James Harris: Q&A About VOL II: KURATA

1. Could you first share your story and musical journey with our listeners?

Music has been my life. It started with me and my friend Alex just messing around with two guitars in school music class, coming up with funny songs. That turned into us playing together in two bands, writing four albums, and touring the U.K. and Europe. From there, everything else in my life has kind of orbited around making and playing music.

2. How did Vol. II: KURATA come about, and what went into developing it?

It actually started as a conversation about an event where people could enjoy sounds, tastes, and feelings all at once. I have a cocktail business, and I’d been creating drinks that were Filipino‑inspired, which sent me down a rabbit hole of ingredients and flavour profiles. I could feel the Hinabi magic in that, and I’m always writing music—even when I’m away from a guitar. I listen to sounds in the world and try to interpret them into music. With KURATA, I definitely had aspects of the cocktails and the overall event concept in mind while I was thinking about the music.

3. Who are your musical influences?

I’ve studied music for many years and I think I’ve played every style out there just to find my own sound. Over time I’ve leaned toward acoustic music, because it feels like the purest way of writing to me. I’m not sure I can name one specific influence; I take music from everyday life more than from any single artist.

4. How do you use your background and those influences in the work you’re doing now?

Touring for years, I’ve seen the back end of shows and lived that life for a long time. That gives me a good sense of what’s coming and how things need to be delivered. When I’m writing or producing now, I’m always thinking about what it will feel like on stage, in a room, with real people in front of it.

5. How do you deal with algorithms and streams in today’s music world? Has it affected your work?

Pat knows algorithms. I’m too old.

Honestly, I try not to let it dictate the writing. The songs come first; the numbers can come later

6. Why do you call your albums “Volumes”?

Because we produce music that’s intended to have the volume turned up.

7. Fun question: what genres or artists do you love that people wouldn’t expect?

Taylor Swift. Don’t tell the lads.

8. What would you say to artists who are trying to get themselves out there?

Keep writing, keep playing, and do what feels right to you. Follow the sound that feels like yours, not the one you think you’re supposed to chase.

9. What’s next for your music—concerts, performances, new releases?

The album and the stage show.