Fifteen-year-old Katie Malcolm was discovered after she posted videos of herself on YouTube and was asked to join Cruel Angels along with nine other band-mates from America, France, Scandinavia and England.

Katie, who has taught herself Japanese, and is a fan of the manga comics, is expected to travel to the country in the summer to record with band members who have already signed a three year deal.

Her online videos showed her talent for the language and caught the attention of London-based manager Peter Emina.

The group will also make public appearances and there is also the possibility of becoming involved in an animated TV series and branded products.

The fourth year Milne's High School pupil will perform under the stage name Kimi Cruel.

Katie said she was initially shocked at the invitation to join Cruel Angels, but is looking forward to the unexpected opportunity.

"I got into the language through the comics and the fashion," she said.

"I'm really excited, and it's taking me in a new direction."

Moray schoolgirl Katie Malcolm hopes to top the music charts in Japan as part of girl group Cruel Angels. NS

Katie had been planning a career in photography, but the Cruel Angels project is more likely to put her in front of the camera.

As well as Japanese, Katie also speaks German and is preparing for her Higher examination later this year along with her standard grades.

Her dad, Gordon, said he had spoken to the father of Rebecca Flint, one of the other girls in the group, who reassured him that everything was above board.

He said: "We were looking at lessons to improve her Japanese, but the nearest place was Aberdeen.

"She does have a flair for languages."

Gordon is expected to accompany Katie to Japan while her mum, Katrina, and eight-year-old brother Jake stay at home.

h.lawson@northern-scot.co.uk

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