In this week’s MEET THE ARTIST series we introduce underground Japanese trance hotshot Nishikushi. His new track on Intonenation Axiom Bring It All Back is a non-stop rollercoaster packed with shameless euphoric energy.
Stream/Download: https://intonenation.complete.me/bringit
1. How did you start making music, and what were your early inspirations?
I started making music when I was 10 years old, and when I was 14 years old I heard trance music for the first time on the internet radio and was struck by its futuristic sound. At the time, there was a compilation album called "Cyber Trance" in Japan, and the melodic Dutch trance music like System F and Rank 1 was very popular in Japan, and that hurt me. Before trance, I was in a band and made pop and rock music, but after I discovered trance, I've been making trance music for most of my life.
2. Could you describe your sound, and what makes it unique?
Beautiful, memorable melodies, I think that's the best part of my sound. Every time I'm making a track, I've made a number of different melodies, and adopted the ones that have made the most impression on me. "Bring It All Back" is a very unique melody, don't you think? I also make sure that the songs don't get boring for the listener. Club music tends to develop in the same way. Of course, it's stylistic and exciting, but I try not to get stuck in it.
3. How did you get started in the business, and what was your first landmark moment?
I've always wanted to release my own music on labels I've admired since I was a teenager, so I've been making tracks and sending them out to some very high level labels. But of course they didn't get picked up. So I stopped being picky and sent the demos out to various labels. Then I heard from a label right away and I released my first tune on that label. And then another famous label A&R heard this track and gave me a chance. From that time, I did a couple of releases and here I am. But this time, releasing my track on Intonenation Axiom is the biggest landmark for me!
4. Which do you prefer, producing in the studio or DJ’ing?
Definitely I like producing better! I also like DJ'ing but listening to some good music makes me really want to make music! I feel the most happiness when I'm making music.
5. What’s next for Nishikushi?
I haven't released anything in the last few years, so I'll be bringing a lot of trance music to you this year! I already have a few songs scheduled for release. They're all really good uplifting trance, so you're gonna love it!