Mana Sweat!! File 1

 

It's Mana's birthday time and so I'm sharing a translation I did from photos of an interview in Vicious 1998 volume 12. It's the first of a series of articles with members of MALICE MIZER. A few things were a little difficult to read, but I did my best. So here is Motorcycle Mana-sama from the past, for your enjoyment.

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Basically masculine in everyday life, it's sketchy.

Starting this month, it's the start of planning MALICE MIZER's personal feature!! 

We will deliver PHOTO & interview with the theme of a hobby that makes you sweat.

The first is the appearance of Sweet Sexy Pretty Angel Mana-sama. Feeling "masculinity" from him, who is a little different from usual, with a motorcycle, my heart throbs a little.

"I'm sitting in the passenger seat of the car, and we are starting to roll.

I thought I was going to die.. This is the biggest cold sweat break in my life"

ーWhat time does Mana-chan break a sweat outside of live performances?

“Yes. Sauna or something…”

- Huh. Do you go often?

"Well, I don't go out very often, but I'm always careful about my body shape because of my job, so I'm always on a diet or something. So, if you sweat, you'll lose weight, right? That's why I go to the sauna. I always pay attention to my body shape, but when I'm on a diet, I go crazy, so I focus on going to the sauna at that time. I only eat one apple a day, and all I can think about is losing weight, so I go to the sauna every day. When I'm on a diet, when I get on the scale and lose even a little bit, I look forward to it, so I obstinately try to lose weight."

-So, do you have a favorite sauna?

``There was a favorite, but it collapsed (laughs)''

－Did it go bankrupt due to the recession?

“Hmm, it was a sauna that no one knew about.”

- How long have you been in the sauna?

"Ah... I really want to lose weight, so I read books all the time (in the sauna), and when I get out, I get on the scale again, and if I don't change much, I go back in, and I repeat that, and in the end, I end up spending 2-3 hours. Do you feel like you are there?”

- Does it feel good to sweat at such times?

``No, it's painful (laughs).

ーCome to think of it, you also run marathons.

"Oh, I run lightly. It doesn't have anything to do with diet.

- Do you like running?

"I don't really like it (laughs)"

ー(laughs) So, is that too painful?

"Yeah. It's painful (laughs)"  Because I'm already desperate. I don't think I'm going to collapse."

- It's a lot of hard work.

“Well, but I was just running on the nearby riverbed, so it wasn't that big of a deal.”

-There are rumors that you run in heels.

"Yeah, yeah. I don't have sneakers. I don't have a T-shirt either...I dress like I usually do. The marathon was, of course, scheduled every morning. 

About a year and a half ago, in the morning, the bells of a place that seemed to be scheduled in my neighborhood rang, and it became a habit to listen to them. Also, I could see Mt. Fuji from the rooftop of my apartment on a clear day, so I was looking forward to seeing the view and hearing the church bells... I used to do healthy things like that a lot for a while, but lately I've been so busy that I can't do it regularly.”

- Oh, I guess so.

“Also, I used to like taking a shower at night and going for a run with my hair wet. Something that felt good. But lately, I've been unable to take such bold actions..."

-Will they find you?

``I don't know where I'm being targeted by the world anymore (LOL). I don't know where people are watching.”

- It's a bit inconvenient.

"It's a little inconvenient"

ーAnd you mentioned that you usually sweat, like dancing in clubs.

"Umm, hey (laughs). You can't touch that (laughs)"

ーSo, moving on to the subject, how about taking a bath? Do you like taking hot baths?

``Hmm, too hot is not good.  Add hot water, add bath salts, and make it dark.”

- Make it dark?

``Basically, the living space has to be dark. The bath has a dark red light, and it has a moody feeling.

- Huh. Then, long bath?

``No, it's not that long. But after getting out of the bath, I don't feel like doing anything anymore.

- Isn't that a long bath? (laughs)

"But I'm longing for a very large bath. Outlook for the bath! (laughs). That's why I want to design a house as soon as possible. I already have a blueprint for a bath in my head. Huh? Dumping (water by hand into the) bath? Dumping is no good (laughs). Hot water will come out of a lion's mouth (laughs).”

ーWell then, I would like you to look back on your past and tell us about your memories related to sweat.

Hmm... Oh! I have cold sweats. I've been in a few accidents, but once when we were driving over a mountain pass, I was sitting in the passenger seat and wasn't wearing a seatbelt. Then, when they couldn't turn a curve on a mountain road and broke through the guardrail, the car spun three or four times, and at that time I felt death. I wasn't wearing a seatbelt, so the car rolled around and all the glass was scattered around. In the end, the car went up while I was lying down, and I didn't get seriously injured."

ーDid you have broken bones?

"No, just scratches. Well, I thought I might die when it was spinning. It was a sight to see, and it felt like I was dreaming when it was spinning. The car was completely destroyed on all sides, but it was midnight, so there was no one on the roadway. So we all managed to escape and start the car, but it was in such a state, we could only get the speed up to about 10 kilometers. The tires were also stuck in a strange way... So, we couldn't help it, so we headed out onto the national highway for the time being. Somehow, a tire fell off (laughs). There were about 4 people in the car, and we all pushed the car (laughs)."

