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Tour goods and fan items sale

sweiled — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 14:52:29 GMT

Hello, I'm relocating soon so I need to reduce my belongings. I have a lot of tour goods and fan goods collected from years ago, most of which are unused and kept in good condition. I'm selling everything in their original price or lower, so please take a look at the list and I hope you'll find something you like!

Images can be found in this album:
http://smg.photobucket.com/user/thilrya/library/Sales?sort=4&page=1

UV File 1999 – 2004: USD$20 RARE

CONCERT GOODS
Assortment
Tour pamphlet: USD$20 each or USD$100 for all 7 (R&R, Kagen no Tsuki, Jogen no Tsuki, 6th Day 7th Night, Diabolos, DRUG, R&RII; Also have Diabolos and DRUG to sell separately at USD$20 each.)
Postcards: USD$10 or USD$40 for all 6 (Mars, R&R, Jogen no Tsuki, DRUG x2, Uesugi Kenshin)

From Jogen no Tsuki
Clear files (set of 5, unused): USD$15

From 6th Day 7th Night
Mini poster set: USD$10

From Diabolos
Tour book: USD$20
Mini poster set: USD$10
Clear files (set of 3, unused): USD$10

From Requiem et Reminiscence II
Picture Book: USD$15
Notebook: USD$10
Keychains: USD$15 each or USD$50 for all 5 (Chubu, Kanto, Kyushu, Tohoku, Chugoku) Also have 4 Chubu keychains to sell separately at USD$15 each.
Pin badge (set of 3): USD$3 (Tokyo, Osaka, Chiba)
Cat paws x 2: USD$25 each or USD$40 for both
Plastic tote bag: USD$10
R&R II Arena live t-shirts (M-size): USD$25 each, or $100 for all 5 (Each set comes with a badge and a keychain. From Tokyo, Saitama, Osaka, Chiba and Nagoya.)
Clear file: USD$5
Clear file: USD$1

Gakuen School
Whole set for USD$50
- Pin badge (set of 3): USD$10
- Buttons (set of 4): USD$5
- Necktie pin x 1: USD$10
- School emblem x 2: USD$20 each
- Tie: USD$25
Notebooks (set of 4): USD$10
Cellphone strap x 2: USD$5 each
Keychains (set of 5): USD$40 (baseball, soccer, uniform, basketball, kendo)
Keychains (set of 4): USD$30 (baseball, soccer, uniform, basketball)
Plastic tote bag: USD$10
Towel: USD$15
Photos (set of 8): USD$15

Uesugi Kenshin (Furin Kazan official goods)
Stamp sheet: USD$5
Keychain assortments: USD$5
Kenshin Keychain (set of 2): USD$15
Uesugi Kenshin official mug: USD$15

FANCLUB
Desktop Calendar 2003: US$2
Desktop Calendar 2009: USD$5
Moon Child pamphlet: USD$10
Moon child clear file 1 (unused): USD$5
Moon child clear file 2 (unused): USD$5
Elle's poker card: USD$5
Dears Memorial Box 2000-2008 (Vol. 1 – 28): USD$50
Fanclub magazine (Gackt GLOBALS Vol. 1 – 13 [Vol.5 and 10 missing, sorry!]): USD$50
Small Blanket from Dears tour: USD$15
Kawaguchi Autorace promotional clear file (set of 2, unused): USD$5

I also have all of the posters from the concerts. I didn’t include them in the list because I haven’t sorted them out, but let me know if you are interested!

+All prices are in USD and I only accept Paypal.

+All items will ship registered mail from Japan. Choices of shipping are SAL, Airmail and EMS. Shipping charges vary accordingly.

+All items are in good condition, unless otherwise specified. Returns not accepted.

Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks! :)

Update~

sweiled — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:46:52 GMT

Sorry, no translations today. Just a bit of an update as to what I'm doing right now.

I promised to post the remaining chapter from Pati Pati two weeks ago, and it is finished, but I'm sorry I haven't had time to edit/look at it again since. I'm actually doing the translation for Asakura's Report for EnY website and since this one is more urgent, I decided to drop the other one for the time being. ^^;

Well, why urgent? Because the concert is starting this Sunday! But not only that, EnY is also planning something for Jan/Feb that involves the Asakura Report, so I gotta finish that as soon as I can or we will never be able to announce it. XD We won't wait for all 4 chapters to be posted online and translated before we announce it, but as soon as the first two are ready, we'll make the post. :D The first chapter is currently being edited by my very trusty partner, Gekka_no_neko, and I have also finished the second chapter so we'll post those up soon on EnY~~! I will probably do another post then, coz I REALLY want to discuss the story! *itching to do so* XDD I was blown away by the depth of it and the amount of background research done!! Impressive indeed~ Though it was a b**** to translate. XDD I think there is no more need to say anything else here, since he has been cursed sufficiently by all the others fans who have translated this Report. XD XD

Once I finish these Reports, I promise I'll go over the Pati Pati translation and put them up. (If nothing else comes up to distract me >.>;) Some people have asked me if I'm doing the other articles, and er, the answer is no. ^^; I've read half of the Arena (Special) article, but it contains pretty much the same information as Pati Pati, so I won't translate that. I will probably do the minor sections like the PV interview and whatnots tho. :D Haven't read Fool's Mate yet, but most likely it will have the same contents too. I have not read the Arena Jan issue that was released today, so I don't know what the contents are, but I think I will do that instead... Even Arena won't have him on the cover twice in a row and interview him on the same topics. >.> I'll pop by the bookstore and see if it's worth translating. ^^ I'm sort of eyeing those tv shows that he's been on recently as well, but I don't know if anybody else has attempted to translate them.

That's it for my translation schedule (lol) for now. Ambitious, I r!! If there's any specific article you want me to translate, leave a word and I'll see if I can do it. :D

Concerts. It seems like there's gonna be a lot of foreigners going to his concerts this year! I'm going to quite a few as well, so give me a poke if you are going to any and let's see if we can meet up! ^^ I will post the concert reports on EnY as well, so keep a lookout for those~ (always looking for opportunities to pimp our website XD XD) Oh, and we accept other concert reports/reviews as well, so if you want to contribute yours to our website, email us. :D For those who are going to Misato this Sunday, have fun!!

What's IN? December 2008

sweiled — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:25:04 GMT

Sorry, I decided to post the What's IN article first after all. >.>; Still not done with the second part of the Pati Pati interview where he talked about the concert, but I hope I can get that up soon. In the meantime, please enjoy this article~

I: Is Jesus the beginning of the story that you’re starting next?
G: As a single, yes, but this is not where the story starts. I hope listening to this song will give you an idea of how intense (hageshii: violent, furious) the story is. The way I do things is, first I tell the story and then I express that in concerts.

I: Life and death, and rebirth have always been fundamental themes within you. Of course that (theme) exists in Jesus too, but I feel a strong power towards death even more (in this song).
G: That’s right. This song is the opening of the concert, but in a sense also the ending. If you watch the concert, I think you’ll understand the meaning of this song. The story itself I plan to release on my website portion by portion.

I: Oh, that’s quite a different approach from your usual method of keeping everyone in the dark.
G: Before this I’ve always asked the fans to create their own story, but the way I see (lit. think) it, since the internet is so widely used now, why don’t we make use of it in this way? That’s the world we live in so there’s no use trying to be secretive. (laughs) In that case, it’s better to provide the proper information myself so that (the fans) can enjoy the concert more. Also, I want them to discuss the concert like, “What’s this story about?” and to share the information after they’ve watched it. This is a world where we are supposed to be able to communicate (with others), but that’s not happening and so I really hope that they can create such places (for discussion).

I: So that’s what you wish to see happen. Still, I was surprised when I turned on the CD. What an intense, sudden approach! It’s a short song of only 3.5 minutes and fades away quietly at the end.
G: More intense and fleeting [1]. Part of it is because I want to bring out the sadness you feel the minute something disappears. Most of my songs are basically sad [1]. From that, I chose a song that is even more intense and fleeting. That is what I meant when I said earlier that Jesus can be the opening song or the ending song for the concert.
[1] hakanai: fleeting, fragile, frail, temporary, transient, short-lived, empty, sad.

I: Your voice has also become more intense.
G: It has become so strong that it can hit the strong notes [1], right? (laughs) That’s because I want to show my voice in its simplest form [2].
[1]イケイケな感じにいけるようになってきた。 Ikeike shows… lots of enery. Something that’s active, outgoing, aggressive, etc. There could be two reasons why he laughed here. One is because ikeike isn’t used in formal situations, but he suddenly used that during an interview so he’s laughing. Or it could be the double use of “ike” in “ikeike na kanji ni ike ru”, which was my personal interpretation and that’s why I used the word “strong” twice.
[2] ストレートに見せていきたい Literally, show it straightly. I think in this case he’s trying to say that he wants to show his real/original voice, without any effects added to it like the way he’s been doing recently.

I: It’s more revealed (lit. naked) now. The rap in the middle of the song was so intense that it didn’t sound like your voice. Felt like the “God of Death” himself.
G: That’s (the voice of) a spirit (亡霊: ghost). I trained for a long time before I could finally do it. In that sense, though I’m trying to standardize the expression used (in this concert), I’m also increasing my vocal range.

I: Since it’s released in December and based on the image I have of you, I thought that Jesus will be a song praising God, but it’s the complete opposite isn’t it?
G: It’s like the voices of the spirits who are challenging God himself. Their questions.

I: You do feel the shouts of “Why?” in the song. Is that what you yourself want to ask too?
G: That’s right. Like, “Why do humans keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again? Why?”

I: Humans are repeating (the same mistakes made in) history.
G: Right? Destruction, and creation, and massacres. Why do we exist? What is God? You really think about that, don’t you?

I: The PV is also connected to that, isn’t it? When you and the band members stand around the man in the military uniform who is holding a gun to his head and are practically shouting to him, “Hurry up and pull the trigger!”
G: In that scene I’m portraying the moment when the crime a man commits comes back to haunt him in the end. If you watch the concert, you will go, “Ah, so that’s what it’s all about!” I’m sure. (smiles)

Own comments:
Hmmm... Gackt's articles are such that... you think you get it but you actually don't. XD When you just read it through briefly, you nod and think you get it but when you start translating, you realize that you actually have no idea what he's talking about. That's what me and my friend agreed on when I asked her stuff from this article. And each individual part makes sense, but put together, you realize that some things contradict what he said earlier.

For example, when the interviewer said, "What an intense, sudden approach!" What the hell does that mean??? XD This was a literal translation (approach was written in katakana), so I actually have no idea what he meant.

Anyways, I thought that was interesting what he said about the "spirits/ghosts/souls" of the dead. The way I interpret it is that Gackt and the band members are playing the "ghosts from his past", so that makes sense why he was trying to persuade him to pull the trigger. They're like asking him to make up for his past crimes and redeem himself. I think I'm beginning to see the concept or theme of Rebirth.

You know, I think it's a constant theme of Gackt's. Human's greed (or whatever motive they originally had) caused them to make irreparable mistakes. In the case of Rebirth, it's turning humans into machines, or robots. In the story of Moon, it's the breeding or creation of a new species for battle. And it's almost always stories of how the victims of these experiments try to fight their destiny and find some meaning to their lives. We might born with our destiny laid out before us but it's also our choice to follow it or not. What you get most from his stories is that some things are worth fighting for, dying for. Friendship. Love. Family. Dreams. Freedom.

I think it's beautiful. ^^ I hope you guys can find your own stories within Rebirth or Moon. Or just plain enjoy the awesome music if you want. XD

Thanks for reading and please comment with your thoughts on the article~~~ :D

2008 Nov Pati Pati Chap. 1 Part 2

sweiled — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:16:06 GMT

The rest of Chapter 1~~ :D I just realized how short it is, so yeah, I'm sorry, I should have just joined the two together. ^^;

Again, as I mentioned in the previous post, this is NOT the final version. The fully edited version will be posted up on Eien no Yume website, so if you want to repost/retranslate, please wait till it's up on EnY. Thanks~~

(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
[xxx] = real brackets used in the interview

I: The sound that you’ve acquired over the years was made possible because of the trust that you have in each other.
G: Yes. That’s why I’m grateful to the members, and of course to the staff as well. Because, see, we are like an army. We don’t “practice”, we “train”. (laughs) The depth of the sound is also completely different (than the usual), right? This is a bit technical, but sounds below 50 Hz are cut for almost all rock songs produced in Japan in order to make it easier for (people) to listen. But if you release the song as it is without cutting it, the sound when it comes exploding from the speaker is very powerful. Using that along with other elements, I want to make songs for this project that will not lose to others even when brought to the world stage.

I: That makes sense. I found the song loud (urusai: noisy) even though I listened to it with the volumes turned down. (laughs)
G: Yeap, this song is very loud. (laughs) Like it storms towards you, right?

I: Exactly. And the song feels jagged and prickly overall, as if there are thorns bursting out here and there.
G: That’s because I purposely excluded all soft sounds. The same goes for the album, (the sound) is quite sharp. The idea is to make music that pierces [1] you(r senses), and so this song is heavy, and it’s painful, it’s fast, it’s coarse, and it’s rough. I think this song is going to be very good for concerts too.
[1] 刺さるsasaru: stick. This verb is often used with nouns like heart (Cuts deep into my heart, Pierces my heart, etc.) Based on the context, I assume that he’s referring to piercing your senses, but it could be something else too.

I: Looks like it’s going to be a hard concert (to do).
G: I will make (the audiences) pass out right from the first song. (laughs)

I: So, it’s better to talk about the details of the story content later?
G: That’s right. You’ll probably be able to understand the story better after I release a few more songs and once the concert has started.

I: Are the songs that you plan to release from now on, including the album, a continuation [1] of “Rebirth”?
[1] Literally, “answer songs”. I think what he means are songs that explain the mysteries of Rebirth.
G: Not all of them if you look at the songs one by one. But still, I wanted to make something that is related to Rebirth as a whole, so we made (the album) based on the method we used for Rebirth, while adding the “taste” that we’ve acquired since on top of it. So I think of Rebirth and the next album as a set. I think you will also be able to see clearly (through the album) how much we’ve grown in this interval of 7 years. Well, 9*9 too is based on the same idea.

“I won’t die in the next 5 years.
Beyond that, only time will tell.”

I: The live audio in 9*9 is so cool, why must you (ruin that) by including a joke in the DVD?
G: It’s not like that. (laughs) At first it was supposed to include only the live audio from the 6 nationwide tours held in conjunction with the (release of the) albums, as well as the Zepp tour that was limited to fanclub members, making it a total of 7 packages. But while we were talking about it and counting the number, “one, two, three, four, five, six, seven…” one of the staff who was there said “humili-eight.[1]” “One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, humili-eight” [2] sounds good, doesn’t it?
[1] Hahaha, sorry, pathetic attempt to translate the joke into English. >.>;; In Japanese, eight is “hachi” and here the staff said “haji” which is the kanji for shame, abash, dishonor, etc. Technically, the correct translation should be humili-eight-ion. XD;
[2] Here he listed the kanji for each number: 壱、弐、参、四、五、六、七、恥haji（should have been八）

I: So that’s how the humili-eighth CD becomes the parody of the radio show that you did right after your solo debut for half a year.
G: It’s a joke that took 9 years (to complete). (laughs) I also want you to look at the jacket clooosely because you’ll find plenty of jokes in the details.

I: Any reason for releasing something like this in the 9.9th year of your solo career?
G: Next year is my 10th anniversary right? 10 years signal the end of a period for me, but that simply means a new “beginning (hajimeru)” [1], which is why I am releasing this recap of my career in my 9.9th year. (Releasing something like) that in your 10th anniversary, now that’s truly “mortifying (hajimeru)”[1]. (laughs)
[1] The first one is 始める (hajimeru) which means to begin or start; and the second one恥める (haji-meru) is the verb form of 恥haji , which doesn’t actually exist. XD It’s a homonym that he created himself. I couldn’t think of a way to translate that, so what I did was chose words that has the same ending - “–ing” words.

I: But to begin with, a live audio isn’t something you can release [1] if you’re not satisfied with it right?
[1] Literally, “that you can turn into a work”
G: Ugh, but it’s still embarrassing. I really hate lettings others listen to it, to a live audio like that from 9 years ago. It’s like letting others see a picture of you getting your diapers changed. That’s how embarrassing it is. Ugh, no way.

I: Why did you release it then? (laughs)
G: Not like I have a choice! (laughs) Well, because the album is to let you see how much I’ve grown. The reason why the fans (lit. minna: everyone) have continued to support me over the past 9 years is because I've grown, isn’t it? So yeah, I hope they can listen and feel my various evolutions, and then wait in throbbing anticipation and suspense as to what will come next.

I: Ah, I want to listen to the yet-to-be-released song “Justified” included in the special DVD during the concert!
G: Aaah, that.

I: What’s with the halfhearted response?
G: That song is not for this tour; it’s for the next tour or the tour after that.

I: Really? You already have plans so far ahead? Do you really honestly mean it?
G: Okay, I promise you then. I won’t die in the next 5 years. 5 years later…… I don’t know. [1]
[1] see below

Mufufu (laughs)
G: Ah, sounds good, eh? “I won’t die in the next 5 years. Beyond that, only time will tell.” [1] That shall be my catchphrase for now. (laughs)
[1] It’s the same words as the sentence above, but I changed the translation a little as you can see.
５年は死なない、５年後は知らない
Go nen wa shinanai
Go nen go wa shiranai
The humour comes from the fact that the sentence shinanai and shiranai actually rhymes. (At least I think that’s the reason! XD)

Own comments:
Man, translating the description of Jesus was hard with all the onomatopoeia they used. XD Trying to translate the joke was fun, but also a pain in the arse. XD;; By the way, if any of you have other suggestions for the hachi vs haji and the hajimeru bit, let me know~~! :D

After listening to the song/PV, I sure get what they mean with the jagged and prickly bit. Ouch, Gackt. XD; I don't know if I should mention the PV here, especially since it has caused such controversy. Personally, I don't mind it at all, but I am concerned about the kind of image it portrays. For someone who doesn't know him or his work, they will just think that he's encouraging suicide, and that will reflect badly on him and his image. It might perhaps be a wiser move to include that in say, the concert movie, instead of as a PV that is aired nationwide.

But as to why I don't really mind it at all, it's because I DO see it as something more than a message of suicide. To me, during the rapping part where Gackt says Do it do it do it, it wasn't as a third person or as Gackt, but as a part of the soldier himself. Gackt (and the rest of the members) are like the devils in a person. You know, it's like what you often see in cartoons when an angel and a devil pops up on your shoulder, and one will advise you to do the right thing while the other will try to persuade you to break the rules. In this case, I see Gackt as the devil within the man/soldier himself.

As for the suicide issue, I don't agree with it either, but I think in the end it's not up to us to judge another man's action. Who are we to judge after all? I can say right now that I think suicide is pointless and I find life beautiful and full of hope (which I do believe by the way), but that's because I have never gone through shit in my life. I don't know pain, I don't know suffering, so who am I to judge those who have gone through that? Even those who have gone through them has no right to judge others in my opinion, because can you honestly say that you understand 100% what another person is going through? People are born with different backgrounds, go through life differently, experience different things, so let's not be too quick to judge others.

*takes a deep breath* So that's my two cents on it.

9*9... that's funny. XD I didn't know that that's what the haji meant. I did find it weird when I first read about it, and it didn't really click in my mind that it's supposed to be a play of words. XDDD Now I can probably appreciate the DVD better when I get it. And aww, he was so cute when he was talking about releasing the live audio!

