How well are you able to translate what’s in your head to the final product?
"It is always interesting how ideas 'translate' into actual sound. There are particular notes and tones in my head but a lot of time it's an abstract image. It's like trying to explain your dream to someone. Translation is not always accurate, but in many cases it leads me to some interesting directions and places - musically speaking. This 'translation' takes me to another area where other unexpected ideas come up. Unpredictability is one of the reasons why I love producing music."
You had classical music training. Can you tell us a bit more about that, and do you think this sets you apart from other DJs in your field?
"My first love of music was actually jazz. I found this music very interesting right after I started to play an instrument. Classical training definitely helps to improve basic skills and knowledge, and it helped me to understand jazz. I am not saying the skill of reading, writing music and playing instruments makes you a better DJ, but it definitely helps to build your style in a different way than not knowing."
You grew up in Japan. Do you think your cultural background has had an impact on your music career? Do you notice significant differences when you compare yourself to your non-Japanese peers in this context?
"I sure think it has had definitely an impact on my taste of music I produce and play. Even if I always had been listening to western music when growing up - what is played on Japanese radio is filtered through cultural taste. For example, besides pop and electronic music, tango is quite popular in Japan. It may seem there is no cultural connection here, but I am sure the sound is appealing and makes a connection with us. These things run in my veins for sure, so I am making connections to various kinds of music in a different way. Significant difference. I don't know it myself but it's different for real. And I love it!"
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