You have lived Tokyo. How do you like living in Japan?
In 2010 I was living in the United States, and came to Japan for a tour. I liked it so much, I moved here 1 month later. Japan is my favorite country, and I feel lucky to be able to live here. Many things in Japan are different from America, but I'm glad that they are. It makes Japan special.
What inspires you to creat music?
I create music like a diary. It is always centered on events of moments in my life, even if it is very simple. It could be a trip I took to somewhere, the events of a certain day, or an old memory.
Do you think living in Japan impinge on the music?
I feel very creative and supported here in Japan. There's a strong natural beauty in Japan, and it helps. It's a comfortable environment, and always changing.
You have released many records. What do you have the concept when you start to make new record?
Sometimes there is no concept at the beginning. Usually I start with simple music that sounds good to me, and once it is completed or fits with other pieces, then its theme becomes apparent to me. If it doesn't seem to connect with anything, I don't use it.
How do you feel the Japan Tour with Christoph Heemann and Jim O'Rourke?
It's great to tour with Christoph and Jim! I've toured in Europe with Christoph in March, and we had a great, crazy trip. I'm glad to have the opportunity to play with Jim here in Japan now, too, for the first time.
You will come to Niigata soon! Do you know Niigata?
I only know Niigata a little bit. The last time I was there it was snowing!
Right now I'm trying to work more slowly. I've been busy with other projects most of this year, so touring for Celer is all I've done. There should be some new releases late this year, or early next year for Celer. That's all for now!
Please give a massage to many fans in Niigata!
I'm very excited to come to Niigata and be able to play a show! I can't wait to see the city, and meet some of the people. Thanks for the opportunity!
INTERVIEW in July 2013
TRANSLATED by Naoko Yamada
TEXT by Masato Hoshino