KOIAI is a Japanese rock band, comprising Hazuki (NEMOPHILA-global), Kotono (ex-IRONBUNNY), and Li-sa-X. Formerly recognized as the Li-sa-X band, it emerged in 2022.
Li-sa-X and Kotono were featured on Stalwarts Of Music with Aditya Veera ahead of their performance at the February 2023 Oddball Festival.
Aditya opens the podcast warmly, discussing Lisa’s birthday celebration. This marks the band’s inaugural visit to India, sparking their enthusiasm for the upcoming Oddball Festival.
Subsequently, the discussion plunges into KOIAI’s genesis, the band's musical endeavors, and the diverse talents and lives of its members.
What's the significance of KOIAI?
KOIAI blends the band members' names and signifies color or love in Japanese.
How was the band received during its early musical journey?
Kotono was thrilled to combine rock with dance, a passion stemming from her kindergarten days. With two guitarists and Kotono's dance prowess, the band delivered danceable, joyful rock, earning a warm reception.
Li-sa-X collaborated with artists like Paul Gilbert and Polyphia. Does she feel pressure to meet others' expectations, and how much is her success attributed to personal maturity versus mentorship?
Lisa follows her desires but admits that she receives substantial external support.
KOIAI’s music fits into progressive pop, characterized by danceable rock. Any insights on the upcoming EP?
Their EP, comprising five songs, mirrors tracks like "Take It or Leave It" on YouTube, representing their pop music style.
Will the new EP be in Japanese, English, or a mix?
It will be multilingual.
Considering the diverse talents within KOIAI, how do you ensure each member shines artistically?
Harmonizing the two guitarists ensures each gets their spotlight. Danceable music further highlights Kotono's performance.
Lisa garners global acclaim from musicians like Paul Gilbert and Marty Friedman. What applause matters to her, and how would she rate her own success?
She values precision and aims for accuracy. Embracing fusion and freestyle music is her current focus.
Is Lisa striving for perfectionism?
Initially inclined towards speed and emotion like a classical musician, she now seeks expressive freedom.
Any plans for a family band, considering Lisa’s father and brother are musicians?
There are no immediate plans.
Lisa released the solo album WILL in 2018, but subsequent releases have been scarce. Any updates on her solo projects?
Her attention has been on the band, but she's currently working on solo endeavors.
How did Lisa develop her cross-guitar picking approach, a curiosity among Indian audiences?
She learned the technique from Paul Gilbert, starting slow and gradually building speed.
Lisa admires Mr. Big and has learned lessons from Paul Gilbert. How important is mentorship for young musicians?
Lisa follows YouTube tutorials and values Gilbert’s teachings on expression and rhythm over shredding.
Aditya acknowledges Lisa's emotional approach to music, praising Paul Gilbert's guidance.
What is Kotono’s creative process as a singer?
She practices to balance her voice with instrumentals.
What is the band's performance ritual?
While their India show was their debut, they ensured eye contact and harmony during practice sessions.
Is KOIAI aiming for longevity as a band?
Their singular goal is to win a Grammy.
The conversation transitioned casually, discussing personal preferences, favorite songs, food choices, and musical influences.
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