Tokyo
41 artists
Picks
Local Scene
akii
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.
L?K?O
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
The younger generation of DJs should never be underestimated. I seem to encounter more amazing DJs every year, and I truly believe that Japan has the best DJ culture in the world.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
FORESTLIMIT— 幡ヶ谷 / Hatagaya
Soup— 落合 / Ochiai
bar bonobo— 神宮前 / Jingumae
虎子食堂 / Toranoko Shokudo— 渋谷 / Shibuya
梅ちゃんバー / Ume-chan Bar— 三軒茶屋 / Sangenchaya
グラスルーツ / Grassroots— 高円寺 / Kouenji
Anywhere is fun when a DJ I love is playing.
Record Shop
Disk Union
Los Apson?— 高円寺 / Kouenji
Pianola Records— 下北沢 / Shimokitazawa
RANA-MUSICA RECORD STORE— 下北沢 / Shimokitazawa
Wherever I go, I mostly spend my time digging for second-hand records.
Café
SUPER DOMMUNE— 渋谷 / Shibuya
It's not a cafe, though lol
Label / Series
SLIDE MOTION
I support them because they keep putting out wonderfully weird things.
Murder Channel
It feels like we're growing together.
mitokon
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Compared to when I first started DJing, I feel that more and more DJs are incorporating South African dance music such as Amapiano and Gqom into their sets.
At first, people saw them as unusual genres that not many DJs played, but that’s no longer the case, which makes me really happy.
At first, people saw them as unusual genres that not many DJs played, but that’s no longer the case, which makes me really happy.
What local spots would you recommend?
Record Shop
EL SUR RECORDS— 江戸川橋 / Edogawabashi
I haven’t been able to visit as often lately, but I don’t think there’s anywhere else quite like this shop when it comes to its unique selection of what is broadly considered “world music.”
Label / Series
GQOM MIXTAPES
Not in Tokyo, but this is a live Gqom mix stream run by members of Umgqibelo, a party based in Johannesburg, South Africa, that is helping support the current Gqom scene. DJs and artists from all over the world, not just South Africa, take part. I’m part of it too!
Riyo Mountains
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Not limited to Tokyo, but lately I enjoy going to snack bars, listening to other people sing karaoke, and sensing the local accents and vibes through the songs.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
Muzik Bar CornerStone— 岩手県千厩町 / Senmaya-cho, Iwate
Not in Tokyo, but a wonderful bar with both a DJ booth and karaoke (DAM). The music, the people, and the conversations all feel completely real.
Record Shop
無し / None
I mainly collect records that aren’t available in record stores.
Café
ドトール / DOUTOR— 市ヶ谷 / Ichigaya
Probably the café I’ve visited the most in my life. I love Doutor and have been to many locations across Japan, but this one is my favorite.
Label / Series
kenken
Also not in Tokyo, but a YouTube channel run by kenken, who lives in Kishiwada, Osaka. He constantly shares something real. I feel like I watch it almost every day.
Ritsuko Sakata
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Tokyo has an incredible number of venues, making it difficult to capture the scene as a whole because it's so diverse and constantly evolving.
There are parties happening every night, even on weekdays, and it's exciting to see the younger generation that emerged after the pandemic continuing to push the scene forward.
There are parties happening every night, even on weekdays, and it's exciting to see the younger generation that emerged after the pandemic continuing to push the scene forward.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
BAR地底 / CHITEI— 大塚 / Otsuka
The sound quality is absolutely incredible.
Record Shop
Los Apson?— 高円寺 / Kouenji
There are things you can experience there that you won't find anywhere else in the world.
Café
Botany— 東松原 / Higashimatsubara
The owner is a musician.
Label / Series
Beer & Records
Mazlika
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
The scene feels increasingly fragmented, yet at the same time more interconnected. It may appear stagnant from the outside, but in reality, something new is constantly emerging in fleeting moments.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
PASS— 渋谷 / Shibuya
A welcoming new spot that feels distinctly Tokyo, where you can enjoy a night out while truly appreciating the depth and texture of the music.
