Kagrra’s last look & message about their demise
22
Dec, 2010
Thanks to Shu-san for emailing us about Kagrra’s last look. It also seems that Kagrra posted their last translated message to those who are a member of the PS Company fan club.
As Kagrra, have announced their “DEMISE” they have now send out their messages to the members of the GLOBAL PS COMPANY FAN CLUB.
It has been released in English and Japanese along with beautiful pictures of Kagrra,.
We hope these messages will mend the broken heart of Kagrra,’s fan just a little.Let’s take a look at the interview.
* Isshi:
[Looking Back on 10 Years]
It’s mysterious. I know there have been hard and troublesome times; however, looking back at it now, I can only remember happy things. With all my heart I think that these ten years I spent as Isshi of Kagrra, were great.
What do you think about their last look? I don’t know about you but I am sure going to miss these guys together!
Sources: MUSIC JAPAN+, Myspace
Kaya’s comment for Kawaii girl Japan
14
Dec, 2010
Kaya took a moment of his time to record a comment for Kawaii girl Japan the other day. The site promotes his newest release while showcasing Kaya in the video comment.
Since debuting in 2002, Kaya has been active not only as a visual-kei singer, but also as a multi-talented producer who does everything from design, makeup and live planning to direction.
Now, Kaya is bringing us a new single with the theme of ‘prostitute,’ “Madame Rosa no Shoukan (Madame Rosa’s Brothel)”! This new single comes in 2 different versions
This new single comes in 2 different versions—the “Jakou” version includes a novel that unveils “Madame Rosa” and the “Biyaku” version includes a special sticker. It will show you what Kaya’s world is all about, so don’t miss out!
Are you ready for the new release? Have you preordered yet, to do so click here!
Source: Kaya’s twitter
Cook N Rock Episode 2
19
Oct, 2010
Remember when we talked about Cure Media USA posting a cooking corner segment on their site? Seems like episode 2 is up and running! This time they are making wraps.
Thats not the only news for the site, they also have uploaded their one-on-one interview with the one and only SUGIZO! You can read the interview over here~!
Source: CURE Media USA
Interview with -LEON-
27
Jun, 2010
-LEON- is a five-piece band from Gunma comprising of Yuji on vocals, Shin and Koya on guitars, Yamato on bass, and Masashi on drums. Mixing Asian cultural influences with visual rock, -LEON- has a heavy, modern sound with a distinct, ethereal flavor.
On December 13th, the band released their first three track mini-album, 「REGULUS」 along with a PV for their song, 「Kokou ni Tou Tsuioku no Kagen no Tsuki」.
The members of -LEON- took time to answer a few of our questions, so take a read through and get to know this up and coming band! We’d like to thank the band and JapanFiles for giving us this opportunity.
To check out samples or to purchase -LEON-’s music, visit their page on JapanFiles.
1. Please introduce yourselves and what part you play in the band.
YUJI: I’m YUJI, the vocals.
SHIN: I’m SHIN, the guitar.
KOYA: I’m KOYA, the guitar.
YAMATO: I’m YAMATO, the bass.
MASASHI: I’m MASASHI, the drums.2. How did each of you get interested in performing music?
YUJI: I became interested in music because my older brother was playing the guitar.
SHIN: I became interested in music as I was mimicking my older sister’s piano when I was small.
KOYA: My dad was a crazy fan of Eikichi Yazawa… (laughs)
YAMATO: I don’t know… because I don’t have memory of my childhood!
MASASHI: I saw X JAPAN on TV a long time ago, and I thought this is it for me.
Interview with GLACIER
24
Jun, 2010
GLACIER is a five-member group from Okinawa, comprising of Makoto on vocals, Nao on lead guitar, Koujirou on rhythm guitar, Aki on bass, and Yuuki on drums. The band formed in July 2007 and made their major debut a year later on July 23rd. They have released a full album and six singles to date with their seventh single, 「愛の降る街」 (Ai no Furu Machi) which is the third installment of a 7-month digital release project, coming out on June 30th through JapanFiles and on iTunes.
The members of GLACIER took the time to sit down to answer our questions for an exclusive interview! We’d like to thank the band and JapanFiles for giving us this opportunity!
To hear more of GLACIER’s music, visit JapanFiles to listen to samples and purchase the band’s music.
1. Could each member please introduce themselves?
Makoto: Haisai! I’m Prince of Okinawa, Makoto.
Nao: I’m Nao, the guitarist.
Kōjirō: I’m Kōjirō, on the guitar in GLACIER.
Aki: I’m Aki, on the bass.
Yūki: I’m Yūki on the drums in the band!!2. You’re currently in the middle of a seven-consecutive-month digital single release campaign. Why did you decide on this strategy?
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Interview with O-PARTS
30
May, 2010
O-PARTS is a two-man unit that started in June of 2009, formed by vocalist sho-ka (ex. Vogus Image) and bassist Jun (GaGaaalinG, ex. WAIVE). On August 20th, they released their first maxi-single entitled 「向日葵」 (Himawari) which included four tracks, all of which made it into the top ten of the Oricon Indies ranking. On May 26th, their second maxi-single, 「煌[kou]」 was released and will be available through JapanFiles from June 6th.
Both sho-ka and Jun took time out of their busy schedules to answer a few questions from Shattered-Tranquility.net. We’d like to thank sho-ka and Jun, as well as JapanFiles for the opportunity for this interview!
