Tokumaru

Gazing upon Tokumaru, can you hear the echoes of a hundred instruments? This unassuming place in Tokyo is intrinsically linked to the musical whirlwind that is Shugo Tokumaru, born right here in this city in 1980. Tokumaru, the musician, isn’t just a name; it’s a vibrant tapestry of sound woven from over 100 instruments, both traditional and unconventional. His music, a whimsical blend of pop sensibilities and experimental soundscapes, has captivated audiences worldwide. Tokumaru, the artist, began his musical journey with the piano at a young age, later embracing the electric guitar and the rebellious spirit of The Clash. He honed his songwriting skills as a member of the band Gellers, formed in the mid-1990s with childhood friends. It was during this time that his fascination with multi-instrumentalism blossomed, pushing him beyond the confines of a typical band setup. A journey to Los Angeles further enriched his musical palette, exposing him to jazz and providing a space for home recordings. Upon returning to Japan in 2003, Tokumaru finalized a demo album, “Fragment,” which caught the ear of the US independent label Music Related. This led to his American debut in 2004 with “Night Piece,” an album initially intended for a limited release but quickly gaining international recognition. Tokumaru’s music has since graced commercials for major brands like Sony and even found its way into the video game “LittleBigPlanet 3.” His 2010 album, “Port Entropy,” marked a significant milestone, breaking into the top 40 charts in Japan. Tokumaru’s creative process is deeply personal, drawing inspiration from his dream diary. He crafts melodies in his mind, then meticulously layers instrument upon instrument, each one giving voice to a different facet of his dreams. So, as you stand here in Tokumaru, imagine the boy who dreamed of music, the musician who mastered a symphony of sounds, and the artist who continues to share his unique sonic world with us.