Hojo

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バイオグラフィ

  • With a sonic identity driven by future-facing bass, techno and grime hybrids, Hojo’s ascent may seem rapid but it has really been years in the making.
    A slew of self-releases, a debut single on Bristol’s Locus Sound and a collaborative track with Lewisham MC Novelist on Darwin’s SPE:C Records has picked up support from contemporaries such as Ben UFO, Mala and Mia Koden; existing at the nexus between European dance music and screw-face UK bass, and igniting a flurry of track ID requests in the process. Citing techno influence from trips to Tresor and the work of Blawan, Joy Orbison and Pariah, and sub-bass exposure from trips to fabric to witness the pressure of Sir Spyro and Slimzee, Hojo’s passion for finding new sounds across a variety of genres is deep. “It could be ‘Alligator Blood’ by Bring Me The Horizon one moment and Pachelbel's ‘Canon in D’ the next”, says the London producer, “Rather than the genre it's about what gasses me up, that’s what guides me and I suppose that's a culmination of the experiences I've had since being a kid, be it the Lord of the Rings OST or Martyn absolutely shelling The Adelphi in Hull.” Honing his skills in the guitar and the piano whilst growing up sparked a fascination in bands that moulded together both electronic and live elements. His mum’s introduction to Pink Floyd was key here, as were local heroes Enter Shikari and their track ‘Havoc B’, laden with metal guitar riffs and a heavy dubstep influence. While the sounds might differ slightly, the principles from which Hojo sets for his own bass-driven productions are similar - an ethos and dedication to pushing the boundaries of expectation. 2023 saw Hojo club appearances at pivotal London spaces including Venue MOT and Pickle Factory, and this year the DJ & producer shows no sign of slowing down with ‘Villarrica Traverse’ arriving on Sputnik One’s N-Face label as part of a VA compilation. As he returns to the London following a 8-month stint in South America, Hojo is on his way to becoming a name synonymous with refreshing ideas and takes on club-focused sounds, while still maintaining an energy that ensures you stay glued front-left with outings this year in both London and Colombia.
RA