Japanese popkids Elekibass kick off their 11 date US tour tomorrow with a show in Tallahassee, Florida. After opening for Of Montreal on their first trip to the states a few years ago, this will be the first time the band headlines a tour over here (on tour with fellow Happy Happy Birthday To Me artists 63 Crayons). Elekibass' cross between "Sgt. Pepper" and the Archies is absolutely infectious during their live shows. You can find the band at Happy Happy Birthday To Me or at a venue near you.

Those of you who may have caught OF MONTREAL on tour in early 2001 may have been lucky enough to see ELEKIBASS opening. The Japanese band have finally released their first record, "California," on the very excellent Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records (on the web at www.hhbtm.com.) The best news is: they're coming for a quick Stateside tour! Dates for November are still being finalized, we'll put them up as they become available. Let me just tell you, though: This is one band you do NOT want to miss if you've got the opportunity. Their limited English combines with their twee-tastic pop enthusiasm to make what we can easily describe as one of the cutest, most charming groups around. Although none of the band are fluent in English, they've tried to put up an English version of their website, and it's true brilliance. For instance, THIS is how their website announces their tour:

"There is the American tour. We go to America again. The tour, 10 days, has planned all the 10 shows.
Details do to know, are to be it announces. Please come to play by all means. Just it is possible, we want enjoying at show in many people, is!"