Otenki

ARTISTdirect has teamed up with Otenki, who've been making a racket for a decade, to premiere their video for "Kinetic" from The War Outside, out January 28.

"The video is really us trying to say 'Fight for what you love. Don't let anyone take it away from you,'" Otenki told us. "The concept centers around our vocalist German and our heroine Leslie being attacked by a group who means to assimilate everyone. They kidnap Leslie and we have to get her back. Filming the video was a blast. We worked with OC Films and the director Cris Rodriguez was amazing. He (along with our art director Robert Gouner) was able to really bring German's vision of the video to life. What made it special was that all the actors you see are just our friends, fans and an organization called the Houston Zombie Walk. We've always wanted to build a sense of community with our band and this video was a great opportunity to do that."

With all that cool detail and insight in mind, enjoy the video!
Read more at http://www.artistdirect.com/entertainment-news/article/exclusive-video-premiere-otenki-kinetic/10863708#OOCxDFtg6Bc7004C.99 - Artist Direct

Otenki thrashed through several songs under the rising Sunday heat. The local band does polished pop-rock on record. But live, it’s a messier, edgier sound. The crowd responded enthusiastically.
There were some off-key vocals and harmonies, but the band made up for it with a high energy attitude. They even dirtied up Bruno Mars hit “It Will Rain” with guitars and emo vocals. - Houston Chronicle

Here are some words from the band on what inspired this video!

Late in 2013 we were working on doing a re-release of our EP called “The War Outside”. OC Films owners Cris Rodriguez and Orlando Briones approached us around the same time we were thinking of doing this. We had met with other directors and right from the jump OC Films knew exactly how to make this vision of our come alive. We felt that immediate chemistry and we knew that as long as we did our work they could take it where it needed to go. The concept of the video was conceived by our vocalist German. I have to hand it to German, he had such a strong vision for what he wanted to do. After the artwork was put together for the album he took the theme and ran with it. We wanted to take the title of the re-release and build a world around it. The premise is that the band along with our friends are part of a group free thinkers who are currently at war with those who have been assimilated. They’re all being controlled as evidence of the sensors that are placed on the back of their necks. The story begins with German and our friend Leslie arriving to our headquarters and being attacked. From there we watch our friend being assimilated and we fight for her freedom. Everything comes to a climax with a wild fight in the streets. When we were with Orlando and Cris planning out it became clear to us that if we wanted to have things the right feel we would need to get our fans, friends and families involved. German ran point and spent a lot of time getting us all the extras and the props we needed for the video. He also brought in the wonderful people of the Houston Zombie Walk staff. The HZW team helped make the fight scenes, make up, and props come to life. We spent a lot of time with Robert Gouner, the art director explaining what we needed and he along with Patrick Hastings brought their A-game.

The shoot was planned to be completed in one day so obviously it took two days to make happen. Our first location was this awesome warehouse in the outskirts of Downtown and 3rd Ward. We arrived on set around 3 pm and our production team was already on site putting things together. On the video set there’s a lot of hurry up and wait so as our extras started showing up we spent most of our time hanging out and thanking them for them taking time to make help us out. We had over 75 people come out to be part of the fight scene. We first started with the internal warehouse scenes. They were pretty straight forward in but with Cris he was so concerned with every detail it made for a great experience. We shot inside for a few hours and as it got dark we needed to get in the motorcycle scenes done. First up was the scenes of German and Leslie being attacked. The scene called for Leslie to be pulled away quickly while German is pulled off the bike and beaten down. I have to say our friends made it look really great, and to be honest I think a few of them might have got some hits in too. From there we moved to the fight scene. For this we set off some flares and smoke bombs to prior to the clash. What I loved about this is how chaotic it looked. We’re not professional stunt men and women but we were able to pull off this huge scene. It was like a mosh pit with lots of pushing, pulling and I even had the chance to lift someone up and throw them! That was definitely a first and easily my favorite part of filming. Day two was a much smaller crew and cast, we headed to a small art house that my friend Bill Bussey owns. Here we shot the scenes of Leslie being controlled and the final fight scene with myself, our lead guitar player Fausto and the assimilated bad guys. The halls were were really narrow so we weren’t able to use any smoke bombs but it made for our fight scene to be really intense. We had to really use care not to knock each other into the walls, all the while making sure our fight looked realistic. Our art director and make up artist did an amazing job with the girls in the final scenes with their bruises and scars. They looked great and incredibly life like.

Everything from start to finish with this video was the best. We are so fortunate to have had the experience. Otenki along with OC Films and the Houston Zombie Walk were able to bring this vision for KINETIC come to life and I can’t wait to show this one off. This is easily the best video we’ve ever done!

So...What did you think of the video?! - Spin Media / Buzznet

Video interview and performance for Comcast, Livenation and the Houston Rockets organization. - Comcast/Livenation/Houston Rockets

Otenki came together through impassioned partnership of guitarists Enoma Asowata and Fausto Padilla, Bassist Josh Tenorio, and Lead Vocalist German Alexander. Members of the band spent their formative years within various punk rock scenes that fostered a sense of community a passion. It is that passion that lead Otenki to doing whatever it took to share their vision and music with everyone. "We did everything we could to reach people. We played acoustically at bigger shows, we passed out flyers, gave music away, wedding crashed, and held parties to help create our community. We didn't just want fair weather fans. We wanted friends who wanted to make our dream part of their dream." states Alexander. It is this connection with their fans that helped them play the Rockstar Taste of Chaos tour(sharing a stage with Deftones, The Used, Killswitch Engage, My Chemical Romance, Thrice) as well as the Vans Warped Tour.

The band partnered in with producer Paul Leavitt (All Time Low, Conditions) on the band’s first EP “Making Sense of Static”. With the release of that effort Otenki was recognized by Alternative Press Magazine, Purevolume, Buzznet, OurZone Magazine and Absolutepunk. As the band proceeded to grow and develop along with their fan base more songs were being written, and after a series of self booked national tours, the band was ready to take their sound to the next level.

