Hello again and Vocaloid

OK, so I just got over a huge hurdle and have the time to update. (A nice way of saying: I forgot LOL jksjks). Yea, things have been getting a little hectic around here (seriously, when is life not hectic in some way or another?) and I didnt have the chance to update.

Ok just a trivial short idea. So, I didn't mention it before but I'm a fan of a band called the GazettE. Like many bands, they compose their own music and play the instruments etc. One of its guitarists, Aoi, recently expressed his thoughts on VOCALOID music.

note: VOCALOID is a program that samples music is electronically composed music where all the vocals is produced by a program. (it's like autotune except more altered.)

The article is here:
http://www.tokyohive.com/2010/11/the-gazettes-aoi-stirs-up-debate-about-vocaloid-artists-through-controversial-tweets/

Personally, I feel like the VOCALOID program, like everything else has its pros and cons. On a positive note, it enables 2 things. Firstly, it enables composers to create music without having to hire musicians/sell their music to them. Some people just work better in the mixing studio than with people. Therefore the program is catered to them.
Second, since every aspect of the vocalist is limitless, it can really push the boundaries of music. Think of it. If the composer has a vision for lets say: heavily syncopated music that borders on the edge of non-rhythm (hence still organized sound), many vocalists cannot conceptualize or deliver what the composer wants. But with an electronic program, every detail can be controlled by the composer. Very interesting. Also, if the composed music goes beyond human limits then it, in its own right becomes a new vocal instrument that pushes the boundaries of melodies.

However, there are many things that a program lacks. No matter how beautiful a song is, it is just a formula, notes on a page. No matter how creative the writing, it needs to be brought to life. I mean the VOCALOID program, no matter the prowess of range and rhythm cannot capture the soul--The very essence of music. The reason why music IS the universal language, is because it transcends the need for words and depicts concepts to all people from most walks of life.
Another point that can be made is that every instrument has its strength. Has its own characteristic and sound. The single violin is usually perceived as a beautiful but melancholic instrument. The harp, exudes peace, contentment, etc. If a composer were to write music, with no understanding of this, the music will come out awry. A disgrace to real instruments. It wont flow or reach its full potential.
Thirdly, the program is, well, digital. Nothing more. No matter the pitch, it will always sound fake and digital. As you reach the top register keys, one will perceive the waves as electronic, artificial. There is no vocal talent to admire. It is merely a note being played. No real timber, no level of clarity to uphold.

So, I think that he has every right to dislike the concept as he is entitled to his own opinion. I mean, he is the one composing the music AND playing it, he's doing the real stuff.The fans take the statement way too seriously. I mean it IS only an opinion and his frustration nothing more. In fact, he is advertising for VOCALOID artists. (I myself have never heard of it until now).

I just hope he DOES realize that he shouldn't feel threatened by the program. I mean him, the GazettE, and all other musician-composers are the real deal. They all are testing and pushing the limits of their composing (and guitar) abilities is a lot harder than pressing the keys on an electronic keyboard. (But props to the program developers at Yamaha :])

A penny for your thoughts? (holy crap that's longer than i expected O_O sorry)

- Kiyoikou

Late Nite Revival

After remembering that I actually had a blog, I decided to revive it xD. So here it is, as of November 15, 2010, it still stands alive and well. :)

Okay so recently I have this Fan Fiction obsession! :S HUGE. I'm wasting soo much time just reading. But to be particular, it's the unexpected Sesshoumaru and Kikyou pairing. After deliberating, I find that the two are actually very much alike. Of course, this pairing comes from a personal bias: I'd like to think that the power of the mind is very strong (ie. Kikyou doesn't get the respect and power she deserves).

But her love and loyalty for InuYasha is what made her such a respectable and tragic character the first place. So just IF things were different (ie. she never met InuYasha) or she was able to let go (somehow) the pairing can really work. I mean, through out the series, she maintains her purity (and regains it) despite the odds being way against her. At first I wanted InuYasha to realize the magnanimosity and the beauty that is her but soon gave that up. Rather, I concluded that he wasn't good enough for her xD. I don't know. Both characters are the epitome of grace, power, and wisdom. Where he lacks in compassion, she can teach him. And where she lacks in strategy, he would teach her. They complement each other so well, if the story was written as such :)

Besides, her life is so tragic. For all the good deeds she has done, doesn't she deserve at least some happiness?

Okay so enough about that, I'll rant about something else. As of late, I'm beginning to find my area quite dangerous. Not superficially but the air has changed. I mean I actually don't feel safe walking home at night :s. Which is strange. I remember feeling almost...serene when walking through the night time as a child. I just hope that the feeling isn't actually *tingling spidey senses :p.

Okays. I've written enough... Night people :)
- Kiyoikou