MUCC interviewed on 3/21/2008 at TASTE OF CHAOS
Interview questions by Crimson Al-Khemia
Forward and photography by Lena Lamoray

MUCC isn’t new to the music world since 1997 they have put out seven studio albums along with DVD’s, EP’s and live recordings.  They are known for their lives shows and the singer, Tatsuro, had on this fantastic costume which elongated his limbs as he danced.  His grace and flowing movements are something that I have never seen in a US band.   The music and vocals unite to form a monumental sound.  Check them out for yourselves. 

Crimson: Where did the name MUCC come from?

MUCC: It came from the name of a character on the children’s show Ponkickies.

Crimson: How have you enjoyed the Taste of Chaos Tour thus far?

MUCC:  Good.

Crimson: What do you find is the biggest difference between Japanese and American bands?

MUCC: The staging and performance are so different from Japanese bands and we want to learn how to perform like American bands.

Crimson: Do you want to separate yourself from the other bands or be more like them?

MUCC: We want to be more unique compared to Japanese bands by taking the good points from American bands and put them together [with our usual performance].

Crimson: Do you see a difference between Japanese and American fans?

MUCC: Japanese fans are so shy. They hide their expressions and American fans are freer and more excited.

Crimson: Are you used to seeing a lot of mosh-pitting in the crowds in Japan?

MUCC: We don’t have much moshing in Japan. We do, but not as much. Sometimes people get excited as a whole crowd, but not in small circles.

Crimson: Are you influenced by any artists?

MUCC: Japanese folk music, but lately more Metallica and Korn.

Crimson: When you come together and work on a new record do you start with music or the lyrics first?

MUCC:  Most times we start with music and sometimes the lyrics.

Crimson: What influences you to write?

MUCC: Everything we hear, see, or feel. Touring is a great influence.

Crimson: Is there a particular band on the Taste of Chaos tour you enjoy watching?

MUCC: Bullet for My Valentine, Avenged Sevenfold and Atreyu.   They are very influential. 

Crimson: Your eighth album, SHION is coming out soon . What can you tell us about it?

MUCC: We are trying to do new things on the album. We combined our music with tribal music and dance music.

Crimson: Has the new album been well received compared to previous albums?

MUCC: On MySpace, the fans have been giving positive feedback.

Crimson: Any particular brands of instruments you prefer to use?