-When did it happen?

“It was a long time ago, when I was in my hometown.”

-I can't believe you didn't wear a seatbelt and got away with only a scratch.

“Yeah. That's why it might have been better to roll around like a ball (laughs). At that time, I was sitting in the passenger seat cross legged. Maybe that's why it was good that I rolled around in that posture (laughs). I rolled naturally like a ball, I'm sure (laughs)"

ーSo, that was the incident that made you sweat the most in your life.

“Yeah. In the case of an accident, that would be my turn. Also, I sometimes go skiing, and the moment I reach the top and think ``Let's go down,'' the slope is about 90 degrees, so I break out in a cold sweat and ask, ``How can I get down from here? I think it's fine (laughs). So, after thinking about it, I roll and fall.”

- (laughs) Are you spinning again?

"Yeah, I really want to go to the top. But I can't do it with my technique, so I regret it after climbing up.”

-Maybe you repeat that every time you go skiing?

"Yes (laughs). Since you are going all the way here, don't you hate going home without knowing the summit? "

~Skiing - does it feel good to sweat a lot?" (laughs). 

"No, sweating in ski clothes doesn't feel so good (laughs)."

-By the way, this time it's a different image than usual. Why did you decide to shoot with a motorcycle?

"Yeah, I like motorcycles. I used to ride them when I was little. Childhood days (laughs). Isn't it nice to ride a motorcycle while cutting through the wind? When I was in Osaka I used to travel a lot on a motorcycle. Unlike a car, you can turn around in a small circle, can't you? A car is the worst going uphill, but a motorcycle can get you out of narrow alleys, right? I loved exploring.”

－Is there a shape of a bike that you are fascinated by?

"Oh, I don't know. I don't really like the American type."

－The BMW classic type used in this shoot has a beautiful form.

"Oh, it's pretty good. I like simplicity in everything. I like the black body. I like everything simple. Something elegant and gothic would be nice. I don't like things that are painted. (some motorcycles have painted images or designs on them) If I have the chance, I'd like to ride a motorcycle again, but wearing a helmet is a bit of a pain. My hair gets messed up. My make-up rubs off if I wear a full face helmet (laughs). That's why, if I'm going to ride, wear no helmet and have perfect make-up, and run with my hair flowing! ”

ーWell, even if you fall down, Mana-san has a spinning technique (laughs).

“That's right! Gothic and cool! Basically, I like cars that are chic.

That's why. Emphasis on silhouette! ”

- You don't like motorcycle gangs, do you?

"(laughs) Ah, first of all, group action is no good (laughs)"

ーHowever, was the photo you took with the bike fresh for you?

“Yeah. I did it in a very masculine way for this shoot."

-Eh? Hobbies, for example?

``Yeah, I have a lot of that part. I want to express that there is a pretty feminine image in the world... I tend to be very rough around the edges, and although I'm very particular about gothic things, other than that, I'm pretty rough with regards to everyday life in Japan.”

ー(laughs) What is normal Japanese life like?

``(laughs) No, I don't know how to do laundry (laughs). It is like throwing it into the washing machine with a bang, throwing detergent into the clothing, and not folding it even after it's dried (laughs). Or, I can't keep things tidy. But when it comes to the gothic decoration of the room, I can't allow even a 1 mm gap (laughs). But the inside of the dresser looks like a mess (laughs)"

- Huh. Are you rough, compared to other members?

"Because I'm the only type 0 (laughs). "Haven't all the photos been properly filed in the album?" I put them all in a box. I think you're right."

ーSo, this time, I wonder if this is a page that reveals a little-known masculine side.

“Hmm, I haven't had the chance to put that out before, so this time it feels like I got the chance.”

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The photo shoot location was at a place in Tokyo that is now called the Cruise Club

Interview with Alice Kobayashi, KERA Magazine 26, November 2000

 

Since there has been recent interest in fashion designer Alice Kobayashi, I thought I would translate this interview with her. It is from KERA Magazine issue 26, from November 2000. 

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"When I was 17, 18 years old... I already specialized in design when I was in junior high school."

Since she had decided to go to school, she had no worries. She went to clubs and she encountered a lot of fashion and music. She was thinking about what she needed to do to become a designer. While working a part-time job selling clothes, she studied for the National Examination, and also attended a dressmaker's office and an English school.

Career: Dropped out of high school → Sales at NICE CLAP (NICE CLAUP) for a year and a half (in addition, selling children's clothing, part-time job at a flower shop, etc.) → After passing the exam, she entered Vantan Design Institute. While she was still in school, she made costumes for Koitsukihime dolls. → Joined Midi:Nette after graduation. She was involved from the launch of Moi-même-Moitié.

(Koitsukihimi dolls were known to Mana and featured in the MALICE MIZER Gardenia video and cover of their CD single)

 

How you got into your current job: Since I was 10 years old, I wanted to be a designer, but I couldn't think of it. For me, making clothes is the only way to express myself, and I am a clumsy person who can only do that...

If you hadn't been on this job: I can't imagine.

Job Description: All designs and patterns from clothes to accessories for Moitié's EGL department. When they first launched the brand, I started by buying irons and sewing machines, and really did anything. I used to walk around Shibuya with a lot of luggage.

