August “exPoP!!!!!” Brings Five Acts to NiEW’s Monthly Free Event in Shibuya
SHIBUYA, TOKYO — Tokyo’s vibrant live music scene is set for another electrifying evening as NiEW’s “exPoP!!!!! Vol.176” returns to Spotify O-nest on Friday, August 29, delivering a diverse bill of five unique acts — all with free entry. Known for its genre-blending lineups and cultural collaborations, exPoP!!!!! has become a staple for music lovers looking to discover fresh talent in an intimate yet high-energy setting.
Supported by TuneCore Japan, this month’s edition will bring together Shonen Kids Bowie, Trooper Salute, Gorilla Matsuri’s, Nagisa Murakami, and FUJIBASE for a night of music that spans everything from indie rock and folk to cinematic pop.
Shonen Kids Bowie – The “Double-Life” Band
Formed in 2020, Shonen Kids Bowie are more than just musicians — they are full-time professionals who chase their creative dreams outside their day jobs. This Tokyo-based group takes inspiration not only from music but from fashion, film, comedy, and manga, weaving those influences into a sound that feels fresh yet culturally rich. Their performances often carry an unpredictable energy, reflecting both the passion and the constraints of balancing art with everyday life.
Trooper Salute – Symphonic Indie Rock from Nagoya
Hailing from Nagoya, Trooper Salute bring a lush, symphonic indie rock sound that has earned them deep trust within their city’s live house scene. In their debut year, they supported touring acts from Japan and abroad, showing their ability to adapt to diverse audiences. Their self-titled debut EP, released in December 2024, led to sold-out shows in Tokyo and Nagoya — the latter at the iconic K.D. Japon.
In 2025, the band’s momentum continues with slots at major festivals including SYNCHRONICITY’25, Mori, Michi, Ichiba 2025, and YATSUI FESTIVAL! 2025, positioning them as one of Nagoya’s most promising exports.
Gorilla Matsuri’s – From Brass Band Covers to Multi-Genre Creators
What began as a high school brass band trio covering Kuricorder Quartet’s “Ojii-san no 11 Kagetsu” in 2017 evolved into Gorilla Matsuri’s — a three-piece band from Shiga blending eclectic instrumentation with playful creativity. Members Reito Koga (vocals, guitar), Shun Hirano (recorder, trumpet), and Yuki Funakoshi (melodica, keyboard) officially launched the project in 2020, releasing two full-length albums since.
Their versatility extends beyond live shows, with work on radio jingles, film themes, and soundtracks, showcasing their ability to adapt to multiple media formats while keeping their quirky yet polished sound intact.
Nagisa Murakami – Folk Roots with a Contemporary Edge
Tokyo-based singer-songwriter Nagisa Murakami brings warmth and groove to the stage, pairing her folk roots with supple rhythms and a voice that resonates deeply. Her debut mini-album Riyuu wa Nai, released in 2025, features production by Yuma Abe of never young beach, adding an extra layer of indie credibility.
Beyond music, Murakami is a multidisciplinary creative — involved in publishing and solo exhibitions — making her live performances as visually engaging as they are sonically compelling.
FUJIBASE – Cinematic Pop Crafted Solo
Launched in 2024, FUJIBASE is a one-person project where the artist writes, arranges, sings, and even plays the drums. What started as casually released monthly “Demo Sketch” recordings has grown into a notable online following, fueled by music deeply rooted in Western pop and cinematic soundscapes. Their ability to craft immersive worlds within each song makes FUJIBASE’s live set one of the most anticipated of the night.
More Than Music – Curry and Culture
This edition of exPoP!!!!! coincides with the Japanese Curry Festival 2025, which runs across the Shibuya area until August 31. At the venue, Matsumoto Meiyau — originally from Tokyo’s Shinanomachi and now based in Matsumoto, Nagano — will serve three distinct curry varieties. Each dish is a creative evolution of Indian and Thai-style ethnic curry, adding a flavorful dimension to the evening’s festivities.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
- Venue: Spotify O-nest, Shibuya, Tokyo
- Time: Doors open at 18:00 | Show starts at 18:30
- Admission: Free (two-drink purchase required)
- Performers: Shonen Kids Bowie, Trooper Salute, Gorilla Matsuri’s, Nagisa Murakami, FUJIBASE
- Food Stall: Matsumoto Meiyau (Curry)
- Streaming: NiEW Official YouTube
- Tickets: Reservation Required
Why exPoP!!!!! Remains a Must-Attend Series
For nearly two decades, exPoP!!!!! has served as a launchpad for emerging talent, bringing together diverse genres and fostering an inclusive music community. By pairing established performers with up-and-coming acts, the series keeps Tokyo’s live scene dynamic and forward-looking.
This month’s lineup reflects that mission — offering an evening where a symphonic indie band from Nagoya can share the stage with a cinematic pop solo act, and where folk, eclectic brass, and double-life rock coexist under one roof.
Will you be in Shibuya for this night of music, flavors, and cultural exchange? Share your experiences and favorite performances with us at ChicagoMusicGuide.com — your home for discovering music events that bridge genres and communities.