Prolific multi-instrumentalist and world-renowned 'loop-pedal ninja', Kenta Hayashi returns once again to Australia for a run of east-coast shows this summer.
Known for his mastery of looping pedals that sees him creating one-man orchestras in front of a live audience, Kenta is a regular visitor to our shores – this upcoming tour being his seventh in three years.
We sat down with Kenta to ask about his music, his love for Australia and what he has planned for his shows.
How are you feeling about your upcoming tour to Australia?
I'm super excited to bring my new live set with lots of new songs to Australia. It's gonna be fun.
This will be your seventh visit here in three years; what keeps you coming back to Australia so regularly?
I've been getting great responses, especially at Woodford Folk Festival last New Year's, which makes me want to come back to Australia every year.
What can audiences expect from you this time around?
After my four-month Berlin creation/ evolution, I started using my electric guitar and new gear (sampler pad), so it'll be my new sound including many new songs. It's exciting.
How will your performance at Jungle Love Festival (SE QLD) compare to the smaller theatre/ club shows?
I love playing outside in nature, so I am super excited to play at Jungle Love Festival. It's just different; smaller venues are condensed and [have a] more personal feeling, which I also enjoy.
Were you happy with the response to your previous album 'Loop 444'?
Yes, very much. I only used my acoustic guitar and voice on this album and it captures my live sound well. Many people said this album is their favourite one which makes me happy.
Last time we spoke, you mentioned a desire to explore the Australian wilderness and experience the natural sounds of insects and wildlife etc; have you had a chance to do this yet?
Haha, I remember that and yes a little bit. I had a chance to see glowworms, waterfalls, rainforest (Tablelands). They gave me good energies and made my music better for sure.
On your previous tour you also played Woodford Folk Festival for the first time; did you enjoy the experience?
Yeah, very much. It was definitely something so special. And the crowd was amazing. Everybody was smiling, meditating and dancing all together. I definitely wanna come back.
Across your career, do you think you have fully explored the musical potential of looping, or is there still more to discover?
Absolutely not yet. I'm always trying and creating a new sound, which probably never ends. It's the fun part of looping and it has ultimate potential.
What are you working on next?
I'm currently working on (finishing up) my fifth new album. My plan is to finish it during this Australian tour. I'm also looking forward to creating my sixth album with a different theme and style again.
Kenta Hayashi performs at Jungle Love Festival, 29 November to 1 December at a secret location in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Click here for more information about tickets.
Kenta Hayashi Tour Dates
29 Nov - 1 Dec - Jungle Love Festival (Sunshine Coast)Wed 5 Dec - The Junk Bar (Brisbane)
Thu 6 Dec - Dust Temple (Gold Coast)
Fri 7 Dec - Miami Marketta (Gold Coast)
Sun 9 Dec - Peregian Originals (Sunshine Coast)
Sat 15 Dec - Smith's Alternative (Canberra)
Sun 16 Dec - Old Manly Boatshed (Sydney)
Thu 20 Dec - Horse Bazaar (Melbourne)
Sun 23 Dec - Mr Boogie Man (Melbourne)
Fri 4 Jan - The Apple Shed (Grove)
Sat 5 Jan - MONA (Hobart)
Sun 6 Jan - Marakoopa Cafe (Mayberry)
Mon 7 Jan - MONA (Hobart)
