INDEX
Collaborating with an Engineer on the Mix: “I Wanted to Level Up and Engage in More Equal Conversations” – Takahashi
Takahashi, how did you approach the sound for this album?
Takahashi: Well, on our previous album, most of the tracks were made using a computer, but this time, I really wanted to dive into playing live instruments, like analog synthesizers. The sense of accomplishment and the energy from our 2023 tour left a lasting impact on me, and I wanted to capture that same vibe. To do that, it was crucial to actually play the instruments. While working on a computer makes editing easier, I wanted to keep the imperfections, warmth, and humanity that come with live music. I feel like this approach allowed the album to become much more varied and dynamic.ore varied than ever before.
Given that our tour had grown in scale, I also wanted to elevate the sound to better connect with audiences in larger venues. To bring in some fresh perspectives, I enlisted three engineers to mix the album: Yuto Uchino from The fin., Masahito Komori, who has worked with Hikaru Utada, and Taiji Okuda, known for his work with Tempalay. I wanted to take what I’d created and expand on it, with the help of others’ expertise to really take it to the next level.
Matsuura: I believe a key turning point was his shift towards being more open to collaboration. He used to be the kind of person who preferred doing everything himself. But because of that, this album ended up with such a unique and special touch.
Takahashi: Before, I always felt like if I handed something off, it would block my creative flow. But now, I’ve grown, and I really want to be able to have a more equal conversation with specialists. Though for the next one, I might take the reins again [laughs].
She Her Her Hers’ style, which blends a cool demeanor with a subtle, quiet intensity, feels distinctly their own. How did you come to establish this unique sound?
Takahashi: Honestly, I just keep listening to my own tracks over and over. I’m often caught up in my own demos. Maybe I should branch out and listen to more music [laughs].
Matsuura: It takes me back to something Shintaro Sakamoto once said: “I want to create records that feel like the ones I would want to buy.” That’s the core motivation. Sometimes, the original emerges from the act of imitation.