For this they partnered in with producer James Paul Wisner (Paramore, UnderØath) to bring about their latest effort “KINETIC”. Influenced by Jimmy Eat World, Anberlin, and Armor for Sleep, Otenki’s second EP ‘KINETIC’ showcases the band’s explosive energy, dynamic musicianship and penchant for well-crafted songs. Pairing the band’s song writing and passion with Wisner’s flawless production, “KINETIC” features soaring vocal melodies, pulsating beats, ripping guitars while maintaining the band's love for pop sensibility. The album touches on a variety of topics from their love and appreciation for their fans (“Kinetic”), accepting turbulence in your life (“Violence”), and being haunted by the remnants of past relationships (“Ghosts”).

With the release of “KINETIC” Otenki has garnered the attention of Billboard and was selected to be a part of their 2011 Battle of the Bands. The band was featured in Billboard Magazine and on the award show that year. Otenki has also performed Houston’s largest music festival, the 2013 Free Press Summerfest along side The Postal Service, Calvin Harris,Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. They have garnered attention from terrestrial radio (Houston’s own 94.5 KBTZ and Evansville 103 GBF), internet radio (iDobi radio), Reverbnation (featured artist August 2012), Alternative Revolt, the Houston Chronicle, 002 Houston Magazine, Tip Out Magazine (cover story September 2012), and Houston Press. Despite all the accolades theband has received, they haven’t lost sight of the two most important things; the fans and the music. “Last year a fan hit us up on Twitter, she shared with me that her grandmother passed away. She said our music was the only thing keeping her together,” Asowata states, “I may never be wealthy from this, but having someone connect with what we wrote the way other artists have done for me...you can’t put a price on that. People like her are what we do this all for. They are our energy.” - Fearless Radio

Otenki’s deluxe re-release of their KINETIC EP, called The War Outside, is out today! We had the opportunity to sit down and chat with the band recently about recording the album, their influences and more. And while you read the interview, you can stream the album in its entirety below.

Substream Magazine: You’ve said that your band name, Otenki, was a result of learning the Japanese language. In one sentence, completely in Japanese, can you describe your music to someone who has never listened before? (An English translation would be much appreciated as well.)

Otenki: Watashitachi no ongaku wa rock, poppu, erekutoronika no kongomonodearu.Watashitachiha issho ni omoshiroi ongaku-teki yoso o kumiawasete iru koto kangaeatai.



Our music is a mixture of Rock, Pop, and Electronica. We like to think we are commingling interesting musical elements together.



SM: We’ve heard that some songs on the album will possibly be in Spanish. If true, will the songs be completely in Spanish or Spanglish?

O: That’s true that there is a Spanish ballad on this album called “La Botella.” The whole song is sung in Spanish and that’s something we’ve wanted to do for a long time. I’m not sure if the rock songs we write will be in Spanish but I think we might do more ballads like that. After all, it is a romance language!

SM: Aside from the Spanish aspect, should fans except a different sound?

O: For The War Outside it is a deluxe edition of our previous album KINETIC. So people familiar with that record will know a majority of the work. We introduced some really great remixes that I think breathe new life into the songs. We’re excited to get hear what our fans think!



SM: What was your favorite moment in the studio, working on this album?

O: Best moment was walking into the studio of James Paul Wisner and realizing that we were about to work with a producer that made records we loved. It was surreal and every time we head back that excitement comes right back to us and we’re ready to put in some work.



SM: In regards to your musical influences, if you had to pick two bands Otenki would be the “lovechild” of, who would you choose?

O: I think you could easily say we’re the illegitimate lovechild of Anberlin and Jimmy Eat World. Those bands are amazing and were directly responsible for the sound we’re crafting today.



SM: Can you give us an idea of what your Grammy speech might sound like?

O: Thanks to our manager, thanks to our producer, thanks to all our friends, families and our fans. You can’t do something like on your own and we’re living proof that if you put out love and hard work you will get rewarded ten times over. Also, anyone who said we wouldn’t make it. You lose, assholes.



SM: Back when you played the same stage as My Chemical Romance and The Used, your band was fairly new. Did they give you any advice that you still carry around?



O: You know we didn’t really get to talk much to them when we played with them. I do remember meeting Jeph, the bassist again when they were in our hometown on a separate tour. He greeted us and we chatted a bit and he said we were on the right track and to not give up. That really stuck with me. To be recognized like that was really validating. - Substream Music Press

Yoy may be familiar with Otenki from hearing them on our station or their interviews on The Gunz Show. The Houston-based pop rock band are gearing up for the re-release of their James Paul Wisner-produced EP Kinetic under a new name, The War Outside. The album is due out January 14, and to help get you hyped, we’re offering a free download of the single “Kinetic”! Guitarist Enoma Asowata had this to say about the song:

Kinetic to me is a song about inspiration. It’s about expressing what motivated us to pack our bags for a month, travel to St Cloud, Florida and spend every waking hour making a record we believed in. We’re also sharing with everyone that our fans, families and friends are the reasons we’ve stayed a band for so long. They’re a direct part of this band and there’s this great sense of community I think comes through with the track. When you’re in a band you literally feel like sometimes you’re screaming in space. You feel like you’ve given everything you got and there’s nothing left. You’ve shed blood, sweat, and tears; you just want to give in. But you can’t because there are people who’ve connected with you through the music you wrote. Something you put together with your friends now exists beyond yourself and since it has meaning you can’t just let it go. They’re our reason to fight. - iDobi Radio

I had the pleasure of talking to Enoma of Otenki after the release of their new album, Kinetic. We discuss the band’s adventure into having their songs remixed, sung in a different languages and of course, Kinetic itself.

For the record, can you give me your name and role in the band please?


My name is Enoma and I play guitar in the band.

Your new record, The War Outside, has been out for a few weeks now. How’s the album sinking in with your fans?

