When Masato Nishiyama and Aoi Shibata first experienced clubbing over a decade ago, the pair had no idea what to expect. Yet their initiation into the scene left a deep impression on the Kansai-born creators.

¡°It was a mix of bands and DJs, but I had never really listened to a DJ before,¡± says Nishiyama, 30, of that pivotal night out at Osaka¡¯s Socore Factory. ¡°I was used to ¡®live house style,¡¯ like really focusing on the band and artist. You¡¯re quiet and just looking at them.

¡°But clubbing, it¡¯s about spending time and talking with your friends while your favorite music plays in the background. The music becomes part of your life.¡±