GPKism

Interviewer, writer: 1-5
Band Members: GPK (vocals/composition), secret member (guitar)
Questions Answered by: GPK



GPKism, is an electronic artist who combines baroque influences and industrial sounds in his music. Based out of Australia, GPKism recently signed to a record label in Japan and will soon be adding a guitarist to the project. Recently, GPK finished a remix of "DEAD-HEARTED" for the Japanese band BLOOD. J-Music Ignited had a chance to talk to vocalist/composer GPK about the remixed track and the direction of GPKism.



Thank you for doing this interview. Could you start by introducing yourself to anyone who’s not familiar with your work?

GPK is my initial~ and basically GPKism is the ideal of GPK~

And what is that ideal?

The manifestation of GPKism is somewhat triggered by what I call the "true essences" of dark beauty. I’ve been in the dark scene for almost 10 years and there are things I wish I could bring back.

What kind of things?

Surely there are changes within the style, music and additude within the scene~ but I see there’s a need for a change. Perhaps the biggest problem with club these days is that of the music they play.

Do you think the gothic/dark scene has become static and formulaic?

Most gothic/dark music is usually associated with violence, death and destruction. The essence of beauty is lost. What GPK is set out to do is completely different, by introducing baroque/classical elements into electro/industrial music.

How have people within the scene reacted to GPKism so far? Do they like the change?

GPKism offers a sanctuary for those who wish to preserve both the sensibility and style of classical period. I can say I’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback from others and I believe I’m on the right path~

Have you always wanted your music to go in this direction, or was it something that developed gradually?

Sometimes~ I have to compromise both the music trend and my creativity to create something that holds the fundamental ideal of GPKism and yet is still dancable.

Is it difficult to get the balance between the two right?

It is quite difficult at first due to the difference of style~ but luckily, Baroque/Classical music can be quite dark as well.

What inspires you when composing songs?

I must say that classical art plays a very important role in my creativity. I’m always searching for perfection within art, and to me, baroque art is the perfect answer.

Are there any artists you’re particularly fond of?

I would say Caravaggio, Peter Paul Rubens and Rembrandt.

And what about musicians? Do you have any musical influences?

Perhaps the biggest influences are Jean-Baptiste Lully, Antonio Vivaldi and Johann Sebastian Bach.

Why did you choose to begin with music rather than another art form? Does it offer something that the others don’t?

Music is a way to express ideas more efficiently and effectively. It would reach further than any other form of art. Image also plays an important role within the project itself.

Would you like to perform live?

All the music on myspace are instrumental pieces, but vocals and guitar will be added on the upcoming album. I will be planning my tour after I launch this album.

Is there a release date set for it yet?

All I can say up to this point is that it’s going to be released within this year.

You recently signed to a label. Was it difficult to find a label that wouldn’t limit your creativity?

I’ve been offered a lot of contract deals but the biggest problem is with the record labels themselves. I still want to work within my safety zone and give my audience exactly what I want them to hear.

In addition to working on your own material, you also remixed BLOOD’s "DEAD-HEARTED". Do you feel your musical styles match well, or are they contrasting?

It was quite a challenge, but I’m really happy with the result in the end~

Are there any other musicians or artists you’d like to collaborate with?

I can say I’m happy to work with any artist who wishes to collaborate with me~

Would you like to keep the same musical direction in the future, or do you think your music will change?

The signature of GPK will always be there~ changes are inevitable as GPKism still an intangible form of art. I won’t limit myself with what I do. There are cliches that I would like to keep as they become a part of the project itself.

Where would you like to see this project in five years time?

Hopefully the project itself could influence a whole new generation of artists who could contribute their work within the same structure of GPKism. Project GPKism is only one of many ways of expressing myself, It will expand into other forms of art as it evolves.

So you would eventually like to combine other art forms, art, stage performance etc., with the music? Do you think that would allow you to explore your creativity more?

It is a coherence act of self confession. one ideal can be expressed through different forms of art, always being faithful to what it set out to do. It is the authenticity and the uniqueness that differentiate the concept of "self" to "others"

So the concept of beauty within GPKism reaches beyond just the music? You yourself become part of the art?

The concept of "self" can be the core of the ideal. It is more like art becomes a part of me, and what I do is the expression of art itself.

What advice would you have for anyone who’s thinking about creating their own music?

Always be true to what you do. Because imitation is a form of suicide. Everyone is different and unique. Seek the uniqueness within yourself and express them faithfully (^_^)

Finally, could you give a message to your fans?

Stay beautiful and be happy! XD

Additional Information

Official Myspace Site
Check out GPKism’s Official Myspace Site for more information on his music!

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