- Could you share the thoughts and ideas behind this mix?
For this mix, I selected records from my friends (Cosmic JD (Hypnotic Mindscapes), Tro (Gospel According To Victor), Max Sprauer (Pearled Records), etc.) who I got to meet during my time in Toronto, as well as records that I simply like to play these days at club gigs.I always like to mix new records and vintage records, and still make it sound consistent in some ways.
- Can you tell us about your approach to creating mixes?
I think people listen to mixes mostly at home, so I try to avoid including tracks that are too minimal or loopy, and instead I try to include tracks that have solid melody lines that can still be enjoyable at home audio setup.
- 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 sometimes search for new music (new releases) online, but I basically like to go to record stores to find records so I can actually see the products and check the condition of the records.
- Besides DJing, what stimulates your creativity?
This might not be completely besides Djing but I think spending time with like-minded people who are into the same style of music or arts stimulates my creativity.
- Do you have any advice for those looking to start a career as a DJ?
We live in an era where you can become a DJ with just a laptop, and there are many different types of DJs and ways to create your career but I think the most essential thing is to be honest and keep believing in the music you love.
- What plans do you have for 2024?
In 2025, I would like to expand my DJ activity to the other cities in Asia as the underground scene in those cities seem to be evolving rapidly.Also, I would like to revitalize the label / party series “Hypnotic Mindscapes” that I have been a part of since my Toronto days, both in Japan and abroad.
