KAO=S is a rock unit formed in 2011 by Kaori Kawabuchi (singer/sword dancer) and Shuji Yamagiri (guitarist/singer).
They are known for rock music arranged with Japanese instruments, Kaori's intense and beautiful sword dancing during live performances, and for their twin vocal style.
After forming, they quickly gained attention in the US, performing at the world's largest music convention, SXSW, in both 2012 and 2013, and embarking on a US tour.
In 2014, they were introduced worldwide as “Japanese Art Rock” on a CNN International program and have since performed live in 12 countries.
Since their first appearance at Nippon Connection in 2013, they have visited Germany many times.
They have performed at MAIN MATSURI since its first edition and provided the theme song “Yu”.
In addition to their duo performances, they also perform live in various formats, including with Japanese instrument players, bands, and sword dance teams.
At the 2025 MAIN MATSURI, they will perform not only as KAO=S but also as part of the Japanese-style entertainment team LADY SAMURAI'S CHAOS, alongside sword dance performers.
| Date | Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 15.08.2025 | 18:15 | Cup Noodles Main Stage | KAO=S |
| 17.08.2025 | 13:30 | Brother Sewing & Craft Main Stage | KAO=S |
He studied music in Hamburg and Paris. In his youth, he won several national prizes in the “Jugend musiziert” competitions in the categories of solo performance, piano trio, and string quartet. During that time, he was also a member of the “Varius Ensemble” for contemporary music and dedicated himself to promoting modern compositions throughout Germany and Europe.
This was followed by a long career in the healthcare sector, which made professional musical activity impossible.
Now, he is looking forward to a small comeback with KAO=S on the stage of the Main Matsuri.
