About After Hours

This event was created with a single ideology; to create a space for artists who do not wish to compromise their artistic visions nor accommodate any authority to gather, and "stand against things that ruin art". These pure visions are something that most artists will have had at one time, but may have gradually faded due to the rigid system that still constrains them, stemming from the roots of the old traditional art and music industry.

Naturally, the artistic world has a deep relationship with philosophy and ideology. This is a realm where everyone can equally share their emotions and empathise, without losing the sensory pleasure. This is also a place where people can connect with each other, change each other's world view and become the power to move the world. In the past, excellent art has moved the public and changed the world. Art plays an important role in helping us express things that can't be spoken of, that can't be told. Music is not merely a sound sensation, it can also provide encouragement and comfort. We believe music can become the energy to reassure your own existence and give the power to live, so much more than mere recreation.

We feel that the country we live in, Japan, has the tendency to consume art and music as just entertainment. One thing we learned from our many years of travel throughout the world, is that art and music play a strong role in society, regardless of the country. However, Japan tends to highly value the physical accomplishment itself more, as opposed to recognising the power of influences that people and society bring to each other over a long period of time. What is important with artistic expression is not the outer layer, but what remains deep in the unconscious. We believe that is the true value of music.

With all these thoughts in mind, we'd like to make this festival a place where all the independent and true artists filled with originality and belief, and all the musical fans throughout the world can connect.

In order to achieve this, please lend your hand to us.

Feb 22, 2017

After Hours