FLASH LIGHT

At first, based on the initial information from the friend who introduced me to HIRO-MAN, I had imagined a more rugged figure. However, when I first met HIRO-MAN, his appearance was much closer to the stylish impression depicted on his jacket.
He said, "The reason I started music was because of the Japanese folk song boom and the influence of foreign rock. I wanted to play the guitar when I first encountered Johnny Winter, Rory Gallagher, and Led Zeppelin." There was a certain gentlemanly quality to him that reminded me of British musicians.
"The artists who influenced my songwriting include Steely Dan, Robben Ford, and AOR in general." While his music is centered around the guitar, his distinctive chord sensibility and intriguing melodies are infused with jazz-like elements.
"I was able to keep going because I enjoyed composing songs and rearranging Japanese pop songs in my own way, and also because I had quite a few musician friends," he said quietly. Though he spoke softly, his lyrics bring vivid stories to life-especially in Tarachine, which reflects his real-life experiences, including conflicts with his father during childhood and reuniting with his estranged mother.
"I create original music with the hope that even after I die or grow old, younger generations might sing or play my songs in some way. That thought is my greatest motivation."
Although the recording session was short, the depth of the experience we shared made it an unforgettable and invaluable time for me.
Gitane Yoshinaga (Producer)
February 2025