Drunken Kong, the acclaimed duo known for their fusion of dreamy melodies and infectious rhythms, makes their highly anticipated debut on Drumcode with their EP ‘I Want To See.’ We had a chance to as Drunken Kong about the inspiration behind the tracks and their approach to incorporating vocals into their techno productions, which adds a distinct atmosphere.
Drunken Kong shared with us insights into notable tracks such as ‘It’s Then,’ ‘I Want To See,’ ‘That’s It,’ and ‘Need It,’ highlighting the creative process behind each. As residents at Tokyo’s legendary Womb, they discuss the influence of the Japanese club scene on their sound.
Congratulations on your Drumcode debut! How does it feel to be releasing your EP on such an iconic techno label?
Thank you very much. We are very happy with it.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the tracks on your EP, ‘I Want To See’? What were the driving forces behind each track?
It all start off with a few vocal samples that we came across with. Right then we had some ideas of what we wanted to make since these vocals really stood out for us.
Your sound has been described as a fusion of dreamy melodic elements and groove-oriented rhythms. How do you strike a balance between these two aspects in your music?
For us, groove is the most important thing. If the groove is good, there is not much that needs to be added.
The EP features different vocal samples used in each track. How do you approach incorporating vocals into your techno productions, and what do they add to the overall atmosphere?
We always like to use vocal. I think its something that is easy for people to remember and using vocals that have a very different vibe can create something very unique.
‘It’s Then’ is described as having a chugging bottom end, sleek synth lines, and sublime vocals. Could you delve deeper into the creation process of this track? How did you achieve the atmospheric elements and create a cohesive sonic experience?
When creating this track, every just came into place so quickly and naturally after we found the vocal sample. We felt since the vocal gave so much character that it was important to not add any unnecessary elements. We wanted to keep the track simple with a strong groove.
The title track, ‘I Want To See,’ is mentioned as a late-night dancefloor affair that shifts between function and fun. How do you navigate between these two aspects and create a dynamic experience for the listeners?
We think the arp melody and the synth part that comes after creates this. Fun is definitely the vibe here in this track.
‘That’s It’ brings peak-time energy with a plump electro backbone and ’90s-tinged vocals. How did you incorporate these nostalgic elements while maintaining a modern and fresh sound?
We originally had a different version of this track with a melody but we decided to do a second version, which is the one that is on the EP. We had a electro influenced synth melody so removing this we already had a base elements of the track so we added a acid bassline which made this track become very unique.
‘Need It’ is described as evocative, with stirring vocals and metallic drumlines. Could you share the story behind this track and how you aimed to evoke emotions through its composition?
We aimed for this as a B-side type of track but with a vocal part and percussions rhythm that stands out as an A-side track. We really like this track since we can use it for a peaktime set but also for a more raw style set.
As residents at Tokyo’s legendary Womb, how has the club scene in Japan influenced your music and career? Are there any specific aspects of the Japanese techno scene that have shaped your sound?
I think our energy and drive to our production is something that was influenced by the scene here. Wire Festival was definitely a party which had a great impact for us. We also like the old Ken Ishii, Takkyu Ishino, Dj Shufflemaster tracks so this style definitely is in us.
You’ve had previous releases on labels like Tronic, Terminal M, and Octopus. How has your musical journey progressed, and how does this Drumcode EP fit into your artistic development?
We feel being an artist and creating music is a long journey. I think every release has helped us develop our sound to what it is now. We think things just fell into place and once again this couldn’t have been done without our experience working with many labels. Its very important to be able to work different styles.
Lastly, do you have any special message or shout-outs for your fans who have been eagerly awaiting your Drumcode debut?
Its finally here! We hope you like it!!