In 2024, VAGABOND FESTIVAL faced the formidable Typhoon Krathon, making it an unforgettable event for attendees, staff, and performers alike. Among the international guests was Japanese alternative rock duo DOMICO, who admitted in an interview that they initially worried about potential cancellations or the effects of damp weather on the acoustics. However, thanks to the organisers’ efforts, they delivered a performance that exceeded their expectations.
DOMICO, comprised of vocalist and guitarist Hikaru Sakashita and drummer/backing vocalist Keita Hasegawa, brings an eclectic soundscape with just two members on stage. Using varied effects and dynamic compositions, their music creates a rich auditory experience. At VAGABOND FESTIVAL, Hikaru greeted the crowd briefly before launching into a seamless setlist. Each song, layered with texture and complexity, drew enthusiastic reactions from the audience, with Taiwanese fans expressing their admiration online after the show.
This marked DOMICO’s third visit to Taiwan, and they noticed a significant increase in audience size compared to previous gigs, including many first-time listeners. Hikaru remarked, “We consider ourselves a ‘live band.’ Streaming platforms alone don’t fully convey our essence, nor can words precisely describe DOMICO’s style. Our music spans so many genres, so we hope people will explore it. Tracks like のらりつらり and PAPER ROLL STAR are great starting points. The former carries an old-school Asian ballad vibe that might resonate with Taiwanese listeners, while the latter showcases DOMICO’s vibrant, layered sound.”
Both tracks were included in their festival setlist, subtly adjusted to enhance the live atmosphere for Taiwanese fans. “For those unfamiliar with us, the changes might be hard to detect, but they’re meant to make the performance more immersive,” Hikaru explained. Reflecting on the differences between Taiwanese and Japanese music festivals, they observed, “In Japan, festivals often stick to specific genres like reggae or rock. VAGABOND FESTIVAL, however, embraces a wide array of styles. You might encounter a DJ at one stage and a band at another. Taiwanese audiences seem incredibly open to new music, making it an inspiring environment.”
Although this wasn’t DOMICO’s first trip to Taiwan, it was their debut visit to Tainan. They enjoyed sampling local cuisine at small eateries frequented by residents. Among the highlights were roadside boiled vegetables, dumplings, and a bowl of flat noodles from a nameless stall. “The flavour was unforgettable,” they said with a laugh, adding, “Taiwan is ideal for Japanese travellers. From convenience stores to Japanese chain shops, everything feels familiar. Tainan’s streets even evoke Japan from before we were born—absolutely fascinating.”
When asked which Taiwanese band or artist they’d most like to collaborate with, they instantly mentioned Sorry Youth. The two bands first shared a stage in 2018, bonding over drinks after the show. Earlier this year, when Sorry Youth performed in Osaka, DOMICO joined as guest performers, strengthening their friendship.
Looking ahead, DOMICO hopes to return to Taiwan in 2025 or join forces with Taiwanese bands for a Japanese tour. “We can’t wait to engage more with our fans,” they said, leaving a message for their supporters: “We hope to visit Taiwan frequently in the future. We’ll give our all at every performance—see you at the next show!”
