Let's enjoy the music and traditional Japanese clothing to the fullest and make this a memorable and fun summer!

Hilcrhyme is a rap duo consisting of MC TOC and DJ KATSU. Formed in 2006, they made their major debut in 2009. Their second single, "Shunkashuto" (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter), released that same year, became a huge hit, winning them various newcomer awards, including the Japan Record Award for Best New Artist. They are highly regarded for their skillful live performances, and their first Budokan concert in 2014 sold out. In 2016, their 10th anniversary year, they were very active, with the theatrical release of a 3D live film, the release of their 7th album, a 20-city national tour, and in 2017, an arena concert at Toki Messe in their hometown of Niigata, a film adaptation of "Shunkashuto," and the release of an all-time best album. Their new song, "After Story," a sequel to "Shunkashuto," began streaming on June 10th. http://hilcrhyme.com

—What are your aspirations for participating in "ISETAN BONDANCE 2017"?

Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to participate in TOC ISETAN BONDANCE 2017 “Dancing! Glamorous Festival”. I have loved summer festivals since I was a child, and even now I still pull the floats at my local festival. When I was offered this opportunity, I felt it was very refreshing to hold such a nostalgic and warm Japanese event in an urban place like Isetan in Shinjuku. I am very honored to be able to perform on that stage.

DJ KATSU: Lately, summer festivals have been getting bigger in scale, and various mixture events are also thriving in different places, so I thought this event, which combines Japanese and Western styles, had a particularly nice atmosphere and was perfect for us, as we cherish the four seasons.


—What are your expectations for the collaboration between the taiko drumming group Kodo and Y&Sons in "BONDANCE"?

TOC: We are a unit based in Niigata Prefecture, and there is no one living in Niigata who doesn't know Kodo. We recently performed together at a different event, and we are very happy that we have the opportunity to share the stage with them again. We have also read Kodo's published books, and we were deeply moved by their aspirations to create a village in Sado and to hone their skills together under the same roof. As a fan, we are really looking forward to their performance on the day.

DJ KATSU: I'm overwhelmed by the sheer power of the taiko drums, which resonate deep within your body—something that digital equipment simply cannot replicate. As I primarily work with electronic instruments, I have a deep respect and admiration for Kodo's sound.

TOC: I've loved traditional Japanese clothing since I practiced kendo as a child. Y&SONS' yukata and kimono are all so sophisticated, showcasing traditional Japanese clothing as "fashion," and I really wanted to try wearing them in my own style on this occasion. Stage costumes are something I place a lot of importance on, so I'm really looking forward to the collaboration on the day.

DJ KATSU: I love traditional Japanese clothing fabrics, so I wear a jinbei (a type of casual summer garment) at home all year round. That's why I want traditional Japanese clothing to become more mainstream, and I'm honored to be able to contribute in a small way to this project.


-- A message to customers participating in "BONDANCE"

TOC: It is a great honor and we are very much looking forward to having our music participate in festivals and yukata, which are part of Japanese culture. Please look forward to this BONDANCE party with a "yukata dress code," and Hilcrhyme's live performance, which will feature a setlist and production unique to this day only!

DJ KATSU, please come dressed in traditional Japanese attire. Let's use this as an opportunity to create a day this year when you go out in traditional Japanese clothing, and make it a memorable and fun summer.

NEXT≫ The charm of Y&SONS: You can enjoy learning and experiencing the story along with the product.