Do you Nekomushi?

Somewhat reminiscent of Tama,the off the wall band that was born of the super popular Ika Ten TV show which gave small independent bands the chance at a break, Nekomushi's music is highly theatrical, and once this accordionist takes the stage, the compelling nature of her performance keeps you riveted.

Part of the Hiroshima/Tokyo independent Nekotama Label , a loose collection of free-thinking musicians and artists, Nekomushi have been touring Fukuoka, Osaka and between for some time now, and they have plans to take on the capital this year.

Hiroko Konomoto asked them a few questions for GetHiroshima after their live show at Neoplolis Hall at the end of last year.

Gotou, you're originally from Yamagata, so how did you end up being based here in Hiroshima?

Gotou: I was drawn here by some unkown force.

Matsubara, you're from Tokyo, but Yume you're from Hiroshima.

Matsubara: That's right.

Yume: Yeah, I'm Hiroshima born and bred. Of the three of us I definitely speak the strongest local dialect.I refer myself as washi and stuff like that.

So, is there anything about Hiroshima that you particularly like?

Matsubara: If you're lost, however mean-looking a person you ask, they'll always take the time to tell you the way.

Yume: The climate we have around the Inland Sea. It's so mild, like a huge billowing mikan floating up - that's what I like.

Gotou: How it's not quite there. I mean, there's everything you might need but, nothing there's nothing really great.

Do you have any favorite places that you like to go to?

Matsubara: There's a great place in Saijo... what was the name again..? Aah, La Mano. It sells African instruments like Karinba and Janbe, and loads of South American clothes. They give you tea while you're checking out the clothes.

Yume: I really like the riverside areas.

Gotou: Yuki Onsen.

What motto do would sum up Nekomushi's philosophy?

Gotou: Performing. Putting everthing into the performance.

Matsubara: Sleep.

Yume: We don't really have what you'd call a motto, but I guess, just to enjoy and put energy into what you do.

What about artists that you respect?

Matsubara: If I had to pick one, I guess it would be Shaun Ryder from Happy Mondays.

Yume: There are loads. I'd love to be able to play percussion with as mush feeling as a Ugandan musician called Samite.

Gotou: No one. But I respect anyone that's making a living from making music.

Your accordion playing is great, how did you get into it?

Gotou: A friend of mine gave me a harmonica type accordion. I've been at it about seven years now.

What are your ambitions for Nekomushi?

Gotou: I'd like to put out a CD and tour overseas.�@

is there anything you'd like to say to your fans?

Matsubara: We do anything to satisfy all your desires.

Yume: Thanks for all your support so far. Keep it up.

Gotou: That's too hard... pass.

How about a message to the people of Hiroshima?

Yume: Well... I always feel when I come back to Hiroshima after being abroad or whatever, that there are loads of great things here... like all the rivers and stuff. I'd think we should remember this.

Matsubara: Stop nuclear testing.

Gotou: I reckon if we have the confidence to stand up and say we're not going to be outdone by other places things could be really fun here.