Kalafina

Japanese vocal group formed by composer Yuki Kajiura, known for their ethereal harmonies and prominent anime theme songs. Kalafina was a Japanese vocal group formed in 2007 by composer Yuki Kajiura. Originally conceived as a project to perform themes for the anime series 'Kara no Kyōkai' (The Garden of Sinners), the group consisted primarily of vocalists Wakana Ōtaki, Keiko Kubota, and Hikaru Masai. Maya Toyoshima was also a member for the group's first year. Produced and managed by Spacecraft Produce and later by Sacra Music (Sony Music Japan), Kalafina became renowned for their distinct sound blending classical, pop, and world music elements, characterized by intricate vocal layering and Kajiura's compositions. They disbanded in March 2019.
  • The group was formed specifically at the request of anime producer Atsuhiro Iwakami, who wanted Kajiura to create a new 'project' for the 'Kara no Kyōkai' soundtracks, leading to auditions where Wakana, Keiko, and later Hikaru were selected.
  • Kalafina achieved significant mainstream success primarily through their association with popular anime franchises like 'Sword Art Online', 'Puella Magi Madoka Magica', and 'Fate/Zero', with songs like 'Oblivious', 'Magia', and 'to the beginning' becoming major hits.
  • Disbandment in 2019 followed a period of uncertainty and reduced activity after Wakana Ōtaki and Keiko Kubota left their long-time agency Spacecraft Group in early 2018. While no official detailed reason was given, industry reports and fan communities widely cited internal management conflicts and disagreements concerning Wakana's health issues and the group's future direction as contributing factors.
  • Yuki Kajiura, the group's producer and songwriter, publicly expressed surprise and disappointment at the disbandment announcement via Twitter, suggesting she was not consulted beforehand.