Shinichi Atobe Was Keeping Quiet Long Before Silent Way

For decades, Shinichi Atobe was considered shadowy. Until last May, the 50-something Japanese artist had not been interviewed. He seldom performs, save for the occasional appearance at a space near his apartment in Saitama — such as WWW in Tokyo or the FFKT festival. “When I listen to great music, my own work can feel immature,” he tells me in an email, when questioned about his choice to stay private. “I still feel like I’m learning.” In spite of the humility and reclusiveness, Atobe’s discography is one of the most revered in deep house and techno.