Kentaro in the clouds
Get some Altitude tonight and have a blast with Japan's hottest turntablist
The master of modern turntablism is back in town! DJ Kentaro from Japan returns by popular demand to show off his jaw-dropping spin and scratch techniques to Thai fans, this time around at Bangkok’s newest rooftop party, Altitude, at Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel.
The hip-hop DJ won third prize at the prestigious DMC World DJ Final in 2001, picking up the title the following year at the age of 20, and becoming the first Asian to win the competition.
His vast and extensive understanding and passion for many different kinds of music adds dimensions and versatility to his technically skilled act. Fans often flock to the dancefloor to witness his fast and furious scratch, and at the same time enjoy eclectic, crafty set filled with various different sounds and vibes.
Offering a happy medium between turntablism and decent DJ-ing, Kentaro has become one of the scene’s most popular DJs. His fame has earned him fruitful collaborations with luminaries like Japan’s megastar Ayumi Hamasaki, American rap group the Roots and LA’s alternative hip-hop outfit the Pharcyde among many others.
Supporting Kentaro are a dozen of Bangkok’s famed DJs and MCs.
Kentaro gave us a short interview before taking the deck.
Are you ready for the partyt?
Yes, I’m very excited and ready to rock “Altitude” in Bangkok. I have seen some videos of the last party and the place just looks amazing, I have to say. It is very rare to see such a rooftop location - this is quite unique.
How was your fist gig in Thailand?
It was back in 2008 at Bed Supperclub. I was a bit nervous yet felt great and it was awesome. I am very happy to come back to Bangkok. Bangkok is definitely one of my favourite spots, and I’m staying four nights here this time. I usually don’t stay in any country more than one night.
Where have you performed lately?
I’ve been to Miami, Paris. Tokyo, Manila and London and many other places. I do a lot the European summer festivals. Those would definitely be my favourites.
Do you still follow the DMC Championship?
Yes, I still do. Of the new guys, I really like Hifana from Breakbeats Unit, Kireek 2007-2011 DMC Team World Champion and five times world champion, DJ Izoh, last year’s DMC second place, and the third place DJ Co-Ma. I also like Gothtrad. He’s a dubstep artist.
Your fans( tend to label your sounds differently. What’s your label?
Basically I’m trying save vinyl records and turntablism from being destroyed. But my main genres are electro, dancehall, reggae, drum and bass, hip-hop and mash-up.
Anything to say to your fans?
I’m back again to the land of smiles and the city of love and peace! I will rock your socks off, so get ready to rock with me tonight. Oh, and please drink responsibly. Don’t drink and drive!
STACK OF VINYL
Kentaro performs tonight at Kacho, rooftop of Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 22.
Entry with a drink is Bt500. Call (02) 261 9300 extensions 5110 and 4162.
