- This AFTER HOURS SESSION is a special collaboration between TSUBAKI fm and Higo Beat. How did you feel about playing through the speakers by Higo Beat, the independent audio brand from Kumamoto, Japan?
I've been seeing Higo Beat used more and more at events like TSUBAKI fm parties lately, and it pairs really well with music built around live instruments, which makes it very easy to play on. The sound is soft, so the warmth of the records comes through in a very pure way, which I really like.
- Could you share the thoughts and ideas behind this mix?
Out of the various records I brought, I chose the first track specifically to match the atmosphere of the venue and the daytime setting. From there on, it felt like the music naturally guided the rest of the set.
- While your set focused on disco and funk and featured artists from various countries, was there a central theme that ran through the entire set?
I played tracks from the UK, France, Africa, the US, and more, but the core thread was music with a groove that lets you feel house through live instrumentation. That’s something Chicago DJs have been doing for a long time, and I’ve been influenced by that approach myself.
- Among the records you played today, were there any tracks you were especially excited to play or particularly wanted to introduce to the audience?
First, I’d like to mention a 12-inch called Chicken Wing Edits Volume 2 from the label Soul In The Hole, run by Chicago DJs Sadar Bahar and Lee Collins. It features very lo-fi and funky tracks, and together with Volume 1, you can really hear the roots of the Chicago DJ style in it. It was released over ten years ago, but I’ve kept it in my record bag ever since—it’s a special record that I always want to play whenever I get the chance.
Next is a track called Black Water Gold by KC & The Sunshine Band. It’s relatively easy to find, but it’s incredibly funky and still doesn’t feel dated when you play it today. Even if you don’t know the track, it’s something you can really enjoy just for the groove.
Lastly, there’s the gospel album Tellin’ It Like It Is by The Art Reynolds Singers. Every track on it is great, but despite being a gospel record, there’s one song that has a funky feel that can stand alongside the kind of major-label sound you’d hear on something like TK Records. I’d wanted it for a long time, and I only recently managed to get a copy, so I was really happy to be able to play it today.
- I heard that today you also made a point of playing records that aren’t too expensive or are relatively easy to find. Is that something you’re usually particular about?
I wouldn’t say it’s a strict principle, but playing only expensive records doesn’t really feel right to me. To begin with, high-priced records are difficult to buy, aren’t they? As a DJ, you need a lot of records, so I think it’s better not to push yourself too hard financially, but instead listen to many more affordable records, dig for hidden gems, and play those. Of course, sometimes when someone plays a record, it ends up becoming more expensive anyway. But even among cheaper records, there are still so many truly great tracks—I feel that every day as I keep digging.
- Finding those kinds of “personal killer tracks” really puts a DJ’s taste, experience, and digging skills to the test. How do you usually go about discovering music like that?
I like going to record shops and digging while listening to records I’ve never heard before. I use my knowledge of eras, labels, producers, and musicians to guide me, but I also really value the atmosphere a record sleeve gives off and my own intuition.
Because I’ve looked through so many records over the years, there’s still a real thrill when I come across something and think, “I’ve never seen this before.” The moment I drop the needle on a record like that always feels special, no matter how many times I’ve done it.
If I listen to a hundred records and find even just one great track, that’s more than enough. I think it’s important to dig with that kind of mindset. There are days when I listen and listen and find nothing, and honestly, it can be tough. But when I do discover even one truly great track I didn’t know before, it feels like a weight lifts off my shoulders. That feeling is what makes me want to keep digging.
And having friends who know great music is important too—it’s another way to expand your world.
- What do you think is the appeal of DJing with vinyl?
The unique warmth and character of vinyl sound
- Besides DJing, what stimulates your creativity?
When I spend time in nature
- What kind of mindset is important to you as a DJ?
Connecting with others through music
- Do you have any advice for those looking to start a career as a DJ?
Have fun with the music
- What plans do you have for 2026?
Starting this May, I’ll be launching a party at Aoyama NUMM with my trusted Disco Family.
We want to create nights that truly capture the atmosphere we believe in.
Come through and join us on the floor.
