The Captains

The Captains’ nostalgia-with-a-twist sound is always fresh and original. Inspired by The Spiders and The Dynamites, the band’s 60s ‘Group Sounds’ style is a dynamic force to be experienced both live and on CD. I talked with The Captains‘ Kizuhiko [Guitar, Vocals], Hizashi [Guitar], Ted [Bass] and Yosuke [Drums] about the band’s influences, and the album Shinsekai.

Please tell me something about The Captains‘ history?
We formed in October of 2001 in Sendai. The leader Kizuhiko decided to “do a rock ‘n roll sound that only the Japanese can” and gathered members to that end. So far we’ve released three albums and a single. And we open with a live performance that makes the audience members swoon one after the other.

What’s been the biggest difficulties the Captains have faced?
We’ve had many harsh things to face. It’s been like sailing through the middle of a storm. However, no matter what difficulties we face, we can surpass anything and move on thanks to our fans’ love.

How would you describe the Captains’ sound?
It’s a 21st century sound with a Japanese essence and The Who’s destructive feelings crammed into one package.

Who has influenced the Captains?
The Spiders and The Dynamites and other “Group Sounds” artists. As for individual members, David Bowie (Kizuhiko) Deep Purple (Hizashi), The Beach Boys (Ted) and Number Girl (Yosuke).

Who has inspired your music and lyrics?
Definitely The Spiders and the Dynamites. Those groups have been our teachers. So have Sugimoto Kouichi and Tsutsumi Kyouhei. For lyrics, Hashimoto Jun. Any melody, phrase, or arrangement by those artists are more wonderful than anything.

What equipment do you use?
Tesco Spectrum 5 (Kizuhiko). Fender Stratocaster (Hizashi). Mosrite Ventures Model (Ted).

What are your future plans for live performances?
On 2/25/2005 (Sat) we’re playing a one-man show in Shinjuku at MARZ.

Your new album Shinsekai was released in December of last year. What concepts were in that album?
Love. All the songs are love songs. It inherits the feel of the 1960s “Group Sounds,” but isn’t limited to it. With the title Shinsekai (The New World) we wanted to have the feeling of taking the audience with us to a new world, so we gave the album that title.

What kind of style does Shinsekai have?
It’s a style that’s nostalgic, but new.

What do you think about overseas fans and tours?
We definitely would like to do an overseas tour. Our live shows bring the audience together, incorporating dances and hand gestures. I’m sure that if we can cross the language barrier, it will definitely make us happy.

Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans overseas?
To love until you drop, that is The Captains’ one wish.

I would like to thank The Captains and Kanda for their participation in this interview.

- Denise Smith, James Route (Published keikaku 2005.01.31 [translation, James Route])