What would you say to someone who wants to get this job? And, whether it's music, painting, or fashion, pursue whatever you like. As you do so, you can clearly see what you can do and what you should express. If you want to be a designer, playing is also important. Meet a lot of people and things, come into contact with a variety of ideas and sensibilities, and improve yourself. If you do that, you will be able to carve out a future and a dream with the friends you meet and your own efforts and energy!

Future goals: I hope to be able to do a show in the near future. I want to improve my skills and sensibilities, and create products that will make people even happier. I want to keep making them until I die.

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・Company structure of Midi:Nette Co., Ltd.

Including Producer Mana-sama, there are 2 Designers & Patterners, 1 Production Control & Patterner, 1 Small Product Production Control, and 5 shop staff, for a total of 10 people. We each have our own responsibilities, but when we are short of hands, we work together to make up for each other.

eta: I thought I would add a little information about Alice's career. She joined Moitié after graduating so it was her first job designing clothes for people. Moi-même-Moitié launched in 1999 but did not have a full line-up of items. In 2003, Alice began Fairywish, her own fashion company. So her time with Moitié was only a few years.

 

Venus Fort, Shopping, Food and Cars!

Going back to December 2010 in Tokyo and I decided to visit Odabai Island and Venus Fort. So what is Venus Fort? 

Well, it's a place with lots of interesting stores. 

Stores for older people and for younger people. And the young at heart.

Along with interesting services. Like weddings. Yes, you can get married at Venus Fort. Actually wedding photos here would be very beautiful. 

The reason why is because of the architecture inside Venus Fort that replicates an Italian city. 

 

Complete with arches, statues and more.

Like this beautiful fountain. 

Reminds me so much of the Venetian in Los Vegas, right down to the day and night lighting.

There are vintage cars in the History Garage and people dressed up as characters

And the occasional Italian street.

 I was hungry since I didn't have breakfast.

 So I sat down at Cobara Hetta for a dish of pasta interpreted Japanese style.

 It was interesting with okra, salmon, mentaiko, nori and grated daikon. The soup and salad were very good too.

 The best part was the view from my table.

(this post was originally posted December 2010)

Ryux Kuruchi～Oichi～Video Translation

So it was Mana's two day birthday shows at Pleasure Pleasure in Shibuya on March 19th and 20th. And as usual, Moi dix Mois performed the song "Immortal Madness". As I've blogged about, part of the fun of this song is the band sometimes changes part of the lyrics. One version is "Sexy Pretty Mana-sama" where everyone was suppose to do specific hand motions. Well, it seems that Mana changed the phrase to something else. And at the first show, Seth didn't sing it quite the way that Mana wanted it to be said. So at the second show...well, Ryux put a video of what happened on Twitter. I've attempted to translate what was written in the video. 

Here's the link to Ryux's tweet with the video https://twitter.com/RYU59/status/1505571535276281856

And here's the translation. I've color coded it to match the video, for the most part. If you are colorblind, you might want to copy and paste what is below if you need to change the color.

Seth：Eh～Today, Mana-sama made a complaint about yesterday's Seth.

Well～that's right.

Mana: The way to say "Kuruchi～Oichi～" is different

Seth：When。。。

Ryux: Kuruchi～

Ryux: Kuruchi～

Seth:  No, I laughed too。。。

Come on! And "Oichi" is like this. (During the choreography lecture)

Mana: In the acclaimed pressure point.*

Ryux: It doesn't stop。。。I can't laugh。。。

Seth：Yeah, maybe。。。

Ryux: Congratulations to Mana → meaningless*

Seth：Right now, I think I've got a pressure point

Ryux: It's time for pressure point time, everyone.

Seth：It's a pressure point time. Yes.

Ryux: Please take a look.

Seth：Thank you everyone. This is my first time so far w

Ryux: Kuruchi～Oichi～

Seth：I～Hifu www I'm going!!!!

Come on! Come on!!!!

Seth and Ryux: Kuruchi～Oichi～

Kuruchi～Oichi～

Kuruchi～Oichi～

Kuruchi～Oichi～

Ryux: Kuruchi～Oichi～

Seth：Is it okay to go to the end Mana-sama?

Mana: Mana-sama, I couldn't stand it and left (to) the stage sleeve myself

Ryux: This is an incident!

Also "Je t'aime Mana-sama～🤍"

Do you want to start over?

Mana: "It may be impossible, laugh at that voice." → listening to Seth.

Seth：This is already an incident, so w

Let's get it back!!!

Let's go back to "SEXY PRETTY ANGEL"

Ryux: Oh really?

Seth：This is impossible anymore w

Yes, the end www

Ryux: "Kuruchi～" is over?

"Kuruchi～" is over?

Is it the end of "Kuruchi～"?

Seth：Is no good anymore。。。 Ryo-chan www

THE END

*→ meaningless, I think Ryux was saying there was no reason for him to be doing it, it was just random.

