Conversations at Seco Bar

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I was most fortunate to be able to meet up with the coolest friends at Seco Bar, which had yet again changed its decor to a cool vintage 1960s lounge with funky lights and jazzy ambience. (See the table of flyers? A big "BLOG" flyer!!) Along with Paul, Gen was there and he looked happy and relaxed ; ) ... I have a hunch I might see Gen more than before which makes me very happy.

Paul just started Tokyo Art Beat, a much-needed art and design listing of events in Tokyo. It's well done, in English and Japanese, and already gaining steam. I am sure it'll take off and spread to other cities. It was most wonderful to hang out with Paul and see his eyes light up as he talked about this. He's found a channel for his passion and I can't wait to see where this goes! It was a blast hanging out with him and seeing him so involved in Tokyo. Congratulations Paul!!

Kei-chan, from my group of Japanese friends who run Nu Balance Productions, and who introduced me to the best music scene in Tokyo, dropped by inspite his usual crazy-busy schedule. He started and is growing an interesting party event called Nino Shokutaku. Along with great DJ's and live music, people get a discount if they come with some sort of food ingredient. Then based on what they have, everyone gets together to cook, all while listening and dancing to music. They also have other fun stuff like Play Stations with games you play as a group.

Kei is definitely into music, but what is most important to him is creating spaces where people can enjoy, share, and meet new people. Cooking, and talking about how good or horrible the food came out is a great way to get strangers to open up.

Nu Balance Productions is similar in that they experiment in combining music, visuals and smell. I highly recommend any of their parties if you're in town.

**Sorry I didn't have much time to meet everyone else. I'll definitely let you know earlier when I'm in town next. ごめん！