Record Shop
Newtone Records— 大阪・心斎橋 / Shinsaibashi, Osaka
(Although Tokyo is my home base, I have a personal rule of buying records only when I travel, so I've chosen to mention this shop instead.)
From the heart of club music to the deepest corners of every genre, everything is selected with a clear artistic vision. It's one of those places I can't help but keep checking.
From the heart of club music to the deepest corners of every genre, everything is selected with a clear artistic vision. It's one of those places I can't help but keep checking.
Café
バカフェ / BAcafe— 中野 / Nakano
A café in name, but really a neighborhood drinking spot run by Ba. It's one of Nakano's most notorious late-night hangouts. Local musicians, DJs, and dedicated drinkers gather here, drifting between deeply thoughtful conversations and completely ridiculous ones, before suddenly realizing it's already morning.
Label / Series
outlines
Not in Tokyo, minimal, razor-sharp, and beautifully unbound by nationality or genre.
Yuka Mizuhara
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
It's exciting to see more hi-fi bars opening that bring together art and music, creating new spaces where people can enjoy music. At the same time, it's equally important to continue supporting local DJs and club culture.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
IPPEN— 池尻 / Ikejiri
A recently opened listening bar in the Ikejiri area, run by Pinknoiz, featuring a vintage speaker system. It strikes a beautiful balance between a local hideaway and refined luxury. The exceptional sound system pairs perfectly with the DJs' sophisticated selections, creating a truly memorable atmosphere.
Record Shop
COCONUTS DISK— 東京 / Tokyo
An excellent record shop with a deep selection of Japanese pop, rock, and wa-mono records. I also recommend Next Records, which has an outstanding collection of disco, house, and classic dance floor records.
Café
Pretty Things— 駒沢 / Komazawa
Open from the morning, with music selected from the owner's personal record collection. It was actually through an invitation from the owner to play at one of their record events that my own DJ career began. On top of that, the sweets are delicious and the friendly staff always make the place feel welcoming.
TOSHIO SASAI
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Even in Tokyo, I feel that the distinction between what is considered “old” and “new” in music is gradually fading.
I think more and more people around the world will listen to music with an open mind, without being overly influenced by trends.
I think more and more people around the world will listen to music with an open mind, without being overly influenced by trends.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
INC cockatails— 渋谷 / Shibuya
It’s the perfect bar where you can focus on the music while still enjoying conversation, all within an environment of outstanding sound quality.
Record Shop
NAT records— 下北沢 / Shimokitazawa
They’ve been teaching me a lot about punk and psychedelic music lately.
While punk is their main focus, they carry records across all genres.
Both of them are incredibly knowledgeable beyond those styles as well, and they always recommend music that matches my tastes.
While punk is their main focus, they carry records across all genres.
Both of them are incredibly knowledgeable beyond those styles as well, and they always recommend music that matches my tastes.
AOl BLOOM
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Tokyo has seen a growing number of clubs and music bars alongside an increasing number of DJs, with all kinds of parties taking place every night. There is also a strong momentum among younger DJs, many of whom seem to be deeply exploring and refining their own sound.
However, lately I've been finding it difficult to come across parties and DJs that really match my personal taste.
However, lately I've been finding it difficult to come across parties and DJs that really match my personal taste.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
渋谷花魁 / Shibuya Oiran— 渋谷 / Shibuya
The DJs they bring in always have excellent taste, so you can enjoy a wide variety of music. It’s also a great place for conversation. The interior, built around a relocated traditional Japanese house, is beautiful too.
Label / Series
Baikal Nomads
Not in Tokyo, but an international label focused on organic music, downtempo, and electronica. They release many tracks that evoke spirituality, meditation, strength, and a sense of the sacred.