So Justified was supposed to be for the MOON album after Diabolos (I think). *-* Interessssting~~ I haven't heard the song myself, but from what I've read, it seems like the song is similar to Redemption? Or was it Returner...? Either way, I guess that makes sense, since they are all made at about the same time and possibly for the same album. :D Even though the song sounds "new" to us, it's probably really old to him. He will probably redo the entire album once he's done with Rebirth 2... >.>; He's such a perfectionist that it's hard to imagine him not doing it! XD

I'm doing Chapter 2 now, where he talks about the coming tour~~ That one is interesting too. I was planning on translating more today, but I stopped by the bookstore and bought What's IN and was suddenly filled with an urge to translate that instead. XD; It's a terrible habit of mine. >.>; It's hard to focus on one object!! Anyways, I've actually finished translating What's IN but it's still in its rough draft so it's pretty much gibberish. XD That was another interesting article tho. Very short, about half a page, but talks about the song and PV in detail, so I can't wait to show it to you guys! I'll try to post it by this week, once I've finished Chp 2 and have time to go through it again. :D

Okay, I should talk less and go translate some more. XD My comments are longer than the actual translation above! XD;;

Please leave a comment if you've read this~! Thanks for reading. :D

2008 Nov Pati Pati Chap. 1 Part 1

sweiled — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:32:26 GMT

I bought the Pati Pati magazine last Saturday and was so excited to read the first real article about Gackt in a year that I decided to translate it right away. Between class and work, that is. XD

The article is separated into two chapters. The first one is about Jesus and the second one is about the tour. I wanted to finish the whole chapter before putting it up, but I thought I should post it first while I'm still all geared up over it. I'm hoping to finish the rest of Chp 1 by this weekend and Chp 2 by next week. :D

This translation is not the full edited version because it will take me much longer to finish it otherwise. I've only gone through the translation once (I usually do it about 2-3 times before posting any of my translations up!), so some parts might not be very smooth. I won't post the edited version here, but over at EnY so go check it out in a few weeks if you want to read the nice, fully-complete fully-edited version.

In the meantime, if you are as desperate as I was for Gackt articles, here you go~ XD

New Single “Jesus” Interview

An extraordinary song that flew by like the speed of sound. Putting that into words, the sound is unmistakably “the simple sound of a band”, but within the song contains an intensity brought by simultaneous destruction and creation; a sound (lit. 騒々しさnoise, din) that stimulates one’s nerves directly; and a fervent excitement akin to madness.

Gackt has returned to the music scene with this somewhat unreal [1] song “Jesus” as a present. As you know, in this past one and a half year Gackt has appeared in the NHK Taiga drama “Fuurin Kazan” as Uesugi Kenshin, and has filmed a Hollywood movie “Bunraku”, which is scheduled for release next year. (Back) with a force more than enough to fill in this blank in his music career for the past one year, Gackt will (first) take on [2] his nationwide tour “Requiem et Reminiscence II ~saisei to kaikou~ . He also has plans to release a succession of songs. From what I’ve heard, the development of this project is going to be rather intense.
[1]やばい can be both negative and positive. Taken positively, it can mean cool, awesome, or just really good basically. I used “unreal” here because it’s a negative word that has a positive meaning. (Does that make sense to anyone?) But if I were to translate just the meaning alone, I guess I will go with awesome or unbelievable.
[2] なだれ込むnadarekomu: rush into, surge towards, burst into, storm one’s way into

That means, the “nine*nine” [nine point nine] live album collection released a few days ago was merely a warm-up. The live album collection is a fancy CD box that contains in 7 different packages [13 CDs!] the live audio of his nationwide concerts held over the past nine years. Included as special DVD is the “kuwareta youkan to kajirareta mikan nine*nine” [1] that is guaranteed to make you weak with laughter! [2]
[1] This is the name of his radio program in 1999.
[2] 脱力datsuryoku It’s hard to explain this one! A reaction that will make you go “WHAT??” in incredulity, especially towards a joke that is funny because it’s silly or unexpected, and not because it’s intelligent.

It’s like danger at its max (laughs)

I: You’ve barely resumed your music activities and already you are off for 52 concerts in 43 cities. You do things in the extreme, as usual.
G: Yeap, in everything I do. Otherwise I won’t feel like I’m really alive. (Laughs) I had originally planned to resume my music career as soon as I’ve completed the Taiga drama, but the offer (lit.reaction) from Hollywood came earlier than expected. The offer came because they recognized my personal character and also, it has always been one of my dreams to appear in a Hollywood movie, so after thinking about it I decided to grasp this chance. And it all worked out very well eventually. I was in Romania filming from April and while I was shooting the movie, the concept for the next phase and a lot of other things became clear to me.

I: And you’ve been working on this project ever since you finished shooting in summer?
G: That’s right. But I didn’t doodle around in the studio (after coming back); I led a very well-regulated life every day. I wake up at 5 or 6 in the morning and start training. At noon I attend dance lessons and band rehearsals and after that I do recording work till night. When it grows late, I’ll go out for a breath of fresh air or go out and play.

I: I don’t know if that’s a healthy or unhealthy lifestyle. (laughs)
G: It’s not that I want to live a healthy life, but training my body so that it can withstand any amount of unhealthy things I attempt to do is the concept of my life. (laughs) Because I want to do a lot of things that are reckless or bad for my health. To begin with, I’m a brash daredevil [1], so I’m pretty sure I’ll get involved in a lot of trouble in the future.
[1] The original is横着(Ouchaku)+無鉄砲 (muteppou). Ouchaku could mean dishonest, cunning, lazy, brazen, or impudent. Muteppou means rash, reckless and here I’ve translated it to daredevil.

I: Stop predicting that kind of future. (laughs)
G: The day I stop fighting [1] is the day I die. (laughs)
[1]闘えなくなった Literally, it means unable to fight or could no longer fight. The “stop fighting” here comes from inability to fight, not from unwillingness to fight.

I: Can we assume that the story which will be revealed to us first through this single Jesus and also the (coming) tour is the sequel to the 2001 album Rebirth and “Requiem et Reminiscence ~Chinkon to Saisei~” tour”?
G: That’s right. That’s why I thought long and hard about how to present (the story). Be it movie or album, the first work is surprisingly easy to make, isn’t it? But for the sequel, the content has to be more satisfying than the first to please those who have seen/heard the first work, plus it also has to be something that can entertain those who are seeing it for the first time. In short, we have to fulfill two extreme opposite factors at the same time. You can say that the main key of this project lies in our ability to reach a balance (between the two). But well, no matter what I say here, in the end it all comes down to (how good) the end product is.

I: Right, like whether it has “it” [1] or not.
[1] Literally, “whether it has value or not”.
G: Exactly. A song or a live concert has no meaning if the completed work is not something that’s truly fun, or interesting, or touching, or something that can make you cry or tremble (震えるfurueru: to shake, shiver, shudder, tremble, quiver, etc). On top of that, it has to reflect my own growth [1] as well, or the fans won’t be satisfied (納得nattoku: accept). Of course, I’m not saying here that constancy is a negative thing. [2]
[1] Could be growth as an artist or as a person
[2] Literally, “I’m not denying (or trying to negate) the value/strength/good points of constancy”. 変わらないよさ = the good in something that doesn’t change

I: Well, you’ve always been a destroyer.
G: Precisely. That’s what “making something” is to me. Breaking all the things you’ve made and then reassembling them again is always difficult.

I: But you will still reconstruct it. While vomiting blood [1]. (laughs)
[1] This phrase is used to express the difficulty of a task or the hardships one endured in completing the task. There’s a similar phrase in Singapore (vomit blood), which is a slang or part of Singlish and I believe it’s derived from Chinese (吐血).
G: You feel beauty [1] in that. (laughs)
A word that Gackt LOVES to use, but which I can never translate properly. XD美学bigaku: aesthetics. Original sentence isそこに美学を感じるね

I: The speed of “Jesus” is like the speed of sound that zoomed past in no time at all. It’s like destruction and creation taking place at the same time.
G: This song is intense, isn’t it? Actually, it wasn’t meant to be released as a single. It’s one of the songs from the album that we were making, but I thought that this song is most suitable for a comeback single. The message and structure of the song are both simple, but it’s like danger at its max. (laughs) And even though the song is titled Jesus, it’s not a sacred portrayal (of Jesus). If anything, it’s like (the main character) is challenging even God – if you [1] are up there, (come and) offer your help! (I dare you) to try! [2] I’m happy that I can express the “voices” (叫び sakebi: cries) of the characters from the next story in the first work I release after coming back. Actually, I have finished both the next single and the single after that, and I already know (lit. could see) which approach I need to take to proceed from here on.
[1] He used お前 omae, which let’s just say isn’t a very polite way to address God. XD
[2] もしお前がそこにいるなら、手を差し伸べてみろ I broke it into two sentences here and also used a stronger word because Gackt said that he’s not begging God to help, but challenging, kind of like daring him to help. He’s also “ordering” God to help him in a sense.

I: Yeah, you won’t be able to plan the tour if you don’t make the new songs that make up the story first.
G: Yeap. I do think that way too, but the recording really takes up a lot of time.

I: Even a song like Jesus where the intensity (lit. tension) is already at its peak from the beginning cannot be completed with just plain drive [1], right?
[1]勢い ikioi: energy, vigor, enthusiasm, drive
G: Yes, exactly. This song was also hard (to make). I know I’m asking for too much, but even if I’m satisfied with a song when it’s first completed, I’ll want to edit it after a few days have passed. So, okay, redo, redo!

I: That unbelievable guitar and the life-like rhythm sounds like it can cause the band members to contract tenosynovitis (definition: inflammation of a tendon sheath) (laughs)
G: Ahahahaha, you are probably right. (laughs) Well, I think the members have really hung in there for me. If I’m not satisfied with the first phrase, I will make them redo without even listening to the rest. But the members understand that and they will never cut corners.

Own comments:
So, he has finished the next single and the one after that, hmm. I think the album might come out after the tour. ^^; I'm not even sure if the next few singles will be released for the concert! XD So myterious~ I guess we'll all know it all after Dec 14. ^^

Oh, by the way, some of you might recall that he said in one of the interviews for Diabolos that he has finished (or is doing) the next Moon Project-related album. He mentioned it again in this interview and also explained about why he suddenly decided to redo Rebirth theme instead of Moon Project. That definitely answered some of my questions~ :D I'll try to finish the rest of the translation as soon as I can.

Speaking of which, what do you guys think of a Rebirth sequel album? :D To be honest, I was quite disappointed that it wasn't related to Moon Project. XD I mean, I've been waiting for it for close to 2 years, and suddenly instead of Moon, he gives me Rebirth! Which, incidentally, is my least favourite album. XD; So I was a bit disappointed. ^^; But I'm sure he will completely change my mind after the tour or the album is released, and I'll be forced to take back my words. XD I really like Jesus though, from what I've heard so far, so I guess I'm already "half-converted".

"I know I’m asking for too much, but even if I’m satisfied with a song when it’s first completed, I’ll want to edit it after a few days have passed."

I totally agree with this!! XD It's just like when I'm translating. I am never satisfied with my work, and I doubt I'll ever be. That's why my translations always take so long. I usually leave it for a few days after I've finished it and then look at it again and make corrections. Then I leave it for a few more days before editing again. ^^; I usually repeat it this for a few more times until I'm more or less satisfied. I think it really helps to put the translation out of your mind and then tackle it again after a few days. I find that I can come up with better sentences/phrases this way. :D

I love reading other people's comments, so remember to write your thoughts on the article if you've read it! Thanks and I hope you liked this translation. ^^; It's been so long since I did a full magazine translation~~!

And of course, as usual, please don't take this translation without my permission or repost it elsewhere! Thanks~

A quick peek at the next part!

I’ll make (the audiences) swoon right from the first song (laughs)

Hmmm.
To be continued~~ XD

Eien no Yume 2008 Spring Contest

sweiled — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:28:13 GMT

Hello, fellow fans! ^^ Just wanted to let you know that our Eien no Yume website is currently holding a contest. The contest started er, 15 minutes ago lol and it will end in 48 hours. You can view the details of the contest as well as the questions itself on our LJ community site.

We will be giving away as the top prize the new Taiga Drama Documentary DVD 天翔る龍の如く, featuring 60 minutes of male hotness. XD You can view the DVD preview on the official website, Gackt.com. We will also be giving away as consolation prizes to the 2nd and 3rd place winners, a $10 and $5 gift certificate respectively (2nd place can choose from YesAsia, Amazon Japan, or HMV Japan; 3rd place can choose from Amazon Japan or HMV Japan.)

We welcome any and all participants, regardless of age and nationality. Do try it out even if it’s just for fun and even if you don’t know all the answers! We wish you good luck and we hope you will enjoy doing the quiz!

(Sorry for the multiple entries everywhere!)

Opening of Eien no Yume~永遠の夢~, a new Gackt fansite!

sweiled — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 08:16:50 GMT

As some of you might already have read from gekka_no_neko, our new site is finally ready after a year in the making! Feel free to look around and enjoy the site! And do come back for more. XD

The Making of Super Stars by Leslie Kee

sweiled — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 15:02:08 GMT

Most of you probably thought that Sweiled has passed on to the Land of the Dead or has moved on in pursuit of other things. Unfortunately, I'm here to inform you that she has not. XD And she is back with a nice chunky present. :D

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview

I first heard about Leslie from Taiwanese artist Wang Leehom. [1] I didn’t get a chance to meet Leslie directly at that time, so I didn’t know much about “Super Stars” project. Quite some time passed after that and this time, a friend of mine who has been living in America came back to Japan and asked me, “Have you heard of this cameraman, Leslie, before?” When I told him, “Leslie sent me a mail once, [2]” he asked me if I’m interested in talking to Leslie directly.
[1] Wang Leehom acted in the movie Moon Child together with Gackt. Wang Leehom also took part in the Super Stars project.
[2] “He sent me a mail once (but that’s all I know of him)” Gackt didn’t say that, but it can be inferred from the sentence.

Leslie came over the next day and I managed to hear in person his views which he is so passionate about. I was very happy to know that the views he has of Asia and of the world is similar to mine, and we talked about what we can accomplish as Asians. We became like brothers almost instantly. You hear so many stories of charities turning out to be frauds in this world, and honestly, it’s hard to determine which (charity organization) is real and which one is not. Of course, there had been offers from charity organizations before, but rather than check their credibility one by one, I think it’s easier (lit. better) to approach them myself and give donations. [1] But when I met Leslie and heard his thoughts, for the first time, I felt that (what he is trying to do) is real. That is why I squeezed his photo shoot into my schedule even though I didn’t have much extra time. [2]
[1] Literally, he said that it‘s better to “do such activities” himself. So I think it means that rather than waiting for offers to come and then checking them one by one, it‘s easier for Gackt to approach directly the organizations which he is interested in. Or he could also be saying that it’s easier to organize such activities himself.
[2] The photo was taken in September 2006, and Gackt was preparing for the GACKT TRAINING DAYS 2006 DRUG PARTY tour at that time.

When we were still planning the photo shoot, Leslie told me that he wanted the concept to be “the image I have of myself”. During our meeting, I talked to him about my views on Asia and what I can do as an Asian and he was happy that it was the same theme as the one he has had for a very long time. He was truly pleased that the photo shoot with me was the last =at that point= for “Super Stars” project. [1] As the last model to join this project, I wanted to show my respect to all the Asian stars who were involved in it. I hope that someday in the near future, we Asians will be able to cross national borders and close the distance between one another. I hope that my fellow Asians will take greater pride in our identity as Asians. With such thoughts in mind, I proposed the idea of putting the name of all the stars who had taken part in this project on my face.
[1] Three more people joined after Gackt.

It all starts with coming face to face with each other
I was born in Okinawa, but I left the place at a very early age and I started thinking about the place that I was raised in. Okinawa was invaded by many different countries in the past, and even now, it’s a “country” with the most ethnic variety in Japan. And the pride I feel towards my country is stronger than most. But I went back to Okinawa once when I was still a teenager, and my old friends said to me, “Those who left this place early cannot be called Okinawan,” and I was hurt by their statement. Though I have left Okinawa, I have not once forgotten the pride of being an Okinawan. If anything, (I think) those who have been living there all their life are the ones who don’t think much about (what it means to be an) Okinawan. Often, you will be able to see and understand things better if you take one step back, right? In any case, I felt as if my existence has been denied. Since then, I’ve gone to (other countries in) Asia and have become more certain of what I am meant to do as an Asian.

Even now, I believe the pride I have as an Okinawan is stronger than most. But I realized that I’m also an “Asian”. There are so many people living in Asia right now, but even though we are so close to each other geographically, the distance is still very much felt in our heart. A lot of people are still affected by the scars of war that still remain (in our heart).

The purpose of my existence is to express through my work that all Asians belong to the same family; that we shouldn’t be fighting each other; and that we should join hands and face the future together. What I’m trying to say is, “Let’s start by facing each other (truthfully).” All of us should put in effort to try and understand one another, regardless of one’s nationality. That will in turn help raise a common awareness that we are Asians and I believe it will help us form a deeper link (with one another).

We have great power within us
I think most Japanese artists don’t know much about the state of affairs of other Asian countries. We don’t even have the desire to learn more, even though Japan stand at the forefront of Asia in terms of business, entertainment (lit. music), and technology. We are in such a position where we need to reach out to the outside (world), but we are not even trying to learn more about them. I find that really sad. We should know more about our own country, as well as other countries, and interact with them. I believe that’s what being an artist is all about.

Leslie’s passion towards photography is real. Though I have met many cameraman before, and many of my friends are professional photographers, it’s very rare to find someone who thinks about (lit. feel) the purpose of their existence and their mission (in life). But with Leslie, he makes you feel as if taking photos and leaving behind his work is his mission, his destiny. He is a true artist.

The world is currently facing a crisis, in various sense, and each of us need to think of what we can do (as an individual) to stop or (even) solve the problem. Then we need to act on it before it reaches the point of no return. We are like the cells of this planet known as Earth, and just as the cells (in our body) have their various functions, (we too have ours). And if these cells turn to cancer, it will eventually lead to the destruction of Earth. I think it isn’t too hard to imagine that.

We are given great power. Even though there are some things which we cannot do by ourselves, as long as it has meaning and we have the will (to carry it through), we can gather a lot of people together and realize that dream. “Super Stars” is a project which carries such hope and is filled with the love (of all the participants). I hope that together, Leslie and I can express that humans have unlimited possibilities; that everything we come up with in our mind can be realized; and that it is possible for every single one of us to join hands as Asians [1].
[1] The literal meaning of the sentence is “to be linked/connected as Asians.”

Message from Leslie
When I first met Gackt, I was surprised to find out that he is fluent in Chinese, Korean and English. I also knew that he is friends with many Asian artists. I really wanted him to take part in this project, but he didn’t seem interested in it, so I was about to give up. That is why I was doubly excited (when he agreed to join this project). I think I was very lucky to have been able to meet him. The concept of having the names of the artists written on his face is also 100% his idea. It shows what an artistic person he is. We cut out the stencils, on which the artists’ names are printed, and pasted it onto his face one by one. The whole process took six hours to complete, so Gackt had to be at the studio by 7 a.m. on the day of the photo shoot.

Translator's comment:

My translation skill is rusty. ^^;;; I need to polish them till their nice and shiny. XD I hope you enjoyed reading this article! A little Gackt for you to enjoy during his birthday~ I know it's rather old, but I wanted to start with something light, so I chose this article to do. :3

As always, his views on Asia never fail to amaze me. ^^ I can sit in front of him for hours and listen to him talk about his vision of Asia. XD I love his definition of an artist. Most artists only view their work as... being something "fun", so it's great to see someone like Gackt (and Leslie) who sees something more than that. And it is very true. It's mostly through music, songs, drama or movie that one first learn about a country and gets interested in it. Some often dismiss "artist" or "entertainers" as jobs which aren't of much importance, but they are! They just contribute in ways which are not as obvious as other jobs. ^^

HAHAHAHA! Love it when he started comparing us to cells. @__@

Okay, that's all for me. Please comment and let me know what you think of the article~ Even comments on my translation will be greatly appreciated. X3

And last but not least, I'd like to wish you...

Happy Birthday, Gackt. ^^
Wish you happiness and may you always be surrounded by your loved ones.
May this be another great year for you~~

(And get more rest, dude! XD)

Additional information on Maiko High School

sweiled — Tue, 16 May 2006 14:15:31 GMT

Oh geez, I should just do this already before I forget again. >.>

I've read the articles in the May and June issue of Arena 37. They only had one or two pages of Gackt in each issue, so I don't intend to buy them. ^^;; But here are a few things I remember from the articles.

