Japanese rock band 10-FEET was formed in 1997 in Kyoto by singer-guitarist Takuma, bassist Naoki, and drummer Kouichi. ∙ The trio’s 2002 debut album, Springman, introduced their fusion of punk and heavy metal, with elements of hip-hop, reggae, and bossa nova. ∙ Acclaimed for their powerful live performances, 10-FEET sold out their first headlining concert and have since toured Korea, Taiwan, and the US. ∙ Their albums Twister, Life Is Sweet, Thread, and Fin—as well as eight singles—reached the Top 10 in Japan. ∙ In 2003, they launched their own record label, Badass, with Universal Music distributing its releases.