If you’re interested in checking out O-PARTS’ music, make sure you head on over to JapanFiles where you can listen to samples and purchase the band’s music.
1. Please introduce yourselves and what part you play in O-PARTS.
sho-ka: I’m sho-ka, and my part is vocals.Jun: I’m Jun, and I play the bass.
2. What is the origin behind the name O-PARTS?
sho-ka: At the beginning, Jun told me “I want the letter P!” I looked up many things, and I suggested O-PARTS because I thought it fits perfectly to my feelings about my own existence.Jun: One of the ideas was “POOL” but sho-ka had another idea. So I said, “That’s cool!” and we decided on this.
3. How did you decide to work together?
sho-ka: I was in a band called Vogus Image before, and Jun was in Waive at that time. We were often in the same tour, but we were only acquaintances… Then we were reunited after 4 years, and Jun helped my solo activity. After my solo release, we started O-PARTS last year.Jun: We promised to work together, but only after having a solo release. Since it’s so hard in many aspects to work alone, I thought it was better to start after those experiences. So we started after the solo release because of our promise.
(more…)
Posted in Featured, Interview, New releaseTags: O-PARTS
The GazettE, Reita Interview in Arena 37C, March 2010
16
Mar, 2010
I recently bought the March issue of ‘Arena 37C’ and I’m currently working through translating interviews from it. The first one I bring to you is a personal interview with the bassist of GazettE, Reita. Here, he mainly talks about the band’s gig last year on Christmas Eve, as well as boys being “simple-minded”, his love for motorbikes and the importance of memories.
In the recent midst of what seems to be a lot of bands disbanding, I hope you enjoy reading this interview where you hear about such a great band who still get on well together after so many years 
All extra notes provided by myself are in []s.
— Could you tell us about more about your 2009 Last Live on the 24th December at the Tokyo Big Sight?
Now that we’re into the new year [2010] it seems like a long time ago, but on that day we all got really excited. Because of the place [of the live] and the special set list that we had, I think it had a different feel to our regular ones [gigs].
— I thought so too. I got a big thrill from seeing the scene of that large hall full of an audience.
I’d like the GazettE to continue being a band that gives you [fans] a thrill.
(more…)
Posted in Interview, Magazine, TranslationTags: the GazettE
Ryutaro (Plastic Tree) on ‘Hotwave’ Interview
28
Feb, 2010
An interview with the vocalist Ryutaro from the band Plastic Tree, on the show ‘Hotwave’. I’m afraid I’m not sure what year this interview is, but I think it’s a little old. If anyone could fill me in with that I’d be grateful
In this clip, Ryutaro talks about the band’s recent activities at the time, his dislike for summer, as well as the male presenter’s obsession with Ryutaro’s appearance! To be honest there may not be that much content within the interview itself, but I think we get a better idea of Ryutaro’s reserved, but sweet character.
Enjoy!
Presenters: Good evening!
Ryutaro: (bows) Good evening!
*Male Presenter: Long time no see! It’s been about 6 months…?
[*continued as 'M Presenter']
Ryutaro: Yes. Long time no see!
M Presenter: As always, you have such beautiful skin.
Ryutaro: Oh no, I wouldn’t say that…!
(more…)
Posted in Interview, TranslationTags: Plastic Tree
MUCC on Music Fighter interview, 2008
26
Feb, 2010
MUCC appeared on the Music TV show ‘Music Fighter’ to talk about their past and their recent activities when they were releasing 「アゲハ」, and as I found it a lot of fun and informative for fans I translated it =)
MUCC as members themselves are incredibly funny and witty, however, it also means that I’ve had to add a lot of notes in small-print in order to explain their jokes! I hope you won’t find my annotations too annoying…
Here, they talk about everything from their childhood when they formed silly gangs, their love of soccer, how they never paid their apartment rent and hairdressers.
Enjoy!
[1 of the Presenters on this show is 'Sayaka Aoiki', and as there as specific notes to Aoiki herself I have named her in the interview but kept to "Presenter 1 & 2" for the other presenters (the Comedian unit 'King Kong') to save confusion]
Presenter 1: Please welcome today’s guests; MUCC!
Presenter 2: The first time we met was quite a while ago, wasn’t it? I was scared of you at first! But now we’ve become acquaintances, haven’t we? (laughter)
Presenter 1: It’s your first time meeting MUCC, isn’t it, Aoiki?
Aoiki: Yes, it’s my first time meeting you, *neeeee? (gets thwacked on the head)
[*Here, Aoiki holds onto the "ne" unnecessarily, in a comically annoying way, and gets hit on the head by the other presenter - a common scene in Japanese comedy. "ne" in this sense means "didn't we?" or " right?"]
Tatsurou: Oh no, we sort of met at the Budoukan -
Aoiki: Ah! At the *L’arc en ciel gig!
[*Aoiki made an appearance in a gig with L'arc en ciel, which MUCC also appeared in]
Tatsurou: But only from far away. We sort of hid away and thought, “She’s so pretty” (laughter)
(more…)
Posted in Interview, TranslationTags: MUCC
Dir en grey, Vicious magazine interview ’99
23
Feb, 2010
This is a really old interview I translated a while back, of Dir en grey back in 1999, when they were just about to make their major debut with their 3 singles; ‘ゆらめき’, ‘残-zan-’ and ‘アクロの丘’.
