The People In Fog: A Deep Dive into DJ Sodeyama’s Eclectic New LP
This one leans into the deeper, clubbier side of things—brought to us by none other than a true legend of Japan’s electronic underground: The People In Fog aka DJ Sodeyama.
A pioneering force in Tokyo’s techno scene since the early ‘90s, DJ Sodeyama has long been respected for his relentless dedication to pushing sonic boundaries. Whether releasing on labels like Rekids, трип, and Dynamic Reflection or lighting up dance floors across the globe, his impact is undeniable.
Now, returning under his more eclectic alias The People In Fog, Sodeyama delivers a new full-length LP—‘Too Much Knobs And Cables’—on Tokyo-based imprint Sound Of Vast. It's a deep dive into the sounds he loves beyond techno: House, Nu-Disco, Balearic, and other soulful shades of the electronic spectrum.
Across nine tracks, the album is a rich tapestry of groove—from deep house cuts like ‘Red Morning’ and ‘CC Love’, to classic Chicago-style bangers like ‘Animal Kingdom’, and funked-out disco-filtered jams like ‘Dance To The Air’. There’s even room for synth-soaked night rides (‘Night Driver’) and cinematic Balearic dreamscapes (‘Sun Moon Lake’).
With three decades of experience and a constant evolution in sound, Sodeyama continues to explore the art of movement and mood with nuance and soul. We caught up with him to talk about the new record, his enduring connection to Tokyo’s underground, and how he keeps things fresh after all these years behind the decks and in the studio.
Q: Your greatest inspirations or influences?
I was influenced by skateboard culture and New York/Chicago House in the early 90's, and British graphic design such as TDR.
Q: How is the current world around you part of your artistic process?
I don't know if anything is directly involved in my artistic side. However, I try to put myself in places where I can create in an environment where I can feel calm and free.
Q: Tell us about your creative process.
Regarding my new album "Too Much Knobs And Cables" , I had to replace and re-set up the equipment in my studio. I felt very stressed to set up equipment with so many knobs and so many cables connecting them.
It took me a week to verify how best to arrange the set-up. I felt stress in that environment, but I realized once again that it was in that environment that I was able to create my own sound. After that, I went to bed, woke up, and created again and again.
Q: How do you combine your music with your art practice? Is it an addition to you as a creative or is it part of the art works?
In my mind, music and design are both artistic activities. I do design as a hobby, but my ideal is to be able to do both, as in the case of this album. It is easier to convey my image more perfectly.
Q: How do you feel about AI, as it relates to the art world?
It will be difficult to design without using AI in the future. The use of AI will depend on whether you move your brain first or your hands first.
I feel it is important to have a clear vision for oneself rather than being given one.
Q: Do you feel artists have a responsibility to be activists for a better world?
I don't think I am responsible, but I think it is important for everyone, not just artists, to do something for a better world.
Q: Anything else you would like to share with us>
As The People In Fog, the release of this album will be followed by a 14-club tour in Japan.
As DJ Sodeyama, I have an EU tour in September and many more releases coming up soon.
https://soundofvast.bandcamp.com/album/too-much-knobs-and-cables / https://www.instagram.com/djsodeyama /
