In 1993, while most of Tokyo was bopping along to mindless J-Pop, sonic adventurists Mug, Taata and Sugar formed the first version of ATP, named after the energy-carrying molecule present in all life forms. The band played mostly small clubs and cafes while honing their sound and their lineup. In 1995, drummer Kaz joined, and the band began a recording spree that would result in two self-released albums: Animal Talks and Diary of Lost Days. While neither release was a commercial success, Asahi Shinbun, the largest daily newspaper in Japan, would publish an article on vocalist Taata and set ATP's wheel in motion.
In 1996, Crane (producer of several hit bands in Japan, including Sheena and the Rokkets, who scored several #1 hits) took ATP under his wing. Through him, they landed a deal with BMG/Vivid, which resulted in Sun-Dancer, a CD that allowed the band to move on to bigger venues. Soon, they were on national television -preforming on established programs such as Zeus' Holiday and Jaka-Jan. The band was being touted as the best in Japanese alternative music on Dash/Dash, a serious documentary program. However, it all came crashing down when it was learned that producer Crane was seriously ill.
Realizing that Crane was the only one outside their circle that truly believed in the band, and despondent over his circumstances, ATP took a long hiatus.
In 1998, they resumed recording on their own. To usher in this new era, the band collaborated with the respected Gothic artist, Akira Hosoyama, to stage a singular event at Tokyos Café des pres. In its 100-year history, the Café had never seen anything like this spectacle. Giant original paintings were the backdrop; spotlights shone on objets d'art; every bit of the stage was decorated -from the mic stands, to the amplifiers, to Taata herself!
Recently, ATP added acclaimed session bassist Kohei to the force. This is the lineup that recorded the music on Aroused Zen Monk, an album currently available only through the Internet. ATP's newfound interest in the Net has brought their unique sound to an adoring world audience, which grows daily. Their track, “If You Ever” held the #1 spot in Asia for over three months on MP3.com, and none of their songs have dropped out of the Alternative and Rock Top 40 since they were uploaded in February. The band is planning their summer 2000 tour of Japan, as well as gearing up for their next record. ATP is a band poised for greatness, and the posture suits them well