Los Angeles-based pop-rock guitarist Kazuki Tokaji recently released a brand-new music video, “Inertia,” accompanied by the stellar talents of Tay (bass) and Sebastian (drums).
Originally from Japan, Kazuki began playing guitar at age 7, followed by drums at age 10. Later, he moved to California, where he attended the Musicians Institute while developing his unique sound and style, along with having the opportunity to play with Steve Vai, Marty Friedman, and Chuck Wright.
Kazuki told Shoutout LA, “I started playing guitar when I was 7 years old. Practiced 4-8 hours every day. I met my mentor Dean Brown at Musicians Institute Hollywood. His private lessons changed my musical skill and groove. He found my strong point and weak point and explained, taught me really well. I took his private lessons and counseling 2 or 3 days per week. Sometimes I skipped my other class and took his lesson. That made a huge difference.”
Since then, he’s picked up endorsements with ESP Guitars, Hughes & Kettner amplifiers, and EMG Pickups.
So far, he’s played with two bands: Dylan ‘n’ Alice, who charted on Billboard, and Circle The Earth, whose latest music video, “Diamonds,” amassed more than 600,000 views.
Blending the raw muscle of alt-metal with experimental savors, Kazuki’s music features soft, melodic textures, almost ethereal, as well as brawny chugging layers of sound and dazzling, luminous licks.
“Inertia” opens on dual tiers of color – one light and gleaming, the other heavy and grinding. A thick, rough bassline and Jovian percussion give the tune an enticing rhythm as Kazuki struts his prowess on his guitar, releasing searing, incandescent tones.
A gentle, shimmering section imbues the song with indulgent coloration and then ramps up to luxurious, hefty, visceral alt-metal elevations.
Kazuki Tokaji has it going on! “Inertia” delivers the luscious potency of alt-metal, along with the swank of polished pop hues.
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