August 2010Archives

The drum roll started! Our new album "High Hai Hi!" is on its way!!!!! (The order was completed and we're now waiting for it!!!) This album is the first album as a band. (Officially, this is second album) First album is more like... Erik and Toko's collaboration before as a band (Of course, many people also supported us for the first one). Both records are equally important to me. But totally they have different meanings behind whole processes and songs.

I have been amazed by whole things that we are doing now. At very first, I had no confidence to sing these Japanese songs in front of audience in the US because I thought it was hard to be accepted. I thought that I could not take my great friends (the important band members) to such a dangerous journey. However, they really supported me to do so. And how wonderful... I have met so many open-minded people who love music and also open their hearts to our music! I have been amazed by those people...

I personally have listened to any language songs  since I was child. I was in Japan and all adults around me listened to foreign songs. So, even if I didn't know the meaning but I had no difficulty to enjoy them. Music itself is its own language to me (and I still believe so) But, I still have had a fear that I do sing Japanese songs on a stage here in the US. Before the any show, to be honest, I always still have it. But, I believe my band members and once I go on a stage, I just follow to the power of music and be free. How could it be? ...Because many of audience also share their positive energies with us. Last summer, just before a show, Ben (our drummer) told me, "Even if no one cares what you are singing, just do your best. Believe other Babies members believe you. We are with you. Don't worry and just enjoy playing music. So, someone will start enjoying..."  something like that. When I feel the fear, I always recall this. Maybe someone will like what we are doing... So, just do what I can do.

I really feel lucky to meet my bands people. First started singing just for myself and now I could play music with (musically and personally) wonderful people. AND now can enjoy music with more people who like our music... How can I show my tremendous appreciation? I have no idea... Anyway, I think I just continue to do something I can do with other Babies members and share our music with people... and I hope it shows the appreciation eventually...

Now, new album is really close to be released. As I mentioned, finally this is the album as the band, October Babies. Once again, I'd like to say, thank you all of you who have paid attention to and encouraged October Babies. Without you, it would never be completed.  (Sorry about my bad English writing... I hope you can at least understand what I try to tell...)  with love, Toko

One more great thing to tell! Here is the interview article by FORMzine!