- Could you share the thoughts and ideas behind this mix?
Kei: Thank you for the opportunity! For this vinyl-only mix, we've compiled house music that we've been playing since the 90s, as well as tracks we've wanted to play but haven't had the chance to. Of course, we'd also like to introduce a few vinyl selections under our Dazzle Drums alias.
- Can you tell us about your approach to creating mixes?
Nagi: The selection and style of the mix vary depending on the platform it's being presented on, so I prepare while enjoying the differences.
Kei: It's a different experience from sharing music with people in person, isn't it? I approach it more like a radio mix show, playing what I want to play now. I'd like Japanese people to feel more comfortable coming to the dance floor, so I aim to capture the live atmosphere as well. I imagine expressing something emotional that can only be done now, and I want people to dance to it on the dance floor.
- 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?
Kei: I originally worked as a house music buyer at a record store, so it became a habit for me to check out each genre's releases online every Monday. It's unfortunate that I now live far away, making it difficult to visit record stores in Tokyo, but meeting music at record stores is still my most cherished memory. Searching for music at record stores is also a fun experience. Just like clubs and bars, I believe they're important places for community as well.
Nagi: Digging for records online feels very similar to digging for digital sources, doesn't it? If there's a difference, it's the reliance on inventory. When you actually search in-store, it takes both mental and physical energy, and there are often mistakes. But the feeling of happiness on the train ride home after making a purchase is amazing, and most importantly, you might find the best record you never expected. Usually, it's the store staff or the people you went with who guide you to such a find. I really enjoy how stories are created for each record in this way.
- Besides DJing, what stimulates your creativity?
Kei: Music production is closely linked to DJing, and I'm always exploring originality while cherishing my roots. In an era where AI is heavily used in DTM, I realize that ultimately, it's human skills and ideas that AI can't replicate. I find myself watching lots of tutorials on YouTube. Also, dancing on the dance floor. Not only discovering unfamiliar songs but also experiencing new discoveries when someone else plays a favorite song, and above all, feeling the bass and dynamic range in my body. It feels like I'm constantly seeking unknown cities, unknown sounds, unknown worlds, and new experiences. Because it's an endless world, I believe I can continue.
Nagi: Unlike Kei, I don't have the skills to actualize ideas in production, so I'm progressing very slowly, but I enjoy my time with Logic. When playing on the dance floor and encountering songs that make me wonder how such sounds/melodies are created, I still get excited.
- Do you have any advice for those looking to start a career as a DJ?
Kei: I can't offer advice. I remind myself of the importance of freely enjoying and sharing music with others, prioritizing experiencing and feeling a lot of music before words.
Nagi: When you visit different places, you occasionally encounter unexpectedly phenomenal DJs. However, these DJs often continue their music sincerely, without resorting to skillful promotion, quietly and consistently. When I encounter such individuals, I become quite perplexed myself. What defines success for a DJ? Offering advice on this matter proves challenging for me.
- What plans do you have for 2024?
Kei: It's really sad that our regular venue, 0 Zero, ended in June, but I hope to continue regular parties at various venues across Tokyo. I've already had the opportunity to visit Seoul and Melbourne, and I plan to tour the EU again for a month before summer. We have two vinyl releases planned, as well as digital releases and remix releases from our label, Yellow Parrot Recording. There are still plenty of plans in the works, so please check them out and come dance with us!
