July 2013

—You’re releasing a new album just a year after your previous one. What kind of things do you feel everytime you release something new?

“In my debut days, it made me happy. Now it only makes me anxious. But I also want everyone to have it soon so they can listen to it (laughs). I get mixed emotions at times like this. This album is the most summer-like and aggressive I’ve ever done, so I hope people will enjoy it!”

—-Mezamashi TV’s theme song “Can You Feel This Love”?is a very positive song that gives off a refreshing and lively vibe!

“The fresh feeling is unusual for me, but it was an impressive song to put on the album. Because of how I am in the morning, I wondered if this was an honest thing to sing about at first (laughs), but I think it resulted in a terrific piece of music.”

—-Though 3 of the songs have been revealed already, there’s a little bit of pressure because you’re working with a different team.

“Yes. I was able to work with a bunch of different producers this time around?so it was a little bit of a challenge.”

—-Are you always particular about things when you make an album?

“In my case, the album has to have songs that would be enjoyable live. Rather than just listening to the recorded album, I would rather people want to come and listen to it live. How a tour will come together is also something I picture when I’m creating an album.”

—-Half of your year is always spent on live tours and campaigns, right?

“The flow is kind of the same every year and it didn’t change. But I really feel like my 20th anniversary last year was my chance to make a clean break. Since the beginning of this year, I’ve felt a sense of freedom inside and my work feels refreshing. Now I’m excited and I hope to try more and more new things.