*Please visit the original article for photos.
Capital Rhythm is a group of 9 individuals with outstanding singing ability and overwhelming passion, what motivates them?
Interviewer : Sugie Yuuka
<Photo: Capital Rhythm Group Photo>
A brand new vocal team has been gathered on the internet, these 9 individual Utaite (“I tried to sing” singers) are said to be rising stars. Their name is Capital Rhythm. SPICE has interviewed countless vocal groups but Capital Rhythm members are all proud of their individual singing ability and the best of all, they have high aspirations and passion. No matter what you listen to, it boils down to the “emotion” conveyed that gets you fired up. There is a reason why these 9 people decided to set sail together. I was able to meet them as they embarked on this journey. They shared to their heart’s content about their “youth”.
-- Rio’s voice was the catalyst in forming this 9-person vocal group that is Capital Rhythm right?
Rio : Yes, that’s right. I started out as an Utaite then I entered the professional scene but it didn’t work out. So I returned to the Utaite scene, I partnered with Tsukasashi as RioSashi.
-- Did you and Tsukasashi know each other from before?
Rio : We had interactions before when I was in the professional scene. When I belonged to the company that manages L’Arc~en~Ciel, Tsukasashi was part of the same Visual Kei scene.
Tsukasashi : Yup, we were members of the same scene.
Rio : Back then, if we could grow beyond just 2 members, we could do something bigger. At the time, Kakerine was not deeply involved in the scene. So I reached out to Ajikko whom I have known the longest out of all the members.
Ikasan : Oh! I didn’t know that you knew Ajikko the longest!
Rio : Yes, that’s right. So, along with Tsukasashi, Kake chan (Kakerine), Ajikko, we formed RioSashiKakekko and worked towards planning for a live show. At the same time, I was planning to speak with the other members and decided in which order I should approach them.
Afterwhich, when we could reach a shared goal, we held our “Capital Rhythm - Otonomiyako ” live show in November 2019.
-- Since your formation, you have posted various visual novel videos set in Otonomiya High School as well as various song covers. They have become a hot topic of conversation. What does Capital Rhythm mean to you as a result of your respective personal activities and careers?
Kakerine : I have been in the music industry for over 10 years, my dream is to do music my entire life. Capital Rhythm to me is a very important team to me, along with the 8 other members, I feel like we can make my dream come true. With 9 people, I believe we are able to meet this generation’s demands with our activities.
<Photo: Kakerine on red sofa>
Kettaro : Capital Rhythm is very much like One Piece (Anime/Manga). Everyone has their own individuality and goals but the unity, to board the same boat that is Capital Rhythm, is huge.
Ikasan : Exactly, it is not often that 9 varied individuals are able to come together.
Kettaro : In terms of music, I like rap, nero likes R&B, RioKakeSashi like Visual Kei. We all have varied likes and strengths but I have the confidence that with the combined power of everyone, we are unbeatable. I have been in the music and entertainment industry for a long time now and I am confident that I have found the people I need.
Ajikko: In reality, it was unheard of to add this many additional members to a live show in November. (T/N: I think it was because it was last minute?)
We went ahead with the feeling where we didn’t want to lose to each other!
Kettaro : Each of us are individual performers, I have done a few solo live shows as well as multiple live shows and band performances in the Utaite scene. So when Rio first told me about the November live shows, I imagined it was just like any other live show.
Ikasan : But, when I saw the fiery passion Rio had, I wondered if I should take a leap of faith into the world he envisions.
Ajikko : I have been posting my songs on the internet for 7 years but I am not good at promoting. (bitter smile) Although I was confident in my singing, it was bad. Even though I didn’t consider stopping, I did not expect more of myself.
The one who reignited the flame inside me was Rio. It’s probably not only me, it is as though Rio is a lighter. He went around igniting everyone’s flames. Rio keeps churning out ideas and Kettan (Kettaro) will calmly plan them. I really enjoy my activities with Capital Rhythm.
