Like many teenagers, I was in a cover band during my university years around 2010. I was heavily influenced by bands of the time, particularly Green Day and My Chemical Romance. However, the night I truly understood the power of performance was when I watched a live show by a small London-based band called Scholars. It was then that I realized how much an artist could express themselves. Shortly after that, I started listening to solo artists like Frank Turner and Iron & Wine, which introduced me to the power of lyrics. Through their music, I learned that songs can do more than entertain; they can evoke deep emotions within the listener. That’s when I knew what I wanted to do and began writing songs for myself.

Recently, the artists who have influenced me the most are Dawes, with their deeply human lyrics; Jason Isbell, who fearlessly tackles difficult themes with beautiful sounds; and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard and Hakushi Hasegawa, who never compromise on their creative vision.

I’m incredibly excited to be back in Japan and deeply grateful for the opportunity to perform again. Since I’ll be celebrating my 30th birthday on December 21, I planned a live event at Ruby Room in Shibuya to spend it with my treasured friends from overseas. Some of my favorite bands and DJs will also be performing. Additionally, I’ll play at Ruby Room’s New Year’s Eve countdown event on December 31, and on December 18, I’ll be performing at a small bar in Kabukicho called BeeMars.

Whenever I perform at a live house in Japan, I feel a special kind of energy. My performances focus on high energy and storytelling, and I’m always moved when the audience truly listens during quieter songs. In the UK, while the energy of the crowd is often high, quieter songs can sometimes feel overlooked. In contrast, Japanese live house audiences treat every song as something special and important.

In the UK, fewer people take the chance to discover new artists, leading to the closure of small venues, often replaced by housing. Leicester’s iconic venue “The Musician” is set to close this December. Thankfully, local spots like “The Soundhouse” and “The Shed” are still going strong. That’s why I believe it’s important not only to give my all in performances but also to genuinely support other artists. Whether they’re established or just starting out, live shows need mutual support. Otherwise, the passion for playing and expressing music could be lost.

Every live house I’ve performed at holds both good and bad memories, but “Live Freak” in Shinjuku warms my heart every time I think about it. I was introduced to it by then-manager “Rotten Rui,” who invited me to perform at her event, “Unique Club.” It was a chaotic yet charming event featuring diverse and unique artists. Every time I played at “Live Freak,” I made new friends and felt reassured as my songs were embraced. It’s a place that proved music transcends language, built on the passion and emotions of performers and listeners. (Thank you, Live Freak, Unique Club, and Rui.)

I work at Octopus Energy, an environmentally friendly energy company. Although it’s a UK-based company, we also have an office in Roppongi. I don’t often get the chance to showcase it, but my favorite hidden talent is trampolining. I practiced trampolining for 13 years as a kid! Outside of music, I love gaming, drawing, and reading webtoons. I especially enjoy action/mystery games. I’m a fan of the Yakuza series, but Danganronpa is my absolute favorite among Japanese games.

As for anime, I adore Made in Abyss, Hajime no Ippo, and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. For soundtracks, it has to be Attack on Titan. Its opening theme never fails to fire me up!

Among contemporary artists, I love passionate performers like Hakushi Hasegawa, Otoboke Beaver, Tsushimamire, and Haru Nemuri. In terms of classics, I’m a big fan of Junko Yagami’s Bay City. It always puts me in a cheerful mood. I’m also captivated by the unique and wonderful works of Yan Tomita and Doopees. Their music feels perfectly aligned with my tastes.

On past visits to Japan, I’ve explored tourist spots like Inari Shrine, Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, and Tokyo Tower. One place I’d love to visit someday is Nagoro’s Scarecrow Village. I’m deeply interested in the village’s history and find it amazing how a specific era has been beautifully preserved there. I love Tokyo, but I can’t forget the tranquility I experienced visiting Hokkaido a few years ago to see a friend. I’d love to visit again and even imagine living there someday.

My favorite Japanese food is Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. It’s delicious and offers a variety of flavors. However, my absolute favorite dining spot is a small curry shop called “plAin” in Ikebukuro. Even though I’m not usually a fan of curry, the one I had there was the best I’ve ever tasted!

Performing in Japan always leaves me with wonderful memories and positive feelings. I’m sure this time will be no different. I’ll give it my all and make my friends proud!