I think it’s going well. It’s a deluxe version of our album ‘KINETIC’ so a lot of our fans are familiar with the core songs but have been surprised by some of the new elements we’ve added. It’s been fun to see how new fans are catching on to the remixes and the Spanish ballad.

Looking at the cover art for, The War Outside, what inspired the artwork?

German (our vocalist) and myself were brainstorming ideas for the KINETIC music video and while he built the concept of the video, the idea of a war came into play. So the cover art is directly in line with our vision for the music video. It was really a way of us saying that you have to fight for what you love and to never let anyone take it away from you.

You derive a lot from your heavy rock riffs for the song “La Botella,” what inspired this song?

We wanted to do something a little different for our fans. Honestly the idea of a Spanish Ballad was an idea we had for years but we felt there wasn’t an opportunity to release it. With “The War Outside” we were thinking of content we could add and it just made sense for us. It came out great and gave our lead guitarist Fausto Padilla a chance to showcase some of his production skills.

There are three remixes on, The War Outside, any particular reason you chose to have remixes on the album?

The idea of doing remixes came to us years ago. We did one with an EP we had years ago and we’ve always been fans of electronic music. It just made sense to put it together for this deluxe version.



Why did you pick Aaron Musslewhite to remix your music?

Aaron is a dear friend of ours. He approached us about trying to do a remix to “Glory Be” and he just did an incredible job. From there we just kept working with him and now we have 3 amazing remixes and some new songs we’re working on for the next batch of songs.

(For German Alexander) You have quite the exception vocal range, could you tell me about when you started singing and where you developed this talent?

Jesus thought I was the chosen one. So here I am now. I’m kidding obviously! I really don’t know but my guess is my grandfather who played lead guitar and sang for a living. He was in a trio group and sang ballads for a living. I sang a lot as a kid and remember getting complimented by other kids and I then started believing in my talent. Now, I’m in a group with some talented dudes.

What was everyone else’s musical upbringing like?

German grew up singing at Church for most of his life, Fausto’s parents are musicians so he started much earlier than any of us and has just developed some amazing skills. Josh started playing bass early when he was about 15 and I started playing guitar when I was 16. Most of us started out playing in punk rock and hardcore bands. Some how we found our way to pop music.

Otenki is very devoted to making their fans happy. What do you aim to do to try and make your fans happy?

I think the one core belief we have as a band is to just be real with our fans. We’re not rock stars. We’re normal guys and we love just making friends. We try to just create quality content and engage our fans in a meaningful way. I know German and I spend hours online talking to our fans daily. We owe any success we attain to them so it’s our duty to make sure they know we’re around for them.

Are there any plans to tour on the new material you have released?

Right now we are working on brand new songs with Aaron Musslewhite and our lead guitarist Fausto Padilla. I think we’ll spend the Spring writing and the Summer recording with James Paul Wisner. From there we’re going to take a single to radio in the fall. We’re really excited about the future!

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Check out our latest work ‘The War Outside’ on iTunes and Spotify! Don’t be shy, say hello to us online. facebook.com/otenkirocksinstagram.com/otenkiband and watch our new music video for ‘KINETIC’ on VEVO: - Nothing Original

Otenki’s deluxe re-release of their KINETIC EP, called The War Outside, is out today! We had the opportunity to sit down and chat with the band recently about recording the album, their influences and more. And while you read the interview, you can stream the album in its entirety below.

Substream Magazine: You’ve said that your band name, Otenki, was a result of learning the Japanese language. In one sentence, completely in Japanese, can you describe your music to someone who has never listened before? (An English translation would be much appreciated as well.)

Otenki: Watashitachi no ongaku wa rock, poppu, erekutoronika no kongomonodearu.Watashitachiha issho ni omoshiroi ongaku-teki yoso o kumiawasete iru koto kangaeatai.



Our music is a mixture of Rock, Pop, and Electronica. We like to think we are commingling interesting musical elements together.



SM: We’ve heard that some songs on the album will possibly be in Spanish. If true, will the songs be completely in Spanish or Spanglish?

O: That’s true that there is a Spanish ballad on this album called “La Botella.” The whole song is sung in Spanish and that’s something we’ve wanted to do for a long time. I’m not sure if the rock songs we write will be in Spanish but I think we might do more ballads like that. After all, it is a romance language!

SM: Aside from the Spanish aspect, should fans except a different sound?

O: For The War Outside it is a deluxe edition of our previous album KINETIC. So people familiar with that record will know a majority of the work. We introduced some really great remixes that I think breathe new life into the songs. We’re excited to get hear what our fans think!



SM: What was your favorite moment in the studio, working on this album?

O: Best moment was walking into the studio of James Paul Wisner and realizing that we were about to work with a producer that made records we loved. It was surreal and every time we head back that excitement comes right back to us and we’re ready to put in some work.



SM: In regards to your musical influences, if you had to pick two bands Otenki would be the “lovechild” of, who would you choose?

O: I think you could easily say we’re the illegitimate lovechild of Anberlin and Jimmy Eat World. Those bands are amazing and were directly responsible for the sound we’re crafting today.



SM: Can you give us an idea of what your Grammy speech might sound like?

O: Thanks to our manager, thanks to our producer, thanks to all our friends, families and our fans. You can’t do something like on your own and we’re living proof that if you put out love and hard work you will get rewarded ten times over. Also, anyone who said we wouldn’t make it. You lose, assholes.



SM: Back when you played the same stage as My Chemical Romance and The Used, your band was fairly new. Did they give you any advice that you still carry around?



O: You know we didn’t really get to talk much to them when we played with them. I do remember meeting Jeph, the bassist again when they were in our hometown on a separate tour. He greeted us and we chatted a bit and he said we were on the right track and to not give up. That really stuck with me. To be recognized like that was really validating.



https://www.facebook.com/otenkirocks

https://twitter.com/otenki



Interview by Melissa Cyrus - Substream Magazine

If you’re looking for a band that carries high energy and passion, then give Otenki a listen. The Texans (Houston) are interested in touring the world and making as many friends and fans as they can. Speaking of energy, the band just released their single, “Kinetic”. The band is currently running a contest that gives you a chance to win a shirt, album, and signed poster. Check out the full details below.

