Studying the crescendos and decrescendos of classical music, the group Mono has been composing triumphant instrumental post-rock for 10 years and counting.
Its lineup, which has not changed in its tenure as a band, consists of Takaakira Goto on guitar, Tamaki on bass, Yasunori Takada on drums and Yoda on guitar.
On its records, Mono plays instruments like love plays on the heartstrings. The group has been creating music that Goto says "expresses the human state — joy and sorrow, energy and culture. I see images of the stories that inspire our songs — moments of love, loss, defeat and hope."
Here are excerpts from a recent interview with Goto:
Tell us about your fifth full-length album "Hymn to the Immortal Wind" How does it differ from your earlier album "Under the Pipal Tree"?
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"Each album has been a stepping stone up until 'Hymn.' 'Under the Pipal Tree' was back when we were still experimenting with sounds and growing accustomed to working with each other as a band. 'Hymn' has more cinematic/classical elements, and there are more layers to our sound."
In celebration of your 10th year together, you're playing a show in Japan accompanied by an orchestra. Have you played with an orchestra before?
"We've been influenced by classical music for as long as I can remember, and we've been learning a little bit more about orchestral instrumentation with each album. We just thought it would be a great way to celebrate our album and celebrate our time together as a band."
What are the major differences you notice between Americans and Japanese people? What about American and Japanese bands?
"Japanese audiences are more reserved during the show, possibly because of cultural norms. They don't reveal their emotions as much."
What has kept you all together and not tearing out each other's throats?
"We're very lucky that we have made it this far. It also makes it easier that we have a consistent order of doing things. I write the songs, and then we all come together to see if they will work. Everyone kind of has his/her own responsibilities, so we're not constantly arguing about who does what."
• What: Mono in concert, with Maserati.
• When: Wednesday night. Doors open at 8 p.m.
• Where: Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
• Admission: $8 in advance, $10 day of show.
