Tokyo-based hardcore digger DJ Notoya has been a fan of Japanese Funk, Boogie and Pop vinyl for more than two decades. Recently, DJ Notoya has teamed up with Wewantsounds Records again and curated the under-the-radar tracks for this historic compilation: “Tokyo Bliss - Japanese Funk, Boogie & City Pop from King Records 74-88”. Let's start this short interview-Menu best of with DJ Notoya !

Hello, a glass of? 
Whisky ginger.

Could you tell me about your first experience with Djing? 
I was part of soul the music society when I was a university student. We did small dj parties every month at a small bar in Ikebukuro, and that’s where I first did ‘dj’ thing. I played some Japanese soul/funk records. It was probably in 2008.

What are your favorite record stores?
Disk Union or Face Records.

Can you explain in few words what is Tokyo's Condition?
Online record shop specialized in Japanese pressing vinyl records, carefully curated by yours truly.

One of your favorite track of « FUNK TIDE - TOKYO JAZZ FUNK FROM ELECTRIC BIRD 1978-87 »?
Ronnie Foster  « Night Life », it’s just way ahead of its time. I wonder if there’s the multi-track tape left. I need longer and more floor-oriented remix of this joint.  (Streaming below).

7 or 12inch?
7. I have no space left in my room…

Your top 5 new releases? 
- Say She She « Silver » Lp
- Pale Jay « The Celestial Suite »
- Dabeull « Analog Love »
- Yuga « Love Deluxe »
- Satoko Shibata « Your Favorite Things »

Your top 5 oldies?
- The Isley Brothers « 3+3 »
- Howard Johnson « Keepin’ Love New »
- Don Blackman « Don Blackman »
- Leon Ware « Leon Ware » (1982)
- Taeko Onuki « Sunshower »

What is your favorite Japan adage?
Continuation is power or a constant dripping wears away the stone.

Interviewed by DJ coshmar