*ツボ, tsubo, has a couple different meanings. A specific land measurement, pot, and pressure point. Pressure point made the most sense here (also because it was written in katakana like acupressure would be written). Just to add for those who may not know it, that since Mana tries to keep a stoic expression, it would be a pressure point to have to try and keep a straight face in this situation. Which is why Mana left the stage for a moment.

"w" is laughing

Because someone asked, "Oichi" is a name given to girls, it can mean "in city" also. Oda Nobunaga's sister's name is one example. As for "kuruchi", it seems to be a place name in Okinawa. I can't find an actual translation. If it is written in katakana it can mean "gulch", which is a ravine. Totally obscure, it can also be the name of the black finish on a knife or sword. I have no idea if Mana was referring to either of these, or he just like the sound of the two words. Oichi who has a black aura? Has Mana been playing Segoku Basura? Who knows?

Edited to add that I received a comment from someone in Japan who said that it could be "painful" for "kuruchi" and "delicious" for "oichi". Both words are normally spelled with "shi" instead of "chi", "kurushi/苦しい" and "oishi/美味しい". They said it is a child's way of saying the words.

 

Mana's Showa 50 Male Interview

Just for Mana's birthday, I've translated another interview. This time it is the article that appeared in Showa 50 Male, Vol.011, released June 11, 2021 (昭和50年男Vol.011). I decided to only translate the main body of the article. I believe most of the text in the purple boxes is informational, about Mana's career. As I've stated before, I'm not a trained translator so please pardon any typo's. And now, the interview.

♱♱♱♱♱♱♱♱♱♱

An unprecedented visual kei boom has arrived!

Mana talks

The truth of the band that overturned common sense

A visual kei that shocked the music scene in the latter half of the 90's with a gorgeous look that transcended the boundaries of men and women. I was there. We approach the break situation.

Interview / text: Tetsuo Yamaguchi

Before the category "Visual Kei" (V Kei) was born, the "makeup band" culture that was underground.

The support base had been expanding since the early 1990s, and popular bands in the indie world such as PENICILLIN, ROUAGE, and Laputa made their major debut in 1996, and they became an over-ground presence. And in 1997, MALICE MIZER, Fanatic Crisis, La'cryma Christi, and SHAZNA, who will be called "Visual Four Heavenly Kings", became major players.

SHAZNA's major debut single "Melty Love" recorded a huge hit with sales of 880,000 copies, and V-kei developed into a social phenomenon. By the way, GLAY's best of album "REVIEW-BEST OF GLAY" won the 1st place in the Oricon annual album ranking of this year. There are probably many men in 1975 who bought a CD and sang at karaoke.

Among the four V-kei heavenly kings who swept the scene in 1997, MALICE MIZER was the most original. Hard rock and heavy metal were the royal road lines in the V-kei at that time, and it was a fairly rigid world, including fierce action on the stage.

Under such circumstances, Malice Mizer emerged as a distinctly different existence in the scene at that time, such as Gothic and aesthetic visual images and songs reminiscent of medieval Europe, and gorgeous stage sets. Therefore, they were called "Ultimate Visual Kei" and "The Ultimate Visual Kei". Like many people, the author, who was a student at the time, was the one who was surprised to hear "What the hell!!" when he first saw MALICE MIZER.

I told Mana, the guitarist who led MALICE MIZER, about that, and he said with a soft smile, " I was shocked by that".

"MALICE MIZER had the theme of breaking the concept of rock. I wanted to do something new in music and visuals, so if I was trapped there, nothing would start. That's why it was formed with the consciousness of an art group rather than a band. Until then, the visual scene was a sports club, but MALICE MIZER was a literary one. I didn't often hang out with anyone. That's partly because I didn't have that kind of constitution (laughs) "

Aiming to be a group of artists who are not bound by the concept of Rock

First of all, we look back on 1997, which is the theme of this time (for the magazine issue) and the year when they made their major debut. "I think I went to shoot a promotional video for the French major debut single for about a week. I think I was busy starting from there, but going to the majors didn't change the flow suddenly. That's because it was a major (label) after making a run-up in indie music. It was a well-established theory that when you go to a major (label), there are various instructions from the record company, but in the case of MALICE MIZER, all of our opinions passed. "

MALICE MIZER had a completely self-produced music video that was rare at that time. Mana was the leader and held the wheel, but at the root of it was a thorough DIY spirit. 

"In the indie era, when taking an artist photo, we searched for a location by ourselves, and when we put an advertisement in a magazine, we did the block copy without asking the designer. I basically didn't have the idea to leave it to others".

"For example, a three-band battle against a band, everyone hates top batters. But then, I wanted to do our match first. We were preparing the set ourselves, so we had a reverse rehearsal (rehearsal was in the reverse order of performing, so MALICE MIZER would rehearse last and play first). Then, you can set it during the rehearsal. So I put the pillars of the Parthenon Temple, the trees, the chairs of the European gardening set, etc. I carried all the (stage) sets by myself, so the tour was divided into two high ace units. One for equipment and one for (stage) set. "

The indie era when the uniqueness was immediately accepted was not so (did not happen immediately). 