Current Single
“GHOSTS, KINETIC” (coming soon)

ALL members/instruments they play:
German Alexander- Vocals
Fausto Padilla- Lead Guitar // Vocals
Enoma Asowata- Guitar
“Sneaky” Josh Tenorio- Bass

How did you form?
The band started when I (Enoma) moved to Houston to go to college. Been playing guitar for a few years and I kind of wanted to find band to start jamming with. So there was this website called Space City Rock where musicians posted classifieds and I saw a posting from Fausto. He mentioned a few bands like Saves The Day and Get Up Kids as an influence, which was right up my alley. I reached out and we started just going over ideas. Around the same time, unbeknownst to me Fausto and German had started working together as well. So the three of us started working on music with a few other guys. We came across Josh through our old drummer, who was his younger brother.

Highlight of your career so far. This could have been a show you’ve been able to play, etc.
Our biggest accomplishment is just being able to grow as a band for so many years. From doing our self booked tours, to dates on the Warped Tour, Taste of Chaos tours, being a part of the Billboard Music Awards in 2011, all of it came from us staying together and working hard. Every year thanks to our families, friends and fans we have been able to stay together and grow and that trumps any award or accolade that exists.

Why should people listen to you? What makes you different?
I think people should listen to us if they’re ready to find something honest in music. We don’t try to hide behind anything or worry about looking cool. All we do is just write about what we know and what we see. We don’t try to portray this larger than life persona. We’re normal guys who love rock n’ roll and I think that comes through in our music. - Highlight Magazine

Otenki Official Interview - Please Select The Link To Read - The Like Magazine

Otenki: The local power-pop outfit has worked hard at getting its slick sound past Texas borders. Single "Ghosts" is still earning radio and video spins. The band has been working on EDM mixes of new and old tracks that should drop soon. - Houston Chronicle

Watch out drunk racists: this "Kinetic" electro-rock hybrid from Houston might steal your girlfriend. Read on.


Describe your sound and your audience in your own words.

A hybrid between rock, pop, alternative and electronica. We've always wanted to try to strike a balance between all our influences.

Tell us about your first gig ever -- just how awkward was it? And how has your live show evolved since then?

Otenki's very first show was a complete disaster. Only one member was somewhat seasoned at playing live. We were off-time, out of tune, loud and had no sense of direction, but we were passionate and energetic. We played our hearts out and gave out so much energy the crowd fed off it and returned it tenfold. Playing live is where this band shines. Now we are infinitely more focused, and more comfortable performing live, but we have kept our core qualities of energy and passion intact.

What's the strangest thing anyone has ever said about your band?

Strangest thing we've ever had someone say to us was a few years ago when we were on tour in Ohio. We had just played a show to a handful of people in this really small town so we figured it'd be cool to play acoustically on the streets. The reception was pretty good until this one drunk guy came through and started running his mouth about us being minorities, saying, 'This is America, go get a job.' We didn't pay him much mind but it was odd and sad. Best thing about it was that the drunk guy's girlfriend gave our singer her number after we were done. I'd say that was a win for us.

Why should you win this competition?

We feel that we're bringing something that is different -- visually and sonically -- that has hints of familiarity that will allow us to break down barriers with listeners. It's that accessibility that allows us to create and nurture relationships with our fans and turn them from fans to friends and from friends to family. It's this family that we're doing all this for. They're the reason we've gotten this far and the reason I feel we should win this competition.

What's your next project?

We currently are working to release our 5-song EP, "Kinetic," that was produced by James Paul Wisner (Paramore) sometime after the Billboard Music Awards. From there we fully intend on hitting the road and playing these songs in front of as many people as possible.

If your band had to come up with a plan for total world domination in the next 10 seconds, what would it be?

Tour with U2 and play our little hearts out. Hopefully you'll feel what we feel when these songs pump through the speakers. - Billboard Magazine

t’s hard to find a band with as much energy as Otenki. There’s a lot of power in their music and in their performances that is doubtlessly the direct result of a lot of hard work and perseverance. Formed in 2004, the Houston-based band describes their sound as “an interesting mix of alternative rock with pop sensibilities,” but this unassuming description doesn’t even begin to describe the awesome essence of what Otenki really is.

The core of Otenki is comprised of lead guitarist Fausto Padilla, singer German Alexander, rhythm guitarist Enoma Asowata, and bassist “Sneaky” Josh Tenorio. Although there have been a few changes in the band’s lineup over the years, these four have been a constant since the band’s birth—and it shows.

“It stopped being a band about six years ago,” says Padilla, “It’s more like a family.” Throughout the interview, the guys tease each other and joke about past experiences with the band. Laughing loudly at their humorous reminiscences, they seem more like brothers than fellow band members. No surprise there, as the band has achieved a lot over its run.

Otenki has performed both at Vans Warped Tour in 2005 and 2009, and at the Rockstar Taste of Chaos Tour in ’05, ’06, and ‘09. Most recently, they traveled to Las Vegas to compete in the 2011 Billboard Battle of the Bands. And with over 19,000 votes, they are currently the highest voted band competing for a spot on the Ernie Ball stage at the upcoming 2012 Vans Warped Tour. The band also has a stellar (and as-yet unreleased) cover of Bruno Mars’s “It Will Rain.” The cover has received quite a bit of enthusiastic feedback from the people who have been lucky enough to hear it; it’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for.

Despite these accomplishments and more, the guys maintain that they are just regular people. Padilla even goes so far as to say, “I’m completely a normal person. I have a girlfriend, I have a dog…” While you can appreciate his modesty, the evidence clearly shows otherwise.