This specific interview was when they had just done some recordings and a photo-shoot in Los Angeles.
Notes I’ve made are in small print in []s. An apology I must make though; I no longer own the original text of the interview, and as my translating skills were not as good back then as they are now, I’ve been unable to edit parts I didn’t really understand. I’ve tried to make as many changes as possible though, but please note that there could be some small mistakes!
It’s quite amusing to see what Dir en grey thought of L.A. back then, and I think we see a previous side to them – hope you enjoy it!
“We (Vicious) have been to Los Angeles!! We went and chased Dir en grey!!! We managed to catch them during their recording for their Major Debut Single which is released on 20th January!! Vicious exclusively presents the band’s first photo shoot abroad as well as an interview!!!! We even managed to hear their views on L.A. and their feelings before their debut.”
— Good work on the photo shooting guys! What are your views are on your first photo-shoot abroad?
Kaoru: I think the fact that we managed to see the city was more fun rather than the shooting itself. Seeing as it was the first time we’d been outside since we’d come to Los Angeles. (laughs)
— But the places you went round today for the photoshoot are not really tourist attractions, but places you wouldn’t visit normally, yes?
Toshiya: Behind business buildings. (laughs)
Kyo: To be honest, they’re not really places you’d want to visit (laughs)
(more…)
Posted in Interview, Magazine, TranslationTags: Dir en grey
BtrueTV – GazettE Ruki & Uruha Interview
8
Feb, 2010
This interview is quite a few years old, I believe, but it’s not from too far back. It’s the TV interview from ‘BtrueTV’ with The GazettE members Ruki and Uruha, where they talk about everything from how GazettE formed, their gigs overseas, foie gras and Nintendo DS.
I have also occassionaly added notes to further explain some of the translations in small print in []s.
I really enjoyed this interview – hope you all do too
Presenter: I will now introduce today’s guests; two members from the very popular Visual-kei band, GazettE!
Ruki: I am the vocalist, Ruki.
Uruha: I am the guitarist, Uruha.
Presenter: I always listen to your songs and watch you on TV, so I’m very happy to have the chance to meet you!
Uruha: Thank you very much.
Ruki: (laughs)
Presenter: I’m not lying!
Ruki: Oh, really?
Presenter: You looked at me as if to say I was lying.
Ruki: Well, yes.
Presenter: Of course not! I always enjoy watching you.
Ruki & Uruha: Thank you very much.
Presenter: You fit with the mood of my cafe very well today!
Ruki: Yeah, I think we did alright. It’s a good job I didn’t come in a t-shirt!
(more…)
Posted in Interview, TranslationTags: the GazettE
Q & A with α:Vout
14
Jan, 2010
Back in August, Shattered-Tranquility.net was lucky enough to be able to interview α:Vout! Since then, the band’s line-up has changed, they’ve earned many new fans and have put out a few releases. The members took time out of their busy schedules to sit down and answer some questions for us, a second time around.
Although we introduced the band in our previous Q&A, we’ll update you on what they’ve been up to and where they are now.
After putting out their mini-album, 「TRiCK THEATER」, which was the first release with Sou as vocalist, the band held a very interesting sponsored event on September 4th at Yotsuya outbreak.
They remained busy, not only doing lives but also releasing new music. In November, they added guitarist Kohsuke to their ranks. As a 5-member band, on December 23rd they released their single 「ギルティ-」 (Guilty) which included 3 new songs. One month later, on January 27th, they released another brand-new single 「SCAR EDGE」.
Shattered-Tranquility.net had the opportunity to ask the band some questions just before the release of these two singles.
S-T.net: Could you each please introduce yourselves for your new fans?
Sou: Hey hey! I’m the vocalist, Sou!
MIROKU: I’m the six string player, MIROKU.
Kohsuke: Nice to meet you, I’m Kohsuke
yu-ma: I’m yu-ma, in charge of bass.
Sin: ＳＩＮ
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Interview with Kaya
25
Dec, 2009
In 2002, Kaya made his vocal debut in the Mana produced two-man unit, Schwarz Stein. In 2004, Schwarz Stein disbanded, and departing from the label the band was signed to, Kaya became a free singer.
Using “aesthetics” as his main theme, Kaya conducts his activities with the goals of “the revolution of the aesthetic senses” and the “liberation of sexuality” in mind, and manages his own lyrics, CD jacket designs, make-up and costume designs as well as the organization and production of his live shows.
In 2006, Kaya’s solo career took off and from 2006 until April 2008, he released a total of seven pieces of work. His major debut occurred on April 23rd, 2008 with the release of his single, 「チョコラ」 (Chocolat). Since then, he has released two more singles, one mini-album, one full album and a DVD.
In November 2009, Kaya travelled to the United States to perform at Anime USA. At that time, Shattered-Tranquility.net was able to sit down with him, and ask Kaya some questions about his career and his life.
S-T.net: What is ‘music’ to you?
Kaya: That’s a really big question! It’s an element that you need to live, just like air and water. It’s also my weapon.S-T.net: Where do you get your inspiration?
Kaya: From everything I that see and every sound that I hear. And also from love, because I have over 100 darlings (Laughs).