Yamato Akitake
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
The scene brings together everyone from veteran DJs to emerging talents, creating a vibrant environment with an impressively broad musical spectrum. More people have also become interested in the listening-oriented music scene that I'm part of, and with the growing number of listening events, it feels like there's a quiet but unmistakable momentum building.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
SHeLTeR— 八王子 / Hachioji
A DJ bar in Hachioji. The owner, Yoshio, has spent more than 30 years pursuing the highest possible sound quality, and his attention to detail can be felt in everything from the interior design to the drinks. It's truly a one-of-a-kind space.
Record Shop
Organic Music— 下井草 / Shimoigusa
A record shop run by Chee Shimizu. They carry an incredibly wide range of music from Japan and abroad, and it's the kind of place where I often end up enjoying a beer while getting lost in conversations about music.
Café
月光茶房 / Gekko Saboh— 表参道 / Omotesando
A music café in Omotesando. Every detail reflects the owner's deep knowledge and passion for music, creating a refined atmosphere that makes me feel both inspired and focused every time I visit.
Label / Series
nagalade
A rising cassette label run by Rui Obara, owner of the specialty coffee shop Frequency. I'm particularly interested in its thoughtful approach, including the entire process leading up to each release.
Charmy★Calypson
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
I don't get out much except for DJing these days, but every party at FORESTLIMIT in Hatagaya is unique, intense, and highly experimental. Their commitment to sound is exceptional, and it's one of the true centers of Tokyo's underground scene.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
World Kitchen BAOBAB— 吉祥寺 / Kichijoji
This place has always felt like a second home to me. The owner's deep passion for music, along with the live performances and DJ sets regularly held there, create experiences you can't find anywhere else. It's always filled with people who share a love for music from around the world.
Record Shop
VDS— 亀有 / Kameari
They have a huge selection of records across all genres at reasonable prices. It's a great shop for everyone, from beginners to seasoned diggers. I also appreciate their strong selection of Japanese folk music. The listening stations make it easy to preview records, and it's a popular spot with international visitors as well.
ハードオフ / HARD-OFF— 春日部 / Kasukabe
Junk records start at just ¥20 each. They have a massive inventory, and you can sometimes uncover real hidden gems.
mag
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
More and more people in their early twenties are entering the house music scene. I’m constantly impressed by their awareness of self-branding and party-making.
Since the pandemic, many distinctive small venues have opened. I’ve also noticed a trend where larger clubs operate smaller one-floor spaces, creating sub-floor-like experiences and encouraging people to move between venues and scenes.
Since the pandemic, many distinctive small venues have opened. I’ve also noticed a trend where larger clubs operate smaller one-floor spaces, creating sub-floor-like experiences and encouraging people to move between venues and scenes.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
PASS— 渋谷 / Shibuya
A new bar opened in March 2026 by the team behind VENT.
It features a powerful sound system that makes performances feel as if they’re happening right in front of you, combined with a refined atmosphere.
The drinks are excellent, and it’s a great place to relax and spend time.
It features a powerful sound system that makes performances feel as if they’re happening right in front of you, combined with a refined atmosphere.
The drinks are excellent, and it’s a great place to relax and spend time.
Record Shop
RA'S DEN RECORDS— 大分 / Oita
I haven’t had the chance to visit their physical shop in Oita yet, but they also operate pop-up stores in Tokyo.
Their selection of Indian classics and world music records is exceptional.
Their selection of Indian classics and world music records is exceptional.
Café
名曲喫茶ライオン— 渋谷 / Shibuya
A breathtaking classical music experience in immersive spatial audio.
It gently resets ears that are used to listening to dance music all the time.
It gently resets ears that are used to listening to dance music all the time.
Label / Series
TARTAN
A masked project by Wallace featuring numerous edits of Indian and world music.
The tracks are highly club-oriented and can serve as great hooks when worked into a set.
The tracks are highly club-oriented and can serve as great hooks when worked into a set.
