W: Congratulations on dropping a great record (Golden Week for the Poco Poco Beat), how has the response to the album been like?

I: The response in Japan is more positive and supportive than we expected. Many audiences like our new album and tweeted on twitter a lot as well. In the US, at first they focused on our looking, fashion, and nationality than our sounds. But after Pitchfork graded our album highly as 7points, more people come to listen to our album like they listen to other indie bands than before.

W: Noticeable is the many different styles of music you play in the album. With what seems to be a wide reference of music, can you describe what writing songs for Golden Week for the Poco Poco Beat was like?

S: Usually I record a melody using a voice recorder when I come up with a good melody. And I expand detail. But for Home I took different method. I came up with impressive beats at first and then, I put melody and guitar riffs matching with beats.

W: Again, with the variety of styles of music you play, can you tell us some of the influences that shape the Suzan’s music?

R: I have gotten some influences from The Beatles. The Beatles’ music sounds “colorful” and they had played different instrumental sounds. Also their expression of words in songs are very interesting. That’s why I like them.

W: What was working with Bjorn Yttling (of Peter Bjorn and John) in making Golden Week for the Poco Poco Beat like?

S: It was really fun to work with Bjorn. As for the recording, he didn’t touch much of basics on songs. He just adviced us how to choose sounds of instruments and how to ensure maximum good melody. His style on producing music is simple though, his view of the world is so wide.

W: You have toured extensively around the world, has any place become a favorite for the Suzan?

N: My favorite place is Stockholm!! I love the beautiful scenery and interesting culture in Stockholm.  And Golden Week for the Poco Poco Beat  recorded in Stockholm. So, Stockholm is special memorial place for me.

W: According to different sources, The Suzan is based in both New York City and Tokyo. Being active in both communities, can you describe the differences between the two cities music scenes?

I: I think NYC has more generosity to receive new things, new music and new culture. They look as if they are always searching anything interesting, fascinating, and new. Japanese tend to be negative new genres. However I think their loves and zeals for music in these two cities are the same.