In a world where music often serves as a form of self-expression, Buddhadatta, a punk band from Japan, offers something truly unique, by blending Buddhist scriptures and mantras with the raw energy of punk music.
Formed in 2017, Buddhadatta was born from a chance reunion between Voglibonze, a "Punk Monk" who had been expanding his musical ventures across New York and Australia, and Takami, a veteran of the 1980s Kansai punk scene. Their collaboration soon grew with the addition of Seiko, the band's bassist, and the trio launched their ambitious quest to take their musical adventures worldwide. But their path to stardom is lined with more than just power chords and loud performances – it’s infused with centuries-old spiritual teachings.
From Sutras to the Stage: Punk Meets Buddhist Tradition
Incorporating Buddhist sutras into punk music may seem unconventional, but for Buddhadatta, it’s a natural evolution. For the uninitiated, Buddhist sutras are ancient scriptures filled with wisdom passed down through generations. As Voglibonze puts it, “I think it’s best to think of sutras and mantras as charms that will make you happier as you chant them. They are filled with human wisdom and energy that has been cultivated over time.”
The band doesn’t just recite sutras – they reinterpret them. Their lyrics draw on the teachings of Buddhism but from a deeply personal perspective. “Humans are constantly living in contradictions,” says Voglibonze. “We pray for others' happiness but also make them unhappy with jealousy, envy, greed, and desire. The scriptures contain wisdom to free us from these emotions.” The punk energy is a powerful vehicle for expressing these teachings, even if, as Voglibonze humorously admits, “I don’t really understand what’s written in the scriptures sometimes.”
The Komusō Influence: A Blend of Monastic and Secular Life
A distinctive visual element of Buddhadatta's live performances is the komusō hat, a traditional straw headpiece once worn by Japanese Zen monks. The hat represents a balance between the sacred and the every day, a theme that resonates deeply with the band. Voglibonze explains, “Half monk, half secular society. Half monk, half ordinary citizen. That’s how I see myself.” This duality
reflected both in their image and music, gives Buddhadatta a depth that sets them apart from more conventional punk acts.
Buddhist Punk Reception
Interestingly, Buddhadatta has garnered positive reception from Buddhist circles. Priests across Japan have even requested that the band quote their sect’s scriptures during performances. As Voglibonze notes, “Japanese Buddhists are very happy about this. The precepts of Japanese Buddhism are very relaxed.” This endorsement from religious figures underscores how the band’s message resonates not only with music fans but also with spiritual communities.
Australia and Beyond: Global Punk Monks
Touring internationally, including in Australia, has been a highlight for the band. They fondly recall performing with local acts like Thee ChaChaChas and Zipper Clone, among others. When asked about their experiences Down Under, Voglibonze was quick to say, “Of course! Everyone in Australia was so kind and happy.” They even hint at a return to Australia soon, much to the delight of their growing fan base there.
A Return to Australia
Buddhadatta's Aussie reception was so great earlier this year that they’ve decided to return this October. With a growing fan base and a unique blend of punk rock and Buddhist teachings, their upcoming tour promises to be just as energetic and thought-provoking as ever.
Find Buddhadatta online:
\
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/buddhadevadatta
Catch Buddhadatta live in Australia:
Canberra - The Pot Belly Bar (with special guest B.C and The Black Owl Quartet) – 3rd of October
Towradgi – The Towradgi Beach Hotel ( Haper Bloom, Avalanche, and The Try Outs) – 4th of October
Woy Woy – Link and Pin (with special guest Zipper Clone) - Saturday 5th of October
Sydney – The Moshpit Bar, Newtown (with White Knuckle Fever and Beijing Bikini) – 6th of October
Newcastle – Oak Tighes Hotel (with The Leftards and Crets) – 11th of October
Lismore – Festy-Ville, The South Lismore Bowlo (With Laura Panic, Shock Value, Die Rat Die + heaps more!) – 12th of October