Naomichi: A rising star bringing erotic vibes with his explosive debut album, Kimochi E
Naomichi, a promising new talent in the pop rock scene, was born and raised in the vibrant city of Osaka. His musical career began with dynamic performances in Visual-Kei bands, where he honed his unique style. In 2023, Naomichi took a brave step forward and moved to Tokyo, hoping to carve out a solo career and share his music with a broader audience. Naomichi’s androgynous style, combined with his heartfelt performances and suggestive vocals, creates a blend that he calls “erotic rock”. On December 15, 2023, Naomichi released his debut album titled Kimochi E. In this interview, Naomichi opens up about his background, his music, and his hopes for the future.
——What inspired you to pursue music, and how does it feel to finally release your debut album?
Naomichi: My family had a piano school, so music was always a familiar presence from a young age. I realized I loved singing and would always perform around my family, even at parties. I listened to a lot of popular Japanese songs without sticking to any specific genre. I decided I wanted to become a professional musician around my second year of high school, so around 17 or 18 years old. My first band was a Visual-Kei band. Initially, I did a lot of session work and didn’t have a fixed band. I think I formed my first proper band around 20 years old, which was relatively late. All the members liked Visual-Kei, so we decided to go with that style. At the time, I liked bands like L’Arc~en~Ciel, THE YELLOW MONKEY, and JUDY AND MARY, even though they were a bit different. After my previous band disbanded, forming a new, original band proved difficult due to various issues, including age-related ones. I wanted to manage everything on my own. So, I started using an acoustic guitar, support members, and programming (BTN) to create different patterns that allowed me to perform solo.
——I see.
How does it feel to finally release your debut album as a solo artist?
Naomichi: Since starting my solo activities, it’s been quite a long time—about five or six years. During that time, I released singles, and my musical direction evolved significantly, even for the same songs. This period allowed me to refine my sound and ensure that the album represents my artistic vision as accurately as possible. Now, I feel I’ve captured the best version of my music under my current style. It’s both a new beginning and a culmination of everything I’ve done so far. Also, I’m freelance, so I handle everything myself, which is very rewarding. I take care of the music production, including songwriting and composing. For arrangements, I get help from musician friends. Depending on the song, we might record live or use programming, so there’s a lot of variety in my music.
——How would you describe your sound and style?
Naomichi: My sound and style are quite eclectic, with the atmosphere varying significantly from song to song. I avoid sticking to a single theme or concept because I believe in artistic freedom and versatility. This approach allows me to explore a wide range of emotions and musical landscapes, keeping my work fresh and engaging. Given my appearance, my music often carries a genderless, seductive, and mysterious vibe. There’s an adult and slightly erotic undertone. I draw inspiration from various sources, and my background in Visual Kei influences my style, giving it a unique edge, I think. Whether I’m performing with an acoustic guitar, collaborating with support members, or using programming elements, I strive to create a sound that is both distinctive and evocative.
——Cool!
Can you tell me more about the genderless concept?
Naomichi: The genderless concept in my music and appearance developed quite naturally. Growing up, I had more female friends and spent a lot of time with them, sharing and exchanging music information. This influenced my perspective and style. My background in Visual Kei, where androgynous looks and makeup are common, also played a significant role. I’ve always enjoyed makeup and the creative expression it allows. When I perform, especially acoustic sets, my appearance often stands out. It’s not typical to see an acoustic singer with my look, which creates an interesting contrast. This can sometimes surprise the audience, but it also captivates them. The genderless aspect of my image adds a layer of intrigue and allows me to connect with a broader audience. It challenges conventional norms and encourages people to see beyond traditional gender boundaries. This approach reflects my belief in the importance of self-expression and breaking free from societal constraints.
——When you mentioned adult and erotic vibe, were you referring to the sound or the lyrics?
Naomichi: Both. The sound often has an alluring, seductive quality, with intricate melodies and harmonies that, I believe, draw listeners in. I use a mix of acoustic and electronic elements to craft a rich, immersive auditory experience. My arrangements are designed to evoke deep emotions and create a sense of mystery and allure. Lyrically, my songs explore themes of desire, introspection, and the complexities of human relationships. I aim to write lyrics that are evocative and thought-provoking, often leaving room for interpretation. Together, the sound and lyrics create a world that is both intimate and enigmatic. This combination of seductive soundscapes and lyrics is central to my identity as an artist, and it’s what I strive to convey in all of my performances and recordings.
——Can you tell us about the title Kimochi E?
