Japanese Cartoon is a post punk band which was formed in 2008 by rapper Lupe Fiasco (who uses his real name, Wasalu Muhammed Jaco while performing with the band) as a side-project to explore his interest in rock music. The band comprises of Jaco (Vocals), Graham Burris (Bass), Matt Nelson (Keyboard), and Le Messie (Production) of Streetwear Brand FALSE. Their album In The Jaws Of The Lords Of Death was released July 16, 2010 as a free online download from their website (http://allsabotage.com).
Wasalu Jaco (Lupe Fiasco) and Le Messie have a long friendship dating back to 2004, having collaborated on many art and independent fashion projects. They currently run a brand together called Fallacy Of Rome. Le Messie has also produced for Lupe Fiasco on the track Fighters Feat. Matthew Santos on his 4 time Grammy-nominated album The Cool. Additional musicians on the album include: Chris Gelbuda (Matthew Santos Band), Jonathan Marks (Hey Champ), Robert Tucker (Matthew Santos Band), Wolfie, Ian Astbury, Erik Hammer & Bam Alexander.
On July 17, Le Messie reported via his Twitter account that the band is currently working on their 2nd album. On July 23, Lupe Fiasco personally references Japanese Cartoon as his Punk Band on BBC 1Xtra in an interview with DJ Semtex. On July 28, MTV.com reported on Japanese Cartoon being Lupe Fiasco’s new body of work in an interview about his widely publicized L.A.S.E.R.S. album. |