AI.U
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Tokyo's music scene is constantly evolving, with new artists emerging all the time and endless opportunities to discover music I've never heard before. At the same time, I have immense respect for the artists, bands, DJs, and venues that have continued doing what they do for years. What I love most about Tokyo is how different generations and perspectives coexist, and it continues to move and inspire me.
What local spots would you recommend?
Record Shop
Disk Union— 東京 / Tokyo
A great place to dig without breaking the bank.
Café
HAPPYEND BEANS (マンモスビル)— 三軒茶屋 / Sangenjaya
First of all, the coffee is genuinely excellent. It's an urban oasis where you can find modular synth furniture created by Okazaki Ztaro of the techno unit IQ3, along with cassette tapes and tape players for sale.
Label / Series
Hoodish Recordings
A place in Takadanobaba where the sound, the people, and the atmosphere are always exceptional.
Phin Khaen Delic (PKD)
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
In Tokyo, it feels like two currents are evolving side by side and increasingly intersecting.
One is the growing interest in Asian music and Asian dance music following Soi48 and OMK.
The other is the renewed appreciation of local music through projects such as Riyo Sanmyaku and Minyo MASSIVE.
It's exciting to see more spaces dedicated to Asian music and folk traditions, but there's also the risk of treating them merely as exotic curiosities.
That's why I try to stay connected to the people, language, and places where the music actually belongs.
One is the growing interest in Asian music and Asian dance music following Soi48 and OMK.
The other is the renewed appreciation of local music through projects such as Riyo Sanmyaku and Minyo MASSIVE.
It's exciting to see more spaces dedicated to Asian music and folk traditions, but there's also the risk of treating them merely as exotic curiosities.
That's why I try to stay connected to the people, language, and places where the music actually belongs.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
These days, I'm more drawn to places where music exists naturally in everyday life than to dedicated listening spaces.
Thai restaurants, small venues, street food stalls, local markets, and even music playing inside moving cars all fascinate me.
Thai restaurants, small venues, street food stalls, local markets, and even music playing inside moving cars all fascinate me.
Record Shop
Rather than discovering music through a particular record shop, I usually come across recordings through conversations with market vendors and antique dealers in Thailand, especially in Isan. Right now, I'm focused on digging into the music together with the cultural context that surrounds it, not just collecting the records themselves.
Café
I mostly work from home, and every day at 3 p.m. my wife and I have a snack together.
For me, that's probably the closest thing to a café.
For me, that's probably the closest thing to a café.
Label / Series
EM Records × Soi48 タイ音楽アーカイブ・シリーズ / The Thai Music Archive Series
It created a way to learn about Thai music together with its cultural background, instead of leaving it as simply "mysterious sounds."
HAPPFAT
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Before I knew it, I'd been DJing for over 30 years. Even so, I still don't feel I'm in a position to speak about the music scene as a whole.
I can only speak from my own experience. One thing I do hope is that DJs will increasingly be recognized as artists, and that more DJs will take pride in developing their own artistic identity. Through my own journey, I've come to realize there are many reasons why this isn't always easy, and why things are the way they are. Even so, I've been trying, in my own modest way, to create work that reflects that belief. It wasn't something I consciously set out to do from the beginning.
Looking back, I realized that by simply focusing on what I genuinely enjoyed and following my own path, I had naturally been moving in that direction all along. I'll keep at it, one step at a time.
I can only speak from my own experience. One thing I do hope is that DJs will increasingly be recognized as artists, and that more DJs will take pride in developing their own artistic identity. Through my own journey, I've come to realize there are many reasons why this isn't always easy, and why things are the way they are. Even so, I've been trying, in my own modest way, to create work that reflects that belief. It wasn't something I consciously set out to do from the beginning.
Looking back, I realized that by simply focusing on what I genuinely enjoyed and following my own path, I had naturally been moving in that direction all along. I'll keep at it, one step at a time.
