Hailing from Ishigaki Island, Yukito Ara is known for his emotional singing and mastery of the sanshin (Okinawan three-string instrument), performing in various styles including as a solo artist and with the band Parsha Club. Isamu Shimoji, who sings in his native Miyako dialect, explores music that transcends genres. Together, they form a music duo originating from Japan’s southern Sakishima Islands.

In 2014, they performed live in New York and Washington, D.C., earning critical acclaim from The New York Times, which also featured their music video “Danny Boy” on its website. Their music has been highly praised both in Japan and abroad for its originality.

Blending Okinawan tradition with modern sensibilities, their sound continues to captivate audiences around the world. Their third album, “Top Islands,” received the 2025 CD Shop Award (Okinawa Block Prize).

Since 2007, they have also hosted the popular RBCi Radio program “Zumi Fa Iyu,” which continues to be well-received by listeners.
Expanding from the Sakishima Islands to the rest of Japan—and now the world—the duo continues to broaden their musical horizons.