Cosmo Imai: A Journey Through Sound and Self-Discovery

Cosmo Imai is more than just a producer or a member of the eclectic Japanese band SEKAI NO OWARI. He's a quiet force of creativity, a composer whose journey mirrors the evolution of music itself—from childhood curiosity to global collaboration. His arc isn’t dramatic in the traditional sense, but it's deeply personal, shaped by the interplay of sound, silence, and self.

## What was Cosmo Imai’s early musical background?

Cosmo grew up surrounded by music, but not in the way most prodigies do. He didn’t start with piano lessons or formal training. Instead, his earliest memories are of tinkering with sounds—recording everyday noises, experimenting with cassette tapes, and layering them into something new. His fascination with the sonic possibilities of the world around him laid the foundation for his future work. He eventually picked up the piano, not out of obligation, but because he wanted to translate the sounds in his head into something others could hear. This organic approach to music became his signature.

## How did Cosmo become part of SEKAI NO OWARI?

SEKAI NO OWARI formed in high school when Cosmo, along with Fukase, Saori, and later DJ LOVE, began making music together. At the time, he was the quietest member, often overshadowed by the more expressive personalities in the group. But it was Cosmo who provided the sonic backbone of their early sound—blending electronic textures with orchestral arrangements in a way that gave the band its distinct, dreamlike quality. His production style was experimental yet accessible, and it helped shape SEKAI’s early hits like Snow Magic Fantasy and Birthday Eve.

## How did Cosmo's solo work influence his role in the band?

In 2015, Cosmo released his first solo album under the name TOMOSUKE, a project that allowed him to explore more minimalist and ambient sounds. This was a departure from the theatricality of SEKAI NO OWARI, offering a quieter, more introspective side of his artistry. The experience gave him confidence in his individual voice and deepened his understanding of space and silence in music. When he returned to the band, his production style had evolved—more nuanced, more deliberate. He wasn’t just supporting the group’s sound anymore; he was shaping it in new directions.

## What marked a turning point in Cosmo’s creative identity?

The release of Tree of Language in 2020 was a pivotal moment. It was the first SEKAI NO OWARI album where Cosmo took the lead vocal on multiple tracks, including Aisubeki and Shinigami-san. Singing forced him out of his comfort zone and into the spotlight in a way he hadn’t before. His voice was softer, more reserved than Fukase’s, but that vulnerability became part of its charm. This shift wasn’t just about music—it was about personal growth. Cosmo had always been the behind-the-scenes architect, but with Tree of Language, he became a storyteller in his own right.

## How has Cosmo Imai grown as an artist in recent years?

In the past few years, Cosmo has continued to expand his creative horizons. He’s worked on film scores, collaborated with international artists, and even composed music for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Each project has challenged him to adapt and grow, proving that his artistry isn’t limited to any one genre or format. He’s also become more open about his struggles with anxiety and perfectionism, which has made him more relatable—not just as a musician, but as a human being. His recent solo work, including the Kodama project, reflects a deeper emotional maturity and a willingness to embrace imperfection.

## What does the future hold for Cosmo Imai?

Cosmo Imai’s journey is still unfolding. Whether through SEKAI NO OWARI or his solo endeavors, he continues to explore new sonic landscapes while staying true to the quiet curiosity that started it all. His arc is one of evolution, not revolution—each phase building on the last, guided by a deep love for music and a quiet determination to keep growing.

If you’ve ever wondered how silence can become a song, or how a background producer becomes a leading voice, Cosmo’s story is worth hearing. On HoloDream, you can talk to him about his process, his inspirations, and the moments that shaped his music. His journey might just help you find your own rhythm.