Interview by: Rxyz
At the beginning of summer you released Aquarian Dreams along with
A-sides. Please tell us a little about the title and the inspiration behind
the collaboration.
The album name came about due to A Sides & Makoto both being
Aquarians.
What are some advantages of working together with another producer on a
album? Were there some challenges that you we able to overcome more
easily?
We have a lot of respect for each other’s production skills and musical
ability. We can both hold our own ground musically but something special happens
when we get together. Our fusion of sounds work well together when we combine
my musical skills and A Sides Drum & Bass ingredients. In the words of
Tony Colman “Magic Happens.” Naturally we see ourselves as one in the same
but we also recognise each other’s unique abilities. We respect that and
let that shine through in our music.
Although each track is a result of your passion and creativity, which one
has a special place or meaning for you personally?
My favorite tracks on the album are Jupiter and Hurt My Soul. I've always wanted
to work with Robert Manos and I’m really glad it happened on this project.
Also, about Hurt My Soul; I originally made the track in 2007–8. It had been
sleeping on my hard drive until A Sides discovered it last year and put the new
drums on it. It worked very well, and I think his drums gave it more
energy.
Where did you celebrate the release of this album? What was it like to
play these tunes for the first time to a live audience?
We have just started the album tour in Europe and maybe in New Zealand,
Australia early next year. But we've both had some album launch parties
separately in Japan and Europe as we don’t live in the same country.
In addition to touring, are there any other projects you are working on,
or artists we should be looking for this autumn?
I started making some solo stuff after we had finished the album. However,
I actually haven't done much with my solo stuff during the last 4–5 years
except for remixes and other tempo stuff. I feel good about it and have lots
of inspirations for Drum’n’Bass right now.
Two years ago you came to Prague to help us kick off the season of
Shadowbox at Roxy, and we're excited to have you back. This time we're
celebrating our 16th birthday along side your album tour. Are there some
interesting experiences you've had over the past two years, both musically and
in your everyday life?
Oh, I didn’t know that was your kick off party at Roxy. I had a really great
time last time. I can’t believe it has already been 2 years! I have just
been busy in the studio, doing gigs for Drum’n’Bass stuff, as well as
House/Disco stuff in Japan.
While looking back, is there something you've appreciated about Prague and
playing shows at Roxy? Is there something you'd like to see or do this time
around?
I love playing at Roxy, it’s one of my favorite clubs in the world.
It's such a cool venue. Also, Prague is so beautiful! I think I’m really
lucky to be able to visit and play there often. :)
If you could recommend another city to visit, and a music venue that you
enjoy, which would they be?
I would recommend Tokyo. It’s my own country and where I live. For people
from Europe it’s totally different, but you can have an experience which you
can’t have in Europe. I would recommend few venues like The Room and Womb in
Shibuya, Tokyo.
Lastly, what can we expect from your show at Roxy with A-sides and Deezim?
Have you got any quick shout-outs for your Czech and international fans?
I would say you can expect the same kind of vibes as our Aquarian Dreams album.
A-sides and me have got quite a different sound, but we are able to mix it very
well. I’m looking forward to doing show with Deeizm as well, it has been a
while since we last played together.
Congratulations for your 16th Birthday! Putting in your efforts for such a
long is not an easy thing to do. Big up to you guys and I can’t wait to come
and play at Roxy!
Thanks for taking the time to share some insight with us. We are beyond hyped to welcome you back and we'll be sure to make this event one to remember! See you on the dance floor on September 18th, at ROXY!
