Kroi has kicked off 2026 with the debut of their latest single, “Kinetic,” a track shaped by the production expertise of Bluey—the legendary founder of Incognito and a long-standing hero to the band members.
During Bluey’s recent visit to Japan, Billboard JAPAN orchestrated a roundtable discussion between the veteran producer and the rising stars of Kroi. The conversation revealed more than just a musical partnership; it showcased a profound creative synergy and a friendship forged through the shared language of groove.
The Genesis of a Dream Collaboration
What sparked this cross-continental partnership?
Uchida: Our journey began last year during our stint at The Great Escape. We figured that since we were heading to London, we should seize the opportunity to record there. We had never worked with an outside producer before, so we wanted to find someone in the UK who could push our boundaries. I took a leap of faith and suggested Bluey. I honestly thought it was a long shot, but to my amazement, he accepted.
So, the admiration for Bluey’s work was deep-seated?
Uchida: Absolutely. We are all devoted fans of Incognito. Their music was a major influence on my own musical awakening. Sitting here and talking with him today feels entirely surreal—like a dream manifesting into reality.
Finding a Rhythm in London
What was the atmosphere like during those UK recording sessions?
Chiba: It was our inaugural experience working with an external producer, and it was incredibly enlightening. Usually, we shoulder every creative decision ourselves, but Bluey provided a new perspective. He could pinpoint exactly what a track was missing and offer seasoned guidance. We trusted his instincts completely. Beyond the music, we spent three days building a genuine connection. Every morning, he’d take us to a local café for coffee and sandwiches. Those quiet moments outside the booth were just as vital as the recording itself; they turned a professional project into a true friendship.
Bluey: I remember waiting for them at the café. A friend asked how I’d recognize them, and I just knew. When their car pulled up and they stepped out, they looked like vibrant characters straight out of an anime (laughs). We skipped the formalities and went straight to getting to know one another over breakfast. The chemistry was instant.
Masuda, what stands out most in your memory?
Masuda: Working with a legend like Bluey was intimidating. I was gripped by nerves, wondering if my drumming would meet his standards. But the second we entered the studio, he just looked at me and asked, “Who’s the drummer?” When I spoke up, he immediately made sure I was fed and comfortable. That warmth settled everything.
Hasebe, how did you feel as a guitarist?
Hasebe: I actually learned to play guitar by practicing Incognito’s “Colibri” back in junior high. To be recording in Bluey’s own “Colibri Sound Recorders” studio, playing right in front of him, was an emotional milestone for me. It was an honor I never expected to have.
Bluey: Our engineer, Mo Hausler, was also essential. When you work with a band as sharp and stylistically unique as Kroi, you need someone who can capture that lightning in a bottle without overcomplicating the process. Mo provided a transparency that allowed their authentic sound to shine through.
A Fusion of Musical Identities
“Kinetic” feels like a departure for Kroi—there’s a distinct vibrancy to it.
Uchida: It definitely carries that Incognito DNA, but since we wrote and performed it, the result is this organic hybrid of our two worlds. It’s a fusion we are incredibly proud of.
Bluey: I was just a small part of their evolution. The reality is that they are exceptional musicians in their own right. They have a collective belief in Leo’s songwriting, and Leo, in turn, trusts their technical prowess and their ability to engage an audience. They empower one another, and that is where their true strength lies.
It seems this collaboration strengthened your internal bonds as well.
Uchida: Spending three days immersed in Bluey’s world was transformative. There is such an aura of love and respect surrounding him. Even the percussionist, João Caetano, reflected that same spirit. We were all drawn into that positive energy. He surrounds himself with incredible talent, and I’m honored we were invited into that circle.
The track opens with a very personal touch—Bluey’s own voice.
Bluey: While I was recording backing vocals, they asked if I’d do an intro. I wanted to use that moment to bridge our audiences. I want Incognito fans globally to discover Kroi. Starting the track by saying “Bluey from Incognito here” was my way of showing gratitude and signaling that this isn’t just a one-off project—it’s the start of an ongoing relationship.
Reflections on the Journey
Uchida, looking back, how do you feel about the creation of “Kinetic”?
Uchida: We wanted this song to represent our core identity while pushing us toward our future. Working with Bluey felt like returning to our roots while simultaneously evolving. Despite the language barrier, the studio was filled with laughter and smiles. It reaffirmed that music is a universal force that guides people. We realized we are on exactly the right path.
Bluey: Perhaps they thought they were coming to work with Doraemon… after all, he’s “Bluey” too! (laughs).
—Original interview by Tomohiro Ogawa for Billboard Japan.
