We sat down with the legendary Takamune Negishi to talk about his choice to switch to the Eco Pick, made from recycled plastic bottles. Find out why this eco-conscious pick has become his go-to for live performances and what makes it stand out from the rest.
1. How Did You Learn About Eco Pick?
I discovered Eco Pick through a friend's SNS post, specifically Curly Giraffe's. I was intrigued by the fact that it’s made from recycled PET bottles and carries the "ECO" label, so I asked for an introduction.
2. Why Did You Choose Eco Pick Over Other Brands?
The keyword "ECO" initially attracted me, and after trying it, I found it suited me perfectly. Having tried various picks before, finding one that fits so well is rare. The thickness and hardness are just right, and the ONIGIRI shape has a roundness that I prefer compared to similar products from other brands.
3. How Does the Sound and Feel Differ?
The texture is excellent. The original design on the pick acts as a grip, making it perfect for live performances. The sound quality is also top-notch; unlike other picks that can weaken the sound, Eco Pick maintains its integrity. It also seems to be quite durable.
4. When Do You Use It, and Do You Switch for Different Songs?
For live performances, the original Eco Pick is more than sufficient. For recording, I sometimes use a thicker, 2.5-3mm acrylic pick. However, because those picks are expensive (around 2,000-3,000 yen each), I don’t use them for live shows. In that sense, Eco Pick offers great cost performance, which I appreciate.
5. Which Bassists and Guitarists Would You Recommend It To?
Picks are a matter of personal preference, and many musicians have their favorites. However, I think many people would like Eco Pick, and if it becomes widely available, it could gain popularity. Even those who usually use brands like Dunlop or Fender might find Eco Pick appealing.
His love for Eco Picks is so strong that he even custom orders original Eco Picks:
BIO ~ Takamune Negishi ~
Takamune Negishi began his career as a live support musician for Hiromi Ota. He later formed the band Dr. StrangeLove, making his major debut. Throughout his career, he has contributed to the recordings and live performances of renowned artists such as Southern All Stars, Tamio Okuda, Fumiya Fujii, and Porno Graffitti. In addition to live support, he has taken on production roles for artists like Cocco, GRAPEVINE, aiko, Kaela Kimura, and Mika Nakashima.
Takamune Negishi Official Website: https://negishitakamune.com/
Takamune Negishi Instagram: @takamunenegishi