Russian symphonic black/folk metal band DEMON SHINEGAMI have just released their new album "Returning to Nihil", which was in development for quite sometime, it is a one man band project that has taken the time to step away from this album's promotion to discuss the holiday season!
1. What are you doing for the holidays?
Well, I always try to become a better person than I was yesterday - whether it's holidays or not. Only by living up to this simple rule I’ve managed to become a full-fledged musician with my own discography starting from scratch.
2. This Halloween season I did what?
This autumn I’ve managed to release a new album and to develop a concept for the next one already. I was so focused on that I have totally missed out all the holidays actually. 😆
3. Did you dress up this year?
As a Zen follower, who has refused and rejected my own personality, I think the best idea for Halloween is to become myself once again for a day or two to reminisce about my past gains and losses in order to never forget the lessons I've learned. So I guess it's dressing up like my old self.
4. What is your favorite Halloween candy or treat?
I enjoy mochi a lot. Although it's a Japanese dessert.
5. What are you thankful for?
For all the obstacles and hardships the Universe has put me through to make me stronger and more confident. You know, stones on a sea shore become smooth after being thoroughly polished by waves. I’d say, a strong-willed person develops in a similar way.
6. Do you have a favorite dish for Thanksgiving or do you enjoy everything?
In Buddhism they thank all the living creatures (including plants) which were deprived of their lives so that we can prepare and eat a meal. So it’s not about what you eat, it's more about your feelings while you eat.
7. Who's the one out of the band, that eats the most, when it comes to the holiday season?
Since I'm the only band member, I'm the one that eats both the most and the least. Maybe I should come up with a self-challenge someday - to eat more or less than the last time. :D
8. Do you or have you gone shopping on Black Friday, if so what did you find and buy? Or have you gone out to see the sights of the crowds?
I’m not fond of shopping unless it's something I really need. For example a new pack of guitar strings to replace the rusty-dusty old ones. )
9. When it comes to the holiday season, does the band all get together, or does everyone do their own thing?
It's always important for each of us to get together with oneself. Because if you get to know yourself you’ll eventually be able to understand other people better.
10. What is your favorite Christmas song to sing and why?
It’s a Japanese song called “Xmas? I don't know such a thing!” It's just a sarcastic way to look at being a grown-up who’s all gloomy-doomy ‘cuz they're not able to enjoy holidays like an innocent child anymore.
11. One thing you really want for Christmas is what?
It's the inner peace. Every person is always their own arch-enemy. And stopping all the fighting between emotions, regrets, fears etc. inside ourselves would be the best present... Uh, OK, peace on Earth matters as well. :)
12. Do you still believe in Santa Claus? Enough so, that you would pay him a visit at the mall or other local events?
In the ancient times they used to say that fictional or supernatural beings exist as long as someone believes in their existence. So it doesn't matter if I believe in Santa or not. Since many others do, that means he's there somewhere in some way.
13. What type of Christmas tree do you prefer white or green or your own version?
I’d prefer any except for a natural chopped down tree. Because Buddhism actually considers trees and plants living creatures just as much as animals or humans. And none of the living things deserves to be killed for solely decorative purposes.
14. Are you a late or early Christmas shopper?
Shopping for the sake of shopping itself leads to over-attachment towards material things. It's not like you have to reject them. But I personally prefer to control my needs and urges instead of letting them take control over me. It's essential since my ultimate goal is becoming my own and only master.
15. One thing you have to do on New Year's Eve?
Back when I was a teenager I used to play “Final Fantasy V” every New Year's Eve. And now I usually publish a new video game music cover each year to help other people recall those nostalgic times of their lives as well.
16. Do you have any New Year's resolutions?
Yeah, there is one actually. You see, my father was a sportsman and therefore had been training me since my childhood. I used to do all kinds of stuff - from athletics to hatha yoga. I could even do the splits when I was 8. But several years later I had to stop due to some health reasons. And recently I've decided to bring back what was lost - my flexibility. It'll take a huge amount of time and effort though. But since I've spent 15 years on composing my best album and have recently finished it - spending another 10-15 on achieving on more goal doesn't seem like a big deal anymore. )