S-T.net: Aww. (Laughs)
(more…)
Kamijo talks about the future
27
Nov, 2009
Thanks to Emily M. for pointing this out to us! Seems that the official myspace of Versailles has stated that the first 2010 issue of SHOXX will have an interview with Kamijo that will cover not only the loss of Jasmine You but also the future of the band.
This is what the blog entry stated:
KAMIJO’s interview about Jasmine You and further activitiy for Versailles is on SHOXX
(2010.Jan issue). This is the first media appearance after Jasmine You’s death.Please check it out.
-Versailles management
So we can only wait to read and see what 2010 holds for the band, lets hope some hints to the dates and locations for the world tour???
Source: myspace
Posted in InterviewTags: Versailles
Interview with born
18
Nov, 2009
born is a five member band that began together under RENNY AMY, which was active from August 2005, until December 31st, 2006. Shortly after, the same five members created D&L, and eventually changed their name to ‘born’ on April 9th, 2008 with the sponsored event at Takadanobaba AREA called “born presents 「bug scremo vol.01」”. About a week later, they released their first demonstration single, entitled 「Dust pain」, which was followed by the tour, 「Abnormal skin’s」.
Since operating as born, the band has released three demo singles, their first maxi-single titled 「felony」 which also included their first PV, and their first full album, 「-Abnormal Head Machine-」.
born attended this year’s Oni-con, which took place from October 30th until November 1st, in Houston, Texas. Shattered-Tranquility.net was able to sit down with the members for an interview, where we learned about their performance, their music and their lives.
Please note that everything written in italics, was originally said in English.
S-T.net: Would you mind introducing yourselves?
Ryoga: I’m the vocalist, Ryoga.
K: I’m the guitarist, K.
Ray: I’m the guitarist, Ray.
KIFUMI: I’m the bassist, KIFUMI.
TOMO: I’m the drummer, TOMO.S-T.net: So, how was your flight coming from Japan to Houston?
Ryoga: It was really really really long!
TOMO: It was pretty bad.
KIFUMI: It was awful!
Ryoga: We had to stop in Chicago and wait for four hours.
Interview with Satsuki
17
Nov, 2009
砂月-Satsuki- began his solo career on February 14th, 2009, after spending seven years as the vocalist for RENTRER EN SOI.
His first solo release, 「AWAKE」 came out via his online shop on May 9th, and that month he also started his 「AWAKENING TO MOONLIGHT」 tour, which even made a stop in Los Angeles, California. His next release, 「CRYSTAL」 was out on August 21st, which was followed by his 「PEER INTO YOUR CRYSTAL HEART」 tour, where he preformed in both Tokyo and Las Vegas, Nevada.
Satsuki attended this year’s Oni-con, which took place from October 30th until November 1st, in Houston, Texas. Shattered-Tranquility.net was able to sit down with the solo artist for an interview, where we asked him about his trip, his music and his life.
Please note that everything written in italics, was originally said in English.
Shattered-Tranquility.net: This is your second time in Houston, as you came a few years ago with your previous band. Are there any sights that you got to see that you haven’t visited before?
Satsuki: No, I haven’t been out yet. I arrived in America and then the next day – LIVE! Then the next day…is today! (Laughs)
S-T.net: Oh! How tiring! How did you have the energy to perform?
Satsuki: No, no energy…I have no energy.
S-T.net: You did a great job though!
Satsuki: No no. I’m very tired and very sleepy. I’m jetlagged.
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Q & A with a:Vout
7
Aug, 2009
The staff at Shattered-Tranquility.net is proud to bring you another new interview, this time with the young visual band α:Vout!
α:Vout is a Tokyo-based indies band signed to the Speed Disk record label that started activity in March of 2009 as a 5 piece band, with the lineup of Joy on vocals, MIROKU and Sou on guitars, yu-ma on bass, and Sin on drums. Their first live was in late April, just before they released their first maxi single, 「BLACK OUT」, on May 20th. They wasted no time in putting out a second maxi single, 「Miss Wanderer」, on July 22nd, 2009. However, on August 2nd, it was announced that vocalist Joy had left the band, and they would be continuing on as 4 members, with guitarist Sou taking over vocals.
On August 26th, 2009, they are scheduled to release their first mini album, 「TRiCK THEATER」, which will be the first release with Sou as the vocalist. (Want a copy? Pick it up at CDJapan or Brand-X!) As a band with a sound that differs from track to track, fans will have a lot to look forward to.
The members were more than happy to take a few moments to answer a brief Q&A for us, touching on subjects from music to their everyday lives.
For more information, live schedules, and future news, be sure to check out the band’s official homepage at http://avout.net. And for samples of the rest of their songs, check out their myspace page at http://myspace.com/avout.
1. Could each member please introduce themelves.
Sou: With a fighting spirit I’m Vo/Gt Sou.
MIROKU: I’m Miroku on Guitar.
yu-ma: I’m yu-ma. I’m bass. I like sweets.
Sin: I’m Sin in charge of drums.2. According to each member, what is ‘α:Vout’? What do you hope to accomplish?
Sou: We’re a band that fuses will-power, fighting spirit, and beauty. I want to accomplish a world conquest tour.
MIROKU: When thinking a bit on this, we’re a band that seems to share a destiny.
I want to create an unshakeable position for α:Vout as a band.
yu-ma: α：Vout is a band that comes to study various things. It’s good when we can create individualistic good songs.
