Time Capsule Takeover: DJ Moodman

MOODMAN: A Tokyo-based DJ and key figure in Japan's underground music scene since the late '80s. Known for his deep and wide taste, MOODMAN has played everything from dub and punk to techno, house, breaks, and Miami bass. He’s been at the forefront of Tokyo’s electronic music evolution, particularly during the rise of Japanese techno and house in the early ‘90s, when he launched his own label, "Dub Restaurant." MOODMAN helped introduce lesser-known genres like disco dub and tech house to Japan’s underground, long before they gained wider recognition.

A true vinyl digger, MOODMAN’s collection spans over 100,000 rare and unusual records from across the globe. He’s also curated official mix CDs in a range of styles, many of which have become collectors' items. As a former record buyer and writer, his influence extends beyond DJing, contributing to the broader cultural landscape of Japan’s music scene.
MOODMAN was also the first DJ to perform regularly at DOMMUNE, Tokyo’s iconic live streaming music platform, where he showcased his ability to reinvent his sets around new concepts and themes. His innovative approach to dance music has earned him international recognition, including an invitation from Ricardo Villalobos to play at one of Berlin’s legendary parties.

In this show, MOODMAN takes listeners on a journey through the history of Japanese DJ and music bars, from the 1980s to the present. The music selection is a live recording of Japanese fusion from Yon, a new venue in the Jinbocho area of East Tokyo that he helped produce. Like many Tokyo veterans, MOODMAN is energised by the fresh, evolving scene in East Tokyo, which he praises for its cultural aspect.