Kikuri Hiroi
Kikuri Hiroi |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Kanji: | 廣井 きくり |
| Romaji | Hiroi Kikuri |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 25 |
| Birthday: | September 28 |
| Height: | 158 cm |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Sayaka Senbongi |
| English: | No English Dub Yet |
Kikuri Hiroi (廣井 きくり, Hiroi Kikuri), is a supporting character in Bocchi the Rock! and the protagonist of the spinoff manga Bocchi the Rock! Gaiden: Hiroi Kikuri no Fukazake Nikki. She is the bassist and vocalist of the band SICK HACK, bringing her own unique energy and style to the music scene within the series. Kikuri’s character stands apart for her bold personality, musical talent, and central role in the spinoff, which dives deeper into her backstory and experiences.
Her involvement in the world of Bocchi the Rock! provides an intriguing contrast to the main band, Kessoku Band, adding depth to the overarching narrative and highlighting the diversity of characters in the local music scene. Kikuri’s character, with her energetic stage presence and personal struggles, enriches the story and provides additional layers to the exploration of music and its impact on individuals.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Kikuri Hiroi is the bassist and vocalist of the band SICK HACK, a group that has its own distinct musical identity and style. While much of her story is explored in the spinoff manga Bocchi the Rock! Gaiden: Hiroi Kikuri no Fukazake Nikki, Kikuri’s role in the main series is that of a supporting character whose musical prowess and personality add color to the world surrounding Kessoku Band.
In her spinoff, Kikuri’s life and struggles as a musician are explored more thoroughly. As the bassist and vocalist, she is not only responsible for the rhythm of her band’s sound but also plays a key role in delivering the band’s message through her voice. The spinoff manga provides insight into Kikuri’s personal journey, including her challenges as an up-and-coming musician, her relationships with her bandmates, and the emotional depths that come with pursuing a career in music.
Appearance
Kikuri Hiroi has a striking appearance that matches her energetic and dynamic personality. As a bassist and vocalist, her look is often reflective of her role in SICK HACK, which may feature a more punk or alternative style, fitting the band’s music and identity. Her hairstyle, clothing, and overall style are bold, expressive, and perhaps slightly rebellious, reflecting the tone of the band she represents.
Her appearance is characterized by confidence and attitude, but there may also be elements that reveal her vulnerability, particularly in moments outside of her performances. Kikuri’s overall look contributes to her stage presence, with elements that make her stand out as a key figure in the local music scene.
Personality
Kikuri Hiroi is a bold, energetic, and confident character, particularly in her role as both the bassist and vocalist of SICK HACK. Her strong stage presence and ability to command attention during performances make her a natural leader in her band. Kikuri’s personality is not just defined by her talent, but by her no-nonsense attitude, a trait that makes her both intriguing and occasionally intimidating to those around her.
Despite her outward confidence, Kikuri is not without her own struggles. Much like many musicians, she faces the pressures of balancing her career and personal life, and her journey is one of overcoming obstacles both in the music industry and in her relationships. Kikuri’s internal growth, particularly as seen in her spinoff manga, adds depth to her character, showing that there’s more to her than just her loud, confident exterior.
Her interactions with other characters, particularly the members of Kessoku Band, highlight a more supportive side to her, as she’s seen as both a mentor and an example of someone who has fought for her place in the music world. Kikuri’s personality is a blend of strength, vulnerability, and determination, which makes her a complex and relatable character.
Role in the Story
First Encounter with Bocchi: Kikuri is introduced when Hitori Gotoh (Bocchi) accidentally runs into her during one of her drunken escapades. Despite the chaotic first impression, Kikuri takes an interest in Bocchi, recognizing her musical talent and extreme shyness. She becomes something of an unpredictable mentor, offering encouragement and advice that helps Bocchi gradually break out of her shell.
Live House Connection: Kikuri is often seen at the live house STARRY, either performing with SICK HACK or hanging out backstage. She provides a link between Bocchi and the broader world of underground bands, helping her see that there’s more than one way to succeed as a musician. Kikuri’s raw passion for music and refusal to follow a traditional path provide inspiration to the Kessoku Band girls.
Lead in the Spinoff: In Bocchi the Rock! Gaiden: Hiroi Kikuri no Fukazake Nikki, Kikuri takes center stage. The spinoff follows her daily misadventures, emotional introspections, and struggles with life as a nearly-aimless musician. Through her solo narrative, readers see the contrast between the humorous drunk and the deeply human artist striving to stay true to her love for music despite life’s instability.
Relationships
Hitori Gotoh (Bocchi): Kikuri quickly takes a liking to Bocchi, seeing both her anxiety and her talent. Though her mentorship is unconventional often involving alcohol, loud encouragement, and bizarre advice she supports Bocchi’s growth as a guitarist and performer. Bocchi, in turn, sees Kikuri as a wild but oddly inspiring senior figure.
SICK HACK Members: Though their names and personalities are not deeply explored in the main series, Kikuri’s bandmates share a camaraderie forged through music, accepting her flaws and joining her in live performances that emphasize raw expression over polish.
Live House Staff and Musicians: Kikuri is well-known in the local scene. While her drunken behavior causes headaches for staff and other musicians, most treat her with a mix of frustration and fondness, aware of her sincerity and passion when it comes to music.