Half human, half wolf, and an arsenal of dance infused rock songs, Man With A Mission are a unique entity. Hailing from Japan, the five piece have been creating music for the past seven years, and recently teamed up with Fall Out Boy's Patrick Stump for their latest single, 'Dead End In Tokyo'. Guitarist Jean-Ken Johnny answered a few quick questions to introduce themselves to you.
So what exactly is your mission?
I’m not allowed to say that, but if you listen to our music you’ll definitely get a hint of it.
Do you identify more with humans or wolves?
Both sides, but if I had to choose one it would be the human side – it definitely effects our emotions.
Which other species do you relate to?
Dogs… maybe?
Do you remember much about the time before you were frozen? What was the music scene like back then?
Not that much going on because it was days ago. That’s why we probably got attached to the music after 1960’s, and we definitely like what was going on in the 90’s.
Do you look around the world today and wish you were frozen a little longer? When would be the best time to reanimate?
NO WAY!!! Finally freedom man!!!
How do you find the UK audience responds to MWAM?
Fans always go crazy in both Japan and in the UK, but in the speed of how it happens maybe a bit different. People in the UK are more direct, where as fans in Japan are somewhat shy at first but end up dedicated to the band.
Is it just UK humans you have interacted with or have you met other species on your UK travels?
So far we haven’t encountered any other species, but I’d die to see the Loch Ness monster.
What’s the first song you remember hearing?
In japan there was a movement called AIR JAM, and it encouraged the members a lot.
To me, it was the early 90s alternative music scene.
What is your alcohol tolerance like? Do you get drunk quicker or slower than humans?
We drink a lot, we party a lot, so I guess that makes no difference to you guys!
What do you think of Werewolves as a species?
We’re probably related to werewolves somehow – the nearest thing you can relate to.
How did you become acquainted with Patrick Stump?
We had a list of people we wanted to work with, and Patrick seemed to like us and that’s how the whole collaboration happened.
How did the collaboration come about?
It was really a great experience, since he is the front man of one of the bands we’ve listened to a lot. The approach of how we made the songs with him was really eye-opening, and stimulating for us.
Are there any other humans you’d like to collaborate with in the future?
Yes tons! We’ve been listening to lots of music, so I can’t imagine a specific person I want to work with!
What is next for MWAM?
We’re working on new songs, new items, and looking forward to traveling more so see you soon!
Man With A Mission headline the Underworld in London on June 22, and tickets are on sale now