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Japanese pop-rock band known for uplifting melodies and anime theme songsFormed in 1999 by high school students in Kanagawa, Japan, Ikimono-Gakari gained national fame with their 2006 commercial hit 'Sakura'. The band achieved mainstream success through anime tie-ins like 'Naruto Shippuden' and 'Liar Game', releasing 9 studio albums and holding iconic stadium concerts before transitioning to a trio after 2021.

• Original vocalist Kiyoe Yoshioka unexpectedly left in 2021 after 22 years, citing personal growth reasons, though tabloids speculated about creative differences
• Their name translates to 'Living Organisms' or 'Creatures Gathering', reflecting their philosophy of music connecting all life
• Guitarist Hotaka Yamashita composed most songs while working part-time at a gas station during the band's early struggling years
• 2008's 'Blue Bird' became a cultural phenomenon in Japan, topping charts for 16 weeks and becoming Naruto's most iconic opening theme