Plastic Tree

The Profile

Plastic Tree is a Japanese alternative rock/visual kei band formed in Chiba in 1993. Known for melancholic, romantic songwriting and a blend of alt rock, post‑punk and new wave, the group’s core includes vocalist Ryutaro Arimura, bassist Tadashi Hasegawa and guitarist Akira Nakayama; drummer Hiroshi Sasabuchi featured prominently in their 2000s work.

From the reviews: Träumerei (2002) is their fourth album, sparked by the hit single Aoi Tori; Akira collaborated with COALTAR OF THE DEEPERS and Hiroshi Sasabuchi appears as the new drummer. Chandelier (2006) showcases tightly structured pop-rock craft and yielded singles like Sanbika, Namae No Nai Hana, Ghost, Kuuchuu Buranko and Namida Drop; the European EP What Is "Plastic Tree"? compiled related tracks and B‑sides. Nega to Posi (2007) marked their 10th‑anniversary reflections, with echoes of The Cure, Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins and Oasis; Spica stands out. Utsusemi (2008), their tenth album, is praised as a mature peak, featuring Replay, Alone Again, Wonderful World, Tetris, Q, Closer and Fiction. Puppet Show (1998) is regarded as an early masterpiece fusing Britpop and new wave sensibilities. cell. (2004) begins an experimental phase, adding electronics and contrasting songs like Harusaki Sentimental with heavier edges. The band originates from Chiba and operates within a visual kei context.

Five in-depth reviews portray Plastic Tree’s evolution from Britpop-tinged alt rock to mature, romantic melancholy. Highlights include Träumerei (2002), Chandelier (2006), Utsusemi (2008), Puppet Show (1998) and Nega to Posi (2007). The band’s Chiba roots, visual kei context, and nods to The Cure, Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins recur throughout. Lineup notes: vocalist/lyricist Ryutaro Arimura, bassist/composer Tadashi Hasegawa, guitarist Akira Nakayama, and drummer Hiroshi Sasabuchi (2000s era).