Tokyo’s very own TORUKK’s latest single, “Shinobi,” is a masterful fusion of traditional Japanese melodies and modern trance music. With its incessant and infectious melodies, “Shinobi” aims to transcend genre boundaries, appealing not only to trance enthusiasts but also to fans of pop and EDM. The track showcases TORUKK’s innovative approach to music production, blending cultural elements with contemporary sounds to create a unique and captivating listening experience.
TORUKK is a dynamic Trance DJ, producer, and event organizer who burst emphatically onto the scene in November 2018. Based in Tokyo, he is a staple at prominent Trance events such as “Category Trance” at OR Tokyo and “Trance Essentials” at WOMB Tokyo. TORUKK’s influence extends beyond Japan; he has performed internationally, gracing the stage at “The Wave” in Hong Kong in September 2023 and at London’s “Cyberdog” and “Cyberdog Rave Bar” in February 2024. As a producer, TORUKK’s talent was recognized by Interflow Records, a British trance label, with whom he signed in November 2020. His original track “Gaia” topped the Beatport rankings under the sub-label Aural Sonic 138. He continued his success with a remix of “Celebration (Tribute to Cyril Ryaz)” by label owner Matthias Bishop in May 2021. TORUKK’s versatility shone through with a remix of Aki Harunari’s “New Horizon,” released by RockRiver Records in April 2022. January 2023 saw the release of “Spaceship Party” from his own label, EVT Recordings, earning the title of ‘Massive Track Alarm’ on German Radio JennyFm. Further cementing his global presence, he signed with Redux Recordings in September 2023 and released the original track “Freyja” on November 3, 2023. As an organizer, TORUKK has been instrumental in nurturing the Trance scene in Tokyo. Since April 2021, he has hosted “Category Trance” events, prioritizing opportunities for emerging DJs eager to make their mark. TORUKK’s commitment to the local Trance community continues to drive his diverse and impactful career.
Explain what musical genre fits you best
Trance, Uplifting Trance
Were you connected with music from a young age and did anyone inspire you?
I learned piano when I was young. I also played in a band when I was a student.
The artist who influenced me the most is Tetsuya Komuro.
In terms of trance, I’ve also been influenced by Jorn Van Deynhoven, Ben Gold, Armin Van Buuren, Ferry Corsten, etc.
What kickstarted your music career?
When I was a student, I was influenced by Tetsuya Komuro and bought a synthesizer, which is what led me to start playing music.
Tell us more about your sound and how it’s evolved over time
When I was a student, I was in a band and covered songs by Tetsuya Komuro, and also joined a friend’s rock band and covered a variety of songs.
Then work got busy and I took a break from music, and about five years ago I started DJing.
As a DJ, I mainly play Trance music.
Any words you want to share to encourage other artists or producers?
I started DJing in my mid-30s, and since then I’ve performed at various clubs and released original music, so I don’t think age is an issue.
How do you nurture your industry relationships?
I’m hosting an event called ‘Category Trance’ in Tokyo, Japan, and Ed Lynam from Ireland performed there. After that, artists from various countries contacted me.
Since then, artists from Hong Kong and the UK have also performed, and I’ve been able to build relationships with them.
I’ve also performed at an event called ‘Trance Essentials’ held at WOMB, and have been building relationships with the Trance music community in Japan.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank that’s been crucial to your journey?
I would like to thank the Japanese DJ and producer Fumoffu and the organizer YOSHIMASA for inviting me to ‘Trance Essentials’ early in my DJ career.
I would also like to thank the performers, venue staff, and customers who attend the event ‘Category Trance’ that I am currently hosting.
Name 3 songs you love and what they mean to you
Boy meets girl
This is the song that got me interested in music when I was in junior high school.
Genesis of next
This is the song that got me into Trance music.
Fake ID
This is still my favorite Trance music since I started DJing.
What’s your favourite piece of studio equipment or software?
When I was a student, I used a Yamaha Motif and a Nord Lead synthesizer.
Currently, I use Logic as my DAW, and a variety of other software synthesizers such as Spire, Nexus, and Omnisphere.
Name your favourite club or festival and how it makes you feel
My favourite music festival is the Fuji Rock Festival.
The festival is held at the Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata Prefecture, Japan.
It’s rich in nature, there’s a great variety of music, a relaxed atmosphere for participants, and the level of the performers is very high.
It’s an extraordinary experience, so I’ve been attending every year since 2007.
Favourite clubbing memory and who or what did it involve?
I remember DJ Fumoffu having a good time drinking at WOMB’s ‘Trance Essentials’.
On her birthday, more than 20 bottles of champagne are served.
What famous quote represents you best?
“Create your own opportunities and use those opportunities to change yourself.”
These are the words of Hiromasa Ezoe, founder of Recruit Co., Ltd.
I love these words.
If you could play at any venue, where would it be and why?
I want to perform at Fuji Rock Festival because it’s my favourite festival.
Music is….. (explain more)
Music is freeing, sometimes encouraging and sometimes relaxing, and I’ve made friends through music.
One song you really couldn’t live without and why?
As I mentioned before, it’s ‘Genesis of next’.
It’s the song that got me into Trance music.
Namedrop your favourite 5 artists or DJs (past or present)
Tetsuya Komuro
TRF
globe
Jorn Van Deynhoven
Ben Gold
What was your first music memory and how did it fuel your fire?
It’s ‘Boy meets girl’, which I mentioned earlier.
I was fascinated by the beautiful melody and beautiful synthesizer sounds, as well as the unprecedented unit format of a DJ, dancer and vocalist.
Tell us more about your plans for the future
I may perform in the Netherlands in March next year.
I released a new song, ‘Shinobi’ in July this year, and will continue to release new songs in the future.
Any worldly advice you’d like to share?
I think it’s important to keep going and not give up.
And also to be humble and kind to people
Stream Shinobi Now