"If they tried (wanted) to listen to rock music, I think there was rejection. But I didn't want to worry about that kind of opinion. When I do something new, criticism always happens. Someone who thinks strangely. I was confused because I wanted to invite people who thought that they had never seen such a world to a world of fantasy and extraordinary life. "

The light and shadow of the unprecedented boom felt by the final weapon of V-kei

In 1997, the name "Visual Kei" entered the living room. But, as always, it's a big boom and at the same time it's distorted. Let's touch the light and shadow that Mana felt in the unprecedented Visual Kei boom.

"At MALICE MIZER Lives, I used to say 'Cosplay is welcome'. Cosplay has become global thing now, but at that time both were underground. I had a desire to do it. Along with that, I also wanted to make Gothic culture take root in Japan. Instead of just wearing flashy costumes, I also added fashion culture to it. I wanted to, so in 1999 I launched a brand called Moi-même-Moitié and launched Gothic & Lolita. As a result, I thought it would take root. "

The V-kei break connected all cultures and the people who gathered there, and became a big movement. Against such light, It seems that Mana has no negative thoughts, that the shadow part does not come to mind.

Only - this was upended. "When I was in high school, I was in a punk band, wearing a red mohawk and a studded leather jacket. As soon as I graduated from high school, I left my hometown, so people knew me at the time. From the point of view of those people, seeing me dressed as a woman to express the world view of MALICE MIZER, 'What?' they probably thought. Various speculations spread, 'Son, what happened ...?' It seems that my parents were confused in various ways (LOL). Was that the only problem? When my band was born, there was a feeling that V-kei had become established as a culture. Many bands were still in turmoil, and some of them are bands that performed live at Nippon Budokan. However, it was a lonely situation, that we (MALICE MIZER) had not been reached (by other bands) by the end of 90's.

"From that time, I thought that there would be no band that exceeds MALICE MIZER in the future. Since we came out, who were proud of being the 'ultimate weapon of Visual Kei', that a band that exceeds that impact would (also) come out. I wonder if it can't be helped that it hasn't been done. "

(I believe Mana was talking about there wasn't a major band in the same vein as MALICE MIZER. X-Japan, and other bands like them were major bands but they did not create a performance on stage.)

During Mana's in-debut, Mana repeatedly said, "I don't really care about things around me." This was Mana's apology, which included Mana's self, but in the world today, it may be too buzzing, how many likes, and the opinions and reactions around Mana. .. The Japanese may have a habit of following to the right for a long time, but there may be places where the Internet society where everything is visualized is accelerating it. That's why Mana, who can thoroughly persevere in what Mana likes and what Mana believes, looks strong and beautiful.

"I'm still wearing dark makeup, blue lipstick, and what I'm doing hasn't changed for 30 years, and I'm not going to change it. It's my favorite thing, so I feel like I'm doing it forever." 

Mana's Pop Beat 08-1998 Interview Translated

 For a very long time, I have wanted to translate this interview. I have not seen a translation online. Maybe because some of the subject matter might have been though of as controversial? (Personally I don't think so, but others may have)  Unfortunately the images were not clear enough. But finally, thanks to a very kind person who provided me photos, I have been able to to translate Mana's 1998 interview with Pop Beat.

So let's return to the world of 1998, Japan. Mana's answers are in quotation marks. All other is Pop Beat. I've put a few explanations in parentheses, for clarification. Please pardon any errors, I'm not a trained translator.

Male or female?

Mana's sexuality

Mana finds out why she exists, and even her current style. Why he is her.

His reason for being her. 

The first MALICE MIZER personal project that started this month is Mana-san, who is in a good mood. The theme was "man and woman", but Mana was shooting in Mana's own clothes. .. .. Are both like women? (lol) Gentle flared pants, punky and hard clothes, both look good (the legs are also beautiful!), And the interview goes from "Mana-san's theory of men and women" to a deep story. .. .. Are you thrilled by the radical content of the explosive remarks?

Today's outfit is your own?

"Yes. "I'm a transvestite enthusiast (lol)". I mean, it's the clothes I usually wear. When I go to a party or a secret playground, I dress like this and wear make up there. When I go, there are a lot of flashy people, so this is normal. "

Do you not mind how it appears to other people? 

"I don't care. I don't really care about how other people see it, I don't care. Fashion is my way of life. Generally, Japanese people are too suitable (uniform) for others. No matter how germane (being appropriate) is popular, I don't think so. When I thought about it because it was popular, I wasn't myself. Wear the clothes you want to wear, if you don't do what you want to do, there's no point in living."

But why are you wearing women's clothes?

"I like women's clothing better. The waist is narrowed and the shoulders are flashy. Whether it's clothes or buildings, I was interested in designing anything, there aren't many types of men's clothing designs, right? I started to buy women's products that are fun in design by nature. .. .. ”

When did it start?

"At the end of my teen years. The trigger was, I needed it when in a plastic band (may be a reference to the Bubble Era/New Wave type music in Japan. Plastics were a very popular band at that time). Plus, by seeing the reason for my existence, my way of life and clothes gradually changed. I've said that I had come to understand what suits me and how to maximize my personality. When I was a teenager, I was influenced by various things that I saw and imitated them, but when I was in my late teens, I started to see my ego (self). At that time, I realized that I was not a hard man. I left being the hard side of the man to stubborn people (lol), after thinking of pursuing something that only I can give. I'm going to be a woman with a core, a woman who is confident in her way of life (lol). I mean, in my life, I have to do that (lol)."

