The Ricecookers, Sean Nolan and the Heartmakers, Lee Lawless

THE RICECOOKERS is a Japanese rock band formed in 2004 in Boston by Tomomi Hiroishi (Vocalist), Kota Fujii (Lead Guitar), and Daisuke Wakabayashi (Bass) and later joined by Sohei Oyama (Drums). They met at the prestigious Berklee College of Music where they were classically trained and perfected their musical skills. For 6 years, they performed at countless venues in Boston such as Paradise Rock... Club, Harpes Ferry, Middle East Downstaris, and Great Scott. From 2006 to 2010, they were a regular bill at The Irish Pub as the headliner gaining a large fan base.

In 2007, they entered the worldwide music contest, EMERGENZA, and finished as semifinalist for the Massachusetts State Finals, drawing media attention as the first Japanese band to become a finalist.

In January 2010, THE RICECOOKERS made their debut with an EP "Four of Our Songs"; produced by Shunji Okada Zazou Productions, Inc. and released by Bowinman Music Group. The EP is available in Japan as well as in the United States.

Following a successful 2-week tour in Tokyo, THE RICEOOKERS moved to New York City and regularly perform at renowned venues such as Arlene's Grocery, R Bar, The Knitting Factory, Ace of Clubs, Don Hill's, and The Fontana's to name a few.

Now they set their home town in New York, but often tour in Japan.


With Sean Nolan (vocals, guitar), Chris Cross (bass, vocals), and Adam Berrios (drums).


"...a strong blues/rock riff and a pleasant vocal from Lawless that sounds like a more subdued version of Jimi Hendrix or Robert Cray."

"The riffing is wonderfully catchy and driving and is backed up by a chugging bass performance that demonstrates Lawless' abilities aren't just limited to playing lead".

-- Heath Andrews