‘Gritty. Bold. Playful.’ | Interview with ASAMASAMA

Asamasama’s new song is pure electricity: an instant anthem driven by a larger than life guitar riff, a remarkably effective three-note wonder. Add in 80s-infused chaotic percussion layers, playful delivery, and a dynamic performance, and you’ve got a track guaranteed to make women to cheer, and some men to squirm. We loved it, and we bet you will too.

Describe your sound in 3 words

Gritty. Bold. Playful.

Tell us a few things about Tissue. What is the story behind the track?

It’s inspired by my experience dealing with those arrogant types—not limiting to men—who throw their weight around, then act like victims when called out. Tissue is my way of handing them a wipe and saying, “Deal with your own mess and drama.”

Lines like “Hey man-child, here’s a tissue” and “Hostage of your own skin, sensitive drama queen” are very bold indeed. What kind of reactions do you anticipate from listeners, and was there any hesitation in using such explicit language?

I expect women to cheer, and some men to squirm—if there was any hesitation, ASAMASAMA wouldn’t exist.

How important is it for ASAMASAMA to address social or personal dynamics through your music? Is “Tissue” indicative of a broader theme in your work?

Absolutely. Especially in Japan, where women are still expected to smile pretty and play nice. The idol culture, the “ideal wife” TV anchors—it’s all designed for the male gaze. Our work is a sonic protest to such social and personal dynamics.

Favorite riff you wish you had composed yourselves?

Nirvana “Smells Like Teen Spirit”

Artists and people that have influenced you?

XTC(Andy Partridge), PJ Harvey, and Taro Okamoto

If Tissue was a film, which film would that be?

Somewhere between A Clockwork Orange and Kill Bill—violent, stylized, and unforgiving.

What is next for you?

Rie fu: More releases are coming this year, and we aspire to hit stages across Japan and beyond.
Hikaru: God only knows, RIP Brian Wilson.

Thank you!

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