Liverpool-based British-Japanese popstar MARiMARi invites you into a bold Hyper-Pop world, where shimmering synth soundscapes clash with big beats and intense production to turn the dial up on just about everything. Her latest release 'KUROMI KISS' (Out on November 29th) sees this world become twisted, still with the same infectious Pop energy but with a more sinister, yet tempting, undertone that feels like equal parts Chloe Moriondo and Charlie XCX. We caught up with her to talk about the new single, her cross-continental influences and the importance of image in the Hyper-Pop scene.
Photo Credit Stefan Lakselvhaug
Q. What was the concept behind your upcoming single 'KUROMI KISS'?
A. "It's based off the character Kuromi who's part of the Hello Kitty universe but the song is also about eating a man. It's definitely a darker mood for me than most of my previous releases but it's one of my favourite songs I've written."
Q. The song features a blend of English and Japanese lyrics. What different influences have you taken from the key locations in your life?
A. "Well I grew up in York where the music scene was dead. There was virtually nothing there music-wise. It wasn't too far from Leeds so I could go to places like The Key Club but in York it was more about choirs and orchestras...that more kind of traditional music. But it was good as it meant there was lots of different instruments around and I learned to play the violin.
When I was around six my mum took me to Japan a lot which influenced me in a whole different way. I think I've taken a lot of fashion from Japan as well as the quite maximalist music. Like J-Pop is about crazy synths and extreme autotune...everything's just big and I love that aesthetic.
Then, I moved to Liverpool for uni and it has been so welcoming. I literally met my producer on my first day here, I feel so lucky being surrounded by so many amazing musicians and creatives. I also love how DIY things are, there's a great band culture (which I'm not a part of) but I love that. There's actually not too many other pop artists making the same kind of music as me here which is kind of nice as its not over saturated and gives me freedom to just do things the way I want".
Q. You mention how your time in Japan has influenced your fashion as an artist. How important do you feel your visual aesthetic is for your project?
A. "Sometimes I think it's even more important than the music which is probably a bad thing to say. There's definitely points when I spend more time working on that side of things which some people might disagree with but it's because we're building a world for the fans to experience. With every single or EP, I make things quite consistent visually and I even make my own dresses to fit the aesthetic.
A lot of the artists that I love have an amazing image as well as amazing music. I do have periods where I just write, write, write but I prefer to focus on the music and the art all at once...I love spending time working on things for instagram and designing posters and artwork. This visual side inspires me creatively too!".
%20(1).jpg)
Commentaires