May:
They talked about the graduation ceremony in Maiko High School here. It's pretty much the same as the one Oricon Style wrote (translation here) previously, except there were a few more details. *whips out notebook* (Yes, I had to take notes XD;;)

- Apparently, Gackt pretended to reject the student at first. He wrote an email to him saying, "I'm sorry, it's 99.9% impossible." Cheeky, I say. XD XD

- He actually went to Kobe on 27th Feb, one day before the graduation ceremony, to rehearse. He arrived at night, went straight to the school for rehearsal and appeared on the ceremony on the 28th. Of course, none of the students knew about this.

- During/After the rehearsal, the teachers objected to him performing on the ceremony. It seems like, graduation being the last day, they didn't want the attention and memory of the day to be taken by Gackt. But the teachers who agreed (Fans, I'm telling you!! XD) managed to persuade the others. If I remember correctly, it was a marginal win too. ^^;;

- When Gackt went up the stage, he actually said this, "涼、約束を守ったからな！" (See, Ryou, I kept my promise!), which I personally thought was the one of the coolest things he has ever said.

June:
They talked about the drama that he is going to be in next year. In this one, nobody knew that Gackt was going to be in it either, not even the press. ^^ They didn't write the names on the tables, and the names of the actors were revealed only after the press conference has started. Gackt was the last one to be called up the stage and there was an instant uproar. x3

If anyone intends to buy the magazines and does not mind scanning them from me, I don't mind translating the full article for you guys. :3 Just that I've spoiled all the good parts already. XD XD

March 2006 Oricon Style

sweiled — Sun, 07 May 2006 13:05:57 GMT

It feels weird to be writing here again after such a long abscence. @@

I'm sorry I haven't been releasing any translations for such a long period of time. ^^; I've been busy with personal stuff recently, and didn't have much time to do anything else. I'm still going to be busy from here on, but I hope I'll be able to take more time out to translate Gackt's articles. Even if it's like, at snail's pace. XD XD

So, please bear with me, and I hope you'll still look forward to reading the translations. ^^

On to the translation~! This is an article from Oricon Style (27 March issue) and they talked about his visit to the high school in Kobe. :D It's pretty short and the content is quite light, so I hope you'll enjoy reading them. I've also typed out the lyrics of the song he wrote for the event and you can read it below. I have no intention of translating them though, so if anyone is willing to do them, they are more than welcome to. ^^

I don't have a scanner anymore, so I took pictures of the article with my camera instead. ^^;; Sorry about that. You can also find the pictures below. ^^

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview

The words Gackt presents

Feb 28 (Tue) Hyogo Prefectual Maiko High School “Graduation Ceremony Surprise Live”

Making good on your word

As expressed by the meaning of this phrase, following the Asia tour, Gackt worked to fulfill the promise he made to a male high school student.

During the graduation ceremony -what you can call the ending point of a student’s life- he visited the school out of the blue……

A complete coverage by OriSty (Oricon Style) on this surprise live that has become a day none will forget.

Not just the details of this live, but an interview about the new song (specially) prepared for this day will also be included.

A dream is not something to be dreamt, but something to be fulfilled.
I have high hopes for your future
Congratulations on your graduation

February 28. In the city of Kobe, Maiko Prefectual High School is holding its graduation ceremony in the sports hall. The opening speech started; the national anthem sung; the graduation certificate awarded… and so the ceremony progresses without much excitement. (lit. disinterestedly, plainly, indifferently) A scene you can find anywhere, yet one which is filled with deep emotions. And what could possibly break that atmosphere and bring in great excitement and joy!?

At that moment, he walked in very naturally. Normally, the students would leave the hall as soon as the ceremony is over, but the principal stopped them and said, “Someone has come today from a bright, faraway place to give all of you a word of encouragement.” [1] And with that, the doors on the left-hand side of the hall opened and Gackt walked in swiftly towards the stage, wearing sunglasses and a black long coat. “Eh?” “Kyaaa!” “How…?” -- the hall was filled with confused excitement. The ones bewildered weren’t just the graduating students or the other students, but fathers and brothers alike were leaning forward [to get a better view]. There was a huge uproar.

“I happen to be in the area, so I decided to drop in for a visit.”

That greeting by Gackt was met with a huge applause. And he continues, “2 years ago, I received a mail from one of the students here, and he told me all about this school,” so he explains his reason for coming here.

“I thought about it and wrote a song for all of you.”

That is to say, he made the song, “野に咲く花のように,” [2] just for that day’s graduation ceremony. His band members, You and Chachamaru, got ready on the stage. With their guitar accompaniment, he sang a song about setting off [on a journey]. The lyrics brought the image of school (to mind) and was full of heart-warming sentences like, “on this empty (school) ground.” After singing the song, this is what he said to the graduating student.

“As seniors who will be moving forward just slightly earlier (than the rest), I have this to say to you. A dream is not something to be dreamt about; a dream is something to be fulfilled. So make them come true. For that you need a strong determination. I have high hopes for your future. Congratulations on your graduation.”

Something that remained clearly in my mind was that Gackt had a different, much softer expression than he usually does.

[1] The principal said, “someone is here to give a yell”.
[2] “Like flowers blossoming in the wilderness”

=====================================================

Special interview directly after the live

I: I heard that one of the students who (listens) to your regular radio program wrote you a mail and that was what brought about this visit to the school =A male student consulted Gackt regarding the cut in the number of students attending the Environment and Disaster Mitigation course, which is in its third year of establishment=
G: At that time, it wasn’t like I promised that I would attend the graduation ceremony. I just encouraged him. [1] In the radio (program), I said that the main point isn’t the number of students getting cut, but (finding out) what’s important and spreading that. [2] After that we also exchanged mails privately. “We did this activity,” “I’m working hard today.” And even after the regular program has ended, he continued reporting (his activities) to me. It makes you happy, doesn’t it? And in one of them, he asked, “Gackt-san, won’t you come to the graduation ceremony?” I also said once in the radio, “Well then, I think I might go to the graduation ceremony?”
[1] “I only said, “Ganbare””
[2] 自分の中で広めている, which can be loosely translated to “expanding it within yourself.” I think what he meant is to find out what’s most important and to pursue your goal while keeping that in mind. And in that sense, spreading your own thoughts and beliefs to others through your actions.

I: You announced it. (laughs)
G: I said, “I’ll celebrate your graduation ceremony with you if you really put your mind to it and work hard towards that goal and show the result.” And he really worked hard. We keep mailing each other and (I said), “I’ll do it if you can persuade the principal or vice-principal and all related personnel.” But the school kept refusing him at first.

I: Well, they have never done something like this before……
G: “If it doesn’t work, that means it doesn’t work; it’s as simple as that. The rest depends on you now,” that’s what I told him. And about one month before (the ceremony), he wrote, “I got their approval!!” This time, it’s my schedule that can’t fit the timing. (laughs)

I: Because it was beyond your expectation and it was so sudden.
G: I couldn’t fit it into my schedule and we also couldn’t clear the budget problem at all… My office staff were the ones who contacted and arranged it with the school from then on, but it became something that was difficult to realize. “But, I’ve already made a promise…..,” I thought to myself and so I told them, “In that case, I’ll go by myself.” (laughs)

I: (But) that’s also impossible. (laughs)
G: It clashes with the staff holiday that the office was having (at that time) and one of them was holding a wedding ceremony overseas. (laughs) And so, it was three days before the graduation that we reached our final decision. You [1] and I arranged the song together, and wrote it all night through.
[1] Guitarist of GacktJob.

I: And this song is written specifically for the graduates of Maiko High School only, right? That’s quite a treat. [1]
[1] The interviewer said zeitaku actually, which means luxury or extravagance. Like, spending so much time and effort just for the students.
G: That’s true……

I: And the lyrics as well, you can’t really find lyrics like ‘school ground’ in your own works, can you?
G: No, I don’t (use that) at all! ‘The empty (school) ground’ (laughs) [1] But the song is written with the graduating students as the theme, you see. The main focus wasn’t on me; the content flew that way naturally.
[1] 誰もいないグラウンド which means ‘this ground with no one in it’.

I: And in the end, it turned out to be a great graduation ceremony, don’t you think?
G: Yes, I think it will become a great memory (for the students). I don’t know how many backs I managed to push, but at the very least, for that boy who wrote the email… I think I managed to push his back. This is what it’s like to accomplish something; this is what it’s like to keep your promise; and this is what it means to touch people’s heart and achieve something. (lit. reach some place) That is the result of hard work. If he had given up halfway, I wouldn’t have gone to the ceremony, right? In response to what he has accomplished, I feel like it’s now my turn to keep my promise. I just wanted to return that feeling.

I: He received a wide show [1] interview after the ceremony as well. While shaking and looking a little nervous. (laughs)
[1] On television.
G: Is that so? (smiles) He is a good boy. Even my staff came all the way back from overseas. All for him. (laughs) And we drove here overnight too. (laughs)

I: Should I say that’s touching or should I say that’s asking too much from the staff? (laughs)
G: But they do it because they think it has a great meaning. Perhaps there is someone who, after listening to my song, will realize for the first time the meaning of their graduation. Perhaps there will be kids who will think of working hard(er). Having the opportunity to create such a catalyst alone makes us happy.

I: You have truly created a legend. Well, there were a lot of students who were crying.
G: There were! At first they were just staring blankly, but halfway through they started bawling. [1] I was thinking this is what graduation (feels) like (*looks far away*)
[1] ブワーって泣き出すLiterally, it means, “buwaa~ they started crying,” which basically means ‘crying loudly’.

I: Did you have a touching graduation ceremony? I can’t really picture that though. (laughs)
G: Why?

I: Somehow (I picture it to be) a violent graduation ceremony. =settling scores= [1]
[1] It was written in katakana baiorensu (violence). お礼参り means visiting temples or shrines to give thanks, or it could also mean settling scores. I think what the interviewer meant was graduation being the last day, he thought Gackt might have spent it settling some last scores. (Thanks, Kit!)
G: I attended the ceremony properly. I think it felt just like today. I was rebellious and I did question the significance of this [ceremony]. But when it was over, I thought about a lot of things. If I don’t live more seriously, nothing will come out of it. Those who felt emotional during the ceremony, it wasn’t because they are more sensitive or anything like that. I don’t see it that way anymore. I think they are the ones who really worked hard to accomplish something. Be it in studies, club activities [1], love relationships, or even the act of coming to school. Only the ones who have achieved something will feel touched. To put it widely, the reason you don’t feel touched is because you didn’t give your all in living.
[1] Club activities after school hours, ranging from arts and science to sports clubs.

I: And there are such surprise presents [1] for those who have accomplished something.
[1] like Gackt coming to the ceremony
G: That’s life. It’s (full of) surprises!

I: You are like the Surprise-nii san recently. [1]
[1] Literally, it means surprise brother. The closest substitute will probably be…… Santa.
G: Surprise-aniki (laughs)
[1] He uses a much informal way of addressing brother here.

I: By the way, about the song “野に咲く花のように”. Any intention of releasing it? [1]
[1] 音源化 which translates to ‘turning something into a sound source’. It basically means turning it into a song, but since “野に咲く花のように” IS already a song, I think he meant releasing it officially.
G: No plans at all. (laughs) But it’s a great song, isn’t it? If someone says they want to hear it, I might consider though.

I: Yes, like a signature. [1]
G: I want (it) be included in the school textbooks. Let’s start from the education first. (laughs)
[1] I’m not sure what the interviewer meant here by “signature” (署名) because it doesn’t make sense in that context to me. It made me wonder if there was a typing error there and the interviewer meant 書名 (book title) instead of 署名. [Both pronounced shomei] If it was the former, it might make a little bit more sense, like the interviewer joking about using the song as a book title and Gackt saying that he wants it to be included in school textbooks. Any opinions on this is highly welcome. ^^

Original text by: 海江敦士
Translated by: Sweiled

Own comment:

I thought his greeting of "I happen to be in the area, so I decided to drop in for a visit" was very cool. XD *claps along*

A dream is not something to be dreamt about; a dream is something to be fulfilled.
That is so beautiful. ;;___;; And when the interview said at the very end that Gackt had a very soft and gentle expression... I can picture that. ^^ I feel like I can see him saying those words as if I was there.

As I said somewhere else before, it doesn't matter whether I'm a direct recipient of his actions or not, the sincerity of his words and thoughts touches my heart nonetheless. When I heard about what he did for the guy, coming all the way down to Kobe despite his busy schedule to honour his promise... well, I've never been more proud to call myself his fan before.

He gave us hope that the things we worked hard to do aren't in vain. There is someone out there, whoever he/she may be, who knows the effort and hard work we put in in the things we do and acknowledges it. It doesn't have to be Gackt, but knowing that there might be someone out there who can also see me and see what I'm trying to do is enough to keep me moving. I can say for sure that Gackt gave a good shove to this girl's back as well. ^^

But they do it because they think it has a great meaning.
I agree. ^^ It's hard to move people to do something unless they themselves are motivated to do it. We have to believe in the cause to fight for it.

Those who felt emotional during the ceremony, it wasn’t because they are more sensitive or anything like that. I don’t see it that way anymore. I think they are the ones who really worked hard to accomplish something.
*O* I've never thought of it that way before either, but it makes perfect sense! It was because you have truly LIVED a student's life, you have enjoyed the company of your friends, you have worked hard in your club activities, you have done something; and this whole period of your life as a student is a testinomy of that. You've worked so hard down this path and graduation signifies the end of it before you branch out to a new path. It would be hard to not feel touched by it.

Thank you for reading and I hope you've enjoyed it. ^____^

The lyrics of this song are really touching and I do hope someone can translate it for the other fans who don't understand Japanese. The interviewer is right though, the image of school and graduation is very strong in this song. They manage to bring that out very well here. I wish I can hear him sing it too...

Lyrics for 野に咲く花のように

誰もいないグラウンドの名前刻んだ桜の下
いつか君ともう一度ここに来るとを約束しよう

チャイムの響く校庭の片隅に咲く花のように
優しく笑ってくれた君だけに伝えたい
ただ「ありがとう」と…

僕たちはいつの日か　　またこの場所で出逢うその日まで
野に咲く花のように決して負けずに強く咲きたい

通い慣れたこの道も教室から見える景色も
「いつまでも忘れないよ…」と涙浮かべた　　君の笑顔も

いつも見慣れた夕暮れが桜並木を染めてゆく
僕たちはそれぞれの思い出を胸に抱いて歩き始める

いつか見た夢の場所までたどり着くまで　　あきらめないで
まだ名もない花だけれど　　決して負けずに強く咲きたい

いつの日か歩いてきた道を　　振り返る時が来るまで
野に咲く花のように　　決して負けずに強く咲きたい

僕たちはいつの日か　　またこの場所で出逢うその日まで
野に咲く花のように　　決して負けずに強く咲きたい

決して負けずに強く咲きたい

咲きたい…

Music & Lyrics : Gackt.C

Magazine pictures
First page:

Second page:

Close-up of each section in the second page - The members arrive

Gackt~~'s hair molested by hairstylist~~ walks in

Smiley~!

The performance

~~Retreat~~ The end

Sorry again for the bad quality... ;;=;; I really like that picture where he is smiling though. :D

And this is on behalf of Taliana, a short Seki-Ray forum announcement for those who might have missed it... I know it's a little late. >.>

Hello, if you are a member of either the Pieces forum or the Seki-Ray forum, please read this, and please pass it onto anyone you know of who is a member at either place:

Both forums are currently offline as we are moved to a bigger, better and faster server. We apologise that you weren't notified about this downtime, we ourselves didn't know it was going to happen until it was already offline and being moved.

We don't know how long the move will take, probably another couple of days. So please don't panic! We will be back, and we will not have lost any of the data from the forums. All your posts and stuff will still be there, and we will still have the same URL. Nothing will have changed - it'll just run faster!

Again, I very sincerely apologise that no mass mail was sent about this. If we had had better notice, I would have made sure you all knew what the situation was.

So please keep checking back! We'll be back before you know it ^__^v

This entry is public, so if you want to pass the link on, feel free to do so! and feel free to ask any questions you may have here :) Please pass the word on as much as you can - but NO SPAMMING. ONLY post to Laruku or Gackt related places, and make sure no-one else has already done so. We want to pass the word along to our members but we don't want to piss everyone else off, okay? :P

Thanks for your patience,
Taliana
(co-admin of Pieces, admin/owner of Seki-Ray)

Magazine offers.

sweiled — Wed, 15 Mar 2006 18:43:23 GMT

Hi everyone ^^ This entry is not related to Gackt at all, so some of you can just skip this entire thing off. XD

I've been cutting my magazines over the past few months and decided to give away the clippings of other artists since I have no use of them. I didn't want to waste it and I know that other people might love to have some of these articles instead.

I've been offering them to my friends and most of the famous artists are already taken. These are some of the names I have that no one has asked for. If you are interested in having any of these artists' mags clippings, leave a comment behind. :D Of course, please do not comment if you are not allowed to receive mails from overseas/people online/strangers. ^^;;

I'm doing this for free; I won't be charging anything, except for shipment perhaps if shipping cost goes too high.

Oh, and please do not spread this around. ._. I mean, I do want people to take the articles, but I don't feel comfortable mailing things to people I don't know. So I'm limiting this offer to those who have Sweiled listed as a friend. And I need to mail these soon (IF anyone is interested) so this offer will only be up for a week, ending 20 March. Hope you'll understand. m(_ _)m

List of names (sorry in advance if I got any names wrong):

平川地一丁目, 仲間由紀恵, 加藤ミリや, ~~東方神起, 倉木麻衣, Matsuura Aya, Fukuyama Masaharu~~, SE7EN, Lead, RIZE, Crystal Kay, Gospellers, nobodyknows+, Yuki, Naohito Fujiki, Bennie K, 河口恭吾, 清木場俊介 (EXILE), Daichi Miura, アカツキ, Ayaka Hirahara, Kawashima Ai, Arashiro Beni

中ノ森BAND, Shulla, Rather Unique, Dragon Ash, Hungry Days, PaniCrew, Road of Major, 175R, Ghostly Blow, Going Under Ground, CaliHgari, SHAKALABITS, The Alfee, D-51, Wyse, DA Pump, Sacra, Triceratops, Rip Slyme, Zwei, Sowelu, Hal Cali

And for reference sake, these are the ones already taken.
Yui, Aya Ueto, Yuna Ito, namie amuro, BoA, Ayumi Hamasaki, Morning Musume, Ai Otsuka, Mika Nakashima, Koda Kumi, Aiko, Shibasaki Kou

Daigo Stardust, Sakanoue Yousuke, Kotani Kinya, T.M. Revolution, K, Hiroki Narimiya, Ken Hirai, 一修二と彰, takui, 氷川きよ, Koike Teppei, Chemistry, Porno Graffiti, Do as Infinity, Orange Range, Asian Kung-fu Generation, Rag Fair, w-inds, レミオロメン , FLAME, WaT

Kinki Kids, Tackey and Tsubasa, Kanjani 8, SMAP, V6, Arashi, kat-tun, NEWS, Gokusen, Nobuta wo Produce

Laruku, Machine, tetsu, penicillin, J, Sads, Spitz, Bump of Chicken, Weiss Kreuz, HYDE, Dir en Grey, Mana, La’cryma Christi, D'espairsRay, シド, ムック, ガゼット, miyavi, Kra, アリス九號, Kagrra,, 蜉蝣, Janne Da Arc, メトロノーム, メリー, BLOOD, Ghost, ナイトメア, Plastic Tree, 七三式, 清春, Psycho Le Cemu, The FLARE, INORAN, B'z, Tokyo Jihen, Pierrot, SOPHIA, Glay, Baroque, Raphael, Rice, Run & Gun, Antic café, Fairy Fore, waive, BUCK-TICK, High & Mighty Colour, Shelly Trip Realize, SEX MACHINE GUNS, Hide, The Pillows, The Baby Stars, Scwarz Stein, Guniw Tools

As you can see, a lot are already taken. I'm sorry. ._.;; Well, if you have any other artists you like which are not listed here, feel free to leave a comment! I might have a couple of pages of the artist. ^^

Thank you for your time~

Oh, while we are on the topic, I happen to have an extra copy of this old Oricon issue for sale. Is anyone interested? :D

February 2006 Newsmaker Chapter 3

sweiled — Sat, 25 Feb 2006 17:56:32 GMT

The last part of Newsmaker translation. ^^ A small part where they talked about the photoshoot and then questionnaire. 50 questions. :3

Hope you'll enjoy the article~

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
[xxx] = real brackets used in the interview

Gackt CHAPTER.3
Keyword Questions 50 & Making Photo
RNM Special Edition

It has been a while since Gackt last appeared on RNM’s cover article. The theme of the photo shoot this time focuses on “life and death” and is linked deeply with Gackt’s world of music. We were going for an aristocratic (lit. noble) feel (for the photoshoot) and requested a complete change from the usual outfit to a formal suit. Gackt cut a dashing figure as he walked into the photo studio after he has tidied up his hair and (changed) clothes. As usual, he looked at us one by one and shook hands with us while saying, “Yoroshiku ne.” [1] And the photo shoot began.
[1] Hmm, something like a form of greeting when you start work or when you have a favour to ask of someone…

In order to create the background (lit. atmosphere) needed for this photo shoot, we decided to add (computer) effects. You can see from looking at the off shots that there aren’t any mansion-like houses or even smoke (to create the effect). [Do note that the sofa and silverware are real items] Gackt only had difficult instructions from Mr.K, the editing staff and cameraman, to work with such as, “There is an entrance hall behind you though it’s not there,” or “We are now in the room of a Western-style house," but he captured the look (well). For the photo shoot on the sofa, he personally (suggested), “Isn’t it better if (I’m holding a) cigarette?” And got ready the cigarette as a small prop! (The image of) Gackt smoking under a slightly gloomy atmosphere is just too striking!!

