Hora

Interviewer, writer: 1-5
Band Members: Hora
Questions Answered by: Hora



After the success of his former band Schwarz Stein, Hora has become very active as an electronic solo artist. He released his 3rd full-length album "VENOM", in March and with fans both in Japan and overseas it looks like there’s no stopping him!


First of all, thank you very much for doing this interview. Could you introduce yourself?

Nice to meet you. I’m Hora.

When did you start writing music?

When I was about 16 years old. Back then the songs I wrote were "INNER ELEMENTS" and Schwarz Stein’s "Transient" etc.

What first attracted you to electronic music?

I’ve liked the tone of synthesizers since I was a boy, but I don’t remember which song I first liked.

Has your music changed since becoming a solo artist? If so, how has it changed?

Maybe, I feel like my outlook on the world in the songs became clearer after I went solo. And there’s more of a dark, maniac element. *laughs* Probably because my character is dark. *laughs* I think I’ll probably increase the number of aggressive songs in the future.

Which bands/artists have influenced your sound?

It’s a secret.

Are there any bands/artists you’d like to collaborate with?

At the moment, not especially.

To you, what’s the best thing about making music?

I’m able to express my thoughts and feelings through music.

When writing songs, what inspires you?

The sadness and hatred I have inside me.

Your new album, "Venom", was released this month. Why did you choose this title?

Because I made the theme of this album the dark side that I have. And I chose "VENOM" as the word that showed the darkness.

What’s your favourite track from the album?

I like all the songs, but in particular "VENOM", "DIGNITY", and "TRANSONICA".

Has your sound developed since your previous album, "Prominence"?

Yes I think it always does. Whenever I make and album there’s development.

Do the songs on your album tell a story, or are they simply based on your feelings at the time you compose them?

[Both] of course. In each song there’s a story, and when I write all the songs they’re based on my feelings. My feelings at the time become music.

When recording, are there any problems?

There aren’t any particular problems.

Do you have any plans to play any live shows? If so, would you ever consider playing a live in the US or Europe?

Though I haven’t planned a live yet, I’m interested in performing in the US and Europe. If I could do a live in there it would be good.

Your overseas fans are really glad that your CDs are available outside Japan, through your site. Will your future releases also be available internationally?

Of course!! In the future overseas fans will be able to buy the CDs as well. I’m really glad that people from various countries listen to my music.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I play video games, watch NBA games and DVDs and collect sneakers. I also play with my cat!!

You’ve mentioned the game "Galerians Ash" and the movie "Alien" before in the "Voice Room" (Hora’s journal) on your site. Which other video games and movies do you like?

I love "Galerians Ash" and "Alien". Also, movie-wise I like "Blade 2" and "Silent Hill". Especially "Blade 2", it’s the best!! I’m a Wesley Snipes fan. *laughs* As for games, I like "Final Fantasy". I also like "Digital Devil Saga".

Would you consider writing music for video game or movie soundtracks?

If I have the chance I’d like to write a soundtrack sometime.

You seem to like Air Jordans a lot. Why is that?

The reason is that I’ve been a big fan of Michael Jordan since I was a boy!! With that influence, before I did music, I used to play basketball. So I really love Air Jordans. Air Jordans’ designs are wonderful and the performance is wonderful too. It’s not possible to express how much I love Air Jordans in words. Air Jordan 11 is especially wonderful!!!! I also like others like Lebron and Wade.

What are your future plans and aspirations?

I want to understand cat language!! Also, I want to release my own shoes from Nike *laughs*

Could you give a message to your fans?

I’ll keep making better music in the future, please look forward to it.

Additional Information

Official Site
Check out Hora’s Official Site for more information on his history, lyrics, discography, and more!


A Hora OTZ Fansite
Great website with lots of information on Hora in English.

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