<Photo : Ajikko in a blue hoodie coat>
NORISTRY : Up to this point, I had tried to form groups unsuccessfully since starting my career. (bitter smile) Next thing I knew, I slowly drifted away from passionate conversations about songs and music. But Rio was so super passionate, he invited me to join the Capital Rhythm live show in November. For a long time, I realised that being passionate about something is not a bad thing. Our goals might be different but all the members are heading in the same direction, that is the feeling I got. I wanted to take a chance in the group called Capital Rhythm. But I really didn’t expect to be in an emotionally charged place, from here on out, I am looking forward to it!
Kettaro : The place was on fire wasn’t it! LOL
NORISTY : Yes, it was on fire.. LOL
Kettaro : I totally understand. “I want to form such a group.” I personally don’t have that strength. It is Rio that went ”I want the world to see your cool points!”
It was not like "Let's get these members together to make this kind of group and market it this way.” (T/N: Sometimes, when forming a group, members are given on-screen personalities that might not match their real-life personalities, I think this is what Kettaro means)
-- I'm really starting to fall in love with the members and Rio’s unadulterated feelings echoing within all the members.
Ikasan : Precisely, Rio is so genuine.
nero : Yup yup. I have been in the music industry for a long time too. I had good and bad periods but I just thought I’d do my usual best and didn’t think about it too much.
But after performing in the live show, Rio’s passion reached me and at the final MC, everyone became really passionate. I want to believe, even though it hasn’t always worked out for me.
Capital Rhythm seemed like a team where it is a revival of the glory of one’s youth.
<Photo: nero on the red sofa>
Kakerine : Indeed. I understand that feeling.
nero : The shiny feelings are revived right? LOL
Ikasan : Kettan’s home or Rio’s home seems a lot like a training camp. LOL
NORISTRY : Yeah, I think it is good that we meet face to face for discussions.
Rio : I thought it is always better to meet and get more ideas.
nero : Because everyone has various experiences, we can be assertive, we can respect each other. Everyone is different and good in what they do, that is what Capital Rhythm is about. LOL
Ajikko : Yes yes. (LOL) Even though everyone has different goals from each other, we are gradually moving towards a common goal as 9. Because of these differences, I guess that it would bring us to a whole new level.
-- It is a huge advantage to be able to recognise each other’s strengths and inspire one another!
Tsukasashi : Yes, I feel that way too. Thinking back… When Rio returned to the Utaite scene after leaving the professional scene, he lost contact with people. While he was reviving his activities (in the Utaite scene), I believe I was the closest person he had.
<Photo: Tsukasashi on red sofa>
Rio : For me, Tsukasashi kun was such a big part of activities revival, without him, I wouldn't have been able to do it.
Tsukasashi : For me, I felt like I was able to get to where I wanted to be with Rio. Rio puts his heart and soul into Capital Rhythm and I feel like it is something worth believing in too.
rairu : There’s a really good story to this but I feel like I am the group’s spoilt brat. LOL
Ikasan : Nori chan (NORISTRY) even calls him “bocchan”. LOL
(T/N: bocchan = young master)
<Photo: Ikasan in black cardigan>
rairu : I’ve known Rio for a long time, we both had our major debut around the same time. I had debuted under my real name, Irei Ryo. After that, I decided to continue both sides of activities as Irei Ryo and rairu. Basically, I've always lived my life carefreely, the way I wanted to and did whatever I wanted. Even as Irei Ryo, if it didn't work out, I thought I’d get by. But without knowing, I lowered my expectations in life. It seemed that even if music wasn’t my main focus in life, I was satisfied. That me, when I met up with Rio, my passion was reignited and gained confidence in my music. I am still a spoiled child in some areas but I’d like to keep up with Rio, he lights my way.
