Otoboke Beaver have apologised after guitarist Yoyoyoshie threw her guitar into a crowd in Osaka, striking and injuring a fan.
The incident took place during a show by the Japanese punk band’s show at Umeda Club Quattro in Osaka back in April, with a member of the audience being hospitalised, requiring seven stitches.
Earlier today (August 11), the band posted on Instagram to apologise for the accident, saying they “wish the injured person a full recovery” and acknowledging that “we caused this accident” and “offer our deepest apologies”.
They went on to acknowledge that their handling of the incident had added to the fan’s distress. “Co-ordination between us and the staff member entrusted to act as the point of contact that day, as well as our follow-up response, was not prompt, resulting in a delay to both our direct apology and public statement,” they said.
The band also apologised to those who attended the show and anyone affected by the incident.
“The injured person was taken to hospital by ambulance immediately after the accident and received treatment for injuries including a forehead laceration requiring a total of seven stitches and a cervical sprain. We have also caused them significant emotional distress.”
They pledged to continue to respond “in good faith” during the fan’s recovery and concluded by saying, “we are truly sorry”.
The show in question was one of three farewell dates for drummer Kahokiss, who has stepped away from the band for maternity leave. Former Shonen Knife drummer Leo has since joined the line-up.
The band spoke to NME in 2022, with singer Accorinrin saying about their distinctive energy: “I think it’s wonderful that there’s no other band that sounds like us.” Yoyoyoshie added that their aim was to create “a sense of fun and a sense of speed”.
They recently supported Foo Fighters at six dates on their ‘Take Cover’ stadium tour, including at the first of two giant shows at Anfield in Liverpool. Their upcoming dates include an appearance at Ohana Festival in California next month.