What local spots would you recommend?
Label / Series
Mr Bongo
Since I already mentioned a label, I'll go with a compilation series instead. I've been a fan of Mr Bongo's compilations for a long time. I'd even love to put together my own compilation someday.
FK
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
It's exciting to see more and more music bars opening with a genuine commitment to great sound.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
Bar Music— 渋谷 / Shibuya
I really appreciate their commitment to sound quality above all else. Beyond that, it's simply a wonderfully comfortable place to spend time.
Record Shop
PHYSICAL STORE— 下井草 / Shimoigusa
What makes this shop so special is its highly original selection.
Every visit leads to new discoveries and unexpected musical encounters.
Being able to enjoy a drink while talking about records is another part of its unique charm.
Every visit leads to new discoveries and unexpected musical encounters.
Being able to enjoy a drink while talking about records is another part of its unique charm.
Café
月光茶房 / Gekko Saboh— 表参道 / Omotesando
I love the atmosphere of the café and the music they play.
The selections are adventurous and full of genuine love for music.
Even the cups they serve the coffee in are beautiful, and every cup is a pleasure to drink.
The selections are adventurous and full of genuine love for music.
Even the cups they serve the coffee in are beautiful, and every cup is a pleasure to drink.
Johannes Ichiki
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Our regular event, "Soviet & Eastern Europe Night," has been drawing a great crowd!
What local spots would you recommend?
Record Shop
Želva— 高円寺 / Koenji
My record shop, the only store in Japan specializing in Eastern European vinyl.
8 SAN aka yosh de perm
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Records have gotten so expensive lately.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
Reggae & Dub club OPEN— 新宿 / Shinjuku
It might not technically be a listening bar, but it's one of the best places around.
Record Shop
Dub Store Records— 新宿 / Shinjuku
They let you listen to plenty of records before buying, which I really appreciate.
Cha-han
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
DJs from younger generations, veteran artists I look up to, and people of my own generation are all continuing to take on new challenges, and they constantly inspire me.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
FORESTLIMIT— 幡ヶ谷 / Hatagaya
I've been going there since it first opened. I'm truly grateful that they are open to hosting events with niche themes as well.
BUSHBASH— 小岩 / Koiwa
I've also been a regular there for a long time. They host a wide variety of thoughtfully curated events.
ニューマタンゴ / New Matango— 幡ヶ谷 / Hatagaya
I often go to their Saturday listening events. They also have a great collection of manga.
Record Shop
Los Apson?— 高円寺 / Koenji
Just looking around the shop is a pleasure in itself. I've been going there for many years, and they also carry my releases.
Pianola Records— 下北沢 / Shimokitazawa
Their avant-garde and experimental selections are truly one of a kind.
FunTricks Records— 大阪・中津 / Nakatsu, Osaka
It just really hits the spot for me.
Café
千年一日珈琲焙煎所CAFE / Sennenichijitsu Coffee Baisenjo— 茨城・つくば / Tsukuba, Ibaraki
Not in Tokyo, but in my hometown of Tsukuba. The manager is the musician Pottmann, and I also included one of his tracks in my mix. It's a place where you can really soak up the atmosphere of the area and everyday life there.
Botany— 東松原 / Higashimatsubara
A shop specializing in fruit and spice sours. They also host music events and exhibitions. Highly recommended.
Label / Series
San Music Records
Not in Tokyo, but a label from Chile. My friend Mariapepinos recently released a new record with them, and I contributed a remix. The label also features many Japanese musicians.
Yumi Iwaki
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Since the pandemic, Tokyo has seen a growing number of music events of all sizes. The sense of community has also become stronger, and I feel that musicians are steadily pushing themselves to new levels.
What local spots would you recommend?
Label / Series
ato.archives
A Tokyo-based label that actively releases fascinating works ranging from ambient and experimental music to traditional Japanese music, all with a distinctive artistic vision.
Mills.
