Elle Shimada’s CHALANT collective hosts femme-led discussion & event in Tokyo
Taking over ORD and SALOON in Daikanyama, the event coincides with the release of Shimada’s second album, ‘Lullaby For The River In My Body’
London-born artist collective CHALANT will present its first-ever event in Japan on January 30 with the Tokyo Chapter, marking a homecoming for its director, producer, and violinist Elle Shimada.
Operating as an artist collective, event curator, and music label, CHALANT has developed a reputation for creating spaces that bring together music, art, and conversation, with a particular focus on underground scenes and artists working outside commercial norms.
The event takes place across ORD and SALOON in Daikanyama, with both venues used for a single-night takeover. The programme includes live-electronic performances, DJ sets, dance crews, food stalls, and a structured discussion.
The line-up centres on femme-led artists and collectives shaping Tokyo’s underground culture through music, nightlife, and community-building.
Members of Afro-Japanese party collective AMAPINIGHT, including Sakura, Tanzi, and Samo, appear alongside vocalist and curator Nao Kawamura, live-electronic group IT’S US!!!!, rapper Cyber Rui, DJ Ajuchan, and Yuvie from FULLHOUSE.
Across two dance floors running into the early morning, the programming moves fluidly between Afro-influenced club sounds, live-electronic performance, rap, and deep-cut DJ selections.
Central to the programme is a conversation circle beginning at 19:00, bringing 18 femme artists into a shared discussion with the audience.
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The session focuses on mapping Tokyo’s underground club culture, introducing each artist and collective, and exploring the theme of the “ambitious woman”, including how communities are built and sustained through music and nightlife.
Audience members will also be invited to take part in the conversation.
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The Tokyo Chapter also coincides with the release of Shimada’s second album, ‘Lullaby For The River In My Body’, featuring collaborations with Joe Armon-Jones, Jitwam, Loner Muaka, Dave Giles II, Pookie, and Legzdina.
Tickets to CHALANT's Tokyo Chapter event can be purchased at the door at ORD and SALOONfor JPY3,500 (includes 1 drink).
Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.
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