Otenki’s latest release is Kinetic, a five-track EP produced with the assistance of James Paul Wisner, who has worked with groups like Paramore and Underoath. Kinetic features the single “Ghosts,” which Asowata says is the “flagship song for the EP.” The music video, which has garnered a lot of interest for the band, can be found on YouTube as well as on the band’s website, otenkirocks.com. Asowata adds, “We’re still getting new fans on Facebook and on Twitter who are just discovering that song.”

Whether fans are old or new, Otenki is faithfully devoted to them all. All of the members cite their fans as a major source of motivation in continuing to produce and perform music. In fact, the first track on the EP (the eponymous “Kinetic”) could be described as an ode to Otenki’s supporters.

In “Kinetic”, Alexander repeatedly sings “we do this all for you” and the lyrics draw a comparison between Otenki’s fans and the energy that drives every performance. Indeed, most of Otenki’s future efforts involve strengthening relationships with fans by way of “more videos, more content, and more involvement with fans.”

The members of the band are also becoming more authentic with their image, their sound, and themselves. Otenki’s music has thus far remained within the niche of “alternative-rock,” but the genre has become something of a limiting factor for the band’s creative impulses. Taking what they’ve learned from the producers they’ve met, their fans’ feedback, and their own wealth of experience as a band, their current plans involve creating something really unique while still being really Otenki.

“Nobody makes the rules for us yet,” says Padilla. Asowata echoes, “We’re unsigned, we pay for everything ourselves, we’re our own bosses; so who’s to say we can’t make a pop record if we want to?” When questioned about whether a pop record is something they’d seriously consider producing, Asowata gives a half-shrug and boldly says, “Why not? Who’s gonna stop us?” In fact, their plans for the summer involve prepping for an upcoming album that they describe as having more of an “alternative pop” influence along with an accompanying tour.

And while it may be quite different from anything that’s been heard from Otenki yet, there’s not a doubt that it’ll have the same intense and pervasive energy as everything else they’ve been involved in. The main thing for Otenki is creating quality music, and they’re confident that fans will appreciate the results. Music, not image, is Otenki’s priority. As Asowata puts it: “We do get girls who are like, ‘Oh, you guys are so hot.’ Well, cool, that’s flattering, but what did you think about the music?” The band may pushing the boundaries of their music, but fans can be assured that Otenki is staying true to them, and to itself.

No matter what differences arise, there’s one thing that will never change: and that’s the passion that Otenki brings to its live shows. Certainly a lot of the band’s success stem - Tip Out Magazine

Otenki are a six piece rock/powerpop band from Houston, Texas. They originally formed in 2004 by four of the current six members: Enoma Asowata (guitar), Fausto Padilla (guitar&vocals) German Hernandez (vocals) and Josh Tenorio (bass&vocals). One thing was clear that when these boys started a band, being different and standing out was just as important as the music that they planned to produce and the fans they hoped to gain.

To take on their first priority, standing out from the crowd, the boys took on a different approach. Playing acoustically at bigger shows, crashing weddings and holding parties, are only a few. All of this was to ensure that not only would they be different, but that their fans, or rather friends, were those who wanted to make Otenki’s dream part of their own dream. Like most people, you would agree that the events mentioned above are risky, especially for an unknown band, yet these are the acts that helped make the band what they are now.

After working with record producer Paul Leavitt for their debut EP, Making Sense Of Static, in 2008, Otenki began receiving attention from the likes of Purevolume, AbsolutePunk and even Alternative Press. A little while after receiving such impressive praise, the boys believed it was time for a change and in 2009, they added keyboardist Colton Majors and drummer Crew Ginn to complete their line up.

Having already played the 2005, 2006 and 2009 Taste of Chaos tour as well as the 2005 and 2009 Vans Warped Tour, this summer the boys aren’t touring but instead they’re focusing on the production process of their new album to be recorded by James Paul Wisner (Paramore, underOath, The Academy Is). You can catch the boys’ recording process live on Stickam starting June 1st; be sure to check it out! - The Sound Alarm

Houston pop rock act Otenki are receiving love from webzines and Alternative Press Mag. The band worked with Paul Leavitt (All Time Low, Versa Emerge) on their “Making Sense of Static” EP. They are releasing a music video for the track “Pheonix” on September 27th. Upcoming showdates with Pathway to Providence. Contact: otenkirocks@gmail.com - Dean Cramer

Please state your name and what you do in the band

I’m Enoma Asowata and I play guitar and currently act as the band’s artist relations manager.

For someone who has never listened to your music, how would you describe your sound?

I would say our sound is a mixture of sounds rock, pop, and electronica.

How did everyone in the band meet?

Well the two who started the band, being myself and our lead guitarist Fausto met while I was going to college in Houston. He and I ended up making friends and going over song ideas we had together. German is Fausto’s cousin so he joined through Fausto, Josh our bass player joined the band through his younger brother who was drumming for us at the time. Our current drummer Nick Diaz and our current keyboard player Colton Majors were a result of us just reaching out and looking for new musicians with the same passion as the original members.

Who decided on the name Otenki and what does it mean?

Fausto and I came up with the band name. Both of us speak Japanese and we thought it would be really cool to name ourselves something different. At the time we formed there were so many really long band names. We wanted something short, cool and to the point.

You performed at the 2005 Warped Tour and 2006 Taste of Chaos Tour, how do you think those performances effected the band?

I think those performances gave us a taste of what we could become. Once you play your first being concert and you do really well it’s almost like a drug. You want to get your next fix and you want it bad. Fortunately for us with our fans being amazing we have been featured on both the 2009 Vans Warped Tour and Taste of Chaos respectively. Shows like those always make you aspire to be as great as the headliners of all the tours. It gets you a taste and it makes you want more and more.

Are there any upcoming plans for a full US tour?

We are planning short US tours for the time being. We are currently looking for a booking agent and the right tour before we hit the entire US. But we are working on it so plan on seeing us around very soon!

You’ve released 2 EPs, are there any plans for a full length?