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
I've only been going out to listen to music for about three years myself, so I can't really speak to the bigger picture over time, but lately I find myself drawn to events that are avant-garde and built around a strong concept. Many of them shape the experience around more than just the music itself, and I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of movements emerge from here.
What local spots would you recommend?
Listening Bar
神楽音 / Kagurane— 神楽坂 / Kagurazaka
I'm not sure whether this counts as a listening bar, but it's the only one I frequent. An alternative space with its own distinct identity. The sound quality here is a real point of pride, and you can lose yourself completely in the low end. On the main floor, the sound is so good it could cure a headache, and on days it runs as a bar, there's a pleasant ease to how the conversation flows. I love this place for its neighborhood atmosphere and how safe it feels, too.
I recently moved to Kanagawa, so I'd like to start exploring spots along the Odakyu Line.
I recently moved to Kanagawa, so I'd like to start exploring spots along the Odakyu Line.
Record Shop
I try to avoid record shops these days, because I always end up wanting everything...
Café
Marked— 渋谷 / Shibuya
It's near my old school, and I used to go there often whenever I needed to knock out some quick work in a spare moment. It's a café that's relatively uncrowded for Shibuya, so you can almost always get a seat right away. I always order the moshio (seaweed salt) caramel ice cream, without fail.
Label / Series
nuuma
It's a precious place where I get to encounter music and cultures from around the world that I'd otherwise never come across. Thank you for the constant new discoveries.
Artists
Artist Interviews
What are your musical roots?
The first record that truly blew me away was Thai Beat A Go-Go.
I first heard Thai music through the lens of 1960s psychedelic and garage rock, and that eventually became my gateway into the deeper worlds of Molam and Luk Thung.
I first heard Thai music through the lens of 1960s psychedelic and garage rock, and that eventually became my gateway into the deeper worlds of Molam and Luk Thung.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.ウボンラーチャターニーのピン奏者たち / The phin players of Ubon RatchathaniI follow them because they build on traditional phrases while successfully updating them into a contemporary sound.
To me, this region produces the most beautiful phin tones. - 2.DJ LoveBudots, a style of dance music that emerged from everyday life in the Philippines.
Right now, it's the sound I most want to understand on a physical level as an entry point into Asian dance music.
What are your musical roots?
TM NETWORK / Self Control
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.RIKITAKEMAN
What are your musical roots?
Progressive rock, jazz rock, and world music.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.The QualitonsA remarkable jazz-funk band from Hungary that has revived the vintage sound of the country's socialist era for a contemporary audience.
What are your musical roots?
Heavy metal in general. It all started with Metallica, then expanded into the guitar-driven sound of Shrapnel Records, from Scandinavian neoclassical metal to death metal. It was the first genre I truly immersed myself in and dug deeply into.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Elations RecordingsAn Australian label run by Chris J. Morris. They consistently release obscure yet beautifully crafted works, and it's the label I'm personally most excited about right now.
- 2.Forest JamsA California-based label run by my friend Sam. They focus on reissuing obscure Japanese music on vinyl, and I'm always inspired by their impeccable taste and genuine passion for music.
What are your musical roots?
ABBA.
I happened to hear their music on TV when I was a child. I didn’t know much about music from overseas back then, so the melodies and vocal harmonies gave me a sense of another world and immediately drew me in.
I happened to hear their music on TV when I was a child. I didn’t know much about music from overseas back then, so the melodies and vocal harmonies gave me a sense of another world and immediately drew me in.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.COLA RENTheir urban electronica, with its freshness and sense of movement, feels great to listen to. I often play their music in my own DJ sets as well.
- 2.ДышатьThe combination of Tatar language and hip-hop with an Oriental atmosphere works beautifully. I also love their hip-hop fashion, which blends traditional and contemporary elements.
- 3.Neriberry
What are your musical roots?