"For example, when you decided to "do a woman" did you lose interest in women? .. .. ..

"No, I like women (lol), even now."

Is the woman you like also a woman with a core like what Mana-san does?

"It's close to the woman I want to be ... that I feel like (lol). Basically mysterious, I like mysterious women."

The ideal female image for Mana-san. .. ..

"Women like those in shojo manga"

What would you say more specifically?

"The point is to be more feminine. I don't think it's feminine if you're Burikko (contrived femininity, pretend cuteness) or if you feign a woman's sex appeal. I wonder if someone can produce an invisible femininity. There are some gestures, but it's a messy place ... For example, the expression of casual words makes me feel surprised, or I can be a little attentive. No matter how beautiful a person is, if I can't do that, I think it's useless. And women must be mysterious and bold (everyone laughs). Boldness is necessary. Being only modest is not a woman. I want you to show boldly where you show it boldly. Don't always be passive. The balance is important, that is, there is also an offensive (lol)."

What should I apply to that statement? .. .. (lol). On the contrary, what is the imaginary male image that you wanted to be like?

"Hmm ... I wanted to be a man who appears in shojo manga. He had long limbs, and as a fantasy, he was tall. Rare for the gender, about 185 cm. I admire the world of shojo manga "

Is it the world of shojo manga again? (lol)

"I'm not an adult yet. I'm pursuing the world of shojo manga, and I can't see reality (lol)."

Was there a man you longed to be when you were little?

"Well, when I think about it, I am not longing for it now. Some rock musicians I liked, but now that I'm expressing it, the influence hasn't come to an end. What I liked was Shibugakitai (1980's boy band) (lol). It was cool at that time. The song they sang is written as "virgin shock"” shojo-teki shōgeki” and read as "virgin shock"” vu~ājin shokku", so the sense was cool (lol). I'm a fan, but it's interesting that each of the three dances differently isn't it (lol)? For a while, I was aiming to be the 4th Shibugakitai. For example dance practice (lol). "

Has Mana-san been dressed as a woman since you went to Osaka and started a band?

"I was a woman, that was the way I lived. Apart from that, I'm not going to be a transvestite in the future, and I'm not pursuing transvestites, but I have my own music, a world view, and costumes on top of that. It s not just that I want to make a difference as a woman, I'm expressing my view of this world in fashion. So, in my case, rather than playing a woman, at that time, because I am suppose to be (a woman)."

Do you mean you're a woman?

"As well as a woman, also as a Yōsei (alluring spirits, fae). When I am a woman, even if I look like a woman, I have a man in my kokoro (heart, soul, inner self). This is dangerous (lol). I see a man looking at me, or a woman in the mirror, but the spirit is a man. Then I'm trying to do something I shouldn't do ... "

Should not do???　　

"Yes (lol). Is this story difficult?"

Yeah.

"To put it simply ... I wonder if I want to experiment in different ways (lol)."

After experimenting, if you take off your clothes, the body there is a man, isn't it? .. .. Maybe (lol).

"Yes (lol). That "maybe"(lol), maybe (lol)."

Hey, uh?

"Yeah yeah, I'm kidding (much laughing). I don't want to be a woman. Somehow, I am a man, no matter how hard I try, so I can't be a woman, right? That side feels good. With an erotic and violent feeling (lol)."

Do you feel like you are enjoying your life twice?

"I enjoy it. It's about going between men and women."

After all, if you wear a skirt, can you enjoy yourself differently?

"It feels good to wear a miniskirt, doesn't it? It's absolutely appealing for women to wear short skirts, so wearing a skirt will increase it (lol)."

What? (lol)

"No (lol). With trousers, the "invisible fashion (undergarments)" are blocked. By wearing a skirt, you can't usually see it, but sometimes you can see it. That tension (lol). Then as a woman, I think I'll try various fashions that can't be seen. I'm still fashionable according to the concept of clothes (lol)."

Amazing!!! (lol)

"Of course, Because it would be strange if Lupine III's trunks were under the frilly clothes that I wore in that shooting for a separate volume of Pop Beat (Editor's note, sold on July 4th). The underwear was also Aozukin-chan's specification　(Little Blue Riding Hood) (lol). When wearing black clothes, I like black underwear. After all, don't do it half-hearted. Depending on the concept, various underwear is used properly, so the drawers are colorful (lol)." 

Mana as Aozukin-chan

Underwear thief looks happy (lol). I would like to ask Mana-san, who lives such a wonderful way, the definition of masculinity and femininity.

"Hmm, that's right ... "likeness" is difficult. Basically, it's a difference in body. With mentality, I don't think there's a difference between being a man and a woman. Rather than that, myself, born on earth, what if I could find my existence? It's not that I have to be masculine because I'm a man, but that person himself explains the reason for his existence. I think it would be nice if I could find it, so in that sense, I think it's better to be independent of gender, such as men and women."

Do you mean that human beings shouldn't worry about their gender in their lives?