With the way the music industry is the idea of releasing a full length and surviving on it for 2 years until the next record is not fiscally responsible for bands our size. Plus, lots of music lovers are demanding more content from their favorite artists and that requires you meeting their needs quicker. So to be honest, no there are no plans for a full length. We will most likely release another EP regardless of getting signed or not. We have started working on songs that will be featured on the next album. We have also started reaching our to producers for the next record.

How have you seen your music changing?

Definitely I think we have discovered what our sound is, or rather I should say we have found what feels right for us right now. As artists you want not only challenge yourself to create different things but you want to challenge your listeners. You can’t write the same record every single time; you must always press forward. Fans sometimes wants bands to release what they released before but that stifles growth. Fans and bands should grow together and demand more from each other to make it a dynamic relationship.

You’re releasing a music video for Phoenix, how was the filming process?

It was a blast! I can’t say enough good things about the process or about our director Mark Armes. He is a close personal friend of Josh’s and he has become that way for me. When I sat down and we talk about the type of video we wanted to make he immediately was able to catch the vibe we were sending out. It was shot entirely in one day which started for us around 6 am at the first location and we shot until about 9 pm that night with only one hour for a break to travel to the final location.

The best part of filming was getting our fans involved. We wanted to make sure they were featured and shown that we loved them. So we had a casting call and brought in about 100 of our fans to come in and be a part of the filming. The funny thing about where we filmed the crowd shots was that when everyone start jumping around and going crazy the flooring underneath us felt like it was giving way. It got so bad that we had to do the next couple of shots with the crowd still moving but no jumping. It was intense.

Are there any plans for more videos?

We will probably shoot one more music video for this record before we release the next EP. No telling at this point. I would love to make a music video for Making Sense of Static.

How do you think outlets like YouTube, Facebook and iTunes are changing music?

I think they leveled the playing field between unsigned artist and major label artist. And since the field is leveled we have run into somethings we haven’t seen before. Unsigned artists are out selling bands on indie-majors( FBR - For The Sound

Have you heard of Otenki? Sounds like Naruto’s friend right? Wrong. Otenki is a power pop band out of Houston, TX that formed in 2004 and has been making a name for themselves ever since. The band currently consists of Enoma Asowata (guitar/vocals), German Hernandez (vocals), Fausto Padilla (lead guitar/vocals/programming), and Josh Tenorio (bass/vocals). Just a short six months after forming, the band recorded their first EP. Then, soon after they won the Taste of Chaos Tour Battle of The Bands Contest and played along side of My Chemical Romance and The Used for the inaugural year of the Taste of Chaos Tour. Then went on from there to play the Ernie Ball Stage at the 2005 Vans Warped Tour and once again won the Battle of The Bands for the 2006 Taste of Chaos Tour. In 2007 they successfully went on a self promoted US summer tour. Did they stop there though? No. This year they once again were included in the Taste of Chaos Tour and also joined Vans Warped Tour on the Kevin Says Stage. Now with over one hundred shows under their belt and an ever growing fan base this Texas band has brought us their new EP, Making Sense Of Static. The New EP was produced by Paul Leavitt (All Time Low, Circa Survive, Senses Fail).

The EP opens up with the hard hitting song, The Tie That Binds. This song is a powerful opening tune and really sets the pace for the EP. The vocals are very crisp and easily understood and at the same time do not overpower the music. This is the kind of song that makes you want to hit repeat for a while. It really has a great beat that hooks you right away. I would love to hear this one on the radio. Empty Words follows and brings the tempo down a little while keeping the same strong sound that was so enjoyable in The Tie That Binds. The intro is my favorite part of this song. The music transitions nicely into the vocal portions of the song. The song has a strong beat that carries you through the song.

The title track, Making Sense Of Static transitions perfectly from The Tie That Binds. At first I thought that there were the same song the transition was so smooth. This song really highlights how nice these guys’ voices are. By the time you hear this song you will realize as I have that these guys start strong and keep going strong through out the entire EP. Parts of this song slow the tempo down just enough to put a smile on your face and make you sing along. The song tapers off and Phoenix leaps out of the flames as the next song on the EP. The vocals are simply amazing in this song as the weave in and out of the music. I would love to hear this song live. It is defiantly the top song on this album.

The guitar intro on Friends Come First really steps up the tempo as the EP prepares for the finale. The song is more reminiscent of melodic punk such as The Swellers and really drives home just how great Oteki really is. It’s a short song that leaves you longing for more. The impossible is a great song that speaks to us about how nothing is really impossible and that the world is just waiting for us. It’s a nice uplifting song and although a little slower tempo then I wanted to hear after having heard Friends Come First it is still a great song. The vocals really are the driving force of this song as the music helps to compliment the wonderful voices these guys have. Even though it does drop the tempo quite a bit from the previous song after really listening to it I find it a nice song to finish off the EP with.

This EP really is a great introduction to the band, Oteki. Every song is musically and vocally strong through out. I don’t claim to have a degree in music. I’m just a fan of music like most of you reading this article. This fan is very pleased to have been introduced to this band and their new EP, Making Sense Of Static.

http://www.myspace.com/otenki

For fans of: The Swellers, Jimmy Eat World, Stereo Summer

Top tracks: The Tie That Binds, Friends Come First

Rating: 8/10

Track list:

1. The Tie That Binds
2. Empty Words
3. Making Sense Of Static
4. Phoenix
5. Friends Come First
6. The Impossible
- Shred News

Otenki have a very impressive CV, with past appearances on the Warped Tour and Taste of Chaos Tour and with this new EP, 'Making Sense of Static' being produced by Paul Leavitt, who in the past has worked with All Time Low, The Bled and Circa Survive. Texas' Otenki have the ingredients to be big. However at the end of the day, its all about the music.

From the start, the band show there fast paced, upbeat pop-rock sound with 'The Tie That Binds'. A tight-knit performance with a good blend of vocal harmonies, with lead vocals from German Hernandez being a highlight of the track.

