Getting To Know... STRAM

After cementing themselves with a string of bold and enticing releases this past year, Japanese outfit STRAM have now returned to deliver their anthemic new EP 'Swim/Dullness'.

Channelling a broad and atmospheric post-punk direction from start to finish, 'Swim/Dullness' makes for an extremely powerful listen. With its huge and thunderous production, soaring textures, and vibrant hooks throughout, this lot look set to take the world by storm very soon.

So with the new EP available now, we sat down with Yutaro Kaneko from the group to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him most over the years.

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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?

It’s bass. I thought it was very cool. But I’ve started to play the drums tearfully by father’s instructions. Because He loved the drums so much.

What kind of music did you love when you were younger?

Punk rock. I often listened to US punk bands such as Rancid, NOFX and Bad Religion. I've been listening to The Beatles, Deep Purple, Cream and Southern All Stars(JP), which my father loved since I was a baby.

What was the first album you remember owning?

I’m not sure if I bought the ORANGE RANGE(JP) album.

What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?

“No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age.

Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?

Not really. I will try to write it down when I come up with it.

Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?

It’s Idles. I really like the new album.

If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?

For the hamster I have.

What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?

Simply, I enjoy being able to have circumstances where I can play in the studio and talk about music every day.

And what is the most frustrating part?

There are a lot of difficult things, but I have a hard time mainly in relationships.

And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?

Health is wealth, as they say.

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STRAM's new EP 'Swim/Dullness' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.