And the focus of this cover article, the keyword interview which looks at the "current Gackt", was held at the same time as the photo shoot. During the interval between changes of settings and checking of lightings, Gackt easily answered the questions that writer, Ms.T, mercilessly shot at him. One memorable part was when Gackt drank Joa (!?) during a break.
I asked a friend what Joa is and she replied, “Joa is a calcium drink for kids. Maybe it’s not only for kids but can you imagine Gackt drinking it in his short break? It’s this REALLY tiny little juice box thing.”

The photo shoot ended earlier than expected, probably because everybody was concentrating hard on it. And of course, at the end Gackt shook hands with the staff one by one again and said, "Arigatou ne." [1] Looking forward to the next time again!
[1] Thank you

QUESTIONNAIRE

Q.1 If you were to express in colour your feelings upon waking up this morning?
Ans: Probably blue

Q.2 What do you first do after you wake up?
Ans: Go back to sleep, I think (laughs) “Let me sleep today.” (laughs)

Q.3 How many hours did you sleep?
Ans: I think I managed to get three hours of sleep.

Q.4 Breakfast?
Ans: Vegetable juice

Q.5 The main point of today’s coordination.
Ans: My normal clothes? I’ve been wearing loose clothes during the tour, so I chose tight leather blouson and pants in order to get my act together again.

Q.6 What did you spend the most on recently?
Ans: I bought a blouson during the tour, partly to relieve stress. It’s one of the pleasures of the tour. Because I haven’t bought even one clothes this year, so I got a leather blouson in the middle of the tour. I think I spend five, six million yen. (both shocked)

Q.7 Your favourite outfit for the winter season?
Ans: The leather blouson I bought in Kagoshima. It’s horsehide but both the price and the feel of the material are good, so I bought it. It’s expensive. (smiles)

Q.8 What were you obsessed with in year 2005?
Ans: Darts, I think. I have never done it before and (only) started at the beginning of the tour. Right now… around rank B. I think I’m on the same level as a professional B rank player.

Q.9 Name me a book that you like in year 2005! (lit. a book that was a hit)
Ans: “五分後の世界” by 村上龍. Someone recommended it to me, saying it was good.

Q.10 Name me a MOVIE that you like in year 2005!
Ans: “今、会いにゆきます” (Be with you) It was great. I cried. And then I recalled that these two married (in the end) [1] (laughs) After watching that, I thought that ORANGE RANGE will surely become popular. [2] (laughs together).
[1] The two actors of the movie married eventually.
[2] ORANGE RANGE did the theme song, 花 [hana], for the movie.

Q.11 Name me a SONG (lit. music) that you like in year 2005!
Ans: There isn’t any.

Q.12 Name me a FOOD that you like in year 2005!
Ans: Aah, the sukiyaki I ate in Fukuoka! It was delicious~

Q.13 Name me a MANGA that you like in year 2005!
Ans: “太陽の黙示録” by かわぐちかいじ (Kawaguchi Kaiji) I like their thoughts on China’s capitalism and communism, and the way they view Asia. It’s very similar to the world view I have in mind. There are many things in the book that I agree with as I read it.

Q.14 Name me an anime that you like in year 2005!
Ans: Probably “ハウルの動く城” (Howl’s Moving Castle)

Q.15 Name me an internet site that you like in year 2005!
Ans: There isn’t any.

Q.16 Are there any despairingly shocking BAD news recently?
Ans: I don’t know, too many to count.

Q.17 Any news that made you happy recently?
Ans: My friend had a baby, born this month. I was asked to be godfather.

Q.18 The winter season has arrived. Any plans to go snowboarding?
Ans: Of course!

Q.19 Any ski slope which you would like to try?
Ans: Gassan if it’s Japan. Or Gunma. If it’s overseas, I would like to go to Switzerland.

Q.20 By the way, any plans to go snowboarding together with HYDE?
Ans: I’m not too sure. I would like to go if our schedules allow. But my snowboarding skills have improved a lot. I wonder if he can keep up~ (laughs together)

Q.21 Tell me what to look out for in a board!
Ans: Easy movement, feeling of existence. And one with a good balance. As for colour, I like white basically.

Q.22 What gives you warmth during winter?
Ans: Human skin

Q.23 A wonderful way to spend Christmas that you would like to try at least once.
Ans: The drinking party from Hell. (laughs) I don’t have the luxury of spending time with girls on Christmas.

Q.24 What do you think your New Year will be like?
Ans: Drinking party from Hell. (laughs)

Q.25 How do you like zouni cooked?
Ans: I don’t eat it

Q.26 The language you intend to master currently?
Ans: I’ve been revising my Chinese and Korean lately. I read grammar books alternately every day.

Q.27 An advice for someone who wants to learn a new language!
Ans: Probably making friends (with a native speaker)? A faster way would be to find a girlfriend or boyfriend. (You can learn it) fast if you find a girl/boyfriend.

Q.28 What is piano to you?
Ans: I wonder what it is… even now there is still a hesitation before I start playing. It’s an instrument filled with memories and traumas, I think. It is filled with my traumas. So there is a (certain) resistance to (playing) it.

Q.29 Any favourite pianist? Please tell me!
Ans: None who still lives. I like Rachmaninoff, and also Debussy.

Q.30 Which classical CD did you listen to most frequently?
Ans: I wonder which that would be. I do listen to a lot of piano suites. I don’t listen to so-called trios or suite. [1] It would be between orchestra and piano. Chopin has suites, right? I listen to those mostly. I think “悲愴” and “革命” [2] are great, because I like Chopin’s sad melodies very much. I do want to play it, but my skills are no longer good enough to play for others.
[1] He said 小組曲 here and it’s rather different from the suite in that it contains a few different kinds of dance music.
[2] The first one is “hisou” and the second one is “kakumei”, and after checking, and michiyo_fr suggested that it might be "Revolutionary Etude" and "Etude Tristesse". As I have no knowledge of any classical music, do let me know if you have any other suggestions.

Q.31 Any piano piece you sing along to which is definitely effective in wooing girls?
Ans: There isn’t any! None, definitely none. Because it’s spontaneous, and you play what you feel at that time. But because I rarely play it (for others), it has a special meaning to it (when I do). I don’t play it to seduce everybody, you see, only to someone special will I play the piano.

Q.32 The period of time you make music.
Ans: There isn’t either. It’s not fixed at all.

Q.33 The work you like to do most and hate to do most in recording?
Ans: I hate pre-production. I like recording drums; it’s comforting watching it. Indeed, the tune won’t be good if we don’t do the drum well, since it's the foundation. I think recording the drum is important. The drum and bass are important.

Q.34 Do you write the lyrics on the computer? Or is it handwritten?
Ans: Handwritten. It is written by hand and after that, I type it into the PC.

Q.35 (Any kind of) notebook you are particular about for writing lyrics?
Ans: None for notebooks; but I’m particular about pens. That is why I prepare many different kinds of pen. I choose the pen to use according to my mood. I use a variety of colours too. Red, green, etc. Mainly I write using ballpoints. I collect a lot of ballpoints and fountain pens and use them according to my mood.

Q.36 Which part of body do you find most attractive (lit. your charming point)?
Ans: Collarbone……?

Q.37 Complex?
Ans: My short legs

Q.38 Dream car?
Ans: Birdcage

Q.39 Which driving route would you recommend for couples?
Ans: Hmm, Rokkou (六甲) is good.[1] I think the best would be the back of Rokkou. What I meant by the back of Rokkou is the (part) not facing the front. The back of Rokko is not as popular (lit. minor) but the scenery is beautiful.
[1] Rokkou usually refers to Mount Rokkou (rokkousan), a mountain area found in Hyogo prefecture, Kobe city.

Q.40 Please tell me a dream you had recently.
Ans: (Dreamt that) my friend’s company went bankrupt. (laughs)

Q.41 What did you dream of becoming when you were ten years old?
Ans: I wonder what it was. I was extremely pessimistic (lit. negative) when I was ten years old, so I had planned to destroy the earth. Really. I was very against human beings. I thought that the existence of human is the one thing that this world had no need of. I’ve changed a lot since then though.

Q.42 The way to realize your dream.
Ans: A strong will, I think. And then action.

Q.43 Ideal way of dying
Ans: It will be great if I can pass away smiling.

Q.44 What do you aim to do as an entertainer?
Ans: That would be the extent to which I can push people’s back. Anyone can darken a person (‘s life). Even in sad movies, if we can’t let the other person have the will to move one step towards the future ahead, then there is no meaning to our existence. If it’s just to say that oh, it’s great; or oh, that’s sad or painful, anyone can do it. I think what I can do is to make the other person take one step forward into the future. That is why I create as much place where fans can communicate with me as possible. They can send messages to me through my official homepage and everybody’s voice can reach my PC. I receive around two thousand mails in one day. Of course I read all of them every day. I can’t reply to all, but I will when I see an interesting mail. There are also times when I was encouraged by those mails. They give me the strength to live. Not all of the things we do will be rewarded, but even so, if there are such moments that can make me think “I’m really glad I’m doing this,” then those are truly happy moments.

Q.45 What do you imagine yourself to be in your previous life?
Ans: Maybe the devil. Probably something that isn’t human.

Q.46 Frankly, (which type do you think) will become your bride?
Ans: The one who will become my bride…… is probably someone with a beautiful smile.

Q.47 The keyword of year 2005?
Ans: “If I can’t clear this, I’ll retire.”

Q.48 A word to your own self for finishing year 2005.
Ans: You’ve worked hard.

Q.49 Keyword for year 2006?
Ans: One step from here on. One large step. In order to find my place in Asia as “one who is committed to uniting all Asians”.

Q.50 What do you wish for the world for year 2006?
Ans: Hmm, to be able to create a bright future for children. For that I will do all that I can.

Original text by: Sachie Tojo
Translated by: Sweiled

Comments:

5,6,7 - Hahaha, he keeps talking about his new blouson. Gackt, you love the blouson. WE GET IT. XD

9,13 - I've never heard of those titles before. :O It makes me wonder again where he found the time to read books/manga and watch movies/animes. X3

Aah, would be nice if he can go snowboarding often this year~

22 - *COUGHS COUGHS*

27 - I have to agree with him. You can learn a language fast if you are exposed to it all the time. ^^ And it helps that there is someone who knows the language and can correct yours. Practice makes perfect~

35 - That's.... cute about the pens. X333

36 - Now he's making me sensitive about his collarbone too. *stares* XD;;

37 - *blinks* >.>

41 I thought that the existence of human is the one thing that this world had no need of. I’ve changed a lot since then though. - ^^ He has changed completely from then. But then, it's also sad how a ten-year-old can have such thoughts. :/

There are also times when I was encouraged by those mails. They give me the strength to live. Not all of the things we do will be rewarded, but even so, if there are such moments that can make me think “I’m really glad I’m doing this,” then those are truly happy moments.

Honestly, I cried when I read this part. I feel so touched by those words.
Did it make you believe too? Did it put faith in your hearts as well? ^^

50 - Beautiful answer. :D If there is anyone else worth fighting for other than our loved ones, it would be children. I feel that children represents innocence and dreams. How many times have we forgotten what we felt when we were young? Of what we have lost...? Great answer. ^^

February 2006 Newsmaker Chapter 2

sweiled — Sat, 18 Feb 2006 16:33:46 GMT

The article this time is really short, I promise. XD Sorry for the long delay, but here's chapter 2.

He talks a little bit more about REDEMPTION and the collaboration with FF7. ^^ I hope you'll enjoy the article~

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview

Gackt CHAPTER.2
Expect(ation) of 2006
Long interview

The curtains of 2006 opened with the live in Korea Olympic Park on 14 January. And on the 25th, the new single, “REDEMPTION”, was released and made the theme song for the Play station 2 game, “DIRGE of CERBERUS – FINAL FANTASY VII-”. The second song that was released (in the single), “LONGING”, also became the theme song for the same game. Furthermore, Gackt appeared in this game as a major character. It’s different from the usual motion capture technique that has been used till now, instead they used an epochal method with Square Enix’s latest CG technology to film Gackt live and merge him into the game. I wonder how far the collaborations will extend for Gackt in the year 2006.

"It’s not during those times which showcase our true ability, but during the times we’ve fallen down to the bottom."

I: (What are your plans for) 2006?
G: First of all, Asia tour.

I: You are referring to the concert in Korea?
G: For a start.

I: Hmm? You will continue from there?
G: I’ll be doing other tours too. Well, do look forward to it. (Korea) is the preview. It will be great if Korea can succeed as the first. (laughs)

I: The single will also be released on 25 January. This collaboration is not as simple as providing the soundtrack; you even attended the press conference during your tour. You are really taking on a lot of (projects), aren’t you?
G: Nothing like that at all. I’m just… a poor man with free time in my hand. (laughs)

I: Eh, that isn’t convincing at all. (laughs along). Game and music. Two totally different categories, but this collaboration crosses over (that boundary). How do you feel after trying it out?
G: You can say it’s experimenting (lit. trying), or a discovery of interesting presenting methods. I’ve always wanted to do something like that. This time it is one of my ways of finding (new) expression methods. I’m looking for staff who can do something new. I think a part of it is to find (new) companions who can do more interesting stuff. Well, this is only the beginning though. Plenty of things to come yet.

I: REDEMPTION, which was made such a theme song, gives a hopeless and dejected feeling while challenging (others to) fight at the same time. I felt that it is a song which gives such a pained feeling.
G: I think it’s sort of like a projection of our own selves, but it’s not during those times which showcase our true ability. (lit. true value, real worth). It’s (a projection of us) when we are in difficulty and struggling, and when we’ve fallen down to the bottom. And later it shows how far and in what way we are driven to a corner. That’s what I think. But to begin with, humans won’t be able to push themselves to such corners by themselves. So they are able to experience (certain things) for the first time because they are cornered by someone else. That’s (when they show) their original form. [1]
[1] As he goes back to the first point of showcasing one’s true ability. When cornered, our real capabilities surface; and it’s mostly pushed by someone else

I: Could it be that the character in this song was also pushed to the utmost limit?
G: Yes, that’s right. I think that’s one’s normal form. What you discover after being driven to a corner and what you do with that discovery afterwards is very important. In short, you come to realize something from it: your weakness. And you can determine the ones who really held out their hands to help you and the extent to which their genuine love saves you. You’ll know clearly who your enemy is and who your friend is as well. All that really comes down to how you will react when you are truly cornered.

I: I see. Did you… include magic before the second chorus?
G: ……Magic?

I: This “pirorin” sound [1] (you hear) when you use magic in FFVII.
[1] He said “pirorin” in katakana, and it seems to sound like a wind-chime.
G: Hahaha (laughs) I didn’t include that, I think it just sounds like it. (laughs) You are observant. You play?

I: Yeah, well~ So it’s not that you captured it (on purpose), right?
G: No, no (smiles) that came out naturally when we were making the instrumental part. A coincidence.

I: The second song, “LONGING”, has a heavier and darker tone than the first song. It gives a very strong image and I was pulled into the song the moment I heard it. The song has such a draw to it. And the voice, as well as the background… What’s that method (of recording) called?
G: I’m obsessed with it recently; it’s something like ‘edit mixing’ using Pro Tools. [1] For something like this, you make a normal melody and distort it rapidly. The main point is to drop the pitch without dropping the tempo, like the way a broken CD sounds. I like that (effect).
[1] According to nanani, Pro Tools is a mixing software. :D Thanks~!

I: The digital work produces a very warped time space in this song.
G: That effect is very mysterious. When you listen to normal music, there is a rhythm to it, right? If you destroy the rhythm, the music breaks easily too. But if you can make the rhythm sound like it’s broken without actually breaking it, it will create a very unbalanced music. Though it’s not broken, it sounds as if it is. That’s really great.

I: You feel like the world is distorted. And that distorted feeling fans the mystery [1] even more.
[1] (lit. feel chilly, shudder, thrill) I chose the word that gives rise to these feelings instead for the translation. It’s as if you are scared, but at the same time excited at the thought of stepping into the unknown…
G: It’s great that you can think of it that way. I think I’ll be using that kind of method more from now on.

I: One question about a phrase in the lyrics. Something like “eternal peace” doesn’t exist in this world, right?
G: Un. Well, I don’t know how others will perceive it. I do have it; that “eternal peace’ is here. But I leave that to the feelings of those who have read the lyrics.

I: The world that is depicted in the song is also one which is in the brink of a battle?
G: The two songs are connected this time round. What you do after you’ve determined (something). The two songs are like opposites.

I: Were you looking forward to this game collaboration?
G: Yes, I’m looking forward to my appearance in the game.

I: What is your character like?
G: I can’t say it yet. (smiles) The FFVII team will get mad at me. But I think it’s interesting because the real shots of me will be appearing in the CG world along with the CG characters. This is a test and an indication of the possibilities in games in the future.

I: All the fans seem to be looking forward to it too.
G: Probably. Because in this one project (lit. work), I’ll be entering the game (for real) myself, and that’s like a forecast of how games might turn out to be in the future. But this is not the complete form. The FFVII staff plans to make use of this opportunity to try something new. It might take even longer if I weren’t the one doing it, so I believe it’s also a matter of timing, of me (coming in).

I: So you mean it’s not just Gackt-san, but also the game makers who are seeking something new?
G: (They’ve) always been searching. This game industry is really difficult. If you come in your 40s, you’ll be treated like an old man. It’s an unbelievable world. There are plenty of geniuses amongst the 20s so you’ll feel like you can’t follow, in which case you’ll be made to retire for sure. In a certain sense, they are stricter than us. Our (career) term is slightly longer, but for them it doesn’t matter if they have built their career for an entire period, most of them become people of the past in two or three years time. Which is why they are all worried, and they want to move ahead (of others) quickly. Those who create something new have greater power, for example, those who can expand their imagination. [1] That is why everyone is struggling to not be defeated in that.
発想力 was the original word. It’s something like idea, expression or conceptualization, etc. The ability to express your imagination. I used “to expand their imagination” because you’ll need to come up with even more creative stuff to be at the top of the pack; like he said in the previous sentence, those who create something new have greater power.

"This is just a hunch, but I feel like I will do collaborations with a lot of musicians."

