Kirin Ichiban’s ‘First Press’ with Japan’s DJ Muro

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“There’s an easy alliance between first press vinyl and first press beer; both represent impeccable quality.”

Lion-owned beer Kirin Ichiban has launched ‘First Press’ to bring together the unmatched brewing philosophy of Kirin Ichiban, the cultural influence of Deus Records and the authentic musical artistry of Japan’s legendary DJ Muro.

Live in market from March 10, Kirin Ichiban’s First Press campaign is centred in digital storytelling around the purity of sound and taste; championing the cultural authority of DJ Muro while matching the uncompromising quality of first press beer with the sound of first press vinyl.

The short-cut campaign follows the footsteps of Japan’s original hip hop DJ and collector as he frequents listening bars and vinyl pressing plants in Tokyo.

Led by Muro, we are given intimate access to the deep vinyl culture of Japan, with an overlay of his voice as he explains what makes ‘first press’ the ultimate experience.

The short cut First Press video is activated across social platforms (Meta and TikTok) and screen (BVOD, SVOD [Netflix], YouTube), complimented by a 15 second audio segment on Spotify and Acast.

An expanded 4.21min short film takes viewers on a guided tour through rare Japanese pressings, hidden listening rooms, iconic Jazz Kissaten bars, and Deus Records, which connects Japanese and Australian music scenes.

Along the way, DJ Muro introduces influential figures who share his passion for authentic music experiences. His intimate involvement ensures the film not only documents but contributes to music culture, bridging artistic and cultural gaps.

A stand-alone Kirin Ichiban masterbrand OOH campaign will work strategically in support of the storytelling in Sydney and Melbourne, while grass roots promotional activity will be  live in over 1500 on and off premise venues via incentivised competitions around listening, music and travel to Japan. 

Kirin Ichiban brand director Amy Hiscock said there’s an easy alliance between first press vinyl and first press beer; both represent impeccable quality.

“Kirin Ichiban uses a unique brewing process which is uncompromising – and made from only the first press, for the purest taste,” Hiscock said.

“DJ Muro epitomises the same unwavering dedication to experience that defines Kirin Ichiban. Similarly, Deus Records represents a fusion of music with the brand’s values of authenticity and mastery of craft.”

Deus Ex Machina art director Stevie James said Deus Records, DJ Muro, and Kirin Ichiban share a dedication to craft, heritage, and authenticity.

“Deus celebrates music and storytelling, DJ Muro embodies the art of rare discovery, and Kirin Ichiban represents precision, quality and taste,” James said.

“Together, we’ve created a partnership rooted in cultural appreciation and creative excellence.”

The First Press campaign comes to life in the Australian market from March 19 with a series of events open to the public and epically curated, appealing to the senses via a live set from DJ Muro, ice cold Kirin Ichiban beer, and the release of a streetwear collab designed by Deus Ex Machina.

Australian fans will be able to attend DJ Muro’s sets in Melbourne at High Note on 20 March and Sydney at the Caterpillar Club on 23 March, where a limited drop of the vinyl and t-shirt will be gifted to the audience.

CREDITS

Client: Lion

Creative Agency: Monster Children

Media agency: UM

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