Japanese rock band ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION has been prolific, recently dropping their 'Fujieda EP' and the new single 'Skins' in back-to-back months. The four-track EP was recorded entirely at MUSIC inn Fujieda, a distinctive residential recording studio established within a 130-year-old renovated storehouse. This EP not only showcases a dynamic shift in texture from song to song but also highlights the exceptional quality and unique environment of the Shizuoka-based facility.

Masafumi Gotoh, the frontman and guitarist of ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, revealed his motivation behind creating MUSIC inn Fujieda. He aimed to counteract the prohibitively high costs and cramped conditions often associated with recording studios, particularly in urban centers like Tokyo. Gotoh envisioned an accessible space where musicians could genuinely take their time to craft music. The studio's realization was a collective effort, supported through crowdfunding, and the band members themselves played a crucial role by undertaking the initial test recordings.

The band members shared their overwhelmingly positive impressions of the studio. Guitarist and vocalist Kensuke Kita expressed his surprise at how thoroughly the space had been transformed into a professional studio, exceeding his expectations. He particularly lauded the fantastic drum sound, noting that the space was clearly constructed with such acoustic quality in mind. Drummer Kiyoshi Ijichi found it remarkable that such a storehouse still exists and was renovated in Fujieda, drawing parallels to the European culture of preserving old buildings. He emphasized the significance of such renovation in Japan, especially given the country's susceptibility to earthquakes. Bassist and vocalist Takahiro Yamada highlighted the wonderful materials utilized, including reclaimed wood from disaster sites and original storehouse floorboards repurposed as wall paneling. He also praised the warm and personable staff, which contributed to an incredibly comfortable recording environment.

The new single, 'Skins,' released in April, serves as the opening theme for the TV anime 'Dr. STONE: SCIENCE FUTURE Season 3.' Gotoh explained that he wrote the song some time ago, during a period where he felt compelled to create anti-war themed music. He explored the concept of shedding superficial elements until only bare 'skin' remains, symbolizing a common sensibility that can transcend conflict and division. This idea, he felt, resonated perfectly with Dr. STONE's narrative of humanity rebooting after petrification, offering a subtle critique of the modern world.

Gotoh further articulated his philosophy on music's role in society. He believes that music does not exist to amplify differences but rather to demonstrate how individuals with disparate views can still converge, moving to a shared rhythm and experiencing a common feeling of unity. For Gotoh, music is an inherently open and inclusive form of expression that welcomes everyone, a principle he strives to uphold in his songwriting and creative endeavors.

The band also recounted their memorable experience of opening for Oasis at Tokyo Dome. Gotoh admitted to being genuinely nervous and initially skeptical about the venue's acoustics, but was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality. He described it as a challenging yet manageable 30-minute performance for a band celebrating 30 years. Yamada noted the warm reception from the audience, which allowed them to perform comfortably. Ijichi contrasted this experience with a prior, less welcoming Oasis opening in Nagoya, expressing joy and surprise at the Tokyo Dome crowd's enthusiastic cheer and recognition of their songs, which made them feel truly on par with the headliners.

As ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION approaches its 30th anniversary, the band is preparing for a series of overseas shows in Indonesia, Mexico, Chile, and Peru, in addition to an upcoming Ariake Arena concert in Japan. Each member shared their thoughts on the future. Gotoh expressed his eagerness to perform wherever their fans call them, creating music and shows worthy of that global support. Kita conveyed deep gratitude to their dedicated fanbase for enabling the band's longevity and pledged to deliver unforgettable performances. Ijichi articulated his aim to play a diverse repertoire, encompassing both new and classic songs, to ensure both long-time followers and new listeners leave happy. Yamada underscored his awareness of fan expectations, committing to perform with utmost dedication to live up to those hopes, both internationally and domestically.