation and the integral relationship music has in representing characters’ experiences, conveying emotions and telling stories. The theme for their set this year is “tsunagari” (connection), songs that explore how we search, yearn and fight for relationships that matter. Enjoy a relaxing set of covers exclusively showcasing anime soundtracks, from shōjo stars “Blue Spring Ride” and “A Sign of Affection”, to contemporary classics like “The Apothecary Diaries” and “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.” You will laugh into tears and cry from joy as you join them on their journey to find love, friendship, and the bond that connects us all.
Before even having a name, Angel, Jess and Oli created J-POP covers to enter the Japan Foundation’s J-Talent competitions in 2020 and 2021. Despite the challenges they faced learning music in another language, having little equipment, and a lockdown keeping them apart, they knew they wanted to continue making music together. They officially debuted as a trio under KiZUNA at SMASH 2022 and have returned to the convention’s stage over the last two years as performers. They have been involved in independent Japanese music-centred shows around Sydney: the inaugural JAM FEST 2023, Gorogoro Isshin, and Memories of Spring. They have also performed at local community events such as Bring it On! Fairfield and the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival, and hope to seek further opportunities to bring Japanese music to the Sydney scene.