Sin: A band with no rules. Anyway, just that we go through with it.3. How did each of you start in music, and what made you choose the instrument you play now?
Sou: I heard a voice from heaven that said “Get a guitar.” I had a feeling of “Of course, it’s guitar.”
MIROKU: When I was 11, I was awakened to music by a band called the Damned. The first reason for choosing guitar, in the music room at school I was influenced by the classic guitar, and from there I chose guitar. And then I wanted to play punk (laugh)
yu-ma: I started playing around with a guitar my little sister was renting. Bass was the outcome (laugh)
Sin:I was invited so I started!4. Please tell us the details of how the band formed.
Sou: I met MIROKU and we came to talk about starting a band. We met Yu-Ma and Sin shortly after that.
MIROKU: Sou and I started activity wanting to create a band similar to Hanoi Rocks. From there, yu-ma and Sin joined to arrive where we are now.
Sin: Sou-chan invited me so I joined.5. Out of all the various genres of music, why did you choose to go into visual kei?
Sou: Because it’s a proud culture born in Japan.
MIROKU: I didn’t have any opposition to wearing make-up, and up until now I hadn’t gone through with it, so I finally gave in to my curiosity.
Sin: I’m also enigmatic.6. When you’re making music, where do you get your inspiration from?
Sou: Movies, novels, everyday life.
MIROKU: Because the phrases suddenly strike me, I don’t really know. And also that I have to urge Sin (laugh)
yu-ma: Various things that build up inside my head.
Sin: The playing of my elders.7. What feeling do you want to convey to your fans through your music?
Sou: Particularly that you have to keep on living.
MIROKU: Because it’s impossible to express something in lyrics, I want you to feel something. Dare I call it rock aesthetics.
yu-ma: First of all, to say that music is fun (laugh)
Sin: We do our best.8. What song of yours do you like most? Why did you choose that song?
Sou: Miss Wanderer, because I really like the melody.
MIROKU: BLACK OUT. I love the riffs.
yu-ma: Uum… I can’t choose.
Sin: BLACK OUT. Because it was the first track we released.9. Right before a live, what do you think about?
Sou: “I wonder if I’ll die during the live?” and things like that.
MIROKU: Because I want to create the best staging, I think my the best image and my worst image.
yu-ma: I don’t really think of anything.
Sin: I’m free from obstructive thoughts.10. When you’re on stage, what’s one thing that you pay the most attention to?
Sou: It’s another world.
MIROKU: Probably the facial expressions of the fans.
yu-ma: Of course, the faces of the fans.
Sin: The faces of the fans.11. If you were to compare yourself to an animal, what animal would you say you were? Please tell us why.
Sou: A koala, because I love warm places.
MIROKU: Probably a cat? Because I go at my own pace.
yu-ma: A sloth. Because I’m a lazy person (laugh)
Sin: A dog. Because I’m good at barking.12. Do you have any pets? If not, what kind would you like to have?
Sou: I don’t have any. I’d like a cat or a shiba-inu.
MIROKU: I don’t have one, but I would like a guinea pig or a cat.
yu-ma: I don’t have one, but if I did, a cat or a dog.
Sin: A dog.13. Is there anything you’re currently obsessed with?
Sou: Ramen.
MIROKU: For over 10 years, I’ve liked BATMAN.
yu-ma: Sweets.
Sin: Nothing in particular.14. Please reveal a secret about yourself.
Sou: I don’t have any secrets!
MIROKU: I have a tattoo in a place no one can see. I don’t show it to anyone unless there’s some extraordinary reason to.
yu-ma: I’m poor at tidying up.
Sin: My hands are big.15. Please tell us something embarrassing that happened during a live.
Sou: I often run into Yu-ma and drop the mic.
MIROKU: My shield fell out, so there was a long silence where there should have been a guitar solo (laugh)
yu-ma: I fell once (laugh)
Sin: I forgot a song.16. If given the chance, where overseas would you like to perform?
Sou: As long as there’s a big live house, I want to go anywhere!
MIROKU: If it’s possible to go, I’ll rush along anywhere. I also think it’d be nice to go sightseeing in New Orleans, so I’d like to go there.
yu-ma: I want to visit a German castle and things. Somehow or another!
Sin: Anywhere.17. If you were to become another member of the band for a day, who would you want to be and why?
Sou: I want to become Sin and spend it elegantly drinking black tea.
MIROKU: yu-ma. I want to know more about his private life.
yu-ma: MIROKU. Because ramen and alcohol seem very delicious so I want to drink and eat (laugh)
Sin: MIROKU, because everyday seems fun.18. In one word, describe each one of your band mates.
Sou: MIROKU→man
Yu-Ma→mysterious
Ｓｉｎ→calm, cool and collected
MIROKU: Sou: Mood-maker, and a bad brat
yu-ma: A genius with a mysterious aura
Sin： He works harder than anyone else, and has a persuasive power.
yu-ma: MIROKU… elder brother
Sin… guardian
Sou… sly
Sin: Everyone is simple.19. Do you have a strange talent or ability?
Sou: I can make a chimpanzee mouth.
MIROKU: Strange people I don’t know like me a lot.
yu-ma: Once in a while I do strange scribbles.
Sin: Don’t have one.20. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Sou: Sleeping.
MIROKU: Drink alcohol while watching a movie.
yu-ma: Probably sleep or read a book.
