- Could you share the thoughts and ideas behind this mix?
I focused on tracks I often play and aimed to keep it closer to a club set rather than a mix production. It’s like condensing the vibe of a whole night’s party into one set.
- Please tell us about your passion or commitment when it comes to DJing with 7-inch vinyl.
I don’t have any particular rules… If I had to say, when playing a SOUL/FUNK set with only 7-inch records, I focus more on maintaining the energy rather than keeping a smooth mix or perfect transitions. I just love power plays, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right way to do it.
- What aspects of 7-inch vinyl records do you find appealing?
I think the fast-paced, tightly packed feel of the music is both its strength and its quirk. And of course, the small size and light weight are a big plus.
Another fascinating aspect is the endless journey of discovery—sometimes you come across different takes due to pressing variations, or find European releases with picture sleeves, small-hole versions, or vinyl pressings, making you want to buy them all over again. It never really ends, and that’s part of the charm.
- Do you have a particular attachment to original pressings?
I’m completely fixated on original pressings purely for my own satisfaction. That said, there have been a lot of great edits and covers released lately that are well-suited for DJing, so I gladly pick those up as well.
- What methods do you prefer when searching for new music? Do you still enjoy browsing for music in record stores, or have you come to prefer online purchases?
I mostly listen to new releases on Spotify.
When it comes to digging for used records, I find more joy in discovering amazing tracks on my own rather than just hunting down records on my want list. That’s why I visit record stores whenever I have free time. I used to buy records online frequently, both from Japan and overseas, but these days it feels endless, so I primarily stick to physical stores.
- Besides DJing, what stimulates your creativity?
In the end, it might just be about going to parties and experiencing those incredible moments firsthand.
- Do you have any advice for those looking to start a career as a DJ?
I’m not really in a position to say this, but I think one important mindset is not to focus too much on your solo DJ set—instead, it’s about contributing to the bigger picture and helping create the best party of the night.
- What plans do you have for 2024?
I have a tour planned around early summer, hitting several spots across Japan, so it looks like I’ll be DJing more outside of Tokyo this year!