I: And for yourself, what do you think influences your way of expanding your imagination?
G: Everyone wants to get hold of information and observe various things, right? But doing such a thing dulls my senses. Everybody tells me to cram all sorts of things into my mind, and check the television and what’s popular currently. But that is a huge mistake. In televisions and stuff, the creative things aren’t the ones (being shown) at that point in time. At the very least, it was first made a year before. The only concepts that we see now are the ones that were already over. If you watch that and go after it, I believe it will lead to an even greater time difference. So those people who chases after the popularity of that time will not be able to create anything new. That is why I don’t have a television at home.

I: You don’t have any?
G: No. What I have is only a screen to watch movies.

I: What about information input then?
G: I don’t do that. I don’t do it in order to heighten my senses. I think when something suddenly comes to mind, it comes with the ability to make us accept it.
Literal translation, I’m not sure what exactly this one means. In a way, it’s like making ourselves accept whatever comes to mind. @@;

I: Not having anything in your mind frees your imagination. (lit. doesn’t restrain , restrict or limit)
G: Exactly. Everyone takes in too much. They take in too much of the things people pass (around).

I: You didn’t watch television at all either when you were young?
G: No, I didn’t. Though I went to my friend’s house at times to watch television.

I: I see~
G: I think that is why my power of concentration is stronger than anybody else’s. For the things you read of your own volition, like novels or manga, it requires a stronger power of concentration than going to watch a movie. That is why I’m good in games which require a high power of concentration. I’m really good. In terms of focusing (our mind), I’ll never lose to anyone.

I: Since when did you have this ability?
G: Since young, when it comes to focusing. So I’m very much aware of when I am focusing or not. I’ll daydream normally. I’ll smoke and sit in the sofa and stay like that for close to six hours. Whaa~ So much that you’ll wonder whether I’m alive or not. (laughs) During such times, it might seem like I’m daydreaming, but a lot of things are going through my mind. So I’m actually focusing on the thoughts. It only seems like I’m daydreaming because I’m not moving. I’m like a genius in a sense. If you categorize it broadly…… an idiot!?

I: Bwahahaha! (laughs) And what other activities are you planning for year 2006?
G: I think I will be doing lives for the first half and probably recording for the second half.

I: You already talked about the concept for the other album and novel, etc. for the MOON project during the press conference of (“DIABOLOS”) album. What about those?
G: It’s still going. It’s taking some time though. Novels really take a lot of time. I can never be a novelist, definitely. I admire those novelists; it’s a very lonely (lifestyle), isn’t it? Isolated geniuses.

I: Gackt-san seems like such a person too.
G: There are times when I want to live the life of a novelist, but because it’s the ultimate loneliness… (laughs together) It’s a conflict because I do love being alone though I’m afraid of it. I think it’s due to such an unbalance that I can come up with something creative.

I: And last, what kind of meetings are you hoping for in the year 2006?
G: This is just a hunch, but I feel like I will do collaborations (lit. go hand in hand) with a lot of musicians. For my goals. Basically, there isn’t any Japanese artist that I’m close with. Because I hate this musician occupation. There are only such people who are irresponsible and spend money recklessly. [1] You lose spirit when you talk to them because they aren’t talks with any future in it. That is why I feel I can give these people goals. (lit. dreams) I feel as if I can propose to them, “let’s do something like this.” This is just a hunch so I don’t know it if will happen. There aren’t any reasons for it, just a feeling that it might happen.
[1] Literally, Gackt used the words “‘I have money’ syndrome” >.> which can also refer to the people who earns lots of money but doesn’t put them to good use. I chose to translate it this way because he said in the previous article that artists spend money frivolously.

Original text by: Sachie Tojo
Translated by: Sweiled

Own comments:
I like what he said about REDEMPTION~ In a way, I do think that humans have unlimited potentials, you just have to find the key to open it. When pushed under certain circumstances, strength comes from within us and we'll have the courage and energy to fight back. I guess humans are born survivors after all~ I believe even the weakest and seemingly insignificant beings have the power to make a difference. One simply needs to find the key to unlock it. ^^ Never forget to "believe". Even when we are at the depths of despair and all seems dark, believe that there is still some good left in this world. Believe that this situation will not last and things will get better. We can't predict the pace of change, but it will come eventually.

Though of course, it's not necessarily only courage, strength and the like which surfaces when you are cornered. Somtimes the exact opposite occurs and you lose the strength you thought you have. It's rather scary when you think about it. What is your price? What will make you betray your faith and beliefs...? Money? Fame? Reputation? Family? Friends? Love?

I: I see. Did you... include magic before the second chorus?
G: ......Magic?

XD;; I like how he paused as if giving it considerable thought before asking again, "Magic?" I can just picture him digesting that information and musing over it silently. XDD

I love what he did in LONGING. 0__0 That song is absolutely great~ And especially the part where his voice goes back to normal, it gives an even stronger impact. It hits you hard and takes your breath away. WHOA~

Eternal peace... I think it exists. :D

In~nteresting what he said about television. :3 That has never occured to me before, but it's really quite true. All the TV shows, dramas, movies, etc., are filmed months and years before. It's a part of the past and not the future, not even the present. I feel from personal experience that the emptier your mind is, the greater your imagination will be. Reading too many things influences the way I think and makes me want to copy it. Without me realizing, my ideas start to revolve around the same theme and I can't break free from it. Hmmmm. Most interesting. :3 *introspects* XD

:O I do that often too. When I'm in the car, I'll look outside and start thinking about a lot of things. I've never done it for more than half an hour or so though, so I can't imagine doing it for six hours. XD Mine usually comes when I'm travelling or walking alone. My thinking mode, I call it. XD I enjoy those moments muchly because I always feel peaceful inside. It's like letting all the bad and negative thoughts out, though I'm in fact thinking about them. :D

I was rather taken aback when he talked about the other musicians. ^^; Then I thought again, it's rather similar to what he said previously about empty minds, doesn't it? It's easier to convince someone if they have no opinions on it before.

I'm looking forward to seeing what other plans he has in mind. ^^

It's interesting to see the number of people who commented on the previous article about him coming to Singapore. =^^= *starts stalking them* XD

February 2006 Newsmaker Chapter 1

sweiled — Sat, 11 Feb 2006 15:16:10 GMT

^^; It suddenly feels weird, awkward even, to post a translation after such a long absence. After much poking (and stabbing and jabbing and whacking and mushing XD), here is the translation for Newsmaker Feb issue.

It's divided into three chapters, and I'll post chapter one first whie I wait for help for the other two. It isn't a long article, they talk about three things: GIFT, ASIA and the TOUR. I thought the most interesting one is the one on Asia. After hearing so much about it and knowing how much he has planned for it, I'm really excited that it's happening. ^^~

I'll let you read it yourself, and I hope you'll enjoy it. :D

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview

Gackt - A man who puts his life on the line to continue the fight, even to the extent of declaring, “I’ll retire if I can’t accomplish this.” And thus a raging 2005 passes. Now he already has his eyes fixed on year 2006, no, even much further than that. What’s truly spurring him on? It’s the mission he has placed on himself; as well as the dream that must be accomplished. What is in his mind and what is he aiming for now? This cover article will discuss (lit.draw near, press) Gackt’s real intention.

Gackt CHAPTER.1
Look back on 2005
Long interview

In 2005, Gackt challenged himself more than he usually does, and also took on new challenges outside. [1] In this article I would like to focus on the keywords “GIFT”, ASIA”, and “Fighting”.
[1] I believe he means moving outside, out of Japan.

GIFT

2005 began with the release of “ありったけの愛で” (arittake no ai de) single. This opening was a continuation of the “GIFT” theme from the previous year; and under the same theme, the “Love Letter” album, which you could consider the compilation of the theme, was released. And with that ends the "GIFT" theme, but……

"This one single word, “省く”, can sum up all of one’s life"

I: Along with the release of “Love Letter” album, a special event limited to couples was held, and a ski resort was reserved for the fan club trip and a Winter Sports Meet held. As for the annual overseas fan club trip, you went to Sydney for the first time, didn’t you? The opening of the year 2005 sees a continuation of GIFTs for fans from Gackt-san.
G: It started from me saying, “I’ve started snowboarding,” while I was doing a tour two years ago. I said during one of the live MC, “Let’s go play snowboarding together in a fan club event.” Since I said it during the MC, I would be deemed a liar if I don’t follow through. I searched (for a place) immediately after that, but there is no way we can book the whole slope for weekends, right? Because it takes a lot of money to even book half a day.

I: Ooh
G: I thought, “It’s impossible!” But there was someone I became friends with by chance, and he is the owner of a ski resort. I told him, “Actually, I would like to do something like this…” and I persuaded him to help me make it happen somehow. Well, it was a relief. First and foremost, I was glad I could keep my promise.

I: And what about going to Sydney?
G: That’s our annual overseas fan club trip. The first and second year was in Hawaii; third year was Vegas; and the fourth year this time was Sydney.

I: Have you been to Sydney before?
G: No, it was my first time. It is a great place. So basically, (the annual fancub trips) will be places I’ve never been to. Halfway through I started thinking of going to places which everyone won’t go to normally. It was Hawaii at first, but I think everybody can go there themselves. From now on, I think I would like to visit less popular places one by one.

I: Like the North Pole or South Pole?
G: Or the Amazon. (laughs) Hawaii is better in that case. They know Japanese language and the security is good. But that depends on the organizers; it’s not up to me. Everybody tends to do things the easy way. [1] I think I found a good word recently. This one single word can sum up all of one’s life. It is the word “省く”. This word “省” can sum up one’s entire life.
[1] I believe what he meant was that the organizers/sponsors just want to find easy and convenient places, maybe because it’s easier to handle procedures and things like that. And also for security reasons of course. So the problem doesn’t lie with him.

I: How so?
G: The first (meaning) is to reflect (省みる kaerimiru). But reflecting on (your past actions) is only fifty percent of it. It becomes one hundred percent if you are capable of the act of discarding (省く habuku)[1] in your life. In short, it is the way we look back, reflect and introspect. Then we will feel various emotions within ourselves. And sometimes we need to cast those aside, and courage is needed to do that. [2] If we do not have the courage, we will not be able to cast it away. Because we fear it; because there is the fear of losing. Being able to do that –to discard– is the first step to living. [3] That's what this word means. It’s a great word. I think that is really how I managed to reach this point now.
[1] 省く habuku: to omit; to eliminate; to curtail; to economize; to economize
[2] When we reflect on our actions, or even our life in general, we’ll discover and feel something. Negative emotions, perhaps. We know it isn’t right, and even so, we can’t bear to put it aside. We cling on to it. So we need great courage to let it go and release ourselves from the restrain we have placed on ourselves. Edit: kuro_no_diablo gave a good explanation of this part on the comments below, if you are interested. :D Thanks!
[3] The original sentence goes "That's the first time (this) becomes life"

I: Indeed, the act of casting something away takes a lot of courage.
G: It’s not because it is painful that we cast it aside. I think that’ll be more like running away. Throw it away not because it’s troublesome or anything like that, but under our own determination (to better ourselves). The act of casting something away is indeed dreaded (lit. hated), isn’t it? There is also a fear of hurting someone through it. Courage is needed. One needs to be decisive. Well, I don’t think there are many who can understand this meaning. When I saw that word, I thought it had a deep (meaning). I was a little touched.

I: Where did you read it from?
G: Something like “Wise Sayings of the day”.

I: Could it be something like different aphorisms you read every day?
G: Yes, yes, something like that.

I: And finally, this theme known as the GIFT. How did you feel about ending this theme?
G: With a feeling of gratitude, I will be moving even faster from this point, so “follow me closely now”.

ASIA

It can be said that the year 2005 for Gackt is a year which focuses on Asia, Korea in particular. Along with the release of “Love Letter” album, he also went to Korea to do promotions. He was invited to the biggest music event held in the country, “m,net/Km MUSIC VIDEO FESTIVAL”, at the end of the year 2004, and was awarded the Best Asia Rock Artist. The Korean version of “12月のLove song” [12 gatsu no Love song] was recorded that year as a coupling of the single which was released annually. [1] And for year 2005, he re-recorded the collaboration version in Korean language with popular Korean artist, Isoo, vocalist of MC the MAX. This song is currently released through Gackt’s first – and only – net distribution.
[1] He released the original Japanese version in December 2001, and since then he has released the English, Chinese and Korean version at the end of each year. Normally the singles comes with a revised Japanese version, the version in other language, and the instrumental version.

"What I can do is to further strengthen the relationship between Asia through the influence of music culture"

I: Year 2005 was a year which focuses on Asia, in particular Korea.
G: That’s right. But well, it’s not that I’m only looking at Korea alone, because I plan to move around the whole of Asia: Taiwan, China, Singapore, as well as Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. I am currently planning my activities as a vocalist in Asia.

I: When you said “vocalist in Asia”, was it something you realized when you are making music?
G: It was when I was 20 years old, that was when I came to the realization that I’m Asian.

I: And what brought that about?
G: I don’t know what exactly it was. I am Okinawan and am extremely proud of that. When someone asks, “Are you Japanese,” I would reply that I’m Okinawan. But when I came out to Asia, I realized that this is not right. Based on Japan’s position in Asia, Japanese very much think that other Asian countries are beneath them, right? Yet here we are, so near to each other. Perhaps, if we ask any Japanese about say, (which countries they view as) “overseas”, most would definitely think of America first rather than China, Vietnam or Malaysia, etc. We are mentally close to each other. We are all Asians. I believe the economy centers around Asia as well. And Japan’s economy is already declining in Asia. Though Japan has been standing on the top of Asia till now, Asian countries are now starting to bypass Japan, and that is one of the reasons for this decline. Even so, there are still a lot of people in Japan who live in the old “syndrome”, as if the economy of Asia still depend on them to survive.

I: We think too highly of ourselves.
G: But it doesn’t work that way anymore. If we don’t pace ourselves with the Asian countries, Japan itself won’t last. We look at Asia as one whole entity and we come into contact with (each other) in this huge framework called Asia economy. In short, we have to come to terms with the current situation. It is a fact that the power of America is growing too large currently. The strength to fight that more as best as we can, as well as an influential voice is necessary for Asia. But not through force, mind you. For that purpose, it is important that Japan, China and Korea step up side by side as one economy. But Japan still thinks too highly of herself and fails to understand that. I think it is pertinent that we understand our current state. While Japanese are thinking over it, other Asian countries are already moving ahead first.

I: Korea, for one, is growing fast.
G: They are growing rapidly. And we are the only ones who aren’t aware of that. Other countries have felt the danger and started to act on it.

I: As for that, I think Gackt-san senses that danger precisely because you really felt the atmosphere in other Asian countries. For example, you went to Korea quite a few times already, right?
G: I did. Recently I’ve been meeting politicians from China, Korea and Taiwan often.

I: What kind of conversation did you have?
G: The reason I’m making music, the reason I’m doing them overseas, etc., and in between there are talks about sponsors and things like that. Mostly those kinds of conversations. First I tell them, “I’m not coming to do promotions.” I said that the influence of culture is necessary right now to unite Asia and so I would like them to lend me their strength.

I: Well then, it’s not simply because you want to do a live, but in a deeper sense, you are advancing towards Asia with a mission in mind.
G: I do think about that. A lot. I do it with that in mind because I won’t be able to move on if I don’t. If I go there simply to do a live, it will only be a matter of bringing our music instruments and the band members over, and asking (the staff in Korea) to put the stage together. [1] What I plan to do is completely different from that. I’m going there to show them the world view that we are looking at. Our world view is the message. I have no interest in promotions; I’m doing this only because I feel it as a mission of sorts, that I’m meant to do something to bridge Asia.
[1] When Gackt holds his concerts overseas, he insists on recreating the exact same stage as the one he made in Japan. So he ships all the stage props, items and everything else there, and takes practically all the staff over with him.

I: Do you also start becoming aware of this mission when you were 20 years old?
G: No, it’s in the recent five years that I started thinking this way. Ten years ago, those were still the times when I was concerned about whether my CD will sell or not.

I: Eh! Even Gackt-san?
G: There were such times. That’s because I won’t be able to continue if my CDs don’t sell; because we can’t make a living (otherwise). But I realized in these seven, eight years that we can still earn our income through something besides music. It’s really quite a simple logic.

I: Bwahahaha! So frank (laughs)
G: In this past seven, eight years, I began to understand that we can still earn money even if we don’t play our music to make a living. I saw that we can, surprisingly, earn an income (easily) in this world. And so, I began to realize that it is not necessary at all to play music just to make a living. If I do, I would have to write songs that will become a hit, and I’m not interested in doing that. Doing that would only bring conflicts within myself eventually. (lit. conflicts, complications, trouble, discord)

I: Were there times when Gackt-san yourself experienced such conflicts?
G: There were. Around seven to eight years ago.

I: Hooo, I’m a little surprised.
G: I thought to myself that living through nothing but music makes you dependent on it. I think it was seven to eight years ago, close to nine years ago. A group of my close friends, who were in bands, were rapidly falling out of the music scene and quitting music, and and having financial troubles (lit. life became hard for them financially). All these happened before my eyes. There was such a time.

I: I see, I see
G: At that time I thought, “I see, everybody is frightened.” About not being able to make a living. We musicians give a strong impression of making lots of money, right? But in one lifetime, the period of time when we are popular (lit. respected) is amazingly short. The amount of money isn’t really that great in proportion to our lifespan. But musicians are, generally, really foolish. That is why when we receive large amounts of money, we think that this will last forever and spend it frivolously. And the interesting thing about humans is that it is easy for us to raise our standard of living but we can't lower it back down (once it has been raised). Even if we can’t sell (our music) anymore, we will not lower our standards. We suffer, are terrified of discords and worry about it dropping. That is what I saw happening with my own eyes and the first time I realized that this is what it meant by depending on music to make a living. But that is… a real shame to see [1]. I decided that I mustn’t be that way. And I look again at what “music means to me”. To me, music is (a way) to convey our message, philosophy, will; and to fulfill what I mentioned earlier on, missions and duties. I concluded then that music shouldn’t be all about earning a living or (feeding) our families.
[1] Kakkowarui - uncool, unattractive, unappealing, etc.

I: Music is separate from a way to make a living.
G: Yes. And then when I was thinking of how to make a living, it came to me. “That's right, I can earn my income by doing other jobs.” And I thought that if I set up a few different companies and make profits from there, I will not have to play music to make a living. In that case, I can use music to realize my dreams and use it as a tool to unite Asia; I can devote myself to (creating) a home to help everyone move forward (lit. push people’s back). I am a complete brand.

I: Brand?
G: Yes. (However,) if you think of the brand as something to make a profit from, it will become worthless at once. What the power of brand refers to is really the power of image. That is completely different from profits. I will do something else unrelated to me (lit. other than “me”) if I want to earn profits. “I” am a complete brand. That is why it is okay even if we get red numbers. The people who take part in this feel that it doesn’t matter as long as the brand lives on. So the tour this time will not be the scale of that of a “hall tour”, let me say that clearly.

I: Not just this time, it’s the same way for each of your concerts.
G: How (scary) the red numbers are. When artists who are planning concerts come to watch mine, they will ask, “How much did you spend?” I wonder if they aren’t trying to create such a stage as well. But they won’t be able to, because they are planning to make profits out of it. So we can invest in (such concerts) because we look at making profits separately. You won’t be able to do it if you keep thinking of makings tons of profits. That is why we can come up with such crazy things. I tell them to not get that wrong. Same goes for going to Asia which I mentioned earlier on, I’m not going there because I want to sell my CDs, but because I can do something by using this brand called “Gackt”.

I: How can you use this brand called Gackt in Asia?
G: What I can do is to further strengthen the relationship between Asia through the influence of music culture. To make it strong like it has never been before. My dream is to unite Asian citizens. I think that is what I’m meant to do.

FIGHT

After (the release of) “Love letter” which signals the end of the GIFT theme, the story revolving around “MOON” was restarted. Three singles were released followed by the album, “DIABOLOS”, making this the second album for the year 2005. The concert that was started along with the release of the album was the biggest national tour (that Gackt has) ever held and his first Tokyo Dome live will be held as the concert final. Year 2005 for Gackt can be said as (a year of) fighting grand battles.