Sin: Sleeping.21. When you get up in the morning, what is the first thing you do?
Sou: Brush my teeth.
MIROKU: Check my e-mail.
yu-ma: Confirm the time.
Sin: Brush my teeth.22. If the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do?
Sou: Sleep.
MIROKU: I probably wouldn’t change my daily routine.
yu-ma: I want to go to the sea.
Sin: Sleep.23. What do you think are your weak point and strong point?
Sou: Strong point→I’m good at getting into the mood of the song
Weak point→I get too into the mood of the song
MIROKU: My strong point is that I’m not worried. My weak point is that I’m not worried.
yu-ma: Strong point… nothing
Weak point… I have no calmness
Sin: My strong point and my weak point is simplicity.24. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Sou: Soccer Player.
MIROKU: I wanted to be a surgeon.
yu-ma: The person inside a monster.
Sin: A fireman.25. What do you enjoy most, and dislike most about being in a band?
Sou: Like→It’s fun
Dislike→I have to get up early
MIROKU: What I like most is the music and the facade are face to face, and we can experience the response with many people. Right now, there’s nothing I dislike.
yu-ma: I like… of course, the band itself
I dislike… that lots of things require money
Sin: I like lives, and I dislike recording.Finally, please write a message for your fans.
Sou: Please support α：Vout★ Please buy our CDs and listen without fail!
MIROKU: For sure, our lives are ones that only we’re able to show, so please come to see us! Let’s feel that sense of unity! That kind of feeling.
yu-ma: I’ll keep on doing my best, so please come and listen!
Sin: I’ll keep doing my best! Please assist us!
α:Vout gave us permission to upload a few samples, so if you like what you hear, please support them and buy a copy! These are the title tracks from both of the bands first two maxi singles.
BLACK OUT
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Miss Wanderer
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 ・BUY IT AT CDJAPAN・ BUY IT AT BRAND-X |
 ・ BUY IT AT CDJAPAN・BUY IT AT BRAND-X |
Blam Honey on Tainted Reality
29
Jul, 2009
This is cool, Tainted Reality will be hosting full set from Blam Honey/GPKISM live!
On August 7th, beginning at 9pm EST, Tainted Reality will broadcast BLAMHONEY and GPKISM’s entire sets from the BLAMHONEY revival show, which took place on July 12th at Ikebukuro ROSA. The performance includes appearances from DJ SiSeN, Gothique Prince Ken, Selia, DJ Chihiro, and Kiwamu, all performing along wirth BLAMHONEY. This will be the first time a BLAMHONEY concert has been officially broacasted in America, and can only be heard on Tainted Reality.
This seems really interesting since I know many fans might not have seen or heard Blam Honey before! Random but remember this post? Well Ryonai now has a twitter add him here. You can add us on twitter too!
Source: Tainted Reality, BH site
Q & A with Misaruka
25
May, 2009
The staff at Shattered-Tranquility.net is very proud to bring everyone a brand new interview with the up and coming band, ミサルカ [Misaruka]!
Misaruka is a relatively new visual indies band based out of Tokyo. They started as a session band, and flourished into a full fledged band on June 12th, 2008. Just a little less than two months later, they released their first single 「-amakusa-」 on August 2nd, 2008. Their music and aesthetics have made them fairly popular witin the visual scene in the Tokyo area.
The band had their first lives in Osaka and Nagoya in December, followed shortly after by their first sponsored event in January. 『Mass of Tounal St Luke Passion』, their first sponsored event took place on January 31st, 2009, and also marked the release of their second single 「-Doll-」. With new growth happening with every live, they are quickly moving to their one year anniversary and second sponsored event! They will have their second sponsored event to celebrate their one year anniversary on August 8th, and following the same format as their first event, it will be called 『Mass of Tounal St Luke Passion』.
Each member took some time from their busy schedules to answer some questions for us about the band, the music and their lives.
Fore more information on the band and their future activities, make sure you check out their official site at http://misaruka.jp. You can also find information and song samples on their MySpace page located here at http://www.myspace.com/misaruka.
1. Could each of the members please introduce themselves!
rui: I’m the vocalist rui.
mizuki: I’m the guitarist mizuki. The redhead.
yusei: I’m the left stage guitarist yusei. The good looking guy.
azami: I’m the bassist, azami. Misaruka’s darkside. You can’t attain true peace by just acquiring a good heart.
vetchie: I’m the drummer, vetchie. My smile is my redeeming feature.2. Please tell us the details of how the band formed.
rui: The three of us, rui, mizuki and vetchie, were looking for members, and when bassist azami joined we started off as a session band doing underground activities.After that, gutarist yusei joined, and we began our official activities.
3. Why was the name “Misaruka” chosen for the band？
rui: “Misa” means an assembly in the church, where prayers can be offered.
“Ruka” is the name of a revered holy person who wrote the bible.
We want to tell the stories of old and good things, that over time and time again still continue to save people’s souls.
“Misaruka” is the symbol of that wish.4. According to each member, what kind of band is “Misaruka”?
rui: I guess… it’s the world.
There are many protagonists, and various stories.
It’s not only something that we enjoy.