Ikasan : Because rairu is really unique. LOL . But Capital Rhythm is a really interesting group, nero, rairu and Tsukasashi, at a glance, you wouldn't expect them to belong to the same group. LOL
Kettaro : Right? If rairu was in ROOT FIVE (Kettaro’s other group), I’d snap. LOL
rairu : Right? LOL
Ikasan : I can’t even imagine. LOL . Personally, I have a lone-wolf personality and am told that I do things at my own pace. I didn’t expect to join in group activities but Capital Rhythm is full of surprises and a constant source of inspiration. Even if it is harder on myself, I want to balance both my job as a voice actor and this.
Rio : All the members have spoken at length but for me, I want to bring it back to the origin of Capital Rhythm. The origin of the group’s name is based on “capitalism”, that the existence of quality resources should be capitalised on. As we are in the business of music, we want to provide good quality “musical entertainment” and gain recognition based on that. Good “musical entertainment” that anyone, not only a fan, would think it’s cool.
Capital Rhythm hopes to approach the world by identifying the greatest common denominator and finding a common ground. As Capital Rhythm is made up of a group of solo artists, our number one consideration would be their individuality. Capital Rhythm could be likened to a small rock festival or similar to FNS Kayousai. While respecting everyone’s individuality, we want that sense of unity.
(T/N: FNS Kayousai is a multi-seasonal, multi-day music festival broadcasted on Fuji TV in Japan which features multiple groups from various genres.)
There was a time when I was always told I was "no good" and it was very painful and difficult to live with. I don’t consider that it is good that we are told “No” just because we don’t conform to the majority, their values and that standing out is bad.
I really admire those who work hard and carve out their own path, I want to be like them…!
As human beings, we are all equals. The only thing that separates us is the past, the present and the pace we journey through life.
No one can survive alone. With every person we come into contact with, we can mutually help each other over each hurdle. As long as we are human, we should not forget to live with compassion.
(T/N: This whole paragraph needed rephrasing into English as there wasn’t a proper sentence with direct translation).
Capital Rhythm’s activities embody the same spirit of mutual helpfulness. With that mindset, we believe that we can spread music throughout the world.
<Photo: Rio with mask on>
-- Can you tell me more about your plans for the future, including the upcoming broadcast of the No-Audience Band Live Show on 5 July 2020 announced back on 12 April 2020?
Kettaro : For Capital Rhythm, we worked on 2 sets of activities, Otonomiyako and Otonomiya High School. Alongside a super passionate and emotional live show for Otonomiyako, each of us had our own individual voice acting roles as part of our visual drama, Otonomiya High School.
On 12 April, our live show was just Otonomiyako, but for July’s performance, we have brought Otonomiya High School to life as well!
Ikasan : Otonomiyako and Otonomiya High School are 2 separate live shows held on the same day. How should I put it… It is like Pokemon and Digimon, both games are about raising monsters and training them for battle, however, the way it is played is vastly different. Similarly, these are the interesting types of content that Capital Rhythm is able to achieve.
Rio : Yup, just like having “Animelo Summer Live” and “ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL”.
(T/N: Animelo Summer live is the biggest annual anime songs music festival in Japan. ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL is the biggest annual multi-day rock festival in Japan.)
Kettaro : We’d like to be a group that is able to do both.
Rio : There is a saying “If you chase after 2 hares, you will catch neither” but with 9 of us, we can catch them!
(T/N: This saying means that if you try to to accomplish 2 things at the same time, it will likely be unsuccessful.)
-- At this rate, it seems like you can even catch 3 or 4 hares!
Rio : Yes, I believe Capital Rhythm has the ability to do so.
Kettaro : After this (July), we have various sub-units and groups along with projects planned. Each project and group will have its own charm as our members are good at singing!
Moreover, listeners can find their favourite music among our variety of genres such as Rock, J-Pop, R&B and Hip-hop.
<Photo: Kettaro on red sofa>
Rio : Through an Utaite called Nodoame, I came across yasu’s songs (from Janne Da Arc/Acid Black Cherry) and fell in love from that point onwards.
That being said, we want to create the same opportunity for others to discover and fall in love with.
