Reported by: Kai Paine
Y&P recently had the chance to interview one of our favorite new artists to watch: Kishi Bashi (K Ishibashi). After founding and playing in Jupiter One, and touring with incredible musicians such as Regina Spektor and Of Montreal, K struck out on his own in 2011 and is about to embark again on a 2012 tour. Having the opportunity to pick his brain, we asked about his rad style, the truth behind his name, and lyrical influences. What we learned made us love him even more!
[Y&P] Hometown?
[K.I.] I was born in Seattle but I grew up in Norfolk, Va where I live now.
Dream town?
I fell in love with the people and the vibe of Athens, GA.
Favorite classic rock song and why?
I like Mr.Bluesky by ELO. Its got all the right elements: synths, a great melody, and a vocoder. Jeff Lynne is a genius.
What’s your vice?
Many things. Apart from all standard vices that male touring musicians possess, I’m very lazy, so I’m able to waste vast amounts of time doing nothing.
How would you define love?
Love is as love does. Its a lot more complicated than it seems. It’s also one of the more expensive spices of life.
If you could have your music appear in a past movie, which movie would it be?
I think my music would do really well in the Never Ending Story. Maybe even in the sequel.
You have a pretty rad and unique look. Who are your “style” icons?
I never thought that I did but I guess my internship with of Montreal definitely helped me break free of the traditional indie rock dress code 
If you are what you eat then you are…
Sushi. Raw.
What does the ‘K’ stand for?
Kaoru
I know you’ve toured with a few great artists (Regina Spektor and Of Montreal, to name some); who’s your favorite artist that you’ve performed with?
I loved Regina’s songs so I loved playing with her. Of MONTREAL is a crazy party band so those shows are like a shining bliss.
If you could collaborate with one musician (living or dead), who would it be?
I love Herbie Hancock. I don’t know what it would sound like but… maybe I just want to meet him.
What motivated “Bright Whites”?
The origins of the lyrics are one of my many secrets. I did write it on the back of a tour bus on a banjo.
What has been the history of your music career? How have you arrived at this point. What was the history of your violin playing?
I went from being an instrumental jazz violin geek and composer to being the front man of a crazy synth rock band, Jupiter One. It took me years to shake off the instrumental ideals and embrace the beauty of a song. I feel like I’m in a great place now.
What influenced the style of your most recent video, “I am the Antichrist to You”?
I always loved stop motion so I jumped at the opportunity to work with Anthony Scott, who is a legend and veteran of the industry. My wife did all the story and illustrations, so it’s the combination of those two talents that created that vision.
Where are you excited to travel to on your current tour?
I love going everywhere. You never know when and where you’re going to have a great show. I always like coming to San Francisco. You guys are crazy!
WHEN ARE YOU COMING TO SAN FRANCISCO?!
September! Cafe du Nord