"Only the ones who think of moving up along with me should follow"

I: You released two albums; held the largest national tour to date; and had your first Dome performance. When we were doing the keyword interview earlier on, (page.29), you said, “I’ll retire if I cannot accomplish this.” I think the year 2005 was truly a year of fighting.
G: I see myself as having missions and duties that I have to accomplish in Asia, so if I can’t do even this, I won’t be able to accomplish those missions, right? That is what I meant. I don’t use the word “retire” lightly; I do it knowing in my mind that I can clear it. And I would like my staff to think that way too. That is why I said that I would also like to determine the staff’s will/ability during the tour this time. In the end, it’s not like everybody moved along with me when I cleared something. [1] “Although I can do it by myself to this extent, I can’t go beyond that.” There are a lot of people like that, right? That isn’t something bad. For instance, being able to think that they don’t have the ability to carry on any longer also takes courage. In that way we’ve ascertained their will/ability. [2] If we don’t, it’ll be difficult for them because we’ll be pursuing more things from now. You can quit if it becomes too difficult and painful. I don’t want to work with someone (is only forcing him/herself to continue) either. Only the ones who think of moving up along with me should follow. Really, I just don’t want to think badly of my companions.
[1] It’s like when he did something successfully, not everyone made that progress along with him. As you move along to a higher level, some people get left behind or can’t catch up.
[2] He didn’t specify what it was he was testing the staff on… but I believe the reason why you can’t follow something/one is either because you don’t want to, or you just don’t have the ability to.

I: What you are saying is, you (and your staff) are aiming even higher and year 2005 was for determining how much of those (goals) you can achieve by yourselves. It was a year of fighting and determining your limit. (lit. maximum)
G: I believe they see it that way too.

Original text by: Sachie Tojo
Translated by: Sweiled

Own comments:
I think I stopped breathing for a few seconds when he mentioned Singapore and Indonesia in his plans. XD He has never been here to do promotions and the like before, so it really came as a surprise. I thought that he will tour China, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong maybe, or Thailand... but I didn't think of my own two coutries. And more than anything, I'm truly grateful that he includes Indonesia in his plans. It's not exactly the safest or cleanest or most advised place to hold a concert in. XD I do love my country, despite its many faults and to know that he thinks it worthy enough... it brought a bit of tears. Even if it somehow falls through due to security reasons, I'm still glad that he thought of Indonesia.

/patroitism XD

It's the first time he named countries as well! Before, it was just a vague "Asia", but now it's pretty definite. Though we don't exactly know when, he IS coming. Ah, it will be grand to see him in Singapore, and also to meet up with other fans! :D That will be the day~

It is interesting to see his view on Asia economy. I don't know many artists who do that. ._. But you can really tell his love for his country and his desire to make it better. He isn't afraid to point out the faults and to admit that they have weaknesses either. Though sometimes I wonder when he has the time to think about all these. XD You need a lot of information and news about politics, the world, current economy to be able to make a proper stand, and you need a lot of time to read about all that. He gives me the impression of a black hole. Keeping his eyes open and absorbing everything that is in his way. Hehe. ^^;

Ahaha, I thought it was rather amusing that the interviewer found it hard to believe that Gackt has had such times when he couldn't sell his CDs too. It tells us something too, doesn't it? ^^ But wow, this part definitely interested me most. Haha, he sure is someone who doens't compromise. XD I thought it was bloody brilliant what he chose to do eventually. Most people would either accept the way things are done and try their best to live with it, or they move away from it, refusing to compromise their way of living. But Gackt, he carved another way out for himself. :3 In the end he got all that he wanted. The music that he loves and use to spread his messages; as well as a way to make a living.

And my bad for bringing this up again, but the thought of people calling him a media-whore... It makes me want to do some real damage to someone. XD I do think that anybody has the right to criticize others, but DON'T do it if you don't know anything about the person. And especially NOT in public places. It just makes one seem ignorant, jaded, and thoughtless. If there is anything I learned from being here, it is to not judge the book by its covers. Not everything is as they seem... And I try to keep that in mind for other artists, or even people in general, as well. I may not know them well but if others like them, then they must have positive qualities to them too, just that we aren't aware of it. :D Don't be too hasty to judge others. I think being in a fandom makes me understand that.

I admire him muchly for saying, "I am a complete brand" and then to say in the next line, "If you think of the brand as something to make a profit from, it will become worthless at once." I think he has succeeded well in finding a good balance between the two. I especially like the line "What the power of brand refers to is really the power of image." It's true too, if you look at all the TV appearances and CMs he has appeared in. I don't know how exactly to put it in words... though he makes use of it to earn his income, he doesn't sell himself and go for everything that can give him money, you know? Despite it being his way of earning money, he still chooses carefully the projects he take and products he endorses. That's the impression I get.

My dream is to unite Asian citizens. I think that is what I’m meant to do.

A lot of people might laugh at him and say that he is silly for wanting to do this. "An artist trying to unite Asia? With what? His looks?" I think a lot of people will think that way, but I can see it happening. I've always believed in it. Even when I didn't understand him well, all I felt was admiration and respect when I first read about his goals. He isn't someone who talks about grand dreams without doing anything about it. He sees, he plans, and he executes. He has such great passion and strong faith in him and what he is trying to do that you can't help but be affected, I guess.

And as I read the last part, I realized that it is true that only the ones who can and wants to will follow him. ._. Though we don't contribute directly, but it's quite the same case here, don't you think? It takes a lot of determination and dedication (not to mention insanity XD) to stay in this fandom, and I've never once felt that it isn't worth it. And I do hope I can still say the same line in the years to come. ^^

Thank you for reading and do keep a lookout for the next two chapters. :D

REDEMPTION

sweiled — Wed, 25 Jan 2006 15:48:52 GMT

Today is the official release date of REDEMPTION.

OMEDETOU GACKT, FOR THE RELEASE OF YOUR 24th SINGLE!

The song is so great. @@ He truly has no boundaries~

Oh, and has this been mentioned before? I don't remember seeing it, I'm getting old. -__-" There is an article and a comment up on the Oricon website. Jeanne, yoroshiku? XD (random, but I like the colour combination of that page) He said that this song is a mixture of both his world and FF7's world in the comment. This collaboration of theirs sure is interesting~ And hopefully it will open more doors for him... ^^

Edit: Thought I might just join these entries rather than bomb everyone's friends' page. XD BACKSTAGE has updated their blog again a few days ago, and here they are...

1. Please DO NOT take my translations or publish them elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
2. Please COMMENT if you read it.
3. Do feel free to email me at ayashi15@hotmail.com.

January 24, 2006
12/24 (Sat) Concert

(During the) encore of 12 Gatsu no Love Song. The lights everybody waved and the feathers were illusionary.

Posted by Tour Staff : 05:38 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

--------------------------------------------

12/24 (Sat) Concert

It’s really over... Thank you very much, everyone!

Posted by Tour Staff : 05:39 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

--------------------------------------------

Additional

The tired Manager Y after the end of the concert.

Posted by Tour Staff : 05:39 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

Comment: The pictures are even tinier than before. =__= Again, it's appreciated if no one mentions anything about the concert here. :3 *wince* that looks painful. What was that guy doing to him!? XD (*cough*)

Oh, and if anybody is interested to know, there isn't anything much on the recent UV vol.123 actually. ^^ The 50 pages special is mainly about the tour document book. A good 2/3 of it, I would say... There were some behind-the-scenes photos, and then a major chunk of photos of the performances. :D Just like the normal tour document book~ They had a few pages of article on it too. I don't know if it's the one that will be in the document book, or is it just the interviewer's own report of the live...

Oricon Style 060123

sweiled — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 22:05:38 GMT

The scanner is finally working again~ This was from Jan 23 issue of Oricon Style, and it covered the Tokyo Dome concert. No intention of translating this, at least not now, because I'm still waiting for the DVD and no want no spoilers. :D And might I say I feel proud of myself for not looking at the pictures in the article. XD;;

Except for the first two, which were right at the first page of the magazine. *-* It's like, *flip page* and *faint* XD This man is hazardous to our health.

Clickie for full size~

Comments disabled for obvious reasons. X3 Enjoy~

One year anniversary

sweiled — Tue, 17 Jan 2006 08:53:17 GMT

One year ago, Sweiled was created. ...... Where did the time go?? XD

Who would have thought then that things will be as they are now, a mere one year later? I didn't set out to be an active participant in the fandom when I first created an account, but fate is a quirky fella. X3 In a roundabout way, it's actually thanks to gakuhai that I came here. XD I bumped into her LJ and then went on to discover Dears and boom~ Sweiled was created. So, you may not know it, but thanks Sari. XD XD

And then, to talk a little about how I became a translator in this fandom... It's really thanks to Gale, vermillionsekai. She poked me when I introduced myself over at Dears because we are both Indonesian, and upon knowing that I speak a bit of Japanese, poked me again to summarize a magazine article for her. I remember it was UV Dec 2004 issue. XD And then we went on to Fools Mate, and I remember telling her, if I summarize this for you, it will only be a line, "This article is about arittake no ai de." XD;; So I set forth to translate it, and before I know it, I've translated all articles released after Love Letter. XD So, another thanks to you, Gale.

From there on, things got a little crazier and though I made some great friends, I began to feel like I'm losing a part of myself. Everything around me spinned out of control, and to find my own self back, I took me off Sweiled. That's something I'll always lament. In many ways, Sweiled meant much more to me than g_i_c_s ever will, because that's what I started as. Though I always say that I wish people can see Sweiled as a real person, and not just "someone in the fandom", I wonder if I wasn't the one to start it. By spiriting myself away, I left a purely fandom identity in here. But maybe that's also going to change soon. ^^

It's been quite the journey so far. I came in because I wanted to meet more Gackt fans and because I wanted to share. Whenever I read some information in the net, I'll always be eager to share it with someone. But there isn't any amongst my circle of friends who are interested, and desperate to find someone who can understand, I came here. Since then, I've found me some amazing people who accept me for who I am, and a place where I belong.

There were many pleasant things that I did not expect to see through this fandom, and there were also rather unpleasant events which I would still rather forget now. XD There were much tears, and there were much laughter... Thank you for coming in, and "talking" to me, it's great to feel a connection even if it's only for a brief moment. ^^ And thank you as well for those who messaged me privately, it really makes me happy that someone is willing take the effort and time to say something in return. You didn't have to, but you did. I think that takes courage, so thank you for doing that. (told you I don't bite XD)

Thank you for taking the time to read my translations and commenting too! Like I often said, a translation means nothing if no one cares enough to read it. I have a voice but it will be useless if no one is willing to listen, so thank you again for that. ^^

Okay, this is fast becoming a thank-you speech, which wasn't what I intended at all. XDDDD *GROUP HUG* You have been one amazing reader! You guys have been supportive and encouraging right from the start, and I'm going to keep stealing a bit of that enery now. ^^ Here's to next year and what will hopefully be another great year. He is going to spread his wings and fly high now, so let's keep up with him too. ^^

Kotoshi mo yoroshiku onegaishimasu. *bows* XD

Next: Update user info. XDDD

BACKSTAGE Blog Entries Dec 23 - Dec 24

sweiled — Tue, 03 Jan 2006 15:13:57 GMT

1. Please DO NOT take my translations or publish them elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
2. Please COMMENT if you read it.
3. Do feel free to email me at ayashi15@hotmail.com.

December 23, 2005
12/23（Fri）At last, tomorrow...

Finally, one more day to the Dome live.
Everybody, let's go! [1]

Posted by Tour Staff : 03:49 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

Note:
[1] Ganbaru: to persist; to insist on; to stand firm; to try one's best

-------------------------------

December 24, 2005
12/24（Sat）Tokyo Dome！！

Finally! Finally! This day is really here!
We are in the middle of preparations in the Dome right now...

We'll be uploading more photos later! Please wait for the time being.

Posted by Tour Staff : 04:14 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

Own comments:
Oooh 0.0 more piccies to come~~ Looks like I have to sneak in another day of translating next week. xD;; And sorry for the weird jumps of tenses, that's because the posts were not uploaded on the actual days. .__.

Sweiled update

sweiled — Tue, 27 Dec 2005 15:31:09 GMT

Hi guys, just wanted to tell you that Sweiled will be under a temporary hiatus starting from, erm, now. XD I'm going away for a holiday and won't be around the computer for close to two weeks... And going back to Indonesia near the end of January so I won't be online much on those days either. ^^;; I hope to be back again by mid February, so till then, take care everyone!!

Oh, a summary of the translations of DIABOLOS-related articles that I've done the past week (and many more weeks before XD). Just click on the link~

Pati Pati

B=Pass

Arena 37

Ultra Veat

And these are all the BACKSTAGE blog entry translations for the past three months. I believe they are going to upload something about the Tokyo Dome live later on, and I'll see if I can sneak in some translation time next week. ^^;

I hope everyone had a great Xmas and wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR!! ^^ 2005 is/was an awesome year, thank you for everything~~!

October 2005 UV vol.119 translation

sweiled — Sat, 24 Dec 2005 06:45:42 GMT

The doors/gates are opening right about now. =^^=

I hope those watching the concert will have a blast! But for those of us left behind, a little something to occupy your mind. ^^ We can't be letting them have all the fun now, aye??

...Poor consolation, I know. >.>;;

Anyways, this the last of the DIABOLOS-related articles, it's from UV vol.119 and again, pretty long. :D They talk about the album and story more this time~ And thank you for all the help, crescent_yume and Saori. ^^

I hope you'll enjoy the translation. And Merry Christmas to everyone!! *hugs*

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview

Yes! Gackt’s superb masterpiece is finally born!

The interview ended without us being able to hear all the songs (in the album); but a few days later, on the very same day as the deadline of this article, on the early morning of September 10, “DIABOLOS” was completed. While moaning, “More time!” my heart was pounding as I listened to it.

Gackt’s works have always been excellent, but “DIABOLOS” is of a different level altogether! The end product is terrific, slashing the ultimate limits of the universe! [1] The readers who normally read my column might find such rare excitement laughable, but (the album) left an irrepressibly deep impression on me.
[1] The extent of how awesome it is. That it is something you’ve never seen or felt before, something like crossing boundaries. As crescent_yume puts is, out of this world kind of awesome.

Let’s write this calmly. Gackt has always compiled all the tune, lyrics, and singing into a CD package you call the artwork. It awakens the listener’s imagination and presents the world view through the story. Readers who have come across Gackt’s works would have known that, but this “DIABOLOS” surpasses that balance pre-eminently.

I’m not emphasizing on “the high quality” by the word “surpassing” –that is a matter of course in Gackt’s works– but that the excellence of this work is overwhelmingly easy to understand.

The main difference between this album and the previous ones is that you can see the whole story clearly by following the lyrics when you listen to it from the first song. As well, this interview is very easy to understand because he personally talks about the background of the story. There is a directness you’ve never seen before and the story dives straight into your heart if you listen to the album after reading this. Of course, since this is Gackt’s works, there are complicated plots behind it, but at least that’s unrelated to what seems difficult on the surface. So it’s not incomprehensible when I shouted without thinking, “I could see (the story),” and that I can get so immersed in it.

The word “DIABOLOS”, which carries the meaning of devil, symbolizes the sins of humans and the ephemerality of destiny, accompanied by sadness as well as hope [1]. At times breath-taking, at times wildly crazy, the album spins delicately a rich world view, giving life to the music composition. Perfect.
[1] The word he used actually meant facing forward or positively. But I feel that in the actual act of ‘facing forward’ lies hope on the future, and that’s why I used that word. Of course, other alternatives could be courage in moving on, determination, etc.

On the composition side, the ‘pattern’ that has been developed till now is honed and full of Gackt-ness. [1] With the new ‘groove’ you hear in “Farewell” and “Dispar” added to it, the diversity of music has now been increased. In any case, I would just like to listen to this album for a while. That’s my utmost desire.
[1] I’m aware that I just created a word. >.>;; Full of something that seems like what Gackt might do, full of Gackt style.

I: I was looking forward to the completion of “DIABOLOS”, but the interview is going to be held without being able to hear much of the songs in the album, except for those that were released as singles. (laughs)
G: Makes you wonder what the time was spent on, doesn’t it? (laughs) We are doing a lot of other works at the same time as well. The number one factor being…… it’s probably because “DIABOLOS” and the album after that are being recorded at the same time. What we are presenting in “DIABOLOS” and the next album is the same, they are together; so we recorded three, four songs meant for the next album first. And because we did that first, the whole (production) is held back.

I: This is the first time I heard that “DIABOLOS” and the next album are together.
G: With the “MOON” story that I’m writing as the key, the previous works that I’ve been doing were all from Chapter four: “下弦の月” (Kagen no Tsuki) and “上弦の月” (Jougen no Tsuki) tours, as well as the movie, “MOON CHILD”. And this time it starts right at the interval between Chapter two and Chapter three. But since the story is too long, we decided to cover the second and third chapters in both “DIABOLOS” and the next album.

I: I’ve read all the lyrics of the songs for “DIABOLOS”, and the feeling of battle is very strong, similar to what was presented in the fourth chapter.
G: That’s because the story as a whole takes on the history of war in all four chapters. Maybe Chapter 4 feels different because there was a heavy Asia theme included in it. As for the second and third chapters…… Why do people fight? Why were vampires born? The end of Chapter two comes to that part, and the third chapter starts with how they (live) “as vampires”. That’s the storyline.

I: I would like to clarify something. You’ve said before that the darkside inhabitants were born in the year 700, and in Japan, that would be……
G: Heian period. From the year 700 till around 1,200 is the first chapter of the story. The second chapter is from 1,300 to 1,600, and from that till the current time is the third chapter. The fourth chapter is from the current time to the near future. The story is scattered all over, really. (laughs)

I: No, but there are many parts which is still is a mystery. And the story moved from the Heian period to the European (setting), as you can tell from the PV [1] for “届カナイ愛ト知ッテイタノニ～”? (Todokanai Ai to Shitteitanoni)
[1] Promotional Video. There is usually one for every single that is released.
G: That’s right. The main character of the story changes rapidly. Those who played the leading role at first (gradually became) the supporting role and some of those parts are dragged along eventually. The main characters for the first chapter are the darkside inhabitants, while the second chapter revolves around the people who were created based on that.

I: Are the main characters in the first and second chapters related by blood?
G: Because they were created based on the darkside inhabitants, I guess you can say that they are related. Of course, the darkside inhabitants were created from the same tribe though. We are also presenting the origin of the vampires through this story at the same time.

I: I see. Vampire was a major key word in the fourth chapter, right? Even in the movie, there was the vampire, Kei, portrayed. Is vampire a key word in “DIABOLOS” too?
G: It is, but I didn’t actually use the word ‘vampire’ in the lyrics, not even once.

I: In this story, were the vampires created by the darkside inhabitants?
G: They are against darkside inhabitants. The darkside inhabitants were scattered all over Europe, and were fighting for the different countries…… at that time they exist in the shadow of history and were battling fellow darkside inhabitants for a long period of time. Eventually they tried to create something that will surpass the darkside inhabitants, but those (turned out to be) defects. But these defects, who were called the 13 “shitos” (使徒 shito: apostle; disciple), started to awaken during a particular period of time. But they were not perfect even after they have awakened, their body was incomplete. Though they have the ability to surpass darkside inhabitants, they are burdened with the illness of not being able to appear under the sun.

I: Oh! The story is coming together.
G: But at the end of the day, what I want is not for people to understand the story but the importance of what this story is trying to say.

