Interviews: KPRO

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Progressive Rock Orchestra band, KPRO from Japan. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE. 

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that?

Kansai is a word that refers to a region in Japan where the members live. Before the band was formed, the members often got together for drinks. The name of the band was decided at the drinking party.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

All of them had been active in the progressive rock scene before we met. It was inevitable that we would play progressive rock.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

We already knew each other because we'd played together on stage and seen each other on stage.

4. Each band member's favourite band?

Yasuhiro - Frank Zappa

Derollin' - Arti e Mestieri

Dune - Genesis

Shohei - Area

Wakyo - Led Zeppelin

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

The members write songs taking into account their instruments and each other's strengths. (Yasuhiro) Inspiration comes to me in my daily life, when I am riding my motorcycle or cooking, for example.

6. Where was your last gig?

Third Stone, Osaka Always, Kobe Both are in Kansai, Japan.

7. Where would you like to act?

Dune: Our goal is to perform at the Cruise to the Edge.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

We would like to go and play with progressive musicians from all over the world in their countries.

9. Whom not?

No one.

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

No one. (Yasuhiro) But if I had to give you a tip, I would say zazen. Zazen is a fundamental method of training in Zen Buddhism, and it is still popular activity among people in Japan.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

The Beatles. Yasuhiro and Dune are particularly influenced by Paul McCartney. They both love the medley from the second half of Abbey Road.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for? 

Dune: Nothing in particular. We want to keep communicating with everyone.

13. What do you think of your fans? 

Dune: We really appreciate the fans who come to our shows over and over again, and we also appreciate the fans who support us from far away who can't come to our shows. I would love to have you all hear us perform live someday.

14. What do you think of our site? 

Dune: It is wonderful to see so many Awesome bands being introduced. It's even better to have us on there.

15. Something to add?

I hope to release more and more on YouTube. We are also recording our second album. Please keep an eye on our activities.