There are tough times, happy times, times for tears,
We’re a warm band that while assembling and mixing together the emotions overflowing in this world,
It sometimes feels like we’re suffocating, and can’t breathe.
mizuki: It’s a place where I can make a personal statement.
yusei: A band that has an outlook on the world
azami: It’s where we can experiment with various types of music.
vetchie: It’s a band where I can liberate myself5. What got you started in music?
rui: I guess it’s simply because I just liked to sing.
Since I was a child, I was often taken to things like orchestra concerts, and I think that these roots have a big connection to it all.
mizuki: I slept in my shed at home, came across a trumpet and started music.
yusei: I’ve always just played piano.
azami: There was nothing else that I wanted to do.
vetchie: It’s because when I was in high school, I was part of the ‘easy listening music’ club.6. What do you each hope to accomplish within the band?
rui: I’ve already accomplished one of my goals.
That is that someone who had given up, thinking “Life is too lonely and painful, I don’t want to live anymore” was saved by the message of our band.
Through Misaruka’s music…
With my own words, “You are not alone. I am here.”, I want to be able to heal the hearts of everyone in the world.
mizuki: I want to create a world where there is no one who doesn’t know who I am.
yusei: I want people all over the world to hear Misaruka’s music. I want everyone to notice us.
azami: I want to weave an ensemble of various sounds.
vetchie: I want to establish myself personally. I’d like to be able to slip out of the genre.7. Where do you see your band’s musical style developing later down the road? Is there a specific way you want it to blossom?
rui: Our music style is already changing everyday. Because everything we come in contact with affects our style.
So, in the same way I would like our music to become one of those aspects that can affect a person’s life.
mizuki: Because all of the members originally had an interest in a symphonic world view, through our various meetings we naturally arrived at this style.
A friend lent us a CD of Symphonic Metal music, and from there we were pulled into this symphonic world view.
I would like to make use of the rapidly growing internet to promote our music. Of course if we have the chance to be featured in TV or magazines, I would also like to use these forms of media.
yusei: For now, I just hope everyone will look at our website and listen to our sample songs on my space.
azami: All the necessary elements just naturally came together.
From things like the fantasy novels I read as a child or the rock music I listened too.
I hope that our listeners can also naturally have a chance to listen to our work… though it might not happen that naturally.
vetchie: The style in which I felt I could best make use of my skills was Symphonic, so I chose it.
I would like for people to become interested in the non-musical elements as well, so that our work can spread to even people who are not related to music.8. Out of all the various genres of music, why did you choose to go into visual kei?
rui: I didn’t originally plan to go into visual kei, it’s just that the image I had inside of me of what my stage performance should be like happened to fit with visual kei.
mizuki: One reason is that a lot of the music I listened to in the past was visual kei. However, not only the music, but other elements included, we felt that this genre was the best suited to express our world views.
yusei: ‘Cause I wanna stand out(・∀・)
azami: In the visual kei genre itself, in the visual aspect as well as musically, there aren’t any firmly set rules. You can freely express yourself in many ways. So, I believe it’s well worth it to get into this genre.
vetchie: I believe it’s the essence of entertainment. I’m fascinated by not just the make-up, but the work put into the sets, lives, and especially the music itself.9. When you’re making music, where do you get your inspiration from?
rui: Movies. Books. My own life. History.
mizuki: When I’m doing things like eating meals or taking a bath, or things like talking to my friends… I’m constantly getting inspiration from normal, every day life, so in the end I create things depending on the mood of the moment.
yusei: Love.
azami: Bittersweet memories.
vetchie: Conversations with my band mates. In my case, I also use inspiration from people outside the music industry when creating music.10. What song do you like most of the band’s? Why did you choose that song?
rui: The new song that I am working on right now.
When making something new I want to always be creating my best work.
mizuki: 「-Doll-」
I wrote the music for this song, so I believe it best fits with my own views.
yusei: 「-symphony-」
This song is a work of mine from several years ago and I was finally able to put it together with this band.
azami: I guess it’s 「-amakusa-」. This song was the starting point for my current activities. I’m currently working on songs that will surpass this one.
vetchie: 「-Troy-」
It has a great balance of our band’s sound and views. But more than that, I personally like the melody of this song.11. What artist(s) do you respect (look up to)?
rui: Pablo Picaso
mizuki: I respect any artist who is able to bring about a feeling of sadness in me. For example, Children of Bodom, Nightwish, Rhapsody, WITHIN TEMPTATION, etc.
yusei: Bach, Beethoven. And my sempai K-san.
azami: Earth, Wind & Fire
Southern All Stars
Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche
vetchie: Regardless of genre, I’m drawn to anyone who is simply striving to achieve their own existence.
If we’re talking about drummers, then Mike Portnoy.12. What message do you want your fans to know when they listen to your music?
rui: “You’re not alone. I’m here.”
yusei: I want our music to soothe the souls of as many people as possible.
azami: I’m still not able to express this in words.
But I have a message that is still hidden in my heart.
However, for our fans who are still young it might be one side of a harsh reality.