I: Yeah, because there is always a message behind the story in Gackt-san’s works.
G: The darkside inhabitants too, were really a group who lived while being pursued. Scattered all over Europe, in the end they were made use of by people. That is just like the great country and the small country that we have, like a miniature version of the world. Just as they plan to create an even stronger being, those turn out to be imperfect. But of course, even those who were created for battling purposes have feelings as well. What we see through this story is the folly of men, of the history of human’s sins, etc., and we are able to feel acutely that it keeps repeating, right? And because of that, we become able to clarify this thing called human and it becomes easier to look at them. However, if you look at it too directly, if the presentation of “what is human?’ becomes too confusing, no one will be able to accept something that is forced on them. [1] But through the means of a story, you can look at human objectively for the first time. That’s the method of presenting that I’m taking. If you attack everyone, they (would only go,) “There is no such thing!” But (showing it) through something else allows them to see how they live while carrying the burden of sin. I think it can raise the question as to the reason why we exist.
[1] If he talks about the topic openly and directly, it forces people to look at themselves, and people don't like to be forced in such a way. It makes them uneasy and they'll start rejecting or denying it. But by looking at something other than their own selves, people can identify themselves in them (in this case, with the vampires) and begin to see that there is something very wrong. It's more effective this way and I must say, what a brilliant thing to do.

I: Before this interview, we could only read the lyrics of all the songs, right? What I felt towards the end was something like, “the importance of living despite the fate one carries”, so perhaps the listeners will have that feeling as well. Listening to this talk has only increased the depth of that feeling.
G: Because you have not heard all the songs this time, you came to the interview with only the lyrics for reference, right? Even though there were only lyrics and CD cover (that can be used for the interview), I’m happy that a lot of people gave much thought to those.

I: Speaking of lyrics, I wonder if most of the parts can be replaced and developed into something related to man-woman love relationship.
G: There are parts which can be replaced, but there are also males, fellow companions, something like the relationship of a master and disciple, and close friends, etc. Not that all of them are between men and women, but you can also look at it that way. And for me, the songs I sing that are limited to women only…… that’s a secret. (laughs)

I: Because I’ve only looked at the PV for the “届カナイ愛” (Todokanai Ai), so I was wondering if the focus (lit. core) of “DIABOLOS” is in man-woman relationship. The girl portrayed carries the fate of a vampire, right?
G: No, the two of them are vampires. That’s why at the end, they burnt and passed away. What we showed in the “届カナイ愛” PV is one part of it. In short, that is the story of two out of the thirteen shitos, so it’s not about the whole members.

I: That PV was taken from the story as the preview of “DIABOLOS”?
G: Yes. The story of the people who carries such ephemeral destiny is the whole concept this time. The thought that they must go through themselves is that even though their destiny might be a cursed one, carrying that fate makes them able to see their existence for the first time and to feel that they are living. All those are the thoughts of the characters. That there are some things that they have to go through. So I think you can hear the heaviness of “届カナイ愛” (Todokanai Ai) in this album.

I: You played the role of an immigrant in “MOON CHILD”, and many of your other works had the (theme of) unavoidable destiny included in it as well. It feels like that kind of story is being radicalized this time.
G: That’s right. But, how to put it, I don’t want it to be thought strangely as something resembling a science fiction and of course, I don’t want it to turn into something “you don’t understand if you don’t know the concept” either. Because I made the songs in such a way that you can listen to them separately. Listening to the songs one by one makes you think and feel something, and if on top of that there are still those who thinks, “Maybe there is something more to it,” they can read even further. I make albums and lives in such a way that you can enjoy it on its own. But “I wonder how exactly all these came to be?” For those who think even further, “there is still a little more” to the answer you seek. And that’s my story.

I: Yes, take Gundam for example, there are people who were interested in the cool plastic models at first, but started pursuing more (eventually).
G: Exactly, how you first got into it doesn’t matter.

I: The album should have been released by the time this magazine is published and I think a lot of people would have listened to the album (by then). But now the only song I’ve heard which has not been released is “Future”. It’s a slow song, isn’t it? You have more ‘hard’ songs usually, so are most of the rest intense [1] songs as well?
[1] ikeike is something you would normally shout when you are cheering or urging someone on. Like, “Go! Go!” The most suitable word would probably be energetic
G: I think it becomes heavy. Though the songs have quite a loud and heavy feel, I think the feelings of sadness and fleetingness have also doubled.

I: If you look at it objectively, though “Ash”, “Noesis”, etc., are very ‘rock’, it is true that there is something elegant about Gackt-san’s music.
G: I’m happy that you say that. If it’s simply intense, it would only be thought of as noisy, so I feel there is no meaning in doing that. And that’s not the point, you can see both sides clearly precisely because there is intensity in the calmness; ephemerality in that intensity; and pain and beauty that accompanies the ephemerality. Aren’t there scenes where you see an extremely intense performance in slow motion? Though they are actually playing in front of our very eyes, somehow you see them (moving) slowly. I think that is the balance.

I: Indeed, when I heard “Noesis”, I felt an unusual mixture of beauty and intensity. I thought, “Gackt indeed, this is great.”
G: It’s not interesting to move steadily from major to a narrow and slow feel, and towards a direction that is not intense. If we can increase the variety of intense music in the major world, I think we will be able to differentiate Indies and major more easily. There are a lot of interesting folks in the Indies, so I would like to create a field where we focus (lit. increase, go up) on the major and create something interesting. [1] I think that’s what we are good at. That’s what I plan to do, the reason why I want to make it more intense and crazier. [2]
[1] Indies music is kind of rough because they don't have the backup that a major could have. But now, Indies are getting popular, so majors are making their music rougher, like Indies. Major has high quality, and the difference is obvious because Indies’ isn’t of high quality. Thanks for the explanations of Britney.
[2] 無茶苦茶【むちゃくちゃ】 (adj-na,n) (uk) confused; jumbled; mixed up; unreasonable

I: I think the arrangement of “Noesis” is already very crazy.
G: Yes. The next few singles are really crazy. After recording it, I thought, “How am I going to do this on TV and in lives?” The composition…… The time is fixed for TV, right? So I was wondering how to go about doing it.

I: “Noesis” was difficult as well, right?
G: It’s difficult, it cannot be done, it’s not possible if they cut the time. (laughs) It feels like it’s impossible to express your music freely through TV media, doesn’t it? The music that we’ve completed was created after thinking through various compositions, yet it had to be cut to around three minutes or so. Of course, it’s not an entirely bad thing, but because of that, if we don’t make simple music composition, if we have a complicated music composition, we won’t be able to present the music. So we have to look at the venues as well.

I: But “Noesis” is a difficult word. The impression of the song stands out though, because the rest of the titles are easy to understand.
G: It was necessary because it includes the setting. There is the word “Noesis” in psychology terminology, something like the subjectivity and objectivity of psychology. [1]
[1] Noesis is defined as the psychological result of perception and learning and reasoning. It is a phenomenological term referring to an act of consciousness. All definitions taken from various online sites.

I: Comparatively, “Storm” and “Road” are straightforward and simple, and can really make one feel that it is rock.
G: (laughs) When you listen to “Storm”, it makes you go, “Ah, this is it!” and for “Road”, “Ah, this is it for “Road”!” Don’t you think it’s easy to understand? But I think “Storm” goes against your expectations. Or rather, it fulfils your anticipation, but betrays your expectation. If you look at the stage, I think you’ll go, “Wow!” (laughs) Hirose-san, you should sing “Storm” in karaoke. And while dancing. (laughs)

I: Looking forward to that! And what does “Farewell” sound like?
G: It’s a very heavy song. Quite different from anything I’ve ever done before, a song with a heavy rhythm.

I: The lyrics are like that of a love song’s though……
G: Moving forward. Your (stand) towards the things you’ve lost. It shows your determination despite being denied (what you’ve lost).

I: I’ve not heard the song yet, so it still carries the image of a love song……
G: I believe after you’ve heard the tune as well, you’ll understand that and think “so it’s supposed to be like this”. Indeed, it is very much like a love song if you only look at the lyrics, but the theme included is probably similar to the theme of “OASIS” and “dears”.

I: Is “Dispar” an intense song?
G: It’s quite intense with a fast beat. I think the end product is “ikeike” and a song that you can dance to.

I: I wondered if “届カナイ愛” (Todokanai Ai) was created during the “Love Letter” time. Based on the image of the melody though.
G: It was made earlier than that. It was rewritten many times over but we didn’t really compile it. We redid it again for this album and remade the music composition of the song. So the lyrics took more than one year and a half to complete. We really correct it over and over again.

I: But I’m glad that I discovered something new after not interviewing you for so long. For example, through this talk today I could see the story of how Kei and Luka from “MOON CHILD” came to be.
G: Yes, because in the movie, the story starts suddenly with the two of them.

I: I could catch a glimpse of the story before that.
G: This time, the story will probably be turned into video at a slightly later (phase). Perhaps…… I think it will be great if we can gather everything by 2007. I wonder to what extent a movie or game, etc. can be completed.

I: That reminds me, when I was listening to the singles, I felt that the story is quite similar to (the story in) “Rebirth” concert. That is also the story of the fate that soldiers carry, isn’t it?
G: Aah…… We looked at the way we created it again. I think the “Rebirth” concert was done very well. Those watching can get into (the story) and understand it easily. I felt that it went great in terms of challenging the way we merged the video, the music, and the stage. Just that we incurred huge expenses. (laughs) The numbers are shockingly red.

I: Let’s talk about the live. The “DIABOLOS ~哀婉の詩~” tour will start at around the time this magazine is published. It’s been a while, are the band members the same as from the previous concert?
G: There is no change in band members.

I: The dancers will follow the tour as well, right? It’ll be of a great scale again.
G: Really? Great…… isn’t it? (bitter laugh)

I: The tour will focus on “DIABOLOS” naturally, but I wonder if there is going to be any other songs as well.
G: First, there are a couple of songs chosen from “Crescent”. The focus is indeed on what you call the songs under the concert, but because I want it to stand (on its own) as a show, as entertainment…… I definitely do not want it to be self-pleasure. So we also discussed with the members and of course, even the songs that are not under the concept will be performed as well. We do not want to forget such a factor too.

I: Speaking of that, there were many songs from “Crescent” which were not performed in the concert, right? [1]
[1] In “上弦の月” (Jougen no Tsuki) concert, he performed songs from both “MOON” and “Crescent” albums. Of the 12 songs in “Crescent”, he only performed 5: “君が待っているから” (Kimi ga Matteiru kara), “月の詩” (Tsuki no Uta), “君が追いかけた夢” (Kimi ga Oikaketa Yume), “Birdcage”, and “オレンジの太陽” (Orenji no Taiyou).
G: I didn’t do most of them. And, we’ll be performing the songs for the next album too.

I: Whoo! We’ll also get to hear the songs that have not been released yet.
G: Most of them were cancelled though. (lit. stopped) (bitter laugh) During the planning, the number of songs to be performed came up to twenty-one. So while we were decreasing the numbers, “let’s take out the songs which they have not heard yet.” Though it was decided so, I think we’ll still include one or two songs.

I: From what you’ve said, it seems like it’s going to be one spectacular show.
G: Of course. We concentrated heavily on the world view, so it’s quite interesting.

I: There are thirteen shitos, as we have discussed just now, so will the stage be interwoven with many complicated side stories?
G: That’s right. But because it’s impossible to present the whole long story and all thirteen of them, we decided to just pick up the main points. So there are five people presented this time and one more; I’m included in the five but I also take on other roles. In short, we’ll be showing you six out of the thirteen on this stage.

I: U~n, that’s detailed!
G: I believe you’ll definitely find it interesting even if you don’t know the details. I think even those who come to watch without knowing that the concert is based on some story will still be able to understand it. I made it so that people can view it that way. Maybe somehow they’ll understand from the beginning.

I: (Understand) the world of “DIABOLOS”?
G: Yes. The strongest point of the title of this album is in how we face the darkness, the evil that lurks in our hearts. The darkness in our heart.

I: Not physical darkness, but mentally?
G: Exactly. The darkness that exists inside us psychologically. That is why you see me taking off the mask in the CD cover. It’s not about me anguishing over which one is the real me, but being able to come face to face with our own real self for the first time, of us discovering the reason and significance of our existence. So, it’s more breathtaking and more intense. The artwork of this album is really beautiful, isn’t it? Everyone worked really hard. I think they’ll understand the story even better once they’ve seen the CD booklet and the tour pamphlet.

I: And last we’ll talk about the Tokyo Dome live. There are special position (lit. place, situation, position, location) even inside the tour, right?
G: We are looking at it as the final of the national tour, and it’s of a different scale too. Because it’s of a greater scale, we also want to “present it to everyone as a Christmas present”.

I: Won’t you plan something special for the last day, just like all the other previous concerts? There will be something quite special included this time, right?
G: U~n, that’s what you can look forward to watching. (laughs)

I: (laughs) Well, I’m all excited for the tour now!
G: If my body doesn’t hold (lit. carry), I’ll stop; but if it does, I’ll continue with the tour next year as well. From here, it’s “I’ll show you how to do a live in Tokyo dome!” “This is (how you do) a request for live.” (laughs)

Translated by: Sweiled

Off to bed now, I'll comment again later. @____@

BACKSTAGE Blog Entries Dec 8 - Dec 10

sweiled — Fri, 23 Dec 2005 16:43:14 GMT

1. Please DO NOT take my translations or publish them elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
2. Please COMMENT if you read it.
3. Do feel free to email me at ayashi15@hotmail.com.

December 08, 2005
12/8、9 Osaka-jo Hall

This is the view from the stage of Osaka-jo Hall.
By the way, the cameraman is standing on the spot where Gackt stands.
This is how it looks like to Gackt.

Posted by Tour Staff : 04:25 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

-------------------------------

December 09, 2005
The path Gackt took

This is the path they took to enter the Hall, starting from Gackt, followed by the members and the staff.
The stone wall in Osaka-jo Hall is impressive, isn’t it?

Posted by Tour Staff : 10:34 AM
Translated by: Sweiled

-------------------------------

December 10, 2005
Osaka-jo Hall　After the end of barashi [1]

The beautiful stage has already been taken down.
Everyone, up next is Tokyo Dome.

Posted by Tour Staff: 04:40 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

Note:
[1] muse90210 helped me check the meaning and apparently "barashi" is a term used for the act of taking apart Apple PowerBooks, disassembling them, usually with the purpose of finding out how they work inside and/or making modifications. It was also mentioned with iPods but it seems mostly to be applied to PowerBooks. Thank you very much for the information, Muse!! ^^

And @@ information about the tour document for DIABOLOS～哀婉の詩～ is already up. Seems like they are going to have another special limited edition as well. (What DOESN'T have a limited edition these days!?) I believe it'll come in a "specially-made, gorgeous coffin box" (!!) and you will get a silver blade paper knife (!?) 160 pages of pure goodness~~ Pre-orders start tomorrow and ends on 28 Feb; release date is late March. By the side, it's double the price of the normal edition. It's also by the same photographer who does his previous tour books. ^^

WANTS. *paws*

October 2005 Arena 37 Part 1: Long Interview Translation

sweiled — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 16:25:10 GMT

The BACKSTAGE people did it again. ;o; I'll do the next series tomorrow. >___>;;

This is the translation of Arena magazine and it's prettly long. ^^;; And somehow I feel the need to aoplogize for the dramatic opening. <.<

Much thanks to the lovely gekka_no_neko, crescent_yume, and Saori for all the help. ^^ *hugglies*

Some interesting details and information, especially one part of the opening. ^^ There are more theories and discussions here than the actual talking of the album. I like hearing him talk about contrasts and how he highlights that contrast through his music and stories. They talked a little bit more on the recording process as well.

All right, I'll "see" you guys again "below". :D Hope you'll enjoy the article~~

1. Please DO NOT take my translations and use them for whatever reason, without my permission.
2. Please DO NOT publish my translations elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
3. Please kindly spare a few minutes and COMMENT if you read it. What are your thoughts of it?

[number] = more explanation of the sentence below
xxx = more detailed explanations
[xxx] = what I felt a certain part of the sentence meant
(xxx) = other meanings of the word or literal translations or missing word/words not specifically mentioned. For e.g. The fans screamed when (Gackt and his band members) entered the stadium! Read it like you will a normal sentence.
=xxx= = real brackets used in the interview

It has been six months since Gackt’s last photo shoot and interview. We did interview him periodically based on the timing of the consecutive releases of “ありたけの愛で” (Arittake no Ai de); “Love Letter” album; “BLACK STONE”; and “Metamorphoze ～メタモルフォーゼ～” since the beginning of the year. Which is why for this sudden blank, yes, to say that it felt like the loneliness of a long-distance love relationship won’t be too far-fetched indeed.
[1] He was covered in many articles from the period between Arittake no Ai de (Feb 26) and Metamorphoze (May 25), then there was a long break until the release of “DIABOLOS” on Sept 21. Though “Todokanai Ai to Shitteita noni, Osaekirezuni Aishitsuduketa…” single was released on Aug 10, only Oricon Style had him on their cover.

Of course, we know that Gackt is immersed in the production of the next album. Gackt had mentioned in the (previous) interview that the singles released after “Love Letter” had already been recorded based on the concept of the next album. Then, there is the matter of the title of the album, “DIABOLOS”, which carries the meaning of devil in Latin. And somehow, as the materials given by the record company show us, the album is related to the world of “MOON” that was presented to us over the period from the year 2001 to the year 2003.

Wasn’t “MOON” concluded with the release of “Crescent” album? What’s the link between this album which carries the meaning of “devil” and the deeply sad story of a group of men as seen in “MOON CHILD”, the movie with a vampire theme and with the near future set as the stage? Leaving behind (lit. scatter) only hints, Gackt secluded himself completely in the studio. The only song we received that was not released as singles and which would be included in the album was “Future”.

And at last, we meet again!

“It’s been a while~! Was it half a year ago? Time sure flies (laughs)”

You find Gackt’s usual self in the studio. No, usual… not quite right to say that. Because of the hairstyle, you see. His hair which is usually let loose and (styled) with mousse or hair wax is now braided tightly and neatly gathered. It’s a completely new image. When asked if this hairstyle has any meaning to it, Gackt answered with a secretive smile.
“Ahahahaha, suitable? (laughs) This is made based on the hairstyle of one of the characters in this story. I was thinking of coming up with the tribal part. It’s totally not suitable for normal clothing though, I’ve been told that it’s scary. (laughs) But it will suit this world view on the stage. Though it’s still rather short now, we will add extensions to it for the stage.” [1]
[1] He said, “it becomes longer,” but writing it that way sounds weird, so I changed it to add/put extensions instead.

Yes, that’s right. He himself already became a part of the world of “DIABOLOS”.

And next, the interview. We’ll connect his words one by one from the scattered hints that Gackt tossed at us, and his grand visions (lit. dreams) and this story which goes beyond our imagination shall be made clear here……

The vampire legend which dates back to A.D 700 and broken down into four chapters.

I: What we are most curious about is the reopening of the world of “MOON” with this album, “DIABOLOS”. Why is it back to “MOON” again?
G: Well, the story of “MOON” itself is basically very long. It’s separated into four chapters altogether. Actually, the concept shown through “Kagen no Tsuki” and “Jyougen no Tsuki” tours was from chapter four, and the first, second, and third chapters before that has not been shown yet. And the tour this time, “DIABOLOS ~哀婉の詩~”, is right in between the second and third chapters.

I: I see! Because it’s like episode 1 of “Star Wars”, the story moves backward! I did wonder why they were vampires after watching “MOON CHILD”.
G: And this time the story is from the year 1600 if you look at the western calendar of the story. The whole story starts from the year 700.

I: Even the time period is known clearly! The background would have been set up in Gackt-san’s mind (too), right?
G: From year 700 to 1300 is the first chapter; 1300 to 1600 is the second; and 1600 to the current time is the third one. Then, from the current time to the near future is the fourth chapter, and that was the one I did under the previous “MOON” theme.

I: I see, I understand at last.
G: This time, “DIABOLOS” takes place in the interval between the second and third chapters, and the main focus is on the origin of vampires. So the characters are not yet called vampires at this point. And now I’m going to go back to the reason why I’m so particular about vampires, is that okay?

