Just before their European tour, 'samurai rock band' OROCHI made some time for a short interview
Having won the “Râmen x JaME” contest, OROCHI is now touring Europe throughout March until April 1st. The visual kei band shared their thoughts with JaME on Europe, touring and their influences.
Can you please introduce yourselves to our readers?
Ushiwaka: I am Ushiwaka, the singer and composer of OROCHI. I play the dragon flute, which is a traditional Japanese instrument. I also play the koto, taiko and the biwa (similar to shamisen). The name “OROCHI” comes from the eight-headed dragon in Japanese lore. As for us, OROCHI plays a mixture of traditional Japanese music and modern rock.
Shin: I am Shin, the bassist.
You had your first European tour in 2011. What made you want to come back ?
Ushiwaka: It was destiny! And there is no reason to not come back. We love the people, places and art here. Everything, especially the women, is attractive!
How did you feel when you heard you won the “Râmen x JaME” contest? Did you expect you would be winning this contest?
Ushiwaka: Yes! We trusted our fans across 19 countries in Europe to vote for us. We were really happy to hear it.
Shin: Yes, we were extremely happy.
What is the most difficult part of touring overseas? And the most rewarding?
Ushiwaka: Packing my suitcase! It is an absolute nightmare. Other than that, there are no problems. We could come every month. The most rewarding part is meeting a lot of people everywhere and spreading our music.
Shin: And spreading traditional Japanese culture to European people.
In which others countries would you like to host a live?
Ushiwaka: Sweden, the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal and the entire American continent!
Shin: South America and Africa.
Why did you choose to play music with traditional accents? What attracted you to it?
Ushiwaka: We respect nature and history. Everyone should respect nature and our ancestors. OROCHI wants to express how it is the cool thing to do.
Which bands do you personally like?
Ushiwaka: I like OROCHI and natural sounds.
Shin: J-pop and punk.
Your new mini-album, HYAKKA RYORAN, a Hundred Flowers Blossom will be released for this European tour. Can you say a few words about it? What were your inspirations for this CD?
Ushiwaka: “Kachofugetsu” is the concept of this album. It is a symbolic term embodying the beauty and wonders of Japanese nature.
Finally, do you have a message for your overseas fans and readers of JaME?
Ushiwaka: Come and rock on at the OROCHI European tour!
Shin: Don’t miss it!
JaME would like to thank Râmen Events and OROCHI for this interview.
