We sat down with Sled Island 2025 headliners and guest curators, the explosive punk rock band all the way from Kyoto, Japan—Otoboke Beaver. Guitarist/vocalist Yoyoyoshie is here (with her translator) to talk about playing for North American fans, thrift shopping on tour, and what’s next with the band.
Named after an Osaka love hotel and formed in 2009, the band—made up of her, Accorinrin (lead vocal and guitar), Hirochan (bass), and Kahokiss (drums)—has become synonymous with their shockingly chaotic stage presence (despite the looks), break neck speed shreds, matched with lyrics that skewer gender norms and social expectations. Their 2022 album Super Champon was hailed for its no-holds-barred fusion of garage punk, Noise rock, and riot grrrl chaos.
Otoboke Beaver’s live shows are a collision of sassy attitude, uninhibited avant-punk energy, and sheer unapologetic chaos, blending comedic flair with rapid-fire lyrics delivered in their native Kansai dialect. But don’t take my word for it; experience their single “Don’t light my fire” for yourself.
This June, they take on dual roles at Sled Island, both headlining and serving as guest curators. Festival organizers handed them the reins to help shape the lineup, and the band responded with an eclectic, electric mix: from cult garage heroes The Mummies to the abrasive psych-noise of Tropical Fuck Storm from Australia, along with rising experimental acts from all over the globe.
Otoboke Beaver is set to level the stage at Calgary’s historic Palace Theatre on June 21, in what promises to be one of the loudest, wildest, and most unforgettable performances of the festival.
Beyond the musicianship, your outfits and chaotic stage presence have become a signature part of the Otoboke Beaver experience. How do you go about picking your dresses for each show?
Yoyoyoshie: We thrift at secondhand shops in the town we play and just pick what feels cute. Maybe will debut new looks tomorrow if we find some today (haha)
You get placed into a lot of different genres—riot grrrl, punk rock, noise rock. But what do you consider your group as? And if you had to make up a genre name yourself, what would it be?
Yoyoyoshie: I don’t know! We just say “Otoboke Beaver”. But we love things that sound fast and loud.
What’s the hardest song for you to play on guitar?
Yoyoyoshie: Ah, recently we made a new song that it’s very difficult for me. It gets faster as the track progresses. It goes up and down. I always give up when recording!
So does that mean we can expect new music soon? And what kind of direction is the band going in with the new material?
Yoyoyoshie: Yes, the new music is… faster and louder. But also sometimes like.. tired. Lazy.
You all play with such an insane amount of energy. When I first saw you live in Ireland, I was constantly catching my breath. Also one of the rowdiest mosh pits! How do you decompress afterward? Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Yoyoyoshie: Before the show, in the green room, we listen to our own music and sometimes start dancing. To get in the zone.
What do you listen to to get Psyched up?
Yoyoyoshie: I love Jack White
Speaking of, Jack White called you his favourite guitar player!
Yoyoyoshie: Yes, I’m so happy! As a present… he gave me one of his guitar. When I play with it, it’s like Jack White’s soul comes out.
Did the band expect such a big boom of love from international fans? Or were you surprised how many people outside Japan connected with your music?
Yoyoyoshie: We were very surprised. But it’s thanks to our label (Damnably)
I’m actually going to Kyoto later this year. Any underrated places or experiences tourists don’t usually know about that you can recommend?
Yoyoyoshie: Ah! Yes. There’s a bar in Kyoto, Galaxy Bar 5000. Plays really good punk rock. Where I go to get inspired and hear new music.
And when you come to US/Canada, is there any particular food you get excited for?
Yoyoyoshie: I want to try beaver tail. I heard great things.
So you can be, Otooboke Beaver Tail? Have you had poutine? (proceeds to explain what that is)
Yoyoyoshie: Oh we haven’t but we must try now!
You’re curators for Sled Island this year— what was the process like for picking the artists you wanted on the lineup?
Yoyoyoshie: We just pick the artists we love. We are excited to be able to check out some of the bands this weekend.
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Otoboke Beaver will continue tearing through stages through Japan and US including a highly anticipated appearance at Lollapalooza later this year. Until then, dive into their discography, including Super Champon and ITEKOMA HITS, available now on all major streaming platforms.
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Photo courtesy of social media
