akii
akii is a Tokyo-based DJ and selector.
Moving fluidly between Roots Dub, Steppers, Dub Techno, Experimental Bass, and Ambient, with a distinctive sound centered on deep bass and expansive spatiality.
Rooted in sound system culture, selections and dub mixing create immersive experiences that blur the boundary between the club and focused listening.
Regular appearances on radio programs and at clubs in Japan and abroad continue to showcase Tokyo's underground bass scene.
Moving fluidly between Roots Dub, Steppers, Dub Techno, Experimental Bass, and Ambient, with a distinctive sound centered on deep bass and expansive spatiality.
Rooted in sound system culture, selections and dub mixing create immersive experiences that blur the boundary between the club and focused listening.
Regular appearances on radio programs and at clubs in Japan and abroad continue to showcase Tokyo's underground bass scene.
Artist Interview
What are your musical roots?
Discovering Basic Channel was the starting point of my current musical direction. I was drawn to the deep spatial qualities of dub techno, and as I traced its roots, I became deeply influenced by dub pioneers such as King Tubby and Scientist. Those two traditions continue to form the foundation of my selections today.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Another ChannelWhat draws me to this artist is the seamless connection between dub techno and roots dub. Their music is minimal yet deeply groovy, and it continues to inspire me.
- 2.Babe RootsI really appreciate the way this label balances a contemporary interpretation of dub with a deep respect for sound system culture. Their releases are regular features in my DJ sets.
- 3.Echo BeachA label that has released numerous records crossing genres while keeping dub at its core. It constantly reveals new possibilities for dub music.
Tokyo's Local Scene
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
In recent years, Tokyo has seen a growing number of events, particularly within the queer community, where people from different musical backgrounds come together. These gatherings are no longer limited to DJs and live performances, but also embrace art, poetry, and performance, creating spaces where people can express themselves freely and safely. At the same time, there are still not enough venues and opportunities to sustain this culture over the long term. That's why I find the growing movement to build new communities through music so inspiring.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
Duusraa— 新宿 / Shinjuku
An underground listening bar in Shinjuku where you can experience beautifully tuned, bass-heavy sound. It's a place where you can discover everything from dub and bass music to a wide range of other genres, while also connecting with new people and musical ideas. It's a space I truly value.
Orange Street— 新宿 / Shinjuku
A record shop with an excellent selection spanning dub, reggae, dub techno, bass music, and electronic music. Their curation is consistently reliable, whether you're looking for new releases or used records, and I make a point of visiting every month.
Label / Series
Echo Beach Compilation Series
A compilation series introducing artists across the full spectrum of dub, from roots dub to dub techno. Each release offers a glimpse into both the diversity of dub and the evolution of its contemporary scene.
Showcases
Artists from Tokyo
The cosmos, human life, the act of living, history. And parties and gatherings as their manifestation in the spirit of B
Born in 2001. Began DJing and organizing events in January 2024. Builds his sets primarily around techno, footwork, and
Played in a band during the 2000s. Started DJing around 2015. Since late 2023, has been a regular DJ at Ponpoko Mountain
Yumi Iwaki is a Tokyo-based electronic sound artist. Her work traces immersive soundscapes that feel like drifting throu
L?K?O is a singular artist who fuses the ritual instinct of a club DJ with the experimental spirit of a turntablist, cre
The cosmos, human life, the act of living, history. And parties and gatherings as their manifestation in the spirit of B
Born in 2001. Began DJing and organizing events in January 2024. Builds his sets primarily around techno, footwork, and
Played in a band during the 2000s. Started DJing around 2015. Since late 2023, has been a regular DJ at Ponpoko Mountain
Yumi Iwaki is a Tokyo-based electronic sound artist. Her work traces immersive soundscapes that feel like drifting throu
L?K?O is a singular artist who fuses the ritual instinct of a club DJ with the experimental spirit of a turntablist, cre
Born in 1992, she began DJing in March 2019 at ZUBAR in Shibuya, Tokyo. Her play style is rooted in world music, while f