Chizawa Q is a visionary Japanese Techno artist that draws inspiration from jazz, as well as Detroit pioneers. Ahead of his newly announced album ‘Xenoverse’, which is released on 22nd November on seminal electronic Belgian label R&S, he takes us deeper down the rabbit hole, sharing the obscure tracks that have shaped his sound over the years. DMCWorld goes Back To Mine with Chizawa Q.
Rhythm & Sound – King in My Empire
The perfect minimal dub track for chilling out. Tikiman’s smoky, deep reggae-style vocals blend seamlessly with the minimal and deep beats, creating a unique soundscape. I also recommend “The Version,” which showcases the track’s magical allure without the vocals.
Washed Out – Eyes Be Closed
This is the ultimate soundtrack for a trip down memory lane. I feel such a strong sense of nostalgia and melancholy with this track—if someone doesn’t connect with this sound, I feel like we’re on different wavelengths.
Watch on YouTube
PATLABOR 2 Pre Soundtrack: Unnatural City
A track from my favorite anime director Mamoru Oshii’s PATLABOR 2 soundtrack. This version was released before the movie, giving listeners a chance to imagine the film’s mood through the music. It’s fascinating to compare it to the sounds actually used in the final cut. The anime questions the meaning of modern warfare in a peaceful, near-future Tokyo.
Watch on YouTube
AKIRA Soundtrack – DOLLS’ POLYPHONY Remixed by Yasuharu Konishi
There are countless remixes of the iconic AKIRA soundtrack, but this one stands out. Yasuharu Konishi, known for his work with Pizzicato Five, brings an unexpected twist to the mix, making it both familiar and fresh.
Watch on YouTube
Hideki Matsutake – Counting Sheep for You
This ambient track by legendary YMO member Hideki Matsutake counts 500 sheep over 40 minutes with a male voice, who sighs at the end and says, “Still can’t sleep?” It’s a quirky yet soothing experience. The instrumental version is featured in Kankyō Ongaku: Japanese Ambient, Environmental & New Age Music 1980-1990 by Light In The Attic, but this is the original.
Watch on YouTube
Spacek – Sexy Curvatia
Led by Steve Spacek, this track from their debut album blends experimental soul, electronica, and hip-hop. The smooth, soulful vocals and stripped-back, psychedelic beats exemplify the beauty of minimalism.
Watch on YouTube
Foxy Brown – I Can’t ft. Total
Featuring a slowed-down sample of Wham!’s Everything She Wants, this track is the ultimate chilled-out flavor. The ’90s vibes in the video are still incredibly sexy, and Foxy’s charm is timeless.
Watch on YouTube
Annihilation Soundtrack – Ben Salisbury & Geoff Barrow – The Alien
This track plays during the climax of one of my favorite sci-fi films, Annihilation. It’s a stunning fusion of orchestration and aggressive electronic sounds, expanding the boundaries of human imagination.
Watch on YouTube
Design A Gara Gara (feat. CIBO MATT)
This track is from a Japanese children’s show focused on design, with all music by Cornelius. The playful arrangements help kids understand design in a fun way, and the creativity in these songs is just fantastic.
Watch on YouTube
London Elektricity – Rewind
This early classic from London Elektricity, featuring my recent remixer Makoto, is a standout from the Hospital label. The Japan version and Makoto remix are great too, but this album version’s smooth guitar tones make it perfect for chilling out. London Elektricity has a deep connection with Japan, releasing various collaborations and compilations.
Watch on YouTube
The first single from Chizawa Q’s upcoming R&S album, ‘Beluga’, is out now.
https://youtu.be/wQvKSYCUkGA?feature=shared
Follow Chizawa Q…
Instagram | Soundcloud | X
Follow R&S
Website | Soundcloud | Bandcamp | X