Elsewhere 'Empty Words' and 'Friends Come First' leans towards more the bands rock side but the band keep there accessible vocals. With the latter being filled with adrenaline and a classic rock-like guitar solo thrown in for good measure.

Whereas 'Making Sense of Static' keeps up the momentum with a fun number, that sways at a nice pace and adds a bit of edge to the bands mainly light sound. Closing track 'The Impossible' rounds off the EP well, that keeps up the high standard performance; with a favourable chorus melody.

Otenki might not be for everyones taste and they might not sound different from a lot of bands out there. However they do have strong songs, that can enable them to go far. Add to this impressive musicianship and anything is possible for them.

3.5/5

'Making Sense of Static EP' by Otenki is available now. - Alter The Press

A: My name is Enoma Asowata. I'm 24 and I play rhythm guitar and I
handle a lot of the business in band like booking, management
decisions and things like that.

> Please note everyone elses in the band, age and
> what they do.

A: Fausto Padilla - Lead Guitar/Vocals
"Sneaky" Josh Tenorio - Bass/Vocals
German Hernandez - Lead Vocals
Hector Tenorio - Drums

> What kind of equipment do you use?

A: I personally play on a Gibson Les Paul Vintage Studio, I use a B-52
AT Rectifier 100 Watt Tube Head, Mesa Boogie 2 x 12 Rectifier
Cabinet. I also sometimes use an Epiphone Les Paul Standard equipped
with EMG 81/85 Pickups.

> What do you love most about music?

A: The thing(s) I love most about music is the effect it can have on
people. The right song can send chills down your spine, get you
motivated to change your life, make you reflect on what you want most
out of life, make you miss some one so bad you're moved to tears. The
effect that is has on a person is something incredible and to be able
to create that is nothing short of a blessing.

> **In as much detail as possible**What were the series
> of events that took place for your band mates to come
> together and form OTENKI?
A: Ok, when I moved to Houston to go to college I had been playing
guitar for a little bit. I was definitely into pop punk bands like
blink 182, fenix tx and mxpx. I tried out for a few bands here and
there but nothing really was taking shape. In the fall of 2003 I met a
guy named Fausto. He was playing in a band at the time that was more
focused on being a forum for socio-political ideas and at the time he
wasn't happy with that. I happened to see an ad that he posted to
start a new project. It was an old ad but I just went ahead and
emailed him. From there we started hanging out and going over songs we
had written individually. Fausto and I had a mutual adoration for
Jimmy Eat World, Saves The Day, Hot Rod Circuit and of course The
Juliana Theory, with that we clicked immediately. So between the two
of us we were just kind of working on songs and trying out musicians
here and there. My friend David at the time came in on bass and his
friend Matt came in on drums. Fausto at the time was singing but with
playing lead guitar and vocals he wanted to focus more on playing.
German is actually Fausto's cousin and was brought in on vocals. We
started playing some shows and meeting some well connected people in
the summer of 2004. Chad Eubanks, who is now our current manager, at
the time was working with a band called Yesterdays Rising and we
formed a friendship with him. It was that friendship that gave us an
opportunity to head out to California in the fall of 2004 to record
our first EP. Matt couldn't commit to heading out to California and we
had to say goodbye to him because the opportunity was too great to
pass up on. Hector then joined the band and he fit right in. He is an
amazing musician. Once we recorded the cd we started promoting
ourselves very aggressively on myspace and on our very first tour we
were able to play the inaugural Taste of Chaos 2005 show in Denver
Colorado. On that tour David couldn't attend and we had to teach Josh
(Hector's brother). That year we were also selected to play Warped
Tour. From there we did small tours to the east coast. In the winter
of 2006, unfortunately in the direction we wanted to take wasn't
fitting into David's personal life and we had to say goodbye. Josh
became a permenant member of the band after that. We didn't seem
complete until Josh came into the fray. He has all the heart in the
world. So that's our story as we exist now.
>
> How did you come up with the band name OTENKI & how
> does it reflect who you are as a band?

A: Fausto and I are self proclaimed Japan nerds. We're both very much
into the language, culture and of course anime. We picked the name
because of the meaning. Otenki means weather in japan and it reflects
our love of music and the emotions it can invoke in people. Music
changes, emotions change and of course weather changes.
>
> Whats the music scene different since you first
> started OTENKI?
A: The thing that's changed about the music scene that's actually a
little upsetting is all these bands on myspace think that through
having zillions of friends that it will get you a record deal. People
are more concerned with selling a pretty looking package of garbage
rather than writing good songs, and having an amazing live show. Of
course we have to be about business and to a degree having those
friends on myspace and those plays definitely strengthen your case but
you have to be willing to want more than that. Since we started this
band I've seen a lot of people who seem to be in it for the wrong
reasons. We're in it for the love of music and for the chance to play
in front of as many people as we can. Honesty, hard work and a little
bit of business sense will pay off. There's no short - Hey Indiana

Otenki - Making Sense of Static (7/10)

by Matt Nistler

Fact #1: During the time I spend online I check out countless numbers of bands as part of my personal quest to find the next big thing.

Fact #2: Often times when I'm on a band's Myspace/Web Page/Purevolume I'll scroll down to read their biography to get a feel for the band before I even hit “play” on a single song.

Fact #3: Even though you aren't supposed to judge a book by it's cover, or for that matter a band by their Myspace biographical info, I still do. If the information on a band's page makes them sound highly inexperienced or gives the impression that they are just another neighborhood garage band then I'll probably pass on your band in favor of someone else with more developed tunes.

Fact #4: When I read in a band's biography that they have performed at The Taste of Chaos, The Vans Warped Tour and recently recorded with Paul Leavitt (All Time Low, Mercy Mercedes, Senses Fail) all as an unsigned band then you had better believe I'll be sticking around to check out each and every note.

Who is this mystery band from "Fact #4”, you ask? Why it's none other than the Houston, Texas quintet, Otenki.

