Glam-Pop Rockers Play With Toyz For those who don’t know, Cinema Bizarre is a unique band that hails from Berlin, Germany. Their sound is eclectic ranging from new wave and power pop to gothic rock. Beyond their distinctive sound, it is interesting how Cinema Bizarre met—the internet. As a matter of fact, all the members, despite being German, found each other through the internet with a fascination of Japanese youth culture, also known as ‘Visual Kei.’ This ‘Visual Kei’ is an ideology based on individuality, self development and rebellion. Eventually, they met at a Manga/Anime convention, where soon afterwards they amazingly found themselves with a record deal. Their first album, Final Attraction, is a group of songs with an array of styles that is formed by each individual band member’s taste. The album went Top 10 in their native country with the single “Love Songs” garnering the same attention. In fact, their video for that single, hit 100,000 views in its first week on YouTube. It is no doubt with their eclectic style, attitude and various fan sites dedicated to them, Cinema Bizarre are geared to be a force to be reckoned with. Currently, the band is working on their second disc entitled TOYZ. During the recording, we were able to ask Cinema Bizarre some questions. So from what I hear, you guys met online through similar interests such as ‘Visual Kei.’ What is it about ‘Visual Kei’ that is so important to you, both artistically and personally? Strify: The mixture of androgyny, glamour, punk and the exotic of Japan was very attractive too me. I've always been quite androgynous and found a whole new world for me in Visual Kei. But we never wanted to copy that style, it was just one of the first steps for us to step into that universe. After forming a bond, how did you guys develop your sound? Was it instant musical chemistry? It definitely was a long way. We aren't a typical garage band that played every weekend. We lived in different cities, but forming a band was possible for us because of the internet. We tried to find a style and mixed a lot of elements. Each one of us brings in a different flavor to create Cinema Bizarre. Besides ‘Visual Kei’ what are some inspirations of yours? I'm a big fan of electronic music and pop music. I also love the vibe of the 80s. Are there any dream bands or artists you would love to share the bill with that you haven’t? Maybe Robyn. What is the recording process like for Cinema Bizarre? We collect ideas and sounds all the time which we could turn into music. I have a little book in which I write all my ideas. When we start to record something, we use all that stuff to find inspiration and creativity. I hear you guys are making a new album, TOYZ. What can people expect from it? What makes this album different from your debut? TOYZ is coming out in Europe, while on August 25 in the U.S., the album, BANG! will be released. It'll be a mix of the two European albums with some new stuff as well. What can people expect from a Cinema Bizarre live show? Five boys on stage looking pretty and sending the crowd a ray of energy. It's rock'n'roll mixed with something theatrical. What are your touring plans? Are there any places you would really like to perform that you haven’t? We are coming back in summer to the U.S. and we want to play a tour there as well. We still haven't been to Japan which is a dream of ours. What sets you apart from other bands/artists in the music industry? Cinema Bizarre is not only meant to be heard, we're also meant to be seen. We are bizarre and not afraid to do something unusual. Where do you see yourself in say, 5-10 years? Are there any goals you have set in place? Still making music and the whole world should sing our songs. Is there anything else you’d like to add? Spread the bizarreness!