METAFIVE Members, Gear & Sound

METAFIVE is a Japanese supergroup that seamlessly blends the eclectic charm of Shibuya-kei with experimental electronic pop. Formed by a powerhouse lineup of influential musicians, the group includes Yukihiro Takahashi (vocals, drums) from Yellow Magic Orchestra, Keigo Oyamada (guitar, vocals) known as Cornelius, Yoshinori Sunahara (synthesizers) formerly of Denki Groove, Towa Tei (synthesizers) from Deee-Lite, Tomohiko Gondo (trumpet, electronics), and Leo Imai (vocals, guitar). This collective brings together a wide array of influences, resulting in a sound that is both retro-futuristic and richly textured, appealing to fans of avant-garde pop and electronic music alike.

METAFIVE’s sonic landscape is characterized by layered, lush electronic textures and playful yet sophisticated arrangements. Their music often combines the synth-driven grooves of Yamaha Reface CS and Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 with the organic warmth of Fender Player Stratocaster guitar tones. This fusion creates a sound that is both vibrant and polished, with a clean yet dynamic feel that allows each instrument to breathe. The use of vintage-inspired synths and modern effects, such as the Neural DSP Quad Cortex, helps to craft their unique blend of electronic pop, where melodic hooks and intricate rhythms dance seamlessly in a polished yet adventurous soundscape.