Quick Japan 119 GS interview

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Everything except sleep is band stuff. They travel all over the country in a van, transporting and setting up their own equipment before going on stage, squeezing in recording sessions between gigs, editing merchandise pamphlets, and even shooting video footage for bonus content — even after making their major label debut last year, Gacharic Spin (hereafter referred to as Gachapin) have maintained a DIY approach that remains unwavering.

KOGA/Ba.: Our steady activities haven't changed at all (laughs). But, since we went major, more people have gotten to know us, so we're trying to convey the charm of Gachapin in a short amount of time during our live shows.

Hana/Vo. & Dr.: During the rehearsal stage, we review the song arrangements and performances.

TOMO-ZO/G.: We feel that the number of fans has increased, and that gives us a sense of our own growth.

Although they have remained consistent, their musical style and performance have undergone continuous change. Since their formation, they have been recognized as a powerhouse band delivering hard rock infused with digital beats, but in 2013, high school girl dancers Mai and Arisa joined the group. There was a big shift to a more audience-participation style of stage, with crowd cheering, shouting, and thigh-raising dashes. Each member also has a strong character, with TOMO-ZO portraying an alien and Vo.&Key Oreo Reona portraying a "sexy" character. Furthermore, Mai and Arisa have made their debut as "Gacha Gacha Dancers" and the dramatic developments continue to leave fans behind.

The collaboration with Hidaka-san was made possible by Gachapin's steady yet turbulent history

Mai: We also perform the dancers' songs at Gachapin's live shows, and at first the audience was confused. But gradually they started to dance along with us.

KOGA: I'm still so wrapped up in my own stuff I can't see anything else [Arisa is not present] (laughs). But I can see progress in both of them. For example, their enthusiasm to join the MC.

Their collaboration with the nationally beloved anime Dragon Ball Kai promises to be a major leap forward for these adventurous young women. The fast-paced ending theme, "Don't Let Me Down" was written and composed by Hidaka Hiroshi, formerly of BEAT CRUSADERS and now of THE STARBEMS.

Oreo Reona: A feeling unlike any previous Gachapin sound. Fresh blood has been added.

KOGA: Hidaka-san has known Gachapin for a long time. That's because our posters were plastered all over most of the live houses we toured, and he thought, 'Who are these guys?' (laughs). So this time too, it's a bond forged through the band's steady yet turbulent history.

They have a solo concert scheduled for May 2nd at Shibuya Public Hall. What kind of stage will they show at this venue, the largest they have ever performed at?

KOGA: If you like rock, idols, or comedy, this will be a live show you can enjoy

Mai: I hope we can steadily build our audience during the tour leading up to the main event and connect with them on the big day! Arisa: "I hope we can do another live performance with the dancers. Either way, please just watch me (laughs)."

Hana: Just me?! I'll show you my cool side both as a band and as an individual!

TOMO-ZO: If I were to rate Gachapin's live performance on a scale of 10, I would say that the alien TOMO-ZO felt homesick. Her heart is rising to the heavens (10)!

Oreo Reona: Ignore them. I want to be loved by the nation like Dragon Ball. No, I mean the band.