The innocent charm and minimal electronic essence of Aikagi contributed to the additional allure of Japanese indie pop. Debuting with a 1996 self-released cassette entitled Chiccho no Daibouken, Aikagi -- meaning "spare key" in Japanese -- eventually attracted overseas attention through the U.S. label Blackbean Placenta. Resulting in the 1998 EP Opening, the band followed with their debut full-length entitled Waterproof Leaf in 1999. Smile Records also contributed in Aikagi's discography upon the EP Pigs Might Fly that same year. ~ Mike DaRonco, All Music Guide
