A3K: Is there any special meaning behind your band's name, VAMPS? Does it have anything to do with the Vamprose label?

HYDE:  It’s from vampire. I like mysterious women, too [laugh]. I love vampires. I’m intrigued by its never-ending life. I like horror.

A3K: Why and when did you decide to become a band?

HYDE:  Since HYDE’s second album in 2003, I have worked together with K.A.Z., but his existence became so important to me that I decided to share one name with him, rather than using my own name.

K.A.Z.: I had been interested in HYDE’s voice and his wonderful view of the world.

A3K: What do you think makes your band one of the top rock groups in Japan?

HYDE: Being with K.A.Z. makes an interesting combination. We compensate for what we lack each other. We can make anything together, except a baby [laugh].

A3K: What was it like going on your first nationwide Japan tour in 2008?

HYDE: When we are on a tour, our band is more band-like than others. I think when people play in a band for a long time, it becomes like a task. But VAMPS take advantage of the good part of being a band—using the exciting moment that a band usually has at its beginning stage.

A3K: What do you expect from this year's VAMPS Live USA Tour?

HYDE:  I consider America to be the biggest competitor [for Japanese Rock n’ Roll], so I want American audiences to listen to our music. American audiences are good at expressing themselves, so it’s fun to perform in front of them.

K.A.Z.: American audiences are wider than Japanese audience, so I can feel their cheers and excitements much more directly. I look forward to meeting many people.

A3K: Who was your inspiration for playing your instrument(s)?

K.A.Z.: I used to watch and got inspired by King Crimson, Cheap Trick, and TOTO.

HYDE: Probably, Mötley Crüe, and others.

A3K: With VAMPS, what is your ultimate goal?

HYDE: Until I become really old, I want to be wild and active. I think VAMPS is the place where I could work until I burn out. It’s just started. That’s why I want to keep going until whatever the limit comes.

K.A.Z.: After all, VAMPS is the best live band. I want people to listen to our albums, but I want them to come to our tour, for we make opportunities for them to see us. I believe we make the atmosphere where the audience can feel Rock n’ Roll the most.