Kakerine : Firstly, let's knock it out of the park with this July’s live shows!
NORISTRY : Usually, we’d say “Kamasu”. LOL.
Up to this point, we have been delivering our singing individually over our PCs. That’s why we will “kamasu” (LOL) and deliver the feeling of an actual live show. Please look forward to 5 July.
(T/N: Kakerine used “Kamashitai”, a more proper word in Japanese, but usually when they speak in casual Japanese, it is “Kamasu”, that was what NORISTRY was referring to. “Kamasu” is “Let’s do our best!” or “Let’s do this!”. )
Ajikko : Personally, I want to relive that feeling similar to that of last November’s live shows where the members had that feeling of unity yet not wanting to lose to each other.
<Photo: NORISTRY in black & white outfit>
Ikasan : In Otonomiya High School, we are split into Year 1s, 2s and 3s. We definitely won’t lose!
Tsukasashi : Most Utaite live shows are relay formats but for ours, we make it seamless even though it is a relay format. Just like how Kettaro-niisan mentioned, the entire group is made up of really good singers, we want to confidently showcase the high level of perfection and unrivaled presence that is uniquely us.
(T/N: I am assuming Tsukasashi is referring to the transition in groups during a combined Utaite live show where it doesn’t have the same storyline as different groups perform.)
Rio : In fact, +α/alfakyun will be appearing as a guest in Otonomiyako. With her high key female vocals as an addition, something that Capital Rhythm has not had before, I am sure that it would change up the atmosphere.
rairu : I am looking forward to that too. We had guest appearances in the first and second shows of our November performances last year. For me, I can’t wait to sing plenty of songs together with everyone and make it a really awesome day!
<Photo: rairu in black on the red sofa>
Nero : That’s right. We are not able to disclose more but 5 July will be a memorable day. We wish to have fun with everyone.
Rio : While live shows cannot be done normally , we are born in the digital age and we believe we can still deliver live shows over the air just like the no-audience live show done previously on 12 April.
Ikasan : That’s right. Even for myself, I am able to devote my time on one thing without being concerned with how people think of me.
I want to be able to move forward and share our feelings with the people who support us now and those that we might meet in the future.
Rio : We really treasure the support that we have received from everyone. To the fans who have supported our wholeheartedly, I really can’t thank you enough..(Rio was holding back his tears) that is why I want to give you my heartfelt thanks.
Kettaro : Only Rio can get this emotional in an interview. It is a really good thing.
Tsukashi : Because of him, we are able to move people’s hearts with our singing.
Ajikko : It is really Rio who ignites the passion in us.
Ikasan : We exist because Rio brought us together.
-- With friends that you can trust and adoring fans, Capital Rhythm has nothing to fear right?
Ikasan : Right, nothing to fear.
Rio : Because the fans of individual members are so warm and truly support us, we want to carve out the future together with them.
*T/N note:
Thank you for reading & being interested in Capital Rhythm.
I hope this translation helped you understand a bit more about what Capital Rhythm is about and what they hope to achieve.
Special thanks to Evako-chan for quality checking if my English made sense.
(Because nothing makes sense anymore T_T)
(cries - I can’t believe I translated such a long article but it is worth it!)
All the live shows that are mentioned here are held in 2020.
Their upcoming shows are below :
3 Oct 2020 : Lust Curacao (Rio,Kake,Sashi) - ended
25 Jan 2021 : Capital Rhythm Vol. 3 (All 9 members & their 3 special guests) - tickets yet to be announced.
If you found this translation interesting, please follow Capital Rhythm & their 9 members on their Socials.
Thank you!!
Personally, I was convinced by a friend to get a ticket for the Otonomiya High School live show and I got hooked ever since!
I hope they get more interviews and more fans in the future!
All of the Capi members are so talented singers, I can’t stop listening to them!
If you are a new fan and would like to see something that hasn't been translated about them, you can drop me a DM or Email, I will see if it is in my ability and schedule to translate.
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