The SHINJU GUMI project begins in 1997 when a movie-freak decides to buy a sampler and an ATARI in order to create cinematographic atmospheres. Under the influence of Ennio Morricone, SHINJU GUMI's compositions mix Delerue's melancholy with DJ Shadow's slow tempo and a touch of The Cure's sadness.
The evocative power of these first soundtrack-oriented instrumental tracks seduces Artefact Records, a then-new Parisian label. After two previous singles in 1998, "Dissecting a Ghost", SHINJU GUMI's first LP (arranged, mixed and produced by Arnaud Rebotini of ZEND AVESTA and BLACK STROBE fame) is released in 1999 and achieves both critical success and cult-status among downtempo lovers. A one-and-only set will follow for the opening of the 1st Aquaplaning Festival.
After a remix for the Jean-Louis Murat's song "Jim", 2001 sees "Dissecting a Ghost" re-interpreted by electronica's top artists such as Kid Loco, Tarwater, Solex, 7 Hurtz, Discipline and Calm (from Japan) on the "Remixing a Ghost" album. And DJ Cam, Carl Craig and DJ Spooky put SHINJU GUMI's tracks on various compilations.
SHINJU GUMI is now finishing his 2nd album. More pop-oriented but still with a cinematographic touch, his new compositions are sung by Mélanie Pain (of Villeneuve/Nouvelle Vague fame) & Alice Lewis.