Naomichi: Of course! The title Kimochi E is a bit of wordplay. In Japanese, E is pronounced like ii, which means good. I wanted to inject some humor and give a twist to the straightforward meaning of kimochi-ii (feels good). Directly using that phrase can sometimes feel too straightforward, especially since it can have some erotic connotations in Japanese. So, I went for a slightly playful and stylish vibe to match the album’s mood better.
——Knew it!
Can you tell us about the creative process for Kimochi E?
Naomichi: As for how the album came together, it was a pretty organic process. I included songs from different stages of my career, ranging from older tracks to more recent ones. For the older songs, I re-recorded the vocals using my current voice to show my growth as an artist. I also updated the arrangements, often collaborating with musician friends to bring fresh perspectives to the music. The album really reflects my journey as an artist. It’s a mix of different styles and influences, capturing the essence of my artistic evolution. When working on the album, I aimed to create a cohesive yet diverse collection of songs that truly represent my sound and vision. In terms of the creative process, I handled most aspects myself, from songwriting to production. It starts with a melody for me, which I usually record on a voice recorder. From there, the words naturally come to me, and I build the song around the phrases that resonate the most. Collaborating with other musicians was also crucial. I chose musicians whose styles fit each song, ensuring that each track had the perfect sound. This collaborative effort really added depth and versatility to the album, making it a richer listening experience overall.
——When you write and compose a song, how do you usually go about it?
Naomichi: I usually start with the melody. I record a lot on my voice recorder. As the melody comes to me, I often find that words naturally follow, fitting the melody. I then pick the words that resonate the most and build the song around them. That’s my typical process.
——After you come up with a song, you need other musicians to record it. How do you decide who to invite? What’s your selection criteria?
Naomichi: Once I’ve crafted a song, selecting the right musicians to bring it to life is crucial. My decision-making process hinges on matching the musical style of the song with the expertise and artistic flair of potential collaborators. Each track has its own unique vibe and energy, so I seek out musicians whose style complements the specific nuances of that particular piece. Whether it’s a guitarist known for their soulful riffs, a drummer with impeccable timing, or a vocalist who can convey emotion with every note, I look for individuals whose skills align seamlessly with the mood and direction of the song. I prioritize working with musicians who share a genuine enthusiasm for the project and a willingness to experiment and explore creative possibilities. By curating a diverse team of talented artists who bring their own distinct flavors to the table, I ensure that each recording session is infused with creativity, passion, and a shared commitment to delivering the best possible musical experience.
——If you could collaborate with anyone, who would be your top choice?
Naomichi: That’s a tough question… I never thought about that. There are many artists I’d like to work with, but no one immediately comes to mind.
——Who do you think would fit well with your style?
Naomichi: It really depends on the song, so it’s hard to say. I haven’t really thought about it much. There are many famous artists I admire, but I’ve never seriously considered collaborating with anyone specific. I’ll have to think about it when I get home.
——What themes or messages do you hope listeners will take away from the album?
Naomichi: While my songs don’t adhere to strict messages, I hope listeners find them open to interpretation, allowing for personal resonance. Through my music, I aim to uplift, energize, and inspire, fostering positivity and vitality in people’s lives. Ultimately, my goal is to bring smiles and encouragement to audiences, both through live performances and recordings.
——Were there any challenges or memorable moments you encountered while working on Kimochi E?
Naomichi: Throughout the creation of Kimochi E, I faced an array of challenges and memorable moments. Traditionally, my music leaned towards simpler chord progressions, reflecting my earlier influences. But, as I delved deeper into the world of city pop and similar genres, I felt compelled to explore more intricate harmonies and chord structures. This shift demanded a new level of musical dexterity and creativity from me, presenting both exhilarating breakthroughs and frustrating roadblocks along the way. Similarly, I found myself drawn to experimenting with more complex rhythms, departing from the straightforward beats of my previous works. Embracing these challenges allowed me to evolve as an artist and explore new dimensions of musical expression within Kimochi E.
——Do you prefer writing more complex songs? Was it a goal to refine your arrangements?
Naomichi: Crafting more complex songs has become a natural progression in my musical journey. I’ve found myself drawn to intricate chord progressions as I strive to refine my arrangements and express myself more fully through my music. This evolution has been driven by a desire to create the ideal sound that resonates with me personally. To achieve this, I’ve dedicated time to studying and experimenting with complex chords, allowing my music to naturally evolve in this direction.
——What about your voice? Has it changed compared to before?