With such a strong music resume one would expect Otenki's latest, long in the works, release Making Sense of Static to be quite the solid album. I'm pleased to say that for the most part this is very much true. Paul Leavitt is one of my favorite producers and with Making Sense of Static he has once again produced a quality album.

It's hard to pinpoint exactly what Otenki's sound is on this album. It would be easy to just call it a pop-rock album or to arbitrarily pick bands that they resemble, but for the most part Making Sense of Static combines many different sounds and styles to deliver something that has an original sound probably best described simply as “Otenki”.

The standout tracks on the album are the lead single The Tie That Binds and the title track. Both feature mad riffs and contagious melodies that really showcase what Otenki can do at their best.

With the presence of these heavier hitting rock elements from the previously mentioned tracks, one might assume the entire album would have this feel. Ah, but this is not the case as Otenki have some tricks up their sleeve. Listen to ten seconds of the track Empty Words and you'll be bombarded by synth and powerpop elements. I know I definitely didn't see it coming.

The feel of the rest of the EP continues in much the same fashion. As soon as you think you have Otenki's sound narrowed down as a straight up rock band, they'll randomly come at you with delicate keys, intricate guitars, or upbeat powerpop elements.

It may just be personal preference, but even though on paper everything is there (great production, catchy hooks, driving guitars) for this album to be spectacular, for some reason I still am left wanting a bit more. There seems to be some kind of “x-factor” missing that would make me completely enamored by the release and anxious to put the album on repeat.

Nevertheless, Otenki has clearly put much time and effort into this album and the “x-factor” is likely just me being picky. This band has all the resources needed to launch their musical career to the next level. Making Sense of Static is an enjoyable release that is sure please many. Be sure to check out this hardworking band's latest tunes and divulge in the diverse sound that is Otenki.


Artist: Otenki
Album: Making Sense of Static EP
Released: November 04, 2008
Label: Unsigned
Location: Houston, Texas
Purchase: Smartpunk
RIYL: The Goodwill, TREOS, Armor for Sleep, Senses Fail
Reviewed by: Matt Nistler - The Daily Chorus

Hailing from Houston Texas, Otenki started three years ago when their guitarist Fausto Padilla was trying to find a way to get his music heard. He is now joined alongside Enoma Asowata, German Hernandez, "Sneaky" Josh Tenorio and Hector Tenorio. They are influenced by bands such as Jimmy Eat World, Foo Fighters, The Juliana Theory and U2.

They released their first EP in the Spring of 2005 and started touring. They were selected to play The Taste Of Chaos tour which featured The Used, My Chemical Romance, Killswitch Engage and more. Also, in 2005, they played the Vans Warped Tour. In 2006, Otenki joined Funeral For A Friend, Story Of The Year, Greeley Estates and more on the Taste Of Chaos tour (again) and have opened for Boys Night Out and Armor For Sleep. They are currently recording a followup to their EP.

Band Members:
German - Vocals
Fausto - Guitar/Vocals
Enoma - Guitar
Hector - Drums
Josh - Bass

Myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/otenki

The Song What They Said Recommends:
Ventura.

Interview:

Hi, thank you for joining What They Said for an interview!

Can you please tell us your name and what you do for Otenki.
My name is Enoma Otenki. I play guitar and I handle a lot of the band's booking/business.

Otenki is an unusual, different name. What does it mean and what made you choose it?
Otenki, really was just a name that Fausto (lead guitar) and I came up with. We're both self proclaimed anime nerds at heart and we both speak a little japanese. It means weather. The name had a real ring to it. Outside of that it definite fit the perspective we have with the band. We're very much into writing all types of music, sometimes expansive and ambient; other times light hearted with a lot of pop sensibility. Like weather and like our emotions things change. Otenki is a cool way to sum that all up.

You're about to record an EP//Album. What can fans expect?
Well, fans can definitely expect something a little different. I say that because as a band you always write, even when you record a new album. New songs are just pouring out of us and that's exciting because there might not be a limit to where we can take our full length record. We've wrapped up a session of recording and will be releasing an EP very soon so our fans can have some of our new songs.

The full length will be the most ambitious thing we'll do at this point in our career. We're talking to a few producers and looking at a few studios here and there to explore the options we have available to us. As far as the songs go we're just writing and writing. Some songs are darker and aggressive and others are very poppy, clap your hands and sing a long. We've always liked having that duality, it can lead you into all sorts of directions.

How did each of you get the band together?
Fausto and I got the band together because he wasn't exactly happy with his last band. I was searching for a band because I had recently moved to the city. We got together through a houston musician website and started working on songs. We went through a few line up changes and Fausto decided he didn't want to sing and play guitar. So he brought in his cousin German to sing. After that we started playing some shows and we met a few people off of Warped Tour that really liked us. They gave us an opportunity to go to california to record. Our originial drummer decided he wanted to focus on school So we ended up finding Hector and right away he clicked with us. We headed out there recorded and things started taking off. Then our bassist was always struggling with his personal life and the band life so we had to part ways and then Hector's brother "Sneaky" Josh came in...the band really felt right when he was added.


What Record Label would you love to be signed to and why?
That's always a tough question because everyone wants to be on the hottest label at the time. Trick though is that just because they are hot right now doesn't mean they will always be hot.

Honestly, I personally would want to be with Tooth and Nail Records or Fueled By Ramen. Both labels have had amazing artists like The Juliana Theory, Anberlin, Emery, MxPx, Fall Out Boy, The Stereo and Yellowcard respectively. They always seem to really love their bands and are willing to invest in a small band and help them develop their audiences and help them become masters of their craft.

The thing is as an unsigned band we just want to find a team that is honestly stoked on our music and our vision. The size of the label doesn't matter much at all. A small, devoted team is more effective than a huge team with no desire to see you grow.

Who would you say is your biggest inspiration?
Musically, Jimmy Eat World. They are masters of their craft. Their music is absolutely amazing. They have the kind of career I want for this band. They paid their dues switching from label to label but stayed true to themselves and became a radio success with Bleed American. A - What They Said Fanzine