This spring, Feel Records Kyoto Hanare celebrated its first anniversary with a special event, “METRO de Night?”, held at the iconic Club METRO in Kyoto. Despite being early April, the city was already enjoying warm weather, with cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Along the Kamogawa River, just outside the venue, crowds gathered to enjoy the perfect hanami weather. Against this picturesque backdrop, DJs connected with Feel Records came together for a genre-defying night of vinyl that electrified the crowd.
Since opening in Kyoto as a flagship store for our handmade record needles, Feel Records Kyoto Hanare has focused on curating events that spotlight vinyl culture. One of our signature gatherings, “DJ de Night?”, has welcomed everyone—from beginners making their DJ debuts to top professionals representing the scene.
Watching DJs from all backgrounds come together in perfect sync through music reaffirmed the power of this culture—and that experience became the inspiration for “METRO de Night?”.
Club METRO, our venue, is one of Japan’s longest-running clubs. Established in 1990, it celebrates 35 years this year. Known for its unique programming and deep cultural roots, METRO has long been a creative hub for music, art, and beyond.
Tucked within the underpass near Jingū-Marutamachi Station on the Keihan Line, Club METRO reveals itself unexpectedly—a hidden but crucial landmark in Japan’s club scene. It was the perfect place for “METRO de Night?”.
As call time arrived, DJs began to gather. We extended invitations to every DJ who had ever played “DJ de Night?”, bringing together 13 DJs from across the country, including some from as far as Saitama. Many were meeting in person for the first time, and for some, it was their first time DJing in a club. The rehearsal period carried a quiet tension.
Among them was Rikakozaurus, who had made her debut at a “DJ de Night?” event late last year. This was her first performance since—and her first time playing in a club. Naturally, she was nervous. But seeing her engage openly with veteran DJs reminded us why these events matter. Her enthusiasm alon made the event feel worth it.
With preparations running smoothly, our only remaining concern was attendance. As our first club-hosted event, uncertainty lingered until the very last moment. But as soon as the doors opened and guests started arriving early, those fears were replaced with relief and joy.
The evening was divided into two segments. The first featured de Night? DJs—previous participants from “DJ de Night?”—each delivering a 20-minute set. Spinning their favorite records, they energized the floor with genre-crossing selections that unfolded like a well-paced action film. What could’ve felt chaotic instead came together beautifully, revealing the heart of the de Night? style.
After a lively raffle intermission, the second half kicked off with DJ SHARK, our host for the night. A central figure in Kyoto’s hip-hop scene and a vital presence at Feel Records Kyoto Hanare, DJ SHARK has long been a supporter of local culture. His deep ties were instrumental in bringing “METRO de Night?” to life.
With sharp drum scratching and impeccable timing, DJ SHARK immediately captured the crowd. He was using our newly launched stylus, MORITA Wood Carving Cantilever : KOKUTAN (Ebony) —a limited-edition model commemorating our one-year anniversary, crafted with his personal input. The needle’s performance and sound quality lived up to its concept, impressing everyone on the floor.
Following SHARK’s set was DJ AYA, who appeared in traditional kimono. AYA is a familiar face behind the counter of our kimono-themed vinyl bar series “Ouse”, and on this night, she took center stage as a DJ.
Her selection of vintage Japanese records created a dreamlike atmosphere, and her transition into classic Japanese rap was a masterful touch. As the night neared its peak, seasoned pros from Japan’s Black musicscene stepped up.
Among them was DJ HIYOCO, who initially joined “DJ de Night?” hoping to win a custom stylus engraved with her DJ name. Her debut left an strong impression, and she told us afterward that she wanted to experience a real club gig. And she delivered—flawlessly. Her mix of soul and dance classics, combined with confident mic work, created a truly immersive set that showcased her skill and passion.
Closing the night was BEAT TRICKS—a rare reunion of DJ SHARK’s longtime collaborators, DJ SANCON and DJ SUWA. Their set brought the energy to a climax. The room pulsed with excitement as they demonstrated their legendary turntablism. Audience members raised their phones to capture the moment, lighting up the floor like glowsticks.
As if summoned by the beat, dancers formed a cypher circle. Rikakozaurus, Uchuu-kun, and Tenshow—who all participated as de Night? DJs and are active dancers—joined in, along with many of their friends. One by one, they stepped into the center to showcase their style. Tenshow and Uchuu, in particular, radiated confidence, showing a completely different dimension of themselves.
Each dancer’s performance was uniquely powerful, and together they transformed the final stretch of the night into a vibrant celebration.
What began as a five-hour, 13-DJ marathon flew by in what felt like minutes. We had our doubts leading up to our first club event—but thanks to the overwhelming support and energy from everyone who joined us, it became something truly special.
To everyone who attended, and to all the performers, staff, and friends who have supported Feel Records—thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
We’ll keep sharing the beauty of records and DJ culture in our own unique way. And we’re already looking forward to seeing you all again next year, right here in Kyoto.