"Really. Mostly, I don't know who decided the common sense and preconceived ideas that are overflowing in the world now, but it is doubtful whether it is correct in itself. If that is the case, I think it's better to create your own common sense within yourself. I believe that what is right is right, and I am walking my way now, but when I realize the reason for my existence and see the way to go, it is strange to the world. Even if you think about it, you can be proud of yourself and you will not be scared. "

It's a courageous remark (lol). But isn't the public wind strong?

"It's strong and natural. On the contrary, it's better to be strong. Without that kind of thing, nothing is born. I'm boring, so in this way, I've been developing new things myself. I'm a human being who must always seek stimulus. So it's a little bad for my parents, but I'm going to dress up as I like (lol). Parents, and teachers, I'm a really hard person (lol). "

In other words, for Mana-san, there is no definition of masculinity and femininity.

"Yes. Before that, what is important to humans is the mind and soul. There is a place to return to that soul, and there is only one place for men and women. Well, that is MALICE MIZER. You might know if you look at the stage, ha ha ha... "

Moi dix Mois Dis inferno XVIII LIQUIDROOM Live Stream

2020 was a difficult year, for so many reasons. Because of the pandemic, performers were especially hit hard. Many live shows were cancelled, including the Moi dix Mois Mana Birthday Sabbaths in March. Fast forward to the end of the year and more being known about how to reduce risk from the virus. Moi dix Mois returned to the stage for their annual end of the year show, Dis inferno~LAST YEAR PARTY. This time the venue was the LIQUIDROOM and many precautions were taken to protect both the staff and audience. In addition, there was a Moi dix Mois first. The show was filmed and then released online for a limited time. Which was wonderful for fans who could not travel to Dis inferno XVIII. So here is my review of that.

Each member walked on stage to the music of "En Lumière". Mana walked out with the ESP jeune fille X Ferrum -Cross Ray illusion- guitar. Right away they began playing the hard hitting "deus ex machina" with Seth on lead vocal and Ryux doing backing death vocal. This was the same opening as last year's Dis inferno. During the song Mana and Seth switched places with Mana standing center stage. This happened a number of times during the show and it looks great. 

"Welcome! We are Moi dix Mois!" shouted Seth in Japanese as a very intense "Front et Baiser" was next. In normal times there are cheers and people call out the names of the performers. While everyone clapped, I think the feeling of energy was not as present as it usually. I do think it may have affected the beginning of the show. Japanese audiences are usually polite, the virus increased that. Despite that, I am always impressed at how well the band plays. It's a credit to the talented and experienced musicians of Moi dix Mois.

I want to comment on the sound. I was wearing studio head phone for my first viewing and the sound was actually really good for this live performance. I could hear the individual instruments and the three vocalists, along with the high and low ends. However many people are use to having the low end boosted so the sound may seem a little less than what they are use to. Along with that, I could swear there was a live keyboardist, something I don't remember as much from actual performances. For cameras, maybe there was four or more. Given the short turn around time from the day of the performance to the start of streaming, they did a good job. I've seen a few online live streams which didn't look or sound this good.

The beautiful opening music to "Solitude" began and the stage lights brightened to show Ryux playing lead guitar and Sugiya on stand up bass for a bossa nova rendition of "Solitude". This was similar to Aristocrat Kitchen Knife shows last year, except there were no maracas. After a chorus, the band switched to the rock version with Mana now playing lead guitar and Sugiya on his usual bass. There was some concern noted online by attendees as to how the two versions would be put together. The comments about the editing was that it was well done. 

"The other side of the door", a homage to Grieg's "In the Hall of the Mountain King" quickly followed "Solitude". It has developed into a more driving song with heavier bass and drums and Seth's growling vocals. This was followed by the quick tempo "Eternally Beyond". The precision of playing is really shown here. I believe I caught Mana looking satisfied and relieved more than once during the show when songs ended.  

And then "a ghost whispers" began. Purple lights spread out behind Seth, looking like wings, with one purple spot light shining down from above. This was the first time the dramatic song was performed worldwide. I did miss sitting in the audience with the sounds swirling around me. I know I mentioned before that this song may be a tribute to MALICE MIZER Kami. Mana was on Twitter one night, showing something that had belonged to Kami. Later Mana tweeted that he heard a loud noise in the hallway that made him jump. My impression is that the song grew out of this and Mana remembering Kami at that time.

It was time for the Mana talk. "Agnus Dei" played while Seth began the MC. Usually it is Bach playing during these talks. My guess is that because of the filming, Mana didn't want to worry about copyrights or perhaps wanted to spotlight Moi dix Mois music. The message from Mana was that they are planning to have three days of birthday shows, but no information is available yet. Mana was wearing the Moi-même-Moitié Chiffon Shirring One-piece, which I wish they would have available again. Accenting all the black was the Blue Jewel Cross Pendant, along with a Frill Choker, the long ruffled chiffon vest and Demonia boots. For the first part of the live Mana wore the Lace Face Mask.

