Here’s What Went Down at DJ Muro’s First Australian Gig in Over a Decade

In the words of DJ Muro, “There are some things that can only be experienced first press.” Beer and records are two perfect examples. In partnership with the legendary DJ and Deus Records, premium Japanese beer brand Kirin Ichiban delivered an experience rooted in first-press purity, craftsmanship and culture. 

The balmy evening set the perfect backdrop as guests entered Sydney’s Jam Record Bar to see DJ Muro step behind the decks for the first time in over a decade on Australian soil. The night marked the first in a series of exclusive events celebrating vinyl culture and first-press craftsmanship. Attendees got to experience the ‘King of Diggin’ in the flesh with an ice-cold Kirin Ichiban beer in hand during a screening of a film shot in Tokyo exploring vinyl culture through the eyes of DJ Muro. 

Vinyl purists know that first-press records hit different. The sound is deeper, richer and unfiltered. “The first press philosophy is to never compromise on taste and quality,” DJ Muro reveals in the film. This same philosophy that defines Kirin Ichiban, which is brewed from only the first press of the wort (the liquid extracted during the brewing process) to achieve the purest taste. 

The Kirin Ichiban x DJ Muro x Deus Records collab comes to life in more ways than one,  through music and limited-edition drops. A 12-inch collector’s vinyl, pressed in Tokyo at the legendary Toyokasai Records, features two unreleased Muro tracks and deep cuts from his WAON project. Just 500 copies exist, making it as rare as the records Muro is known for digging up.

Ever the icon, DJ Muro arrived at the launch event wearing the limited-edition Deus Ex Machina ‘Record Hunting Jacket,’ custom-designed for the collaboration. Kirin-branded press studs, intricate illustrations and a perfectly sized 12-inch vinyl pocket make it both a statement piece and a collector’s dream. Even in 27-degree Celsius heat, Muro rocked a beanie, aviator glasses and an effortlessly cool and inimitable vibe. 

The collaboration also honored kissaten, or ‘listening bar’ culture, which originated in Japan and continues to spread throughout the world. DJ Muro was one of the pioneers of the scene over 30 years ago and plays an important role in driving subculture, sound quality and craft to this day. 

Following the launch night, Kirin Ichiban also took their ‘first-press’ event with DJ Muro to Melbourne’s High Note on March 20 and Sydney’s Caterpillar Club on March 23, where the public got to attend and experience first-press vinyl, exclusive drops and perfectly chilled Kirin Ichiban. 

Missed the events? Watch the full First Press film here and immerse yourself in the world of first-press culture. Or head to the Kirin Ichiban Australian site to see how you can score the exclusive Hunting Jacket, t-shirt and Muro vinyl. 

DISCLAIMER: We discourage irresponsible and/or underage drinking. Drink responsibly and legally.