KIKUMARU, a member of KANDYTOWN and a solo rapper with a solid career to date, has chosen "Tinder Pack," a modern update of an authentic vibe, for his upcoming album, which is expected to be even more successful than before.
VOL.4 KIKUMARU - KANDYTOWN








Burton is a brand closely associated with culture.
You used to post videos of you snowboarding on your Instagram story, do you go skiing often?
KIKUMARUWhen I was in college or something, I used to go two or three times a year. I didn't own a board, but when I went the other winter, I was thinking it was time to buy a board.
You flew well on the jump platform, didn't you?
KIKUMARUYou were flying. I could fly even on a rental board (laughs). But it was hard to do more tricks than that....
How long have you been snowboarding?
KIKUMARUI went for the first time when I was in high school, and from then on I was hooked, wanting to go every year. I used to skateboard, so it's similar to that feeling. I started skateboarding when I was in the first grade of junior high school. At that time, I was mainly playing soccer, so it was just for fun. I used it to get around at school and stuff.
School move? (Laughs)
KIKUMARUMy school was far from the station (laughs). (Laughs.) After that, I had a routine of skateboarding on my way home and then going to my friend's house to hang out, so I had my skateboard with me.
What kind of bag do you usually use?
KIKUMARUI tend to use knapsacks or tight ones.
How did you like using "Burton's" "Tinder Pack" today?
KIKUMARU. I often carry a laptop or notebook with me, so I thought it would be good for that kind of use. I often carry a notebook, too, so I like that it has a lot of storage space. It is easy to use, of course, but there were many color variations, so I was able to find a color that matched my style for the day. I like that it is simple, but has a color that stands out a bit.
What is your impression of the Burton brand?
KIKUMARUThere were also items involving Pharrell Williams and others, and the brand is also linked to artists. I get the impression that the brand is closely connected to culture.
How long have you been doing rap?
KIKUMARUFrom the third year of junior high school. I went to Wako Gakuen, and at graduation, we all put on a show. Some of us danced. YUSHI invited us to rap there. IO and MASATO were there, too (Note: All three are members of KANDYTOWN). I fell in love with skateboarding, music, and fashion all together.
I think the release of the KANDYTOWN album last year must have changed the environment in many ways, how is that going for you personally?
KIKUMARUMy gigs as KANDYTOWN are relatively few and far between now. I only perform at big events. . But I have more solo performances, and I have more opportunities to go to regional areas.
So you're already past the point about that album, not in a bad way, but in your own mind.
KIKUMARUThat's right. . I feel like that was that, and from now on, everyone will be working solo, so I hope we can do it again as KANDYTOWN at some point in the future. Right now, it's about me. If everyone around me is doing it, I feel like I have to do it, too. Because there are so many people in the crew, I have to be clear about what I am going to do. I am currently making an album of guest appearances, and after making that album, I am thinking of starting my next solo project.
I see, now that KANDYTOWN has become more exciting, everyone has to do what they have to do, right?
KIKUMARUYes, I think everyone should have different visions.
Finally, are you still active and doing things?
KIKUMARUSkateboarding, snowboarding, soccer, everything, I still do. Furthermore, I have recently taken up golf as well. I have only played a few rounds of golf (laughs).
Backpack: Tinder Pack [25L] ¥8,800
BURTON
Phone: 03-5738-2555
www.burton.com