HEY-SMITH: A High-Energy Ska Punk Band with a Unique Sound
HEY-SMITH delivers a fierce burst of ska punk energy. Their sound blends infectious hooks, powerful horns, and shredding guitars. Imagine a mix of NOFX, Streetlight Manifesto, Propagandhi, and The Specials. This fusion creates a unique musical experience.
Formed in 2006, HEY-SMITH has seen many lineup changes. In 2015, the band settled on its current six-member group. The members include guitarist and vocalist Shuhei Igari, bassist and vocalist YUJI, saxophonist Mitsuru, drummer Task-n, trombonist Kanasu, and trumpeter Ken Iikawa.
In 2020, the band signed with the iconic American punk label, ASIAN MAN RECORDS. They began streaming their album Life In The Sun World Edition globally, bringing their music to fans around the world.
HEY-SMITH stands out in the punk scene with its own horn section, adding depth and energy to their music. Some of their most famous tracks include “Endless Sorrow,” a song that riffs on Georges Bizet’s Farandole from The Girl from Arles. Another popular track is “Be the One,” which fuses metal elements with an energetic melody. Their TV debut in 2018 featured the song “NOT a TV Show.”
Shuhei Igari, the band’s leader, writes both the lyrics and music for HEY-SMITH. Through their music, they promote the punk ethos of speaking up, living freely, and having fun. Their live performances are renowned for high energy and crowd engagement, often turning into wild, unforgettable events. Despite changes over the years, the band remains committed to their roots, combining their love for punk rock with a message of resilience and freedom.