-- What was the theme or concept behind this mix? Given that it was performed at a rather unique event where attendees could fill bags with records, did the setting have any influence on your track selection or overall approach?
It was already starting to get hot, and I could feel summer arriving, so I chose records with that atmosphere in mind. It was my first time playing at a record bag-filling event, and I included some records I had found at record fairs myself.
I had also heard that Yuki Irioka, who was playing with me, would be playing some enka, so I wanted the whole flow to feel relaxed. I played in a non-mix style.
-- Technics kindly provided the DJ setup for the event. What did you think of playing on the latest SL-1200MK7 turntables?
From a DJ's point of view, just seeing the Technics logo gives me a sense of reassurance. I have been using Technics turntables at home for more than 15 years, and they are still going strong.
This DJ booth seemed to be an assembled setup, but I did not feel any wobbling or shaking while I was playing. It was very stable, and it reminded me again how reliable Technics equipment is.
-- Among the records you played today, were there any tracks you were especially excited to play or particularly wanted to introduce to the audience?
Terry Garthwaite's "Changing Colors" is a record I have loved ever since I found it at a record fair years ago, so I really wanted to play it at an event like this.
Another one is Soulphiction's "Angela," a cover of "Angela" from Bob James's Touchdown. Soulphiction was a late producer I loved, mostly known for house music, but I feel this track really shows his delicate and beautiful side. For me, it feels very nostalgic and has a summery air, so it fit the theme perfectly.
-- This mix leaned toward a relaxed, listening-oriented vibe. What are your DJ sets usually like, and how would you describe your typical style as a DJ?
I usually play dance music centered on house and disco, but I try to stay open-minded and honest with my own instincts.
In the years since the pandemic, my own state of mind has changed, and I have had more opportunities to play soul and jazz as well. Even when the categories are different, I have come to feel more strongly that the roots and elements are connected somewhere.
-- What do you think is the appeal of DJing with vinyl?
I think the appeal of DJing with records is that your memories and attachment to them come through. When I play a record I searched for over many years, or one connected to a personal memory, my feelings naturally rise and become part of the performance.
There is also the intuitive feeling that only records have. I like picking up the sleeve to choose a record, and then dropping the needle to play it.
-- Whether you're selecting records to play as a DJ or buying them as a listener, how important are original pressings to you?
I often care about original pressings, and I think that is also connected to memory and attachment. The real pleasure of an original pressing is being able to feel the atmosphere of the time when the work was released, and the thoughts of the people who made it. I think there is something romantic about a record released back then passing through many people's hands and now sounding on this turntable.
That said, reissues often lead me to discover great music, and remastered versions can sometimes be easier to listen to. Original pressings are not always superior in sound quality, and everyone has their own preferences. When it comes to enjoying music, I think any choice is valid.
-- How do you usually keep up with new music?
I get information from specific places much less than I used to. Now information flows in from everywhere, so regardless of whether something is famous or unknown, or whether it comes from someone I know, I make a note of anything that feels good to me. Later, I look into why it resonated with me.
Some things lose that initial spark, while others expand in unexpected ways. That variety is interesting.
-- Besides DJing, what stimulates your creativity?
It might sound ordinary, but watching films is a really good stimulus for me. For the length of the film, it feels like I can go to another world. I sometimes get the same feeling from a DJ mix. I think the things I receive from those experiences end up being reflected in everyday life too.
-- Do you have any advice for those looking to start a career as a DJ?
I do not feel like I am in a position to give advice, but I think it is interesting to keep pursuing the music you truly love as far as you can. Without love, I do not think you can have real dedication. I really like DJs who have that dedication and are deeply absorbed in what they love.
-- What plans do you have for 2026?
I would like to share the appeal of music and records in ways beyond DJing. I receive inspiration from so many people, including both seniors and juniors around me, and while being influenced by them, I am still searching for my own form of expression.