Naomichi: Over time, I’ve noticed a natural evolution in my voice that has brought about significant changes compared to before. My vocal range, singing style, and the way I utilize highs, mids, and lows have all undergone transformations, creating a distinct difference in how I interpret and deliver songs. This evolution has been a gradual process over the past few years, leading to a sense of hearing a completely different person when listening to the same song from earlier in my career. While I do engage in occasional vocal training on my own, it’s not a daily practice for me. Since I often record at home, play the guitar, sing, and rehearse, I integrate voice training into these activities rather than setting aside dedicated time every day.
——How did you approach selecting the tracks for the album?
Naomichi: Selecting tracks for the album involved a meticulous process of rearranging and refining the lineup to ensure the best flow. Initially, I had around 20 tracks to choose from. Some songs didn’t make the cut because they didn’t align with the evolving image and character of my recent work. While I wanted to include them, fitting them into the cohesive lineup proved challenging. However, I have plans to release these omitted songs in some form in the future. When deciding the order of the songs, I rely on my personal feelings and preferences. I believe the sequence is crucial, as it determines the overall listening experience. I aim to create a smooth flow that feels cohesive and intentional, ensuring that listeners journey through the album seamlessly from start to finish.
——Which song holds a special place in your heart?
Naomichi: There are several tracks on the album that hold significant personal meaning for me. Fly High, which serves as the second track, Super Fantastic, positioned as the fifth track, and URAHARA, featured as the twelfth track, are particularly noteworthy. Fly High stands out as my most recent composition and also serves as the lead single of the album. It represents a venture into a new musical direction for me, characterized by its pop-oriented sound and seductive quality. Super Fantastic is where my worldview is most prominently expressed. It combines elements of pop with a stronger, more aggressive rock vibe, reflecting my idea of adulthood. While sharing a similar color palette to Fly High, Super Fantastic exudes a distinct intensity that I believe would resonate with listeners, particularly fans of rock music. URAHARA, on the other hand, offers a different yet complementary atmosphere. Although it deviates slightly from the seductive quality of Fly High and the assertive energy of Super Fantastic, it maintains a rock band feel that adds depth to the album’s overall sound. The placement of these tracks throughout the album was a deliberate decision to ensure a cohesive listening experience for the audience. While each track offers its own unique atmosphere and energy, they collectively contribute to the album’s narrative. If I were to recommend one track in particular, Super Fantastic would be highly recommended for its dynamic and essence. I am sure you’ll love it.
——Can’t wait to listen to the album.
Which one was the most challenging?
Naomichi: URAHARA presented the most significant challenge during the album’s production. Its approach differed greatly from my previous work, requiring adjustments in singing, rhythm, and melody. Capturing the rhythm during recording proved especially difficult due to its intricate nature and nuanced details. But you know, the experience gained from recording URAHARA has proven really invaluable, as it has expanded my range of expression in singing and informed my approach to new songs. I learned a lot from that song.
——Looking ahead, what are your goals or aspirations for the future of your music career after the release of your debut album?
Naomichi: Looking ahead, my aspirations for my music career after the debut album release are ambitious. While some artists thrive independently, my goal is to get bigger and reach larger audiences. Although I may not possess the youthfulness of emerging talents, I am driven to set lofty goals for myself. Success, popularity, and the opportunity to perform at iconic venues like Nippon Budokan are among my aspirations. Achieving these ambitions requires not only dedication to my craft but also collaboration with individuals like you guys from VMJ, Mandah and Yoann. I want to keep doing that: meeting great people and touching larger audiences. I aim to expand my horizons beyond my current sphere of influence, embracing new opportunities and audiences.
——Thank you.
What about your short-term?
Naomichi: I want to make a major debut. Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you (laughs).
——To conclude this interview, let’s play a word association game. Please share your feelings regarding the following. Give me 1 adjective, word, for each question. How did you feel during the album production?
Naomichi: Kimochi-ii (ed. Good) !
——How did you feel when you completed your debut album?
Naomichi: Ah, relieved!!
——How do you feel about this interview?
Naomichi: Fantastic!
——What main feeling do you want to convey through this album?
Naomichi: Happiness.
——Thank you for this interview. I am going to let you the final word.
Naomichi: Thank you for the wonderful time. I was a bit nervous at first and now, I am just super happy. Thank you for the opportunity to talk about my music. I would like to make an announcement, on my birthday, June 3d, there will be a special live performance at Shimokitazawa DWI Cube, a renowned live-house. To mark the occasion, I’ll be digitally releasing 2 brand new songs. Please save the date and join me for an unforgettable evening. I hope to see you all there.
__________________
Mandah FRÉNOT
(c) VMJ