I: That is what we would like to hear most too.
G: What I want to express most is “human”. The evil that exists in human, the existence of human, etc. I want to draw that part of human. But I think that’s something very vague [1], and the more direct you try to express it, the harder it becomes to convey. That’s why it becomes like a mirror, the way we look at human through this race called vampires. That is what I think. It’s like we can see humans clearly by creating (lit. draw) these vampires…… This clan called vampires, though they are similar to humans in appearance, they exist as a different species. And while humans fear “death” and lives rejecting that, this vampire group, on the other hand, longs for it. Because they are not able to die. In that sense, I think it’s easy to turn it into a reflection of humans. I find such a way of expression easy to convey for me. It’s definitely not because I wanted to present vampires, but because this way of expressing humans through vampires makes it easy to understand and can also be conveyed without difficulty. Moreover, their existence is fleeting, intense, and sad [2] and such a story is easy to tell. In terms of expressing it through music and on stage, it’s very easy to present to the audience.
[1] This phrase appears often in the article. doro doro is the informal term for something that is gooey or muddy, or something that is confusing. Consider the abstract concept of "muddiness". It’s also used to imply that someone is not getting along with someone else. Thanks gekka_no_neko!!
[2] はかない hakanai: fleeting; transient; short-lived; momentary; vain; fickle; miserable; empty; ephemeral
激しい hageshii: violent; vehement; intense; furious; tempestuous
切ない setsunai: painful; trying; oppressive; suffocating

I: The ones watching can also get into the world of the story easily. By the way, the vampires are from a clan?
G: In this story, the vampires were something that was created. It’s a clan created unnaturally and the origin of it all is shown here in this story. But that’s not something you express fully in music; and that’s why I think you’ll be able to see it in a movie, or a novel, or a game form in a later phase.

I: Though it’s not Osamu Tezuka’s “Phoenix” [1], the story of how humans seek immortality is a philosophical theme, isn’t it?
[1] Osamu Tezuka is said by many to be the founder of anime. If you want to read more about him, some websites here and here. More on the “Phoenix” story itself here.
G: Humans who see immortality and vampires who seek a peaceful death are extreme opposites, are they not? The humans who seek immortality think that being able to live forever is a wonderful thing. But the vampires know how painful such an existence is. It’s an interesting theme because you get to present both sides, of the pain of not obtaining it, and of the pain of carrying it. And because vampire is a well-known theme throughout the world, it can be grasped easily.

I: This world has its own unique aesthetics as well.
G: In this story, this group that is the origin of vampires was created to kill others. But that doesn’t mean they themselves pursue that life. Regardless, they carry the destiny of having to live amidst such a conflict. They are incomplete because they cannot stand under the sunlight; and they are both hated and feared by humans. Who on earth are they created for? For what purpose do they exist? They are a clan who live constantly amidst conflicts. And they have to live while being pursued because they are a superior minority. Don’t you think that resembles closely the minority in the present world? Those who command great power represents justice (lit. becomes righteousness/justice), but is it really so? Such a discussion, right? I think that’s not true. Because justice is something you create, because justice is not something that (simply) exists.

Creating using a method that only I can use, that’s difficult……

I: But even though the songs are created under such a grand theme, each song can be applied to different scenes separately. For example, even as tie-up songs…… [1]
[1] Songs used in commercials; soundtracks for dramas, animations; etc.
G: Of course! That’s because I have no intention of making songs which you can’t understand unless I explain the story. That is what I always find difficult when making songs. Because there is no meaning to it if you do not feel that the song is independent from the others, even when you listen to them separately. That’s the basic problem. And after clearing that, how the story flows when you arrange the songs as an album is another point. If you don’t consider that at the same time, it won’t work. It’s difficult. (laughs)

I: That’s right, because you don’t think so far normally. (laughs)
G: Yes, it’s difficult. As your work, you can create each song separately (lit. independently), right? Because it’s better that way. But for me, (I would consider), “What’s the method that only I can use?” and that’s how it became this way.

I: That’s because nobody (else) creates a single by taking it from the concept of the album. Especially “Metamorphoze” which became the theme song for “Zガンダム” (ZGundam). On top of Gackt’s own story, the story of “Zガンダム” is also entwined in it.
G: In cases of tie-ups, I’ll definitely say this to the producers. If there is something in common between the themes of my own work (and yours) and if it corresponds with each other, I’ll present that for sure. So the author of “Zガンダム”, Tomino-san, understands that as well. If you look at the song in its own entirety, why are we here at this point? For what reasons do we fight? That’s the theme of “Metamorphoze”. Like the conflicts faced by the vampires that I mentioned earlier on, the characters in “Zガンダム” also possess such thoughts, don’t they? That’s because that part corresponds with each other. Even if you did not create (the songs specially) for it, as long as we have a common theme, we’ll be able to push the imagination of the viewer. That’s what I think.

The songs for the next album after this one were actually completed first

I: But recording is taking a very long time this time.
G: Regarding the songs you have not heard this time, it’s taking such a long time because we have to correct over and over again the method we used to create the music. What you call our specialty and the new (methods) we used are jumbled together in this album. It’s not that we changed it into something totally new, but we are adding new elements to it progressively, using my music as the base. If there is a genre that this final form that we are creating falls under, I think it will probably be “New Mixture Rock”. But we are having a difficult time establishing that. For example, the method we used for songs like “Ash” is basically continued from the previous album. “Metamorphoze” as well, we had already begun the recordings for that in the middle of the production of “Crescent”. So those parts, the ones which were continued from previous albums and the newer ones which we are looking for in this album, are different. But they are mixed together. We were able to complete the ones which we continued from the previous work earlier, but we had to redo it over and over again when adding the new elements into it and that took a very long time. I feel really bad about that.

I: No, that’s okay because you don’t make songs to fit (the timing of) interviews. What matters most is making it in time for the release date. (laughs)
G: Of course! I’ll make it in time for the release date. (laughs) And most might think that this name called Gackt is my solo name, but I look at Gackt as the overall project name. That is why we have the name GacktJob. We’ve also been looking at the composition of not just this album alone, but the next one as well while recording this. So during the recording, we did the songs that will be included in the next album (after “DIABOLOS”) first. I think (the staff) will be able to understand better the directions we are supposed to move towards if I let them listen to those songs first. Because that was completed first. (laughs)

I: Why is it……?
G: Well, it’s the order of recording. (laughs) It’s in their convenience…… [1] (laughs) Actually, those songs are more complete, and normally, they would have been released (already). But (I didn’t) because the songs are not meant for this album, but for the next one instead.
[1] Literally it means “adult’s convenience”, something like the convenience of those who have the power and authority, which in this case will be the record company. It’s in the record company’s convenience that Gackt do the songs to be released first instead of recording songs meant for the next album.

I: Didn’t the record company ask you to do the songs for this album first? (laughs)
G: Well…… (laughs) But in order to create that world view (of “DIABOLOS”), we have to do the next one first. That is why it is important to us. But the record company can only look at what’s in front of their eyes. That is where the difference lies. Because for sure, our music will not be good if we don’t do it this way. So we do it because it’s necessary. I think they manage to understand that letting them hear the songs for the next few singles first is the fastest way to complete the production of this album. Just that we won’t be including those songs in this album. (laughs)

I: Could it be! (laughs) [1]
[1] I think the interviewer is joking, saying that maybe those songs aren’t included in this album because it’s not good enough or ready yet. Something like, “Could it be that it’s not included because…!?”
G: They are great! Really good! (laughs)

I Ah, I see! (laughs)
G: Even I myself was surprised. “Amazing!” I thought. I was surprised. They are awesome.

I: But we can’t listen to it yet.
G: Hmmm, around half a year to eight months later as singles…… maybe. (laughs) If we don’t at least have such a plan ready in our mind, we’ll lose the diversity (lit. spread, span) of our own music. You will only be able to look at what’s in front of you and it will only become a work you do because you are at your wit’s end. There is no meaning in doing that. I really want to do something that has a meaning to it, and not just (produce) a work you can digest easily. I think the songs that you’ve not heard, which will be included in this album, will turn out to be pretty interesting. It’s a new (method), and I think there is no doubt that I’m the only one in Japan who can create such music. Not because of the (mention of) human’s confusing part and its theme, or that even the way it is expressed is ambiguous, not those, but the way I always present it as something beautiful, intense, and fleeting…… Such a balance is the reason why I am “the only one”. That’s what I think.

In order to set the destination, one can look at the history (lit. archaeological way of thinking)

I: But while there is the you who are analyzing over these things for a long period of time, there is also the you who live day by day in real time. [1] Does a time lag arise between these two sides? Between the one who is moving on, and the one who is pondering over a long period of time.
[1] Erm, allow me to explain. ^^;; Basically the difference is in the Gackt who spends hours and days over this work and who lives in the world of the story, versus the Gackt who lives in real time. Between the one who is stuck in one time frame, and the one who is“living” and “evolving”.
G: Of course I think that happens. There are times when it really happened too. But if you don’t set the target and the direction first, you won’t be able to move, right? In short, you won’t be able to visualize the process without determining the (targeted) result. But there are also many things you’ll find while you are doing it. The target is set. But while you are walking towards that target, along with the new emotions and sense you acquired along the way, there is a possibility that you’ll change destination, and the way you progress. There is such a way of thinking as well, right? And in my case, that’s definitely not a “NO”.

I: Well, the theme you carry is not (related to any specific) time period or anything like that, but it’s the universal theme of human’s true nature, so it’s not something that can be swayed easily.
G: That’s true. It’s not like I sing about (a particular) time. So for me, the way my mind works is rather similar to an archaeologist’s. There are people who say that there is no point in looking back into the past, but by doing that, we can understand the folly of our (own actions). And we will know the road we need to take from this point on. I think the people who can only look at the things in front are the ones who cannot see their future clearly. It’s exactly because we saw the past that we can feel the future. But that’s definitely not moving backwards; it’s understanding the true nature of human and thinking of the future clearly. Because you see, our history is a history of sins, is it not? Maybe it’s creative creation, but that’s also a history of destruction. History of massacre keeps repeating itself. That’s a truth you cannot deny.

I: There are developments in technology precisely because there are wars.
G: Exactly! But is it really moving towards the right direction or not? If we don’t study the past, we’ll move towards the wrong direction.

I: Seems like it includes a real message inside.
G: That is why the things I want to express are hidden (lit. vague; unclear). But if I express it directly, it will carry too much of a sense of reality, and it won’t reach people’s hearts. Because nobody wants to be told that. So expressing that through some sort of story makes it much easier to understand. My works are created in such a way. Maybe it’s rather similar to the way movie conveys (its theme). So all in all, it may not be something you can understand immediately; our existence and philosophical themes are included as well. But I think with the passing of time, you’ll be able to feel it somehow and understand it. Listen to each song separately and you will be able to merge your feelings at that time with your own self. A difference will arise between what you feel in “real time” and what you feel slightly later after some time has passed. That is what I would like to convey. Not like a magazine (which is published) timely, but something like a novel which can stay in people’s hearts. I do it with such thoughts in mind.

The stage this time is awesome!

I: From what age did you start wanting to express human nature through music?
G: I think it was when I was around 20 years old, around the time I started playing bands. It was also during this time that I started thinking about playing in Asia, from the time I began to want to let others know that I am Asian.

I: You made the ballad album, “Love Letter”, after “Crescent”. How do you feel doing that has helped you in this album?
G: The theme of “Love Letter”, which was making songs using simple sounds, was like a homework of sorts to us. Like a task. It’s not just randomly mixing sounds, but I think it was a work which reminds (lit. look back) us of the importance of melodies. While doing the work of “Crescent”, there was a worry that our music will become fixed to this (style). If we move on to the next work right away, there is a fear that it will have the same flow as that album. That is why we put it aside for the time being (lit. once) and tried something new. And because of that, the desire to mix sounds again grew stronger. If there is no want, one will get used to (the way things are). I think what I feared most was that my companion and family, who are doing this with me, will start to relax if we continue using the same methods. That’s because if you can’t feel a certain degree of stress, you’ll definitely not be able to create something new. I think there is a great meaning in making ourselves do this stressful work as a task. And I think this album will come out great as a result of that.

I: Gackt-san yourself too, it’s as if your voice carries a persuasive power now, as the result of you pushing yourself as a vocalist.
G: That’s right. I think the vocal for songs like “Future” was very good.

I: The tour will finally start in September, looks like it’s going to be impressive this time.
G: Yes, it’s going to be awesome!

I: I can’t wait to watch it!
G: But it’s really terrible this time. We went completely over the budget.

I: That always happens though (laughs)
G: But it’s really horrible this time! Expenses are way too high. There might be people who think they can make profits by holding tours, but there is no such thing at all! It’s always over the budget and the numbers are in red. (bitter laugh) But I want to make something that leaves behind a form, something that remains in your memory. I’m definitely not trying to make profits because I believe you can recover the losses from elsewhere. To gain back profits from something else other than music, and to focus on music. We pursue the entertainment part in music as a work and that’s why we can do crazy stages. It’s difficult though.

I: Gackt-san yourself has recording to do and you still have to think of the layout of the tour. Isn’t it hard?
G: ……Yes……Hard…… (laughs)

I What is the highlight of the concert this time?
G: I’m not going to tell you that! (laughs) But it’s really great. You’ll be surprised even from the opening itself. Look forward to it!

Original Text by: 小野緑
Translated by: Sweiled

Own comments:

To say that it felt like the loneliness of a long-distance love relationship won’t be too far-fetched indeed.

Erm, right.

Okay, I do think it's amazing that just about all the interviewers seem to have a genuine respect for him and his works. You can really feel their enthusiasm, not because of the polite words they use, but because of the way they express themselves. But I guess you expect nothing less from Gackt. ^^

THE HAIR!! @@ WOW. I didn't think that it would be related to the story, I thought it was just another hair style. Hmm, does that mean all his previous styles for the past singles were also the image of the characters...? Interesting.

It's really fascinating to hear him talk because you can tell how much thought he has put into all his works. Everything is done for a reason and to hear him reveal the links between each point is like playing a jigsaw puzzle. :D I like the way he presents mankind to us through vampires and his logic for doing so, everything truly fits in!!

Though he did discuss this story more often than usual, he didn't reveal much if you notice. He did tell us the storyline and the characters, but the theme and the answers are still blank. It's up to us to figure out the meanings, up to us to find our own stories and the reasonings.

Because justice is something you create, because justice is not something that (simply) exists.

Brilliant line. I agree, it's something that we create ourselves. If we don't stand up for our own beliefs, no one will. It's up to us to make a difference and to make our voices be heard. All it takes for evil to survive is for good to do nothing. Turn a blind eye and you are letting it live and take root. So if there is something you believe in, fight for it. ._____.

I think he really did get into a little bit of trouble with the record company. ^^;;; I know this is not the first time, but to see him stand his own ground and not budge is inspiring. *-* At times I wonder where he gets that confidence and that strength from, then I wonder if he has a "weak" moment where he doubts himself and sways a little from his goal... I think there are such times, just that he is strong and determined enough to overcome those doubts eventually. ^^

*0* Interesting stuff about his view on the name Gackt.

Not because of the (mention of) human’s confusing part and its theme, or that even the way it is expressed is ambiguous, not those, but the way I always present it as something beautiful, intense, and fleeting…… Such a balance is the reason why I am “the only one”.

:D :D I admit I don't listen to any other Japanese bands much, but I definitely feel that in his music. It's like a rollercoaster ride. Just as you are enjoying the slow ride, it plunges suddenly and takes you on a wild ride~ That might be the reason why I never get tired of his music. There are just so many elements in it that you can still discover something new even after you've heard the songs many times.

I think the people who can only look at the things in front are the ones who cannot see their future clearly. It’s exactly because we saw the past that we can feel the future.

I can see the logic in that too. ^^ Just like we learn from our mistakes and improve from there. We make choices as influenced by past experiences or our environment. And it DOES show how foolish we are for repeating the same mistakes over and over again (and still are). I guess it's something that humans can never break free from.

But I want to make something that leaves behind a form, something that remains in your memory. I’m definitely not trying to make profits because I believe you can recover the losses from elsewhere.

Oh boy, I can talk one whole post on this one. In summary, if people aren't going to buy his CDs, and if people are going to talk when he does soundtracks/commercials/covers, then what the hell do you think he is going to survive on!!????? Air? Tofu!?? *snort*

(Did I just insult tofu? I meant no offense. I love the little white dude)

Ahhh, after hearing about the reopening of MOON, I did wonder why he did the GIFT concept. Especially since songs like Metamorphoze are completed way before. Why put a break in between and do the GIFT concept? Now we know. Hehe, the weird thing is, I was listening to Dears ~LLV~ some time ago, and I remember thinking that I can understand why he wants to start mixing sounds again. If you compare it to the original version, it is sooo much slower. Doing these kind of simple arrangements for too long must really take its toll on him. ^^;; There is no denying, after all, that his own preference leans more towards the rock side. Though I still wish that more people can give Love Letter more chance because it's really a beautiful album~

XD Someday I'm going to write comments which are longer than the article itself. XD Thank you for reading! ^^

BACKSTAGE Blog Entries Dec 4 - Dec 6

sweiled — Mon, 12 Dec 2005 14:21:25 GMT

I'm not the one who is late this time. XD But wow, there are quite a few of them too, I wonder what happened...

1. Please DO NOT take my translations or publish them elsewhere without my permission. Please kindly link back if you want, but DO NOT copy and paste them.
2. Please COMMENT if you read it.
3. Do feel free to email me at ayashi15@hotmail.com.

December 04, 2005
12/4（Sun）Kagoshima Shimin Bunka Hall part 1

A white board you see often in the concert venues. Contact information and appointments aplenty!
It seems like there is a note written by Ju-ken-san this time!
And crammed to the extent that it has to be written on the corner!

Posted by Tour Staff: 06:29 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

Comment: Don’t ask me to translate what’s written on the board. XD;; *goes blind*

-------------------------

December 05, 2005
Backstage of Kagoshima hall

This is the corridor of the dressing rooms.
Guitar cases, closets for costumes… etc. Because there are plenty of things placed along the corridor,
we could only use half of it (to walk) every time.

Posted by Tour Staff: 06:31 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

-------------------------

December 05, 2005
12/5 Moving towards Nagoya

We were supposed to fly to Nagoya today.
But!! The flight to Nagoya was cancelled somehow… What should we do!? What’s going to happen now!?
The staffs who were left behind in the airport.

Posted by Tour Staff: 06:36 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

-------------------------

December 06, 2005
12/6（Tue）Nagoya Rainbow Hall

Unbelievably good weather! !
The weather cleared on the 6th, (making us feel like) the incident yesterday was just a dream (lit. lie)!! [1]
Staffs and members, everyone, otsukare sama deshita. [2]

Posted by Tour Staff: 06:41 PM
Translated by: Sweiled

Note:
[1] Because of the scare and the unexpected problem regarding the delay in flights, the atmosphere must have been pretty gloomy on the 5th. But on the next day (the problems were solved, I assume) the weather cleared; hence lifting up their previous gloomy spirit as well and making them forget the problems from the day before. ^^

[2] ^^;; Something like, “Everyone, (the previous day) has been hard on you, thank you very much.”

Comment: *0* *pats the members and staffs* Luckily all of them managed to make it in time for the concert in Nagoya. What a close call though. @@;;

Well, the last concert before Tokyo Dome was on Friday, 9th December. I can't believe the concert is coming to an end already. Where did the time go!?? ^^;; Everyone who is going to the Tokyo Dome, I hope you'll have a great time!! ^^ Enjoy yourselves and SCREAM loud~~ X3

As for the rest of us, can't wait for the concert DVD to be released!! And we know we'll enjoy the concert nonetheless. ;)

The advantages of having multipple accounts~~ XDDDD

sweiled — Tue, 06 Dec 2005 16:55:55 GMT

are? o.0;;;; I posted a translation an hour or so ago, and I just realized it didn't show on my other account's friend's list. Then I realized it's not showing on anybody's friend's list! *lost anyone yet?* XD

*pokes LJ*

Hmmm, anyway, I hope this one shows. ^^;;; I thought it's a little shameless to be pimping myself in my own LJ XD but yeah, there is an article translation up~ Hope you'll enjoy it. ^^

I know what you went through now, Jeannie XD;;

Edit: I'm sorry, I forgot to put this in. XD The translation post is the one right below this, and here's the link~~

BACKSTAGE Blog Entry translations Dec 2

sweiled — Sun, 04 Dec 2005 12:57:07 GMT