BIOGRAPHY
The name Motoya is derived from the Japanification of the Mandarin words 許家 (Hsü Chia), which are the surname and generational name of brothers Mike Hsu (許家韶) and Jesse Hsu (許家華). Despite their East Asian heritage, Mike and Jesse trace their musical roots to British new-wave and synthpop bands such as New Order and Depeche Mode. Both are also classically trained in violin and piano, and they insert their instrumental virtuosity between the layers of syncopated bass lines, synth string chords, house beats, guitar riffs, and emotionally unperturbed vocals. "Waiting For The Dawn" was first released in 2000, under the previous Mp3.com label. Since then, Jesse has become immersed in fatherhood; meanwhile, Mike has morphed Motoya into his personal songwriting and recording project. "Adaptation" represents an exploration of genres beyond the comfort zone, including country, Irish fiddling, hip-hop, spiritural, string band, and anime.
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