Next up on the mix series we have an EARFUL OF Stones Taro. As a key figure in Japan's underground scene, the Kyoto based DJ and producer is at the heart of a tight knit community pushing the UK sound in East Asia.
Following a heavy release on Lost City Archives and impressive mixes for Dimensions and Next Door Records, we asked him a few questions about how the night life industry is recovering from the pandemic, who else is pushing the UK sound out there and what else we can expect from him in 2021!
Hey Taro, where about's in Japan were you born and where are you based now?
I was born in Wakayama, which is located in the south of the Kinki region, facing the Pacific Ocean. I'm now living in Kyoto.
How long have you been producing for?
7 years.
How is the underground scene in Japan recovering since Covid?
Covid-19 has damaged it so much economically but DJs and clubs have been keeping the scene alive by having small parties in the daytime or online. Some clubs re-opened in the later half of 2020 but with limited capacity parties.
The state of emergency was issued again in 2021 and there have been no parties since.
Talk to us a bit more about the UK Sound in Japan?
UK sound is very influential in the underground scene in Japan. For the younger generation, "RIP" is a big UKG party in Tokyo, organised by Genick.
Kyo had a release from Garage Shared, a UKG label, which was recently play listed by Conducta’s Kiwi Sound. Torei is also a very sick young DJ inspired by classic UK sounds.
There are also many talented DJs based in Japan who are pushing the UK sound including Changsie, Lil Mofo, Limited Toss, DJ Mew, Carpainter and Frankie $.
Your favourite record local shops?
I love Naminohana Records, Jet Set and Newtone Records. They're putting my vinyl releases on the store shelves so I am very grateful to them.
Your favourite local club?
West Harlem and Metro in Kyoto. I often host parties at both of these venues.
What exciting plans do you have for the rest of 2021?
I mostly have some gigs in Japan for the rest of 2021 as well as several forthcoming releases, which are in the planning stages.
I really hope you enjoy them.
Stones Taro Socials
I think we speak for everyone when we say Japan is one of the first places we would love to visit when possible...