Bold, intense, and pared to the essentials, “APORIE VIVANT” is the second full album from alternative R&B singer VivaOla, and is the purest expression of his vision of music yet. In this wide-ranging interview, we talk to VivaOla about his musical roots, the background to “APORIE VIVANT”, and his personal values through his lyrics.

Blessed with a distinctive, rich voice and having grown up as a dancer listening to 90’s hip-hop and R&B, reina is at the forefront of the nascent Japanese alternative R&B/neo-soul scene, rapidly attracting fans across all ages and cultures. We speak to reina about her unique background, her new EP “A Million More” and her reflections on her career so far.

Julia Takada is a Japanese-American singer-songwriter and freelance model associated with the creative label w.a.u, characterized by her positive yet delicate singing voice and musings on modern life. We talk to Julia about her background, her first EP “Manifest Girl”, and her zine project VIRIDIAN.

ZIN is an R&B/soul singer-songwriter based in Tokyo who also writes and produces for other artists. Through his original and intricate sound, ZIN’s tracks resonate with your deepest thoughts. Fresh off his successful tour in promotion of his landmark first album Curve, ZIN speaks candidly to Tokyo ON about the album, his background, and being true to himself.

Lil Summer is a singer-songwriter and DJ from Fukuoka with a sweet and soulful singing voice influenced by classic and modern R&B artists. She released her first EP “Rojo” in 2023 in digital and vinyl formats, and has been busy performing both at festivals in Japan and abroad. Speaking exclusively to Royce Leong of Tokyo ON, we hear about her background, the EP, and her current activities.

Born in Tokyo, Lil Leise But Gold is an alternative R&B artist and singer/songwriter who released her first album 喧騒幻想 (kenso genso) at the end of 2022. She also happens to be married to super producer KM. In this exclusive interview, Royce Leong of Tokyo ON inquires about her musical background and her relationship with KM, and explores the meaning and emotions behind 喧騒幻想.