As for Seth, he had on the Moi-même-Moitié Ritual Print Gilet and Metal Emblem Necklace over an ascot, along with the addition of several braids accented with purple. Hayato's new hair cut was a partial shave and bright red hair. He was wearing the High Neck Puff Sleeve Blouse in black. I have that shirt in blue, it's really nice. Sugiya and Ryux were both wearing Moitié designed outfits including overskirts and the Rose Cross Pendant. Hayato was also wearing the pendant. One other thing to note was Ryux's hair. With the enhanced air circulation it flowed and moved, almost like a lion's mane. 

There was more talking than usual from the members, and it was refreshing to see them interact beyond just playing music. Maybe because it has been over a year since they last performed together? Sadly my ability to understand spoken Japanese is not great but I did catch that Ryux tried to get different sections of the audience to clap since they could not yell, also he mentioned Mana's Moi-même-Moitié YouTube cooking videos.

"MAD INGRAIN~Experience~" was the first song after the MC. It's a special session with Sugiya and Hayato. This also occurred at last year's Dis inferno. Sugiya played stand up bass for part of the song. The song shows off their skills and Hayato's double kick drums. 

"Dead Scape began with just Sugiya and Hayato. Ryux and Mana returned followed by Seth. Mana played the ESP jeune fille X lazuli -Cross Ray- guitar center stage for most of the song. The energy level definitely had increased. 

"Perish" is an amazing song to see played live. The staging this time was the best that I've seen. Only back lit in blue with Mana's white cross glowing, lighting Mana's hand as he played, everyone in silhouette created a dark and intense feeling. It was an amazing image for the song along with being the best version I have heard Mana play. Ending with only the cross lit on the stage, I can only hope that this performance will be saved so everyone can view it. It was outstanding.

"Perish" was followed by the ethereal "Twilight Flower". This might also have been the first real world performance of this dark waltz. Swaying in the misty air, there was an otherworldly feeling. Next was "Immortal Madness" turning the energy up.  Usually people shout in response to Seth's commands during this song. No doing that this time. So Seth requested that everyone do "heart hands" to "Dix Love" during the song, and then jump in unison further along in the song. 

The powerful "Night Breed" was introduced by Ryux. Mana was definitely channeling his inner heavy metal guitarist at this point. The ominous "the Prophet" continued the hard rock assault. Seth's elegant voice was countered by Ryux's death vocals. Last song was called out and then Seth began "Ange~D side holy wings~". Seth's vocal strength was showcased along with the precision of the band. At the end of the song Mana took a bow and blew kisses to the audience after the band left the stage.

And now thanks to Mana uploading the video, I can add "Ange~D side holy wings~" to this post. Here is the video of the song. 

After a long break where clapping audience member normally would shout "Moi dix Mois", the encore began. With stage lights flashing, "Destructionxx" began to play. This was the same as the second 2019 Aristocrat Kitchen Knife show honoring K. Then band members came out. Ryux, Sugiya and Hayato wearing Moi dix Mois shirts and Seth in his fur coat with a lace shirt underneath and two wide belts, similar to his outfit from last year's Dis inferno. Ryux was also wearing his black fur coat.

"Beast Side" began with Ryux playing bass and Sugiya playing lead guitar for first part using the ESP guitar that Mana's cousin Katsuo gave Ryux. Hayato stayed on drums. Seth appeared holding K's guitar. He walked to the side where Mana usually stands.

Then Mana walked out to the middle of the stage holding the Moi dix Mois megaphone. I admit that I screamed a little when I saw this, even though it was late night here. In prior shows Mana plays drums because he loves playing drums. But because of the virus it may be why this was changed. It was an excellent decision because it looked great! 

Seth shouted out the first "Beast Side" and then Mana took over from there lip syncing to Seth's voice while Seth played K's guitar.

Mana began with the megaphone and then switched to a white E-II-ESP ARROW. Mana had changed into studded wrist bands, Moi dix Mois Face Mask and the Mana-sama Super Dollfie oversized shirt with a spiderweb scarf, perhaps in honor of K. The symbolism of a spider goes back to when Kami passed away, representing the cause of it. 

Seth continued singing the song while the three guitars rang out and the audience raised their hands in unison. Seth ended with holding up K's guitar.

Usually Ryux holds K's skull lighter and plays the guitar using it during "Beast Side". I noticed at the end of the song Ryux was running it along the strings of Sugiya's guitar.

"forbidden" was the last song played with Sugiya going back to bass and Ryux now on Katsuo's guitar. Once the song ended the band stepped forward. Seth gave instructions to the audience as the band members social distanced on stage. Normally there would be balloons falling at this point but because of the virus, that did not happen. Instead Seth asked everyone to clap ten times. I think then Seth called out "Happy New Year" in Japanese, which caused Ryux and others to laugh. The last part of the Dis inferno was everyone jumping together. A recorded version of "Je l'aime" began as the band members took bows and waved as they left the stage. Mana was the last to go, bowing and looking a little emotional.

And that was the end of the show. I am very grateful that I was able to watch it every day while it was available. Congratulations to Mana for creating a great show, given all the restrictions. I do wish that at least some of the songs could be offered again by Mana. We will have to wait and see what is planned for the new year. Mana has written that there will be more in 2021, both with Moi dix Mois (Birthday Sabbaths if possible) and Moi-même-Moitié.

(photos are all from Moi dix Mois Mana, Ryux and Seth's Twitter)