The Evolution of J-Pop Through PAS TASTA

Introduction to PAS TASTA

PAS TASTA serves as an emblematic representation of J-pop’s evolution over recent years. The collective, comprised of six talented producers—Uyama Amane, Kabanagu, hirihiri, phritz, quoree, and yuigot—originated from the netlabel scene, where they began collaborating in various combinations. Their journey from disparate creators to a cohesive unit was marked by challenges and growth.

The Formation of a Collaborative Collective

From Netlabel to Discord

Initially, the members of PAS TASTA connected through their work with different netlabels. Their interactions were characterized by a free-spirited approach to music creation, allowing for diverse influences and experimental sounds. The transition to a shared Discord server marked a pivotal moment in their collaboration. This platform facilitated the circulation of project files and encouraged each member to contribute their ideas, albeit with some initial growing pains.

Evolving Dynamics

As collaboration continued, the group gradually aligned their creative visions. The switch to Ableton Live streamlined their workflow, significantly reducing turnaround times from days to mere hours. The process of passing tracks became a trust exercise, where members embraced each other’s artistic choices. Phritz articulated this sentiment, stating, “If they say so, that’s just how it is.” This mindset fostered a spirit of friendly competition, pushing each member to bring increasingly innovative ideas to the table.

GOOD POP: A Snapshot of Japanese Internet Music

With the release of 2023’s GOOD POP, PAS TASTA captured the essence of contemporary Japanese internet music. The album showcased their collective growth and the unique sound they had cultivated together.

GRAND POP: Expanding Horizons

Collaborations with Established Artists

The follow-up album, GRAND POP, broadened their artistic scope, taking a comprehensive look at the J-pop landscape. The track “My Mutant Ride” features Taku Inoue, a renowned figure in the industry, whose breezy guitar work complements the track’s bubblegum bass. Despite his status, Inoue expressed admiration for PAS TASTA, calling himself a “fanboy.”

Another standout track, “Suburban,” showcases the powerful vocals of anison legend Tatsuya Kitani. The collaboration merges J-rock with avant-garde production elements, creating an energetic sound reminiscent of anime openings, infused with the delightful chaos characteristic of PAS TASTA.

Staying True to Their Roots

Despite their collaborations with well-known artists, PAS TASTA remains grounded in their origins. The track “byun G” features fellow netlabel artists Jumadiba and Lil Soft Tennis, who engage in a dynamic exchange of verses over a chaotic backing track of breakbeats. This commitment to their roots is further exemplified in “B.B.M.,” which pays homage to the Vocaloid scene by incorporating the voice of Hatsune Miku over a gritty baile funk beat.

Mastery in Collaboration

The Power of Synergy

The album opens with “BULLDOZER+” and closes with “The Car,” both showcasing the group’s ability to create powerful anthems. The former features Uyama’s vocal prowess, while the latter closes with an ethereal chorus and a wailing guitar solo, played with such intensity that yuigot broke several strings in the process. These tracks illustrate that PAS TASTA’s strength lies in their internal synergy rather than relying solely on external collaborations.

From Digital to Physical

In the past year, PAS TASTA has transitioned from the digital realm of Discord to live performances, bringing their friendly competition and collaborative spirit into physical spaces. This evolution underscores their commitment to exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of J-pop.

Conclusion

PAS TASTA exemplifies the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of J-pop, blending their unique backgrounds and influences into a cohesive sound. Their journey from the netlabel scene to a powerful collective showcases the power of collaboration and innovation in music. With albums like GOOD POP and GRAND POP, they continue to redefine what J-pop can be, chasing the sounds that excite them and inspiring listeners along the way.

FAQs

What is PAS TASTA?

PAS TASTA is a collaborative group of six producers known for their innovative contributions to the J-pop genre, emerging from the netlabel scene and gaining recognition for their unique sound.

How did PAS TASTA form?

The group formed through connections made in the netlabel scene and later transitioned to collaborating in a Discord server, where they shared project files and ideas.

What is the significance of GRAND POP?

GRAND POP expands the scope of PAS TASTA’s sound, incorporating collaborations with established artists and reflecting a broader view of the J-pop landscape.

How does PAS TASTA approach collaboration?

PAS TASTA embraces a collaborative spirit characterized by trust, friendly competition, and a commitment to experimentation, allowing each member to contribute their unique ideas.

What themes are explored in PAS TASTA’s music?

Their music often explores themes of internet culture, collaboration, and the evolution of J-pop, blending various genres and influences to create a distinctive sound.