The first song that truly shocked me was “Mo Yada!” by BARBEE BOYS.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Soi48We’ve been longtime friends, but more than that, they’re simply the person whose instincts and sense I trust the most.
- 2.Lunv LoyalA rapper and game changer who transformed rural accents and dialects into something genuinely cool.
- 3.HEAT CRIMESThe UNESCO or Smithsonian Folkways of the post-internet generation.
What are your musical roots?
I was deeply influenced by Pete Rock and DJ Premier, especially their sampling sensibility and their uncompromising dedication to beatmaking.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Gondwana RecordsI deeply admire the way they continue to release innovative, high-quality music while keeping jazz at the core of their sound.
- 2.ECM RecordsI've always been deeply inspired by his unwavering pursuit of what he calls "the most beautiful sound after silence."
What are your musical roots?
Hip hop is my musical root. These days, my approach is genreless, but my style remains firmly rooted in hip hop. My sets span almost every genre, usually built around themes inspired by the ocean, water, and other natural landscapes.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.STONES THROWIn the early days, the label had a distinct hip hop identity. Since then, it has gradually embraced a wider range of sounds, and every new release brings something fresh and exciting. They have so many wonderful artists on their roster.
What are your musical roots?
Artists like M.I.A., Timbaland, and DJ BAKU, whom I discovered in high school, still shape the sounds I'm drawn to today. Around the same time, I found a legendary underground venue called Oyafuko BASE. As a high school student, stepping into that pitch-black, unfamiliar world and hearing sounds I'd never experienced before was an unforgettable shock.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Exit RecordsI've always been drawn to its depth and experimental spirit.
- 2.Somatik Sound SystemRussian ghetto psychedelia.
What are your musical roots?
As a child, I would listen to every CD I could find at the library.
Among them, I came across recordings by Purbayan Chatterjee in the world music section, and I was captivated by the unique sound of the sitar.
That experience sparked my fascination with Indian music.
Among them, I came across recordings by Purbayan Chatterjee in the world music section, and I was captivated by the unique sound of the sitar.
That experience sparked my fascination with Indian music.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.NAYA BEAT RecordsA project that reconstructs and reimagines sounds centered around India. And most importantly, it's highly danceable.
- 2.Midnight RunnersA creative collective based in Indonesia.
Their music combines nostalgic melodies that resonate even with Japanese listeners and intensely passionate, driving rhythms.
What are your musical roots?
Jack Collier and his orchestra and chorus - CHING, CHING (Happy Jose)
This is a song my father played for me on vinyl every day when I was little. I loved its cheerful rhythm and joyful laughter, and always enjoyed listening to it. I've never come across another song quite as joyful as this one.
This is a song my father played for me on vinyl every day when I was little. I loved its cheerful rhythm and joyful laughter, and always enjoyed listening to it. I've never come across another song quite as joyful as this one.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Sublime Frequencies
- 2.Awesome Tapes From Africa
- 3.Discos MásI don't pay much attention to record labels in general, but these three are labels I trust.
What are your musical roots?
Sex Pistols were what first got me interested in music.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Big Crown RecordsI’m really looking forward to their upcoming release.
What are your musical roots?
It was probably BOØWY when I was in elementary school.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- I try not to get too attached to specific labels or artists. Instead, I prefer to keep an open mind when discovering music.
What are your musical roots?
Marvin Gaye, YMO, Bill Laswell, Yen Records, Alfa Records, DJ Towatei, Donald Fagen, The RAH Band
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Thinner GrooveA truly immersive, live-style DJ experience that only a seasoned DJ can create. It captures the magic-hour atmosphere of the dance floor, blending refined musicality with a deeply tribal worldview.
- 2.Time CapsuleAn independent label that perfectly resonates with dedicated music lovers and collectors. I especially love the releases by CHO CO PA, Mimi Kobayashi, and the Japanese new age anime compilation on vinyl.
- 3.Incidental MusicA label featuring artists with distinctive electronic sounds. Its music moves effortlessly between ritualistic sonic landscapes and subtle mystery, while also conveying a sense of the sacred.
