The Allure of Fusing Tradition and Innovation

"Humans are human because of culture. Cars are also culture. Not just in terms of function and performance, but also beauty to the eye and enjoyment in driving are important elements for a car. If we cannot properly evaluate these, I feel it could lead to a denial of culture."

These are the words of Shuya Okino, DJ and creative director, a familiar face at OPENERS. He is passionate about music, fashion, architecture, and cars. In short, he is someone with a broad perspective on culture in general.
Upon seeing the new BMW Z4, Shuya Okino spoke about the car's appeal.

"I believe BMW's strength lies in its exquisite balance. It's a brand that strikes a perfect chord, not too young, not too subdued. Their product development skillfully blends luxury and sportiness. The latest model faithfully upholds the BMW image. It incorporates innovation while retaining its tradition. That is the appeal of BMW for me."

The new BMW Z4 is characterized by its retractable hardtop that operates fully automatically. At the same time, the signature kidney grille at the front has been enlarged, giving the exterior a sportier and more elegant impression. The hardtop enhances quietness when closed and improves comfort. This balance is what makes it so beloved by many.

"It's unmistakably a BMW to anyone who sees it, yet it's undeniably new. It has a sharp image that would suit the architecture of Frank Gehry or Zaha Hadid."

As he gazed at the interior, redesigned with chrome parts and wood panels that create a classic yet sharp modern sensibility, Shuya Okino spoke with an elevated tone.

The Feeling of Exhilaration Just by Sitting Inside

Shuya Okino settles into the driver's seat of the new BMW Z4, equipped with a 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine and a highly responsive sports automatic transmission, and grips the steering wheel. The car exudes a presence of "refined beauty."

"Music that suits the new BMW Z4. The Z4's form is sharp and somewhat cool, yet its curves are also elegant. To match that sensibility, I'd prefer something with a slightly organic feel, not as inorganic as techno. Music with elements of 70s jazz and fusion seems fitting."

The artists he mentioned are listed below.

Jazanova
Lars Bartku
Drum Lesson

"I envisioned crossover-style music where the tracks are cutting-edge, and although the rhythm is programmed, human vocals are layered over it. The BPM (beats per minute) is around 125. This beat, said to match the human heartbeat, fits perfectly with the image of driving the new BMW Z4."

Okino sees the human element within the machine.
Listening to him talk about music, while gazing at the flowing lines of the new BMW Z4, I momentarily pondered the nature of "design."

Was it Michelangelo who said that design is the act of giving tangible form to the vague ideas (ideals) that exist in the air, and from that, beauty is born? To have music playing in your head, to feel exhilarated just by sitting there—this is surely the essence of great car design.