Ryogo Yamamori started his career out in the late 90's and belongs to the most predominant producers in the Japanese techno scene. He has signed countless releases on highly respected imprints around including Ovum Recording, Modularz, Non Series, Diffuse Reality records, Epione records to mention a few. His sound is characterized by fusing driving rhythms with deep, trippy and psychedelic soundscapes. Today, he’s focused on releasing his solo work on his own label KAGEROU and co-runs KAGRA with Remi Ohsugi newly launched . Short interview from his studio in Tokyo.

Where do you come from?

I was born in Tokyo, Japan. I started playing the piano at a young age under the influence of my mother. I'm releasing a song that I randomly played on the piano, you can listen to it on my label.

How did you discover electronic music?

I began going to clubs when I was 18. Right from there I started buying records and started Djing home parties overseas and to do it in earnest in Tokyo and abroad.

Your first vinyl you bought?

I bought a lot of stuff at used record stores overseas. I bought drum & bass, techno, punk rock, melocoa, house music and even abstraction. I liked all genres and bought the songs I liked. Some of them were albums produced by Aphex Twin.

What about your studio?

I use Reason as my music software ; VST as native instrument, Arturia, waves, and countless others. Other various synthesizers such as Roland 303, 101, Korg... are available for hardware.

What’s the philosophy behind your label KAGRA records?

The concept of KAGRA is to lead listeners to mystical experiences through music and to pursue unlimited possibilities through technology. We are always in pursuit of newness and innovation exploring new territories. An approach that maximizes sensitivity and imagination, unknown ideas are free, their aesthetics are crystalline and aspire to inherit and override the history of techno and trance. The first one will be released soon. I can't tell you the artist's name, but it’s a nice finish.

What about your upcoming release?

My work will be released on my own Kagerou label. We plan to release at least one Ep by the end of this year. Please look forward to it!

Kagerou in 3 words?

One's own children.

Your top venues in Japan?

Vent, Womb.

Your best experience?

When I Dj'd at Chengdu TAG in China this year 2024, I was very impressed. It was beautiful to see audiences take the music seriously and dedicate himself to it. I was happy to see him shed tears at the end.

Your favorite label?

Non Series is always proper. In my case, I don't listen to music from labels. I listen to music I've never heard of from one side to the other.

Your ritual before a gig?

(Laughs) I don’t have a special thing.

Your top 3 new releases?

-Kan Shinomura « Primitivedge » Ep

-Kaisei « Mandala »

-Doltz « Pressure Point »

Your top 3 oldies?

-THE KLF « Chill Out »

-Kraftwerk « Numbers »

-Cricco Castelli « Life Is Changing »

Interviewed by Sabrina Bouzidi