What are your musical roots?
My biggest influence comes from my experience as a dancer, but musically speaking, DJ KENSEI and BLACK SMOKER RECORDS have had a profound impact on me.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Sub Rosa LabelA label where I continually discover beautifully weighty abstract music.
- 2.Nyege Nyege TapesAn exceptional fusion of local traditions and contemporary sounds.
- 3.Frenetic Magic Sounds & Edition StreuselMusic with an internal, almost tactile sense of resolution and texture.
What are your musical roots?
The first South African song I really fell in love with was “Loliwe” by Zahara. Watching the music video for Mafikizolo’s “Khona (feat. Uhuru)” also had a huge impact on me, and that experience eventually led me to what I do today.
Growing up, I listened to Michael Jackson, Queen, and funk, while also being a huge fan of Namie Amuro and B’z!
Growing up, I listened to Michael Jackson, Queen, and funk, while also being a huge fan of Namie Amuro and B’z!
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Kabza De SmallThe King of Amapiano! I’ve always loved his groove.
- 2.Rap AcademyA studio and company that represents the Amapiano scene today. Every track by their artists is seriously good.
- 3.QUE DJA legendary Gqom DJ and producer. They might be my favorite, not only because of the music, but also because of their approach to their career. They’re coming to Japan in August!
What are your musical roots?
I grew up listening to the AOR and R&B channels playing over cable radio at my mother's coffee shop, along with 7-inch records on the jukebox.
Artists like Prince, Michael Jackson, and Bobby Caldwell formed the foundation of my musical roots.
Artists like Prince, Michael Jackson, and Bobby Caldwell formed the foundation of my musical roots.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.V/Vm
- 2.Noodles
- 3.FrogsNot necessarily artists or labels I'm focused on right now, but these are the three labels most central to the concept of this mix. They're wonderfully strange, and I love them for it.
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.
What are your musical roots?
One of the piano collections I listened to frequently as a child had a profound impact on me, especially Chopin's Étude in A minor, Op. 25 No. 11. I was so captivated by it that I kept listening to it until I knew it by heart.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Jan Jelinek
- 2.Andrew PeklerBoth artists have a distinctive style, whether in their live performances or recorded works, and they've continued to inspire me over the years.
What are your musical roots?
I attended Yamaha Music School for 12 years, starting at the age of three. I initially went reluctantly, but it became an important opportunity for me to experience and make music. I still vividly remember many of the songs from the course materials.
I also grew up listening every day to the Tsugaru folk songs my grandfather, who was a fisherman in Aomori, used to sing.
Then, toward the end of my teenage years, Detroit techno hit me like a blow to the head.
I also grew up listening every day to the Tsugaru folk songs my grandfather, who was a fisherman in Aomori, used to sing.
Then, toward the end of my teenage years, Detroit techno hit me like a blow to the head.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- I have a deep respect for the labels and musicians around me.
What are your musical roots?
My earliest memory of being struck by music goes back to a Kracie TV commercial jingle, "Hamigaki Gum no Uta," and Chopin's "Black Keys." Growing up, I was exposed to the electone, piano, o-hayashi festival music, marching band, and street dance, and I've always been drawn to dynamic swings and stimulation, regardless of genre.
In elementary and middle school, behind my parents' backs, I listened a lot to classical music, Vocaloid, EDM, footwork, Sakanaction, the High School Rap Championship, Fujifabric, and early-2010s K-pop.
In elementary and middle school, behind my parents' backs, I listened a lot to classical music, Vocaloid, EDM, footwork, Sakanaction, the High School Rap Championship, Fujifabric, and early-2010s K-pop.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.15 15I was blown away by a style that stands completely on its own within Tahitian electronic music, something truly experimental. I make sure to check out every new release.
- Generally speaking, I listen without sticking too closely to particular artists or labels.