For our fans, who from now on will have many more experiences and become much stronger, I don’t feel there is a need to put it into words. Just like the background music in a movie, music is something that simply accompanies memories.13. Why did you choose the instrument you did?
rui: Because it’s something where you are able to convey words.
mizuki: I thought it’d be pretty impossible for me to be a vocalist, so the next thing that stood out to me was guitar.
yusei: My reason is exactly the same as mizuki’s. (Laughs)
azami: Because the low tone of the bass, seems like it has the most effect on the human body.
vetchie: Because I think that the foundation of musical composition is rhythm, and that’s something I want to produce myself.14. What do you enjoy most, and dislike most about being in a band?
rui: Like: I get to receive smiles and love from many people. Dislike: Saying goodbye
mizuki: I like lives. There’s nothing in particular that I dislike, but I think it’s tough when your daily rhythm collapses.
yusei: What I like is getting to see everyone’s smiling faces. What I don’t like are the circumstances of being an adult (Laughs)
azami: Like: Performing, Dislike: Drinking alcohol
vetchie: Like: Practicing, Dislike: The periods of time when I can’t meet with the members15. If given the chance, where overseas would you like to perform?
rui: Cambodia
mizuki: Scandinavia.
yusei: Europe
azami: United States, South America
vetchie: Scandinavia.16. Please tell us something embarrassing that happened during a live.
rui: The fly of my pants was open!
mizuki: I hit the mic with my head.
yusei: When I make a mistake, with all my might poured into it.
azami: Once my hair, which I had put up with a lot of decoration, got caught on the lighting equipment and I couldn’t get it out.
vetchie: My seat slid back and I had to try and get it back into place without anyone noticing.17. If you were to become another member of the band for a day, who would you want to be and why?
rui: yusei. Because I think I’d be able to be honest with myself.
mizuki: I’d like to try being azami. It’s just for a day, which is good, and I want to try taking care of his pet gecko.
yusei: I love myself, so I’m okay with just being me. (Laughs)
azami: vetchie. I want to try wearing cute clothes, and other miscellaneous things… because they don’t suit me.
vetchie: I don’t want to be anyone else. There’s no way that I could be. I’m far too individualistic.18. What kind of personality does each member have?
rui: Awkward
mizuki: Even though I look like someone who pushes their luck, I’m surprisingly the type of person who acts with caution.
yusei: Even though I look like someone who pushes their luck, I am someone who pushes their luck. (Laughs)
azami: I’m normally quiet.
vetchie: I’m a passionate person, but I hide it. Once I think a certain way, I can’t easily change my opinion.19. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
rui: A manga artist
mizuki: A professional soccer player
yusei: For some reason, my answer is the same as mizuki’s again. (Laughs)
azami: jedi Master !!
vetchie: A baseball player or an announcer20. If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?
rui: A truck driver
mizuki: Lately I’ve been thinking about this a lot, but are there any other jobs that I could do? If I had to say, maybe a carpenter…
yusei: I guess I’d be a teacher.
azami: A sumo referee
vetchie: A voice actor21. What other jobs have you done in your life?
rui: Lots
mizuki: None
yusei: It’s a secret
azami: I’ve done stuff like cook, and work in a music store
vetchie: None.22. What are your interests?
rui: Movies, books
mizuki: The tax increase on tobacco
yusei: I don’t have any other interests aside from music.
azami: Raising and observing reptiles
vetchie: The tides of the visual scene23. What do you think your weak points and strong points are?
rui: Strong Point: There are things I can’t forget, Weak Point: There are things I can’t forget.
mizuki: My strong is that I’m punctual. My weak point is that I get bored of things easily.
yusei: My strong point is that I’m optimistic and positive. My weak point is that I’m presumptuous. I’m overly self-conscious.
azami: Strong Point: Versatile, Weak Point: Introverted personality
vetchie: Strong Point: I value order, Weak Point: I’m hard headed24. If the world was going to end tomorrow, what would you do?
rui: I’d sing songs
And I’d want to laugh with everyone
mizuki: I’d go to the beach, and then I’d get into a lot of mischief.
yusei: I’d live for my desires (laughs)
azami: I don’t think I’d do anything particularly different. I’d just stay home and go through my regular routine.
vetchie: I’d spend the day quietly with my parents.25. Please write a message for all your fans!
rui: Thank you for reading all the way to the end.
I’m truly happy from the bottom of my heart.
There are still many things I’d like to tell all of you.
We are always here waiting for you to come and see us.
mizuki: The only reason we exist is because you all are here. So, from now on please continue to follow us.
yusei: For those who haven’t had a chance to hear our music, first and foremost please listen. If you like our sound, please come to one of our lives.
azami: I wonder how your day was today?
If today was good, I’m sure tomorrow will be better.
And if today was bad, I know tomorrow will be much better than today.
I hope you all sleep well with no worries.
vetchie: Please stay true to your own values when watching us. There are no rules.
Misaruka provided us with a sample so that readers can try out their music! So, give it a listen and if you’re interested be sure to support the artists by purchasing their music!
「-amakusa-」 from the same titled single that came out in August of 2008.
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
For more samples, check the band out on MySpace.
 BUY IT AT CDJAPANBUY IT AT BRAND-X BUY IT AT AMAZON.CO.JP BUY IT AT HMV.JP |
 BUY IT AT CDJAPANBUY IT AT BRAND-X BUY IT AT AMAZON.CO.JP |
Art Cube interview
2
Jan, 2009
Art Cube just released their second single (which is amazing *_*!!) this Christmas Eve and the boys are already making their rounds to promote the new release. Recently the band (minus M for some reason) stopped by and recorded a segment on Tokyo Borderless TV which can be viewed here, wait after the strange intro with the hosts ^^; If you look through the site you can find more interviews with Excia and others!
Source: HP, AC blogs
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