Rukia

Interviewer, writer: akfgfan
Band Members: Gabriel (Vocals/Guitar), Paulina (Keyboard), Ola (Bass Guitar)
Questions Answered by: Gabriel



Japanese music is adored by people all around the world. This is especially true for the new Polish band, Rukia. Rukia’s melodic themes and integration of Japanese lyrics are sure to appeal J-Music fans. JMI had the opportunity to take to Rukia’s vocalist about the band and their new demo tape "Seishin Assault".



Thank you for doing this interview. Can you introduce yourself to readers that don’t know Rukia yet?

Konnichiwa, I’m Gabriel- vocalist and songwriter of Rukia.

Rukia was just formed in July 2006. What inspired the formation of the band?

Well, I always wanted to play in the band. I was just finishing high school in June and had a lot of free time. Though I had a solo project already, I desired to play live with other people.

Did you personally know any of the band members before the band was formed?

Naturally. I knew all of them. Luke was my best friend and school mate, Paulina is his sister. Olga was going to the same high school as we three, so I knew her too. Szczecinek isn’t big city, that’s why everyone knows each other.

Starting a band can be quite difficult. Have there been any challenges or problems getting Rukia going?

Yes. I think the most difficult thing is to find people sharing the same passion. The other problem is a place to practice- actually we play in my home... as you can imagine, neighbors aren’t extremely happy cause of that. Finally, it’s not so easy to find a record label that would make us rich and famous.

Your band seems to be heavily influenced by Japanese culture. How did you become interested in Japanese culture and music?

It started from anime I think. On the openings of episodes you can hear many good bands, such as Naitomea (Death note), High and Mighty Color (Bleach) and many others. We found Japanese language pretty and today we love everything that is connected with Japan.

Are there any Japanese bands that have personally influenced Rukia’s music?

As I know, Lukasz (ex programer) was influenced by Ŗ bullet" while writing beats and playback. Actually it was my idea to use the computer in our music, so let’s say I’m inspired too. But not by ’2 bullet’ only (also by "romantic porshe" and "Hanoi Team" . Seriously- most of the Japanese musicians are very open minded and play original music, and all of them are inspirations for us.)

You just released your first demo record called "Seishin Assault". How did you come up with the title for the record?

On a few minutes before the demo premier, I decided to change title from "Miaow! Death kittys’ life" for something more compatible with the whole material, so I typed: ’spirit in Japanese’ in Google. It sounds nice and fits with all songs I think.

The lyrics featured on "Seishin Assault" deal with a number of emotions like pain, heartbreak, and love. Are these lyrics inspired by real events?

Yes, they are. In my opinion every intelligent person deals with feelings like this. I just found them more tasty than happiness. Forgive me, but I’ll spare you the details about my personal life.

The music in "Seishin Assault" is quite good and catches your attention. How did you come up with your unique music style?

It was a slow process. First step was writing "Miaow! Death kitty’s life". It’s funny, becouse it took only one hour and became a style model for further songs. Secondly, we came up with idea of using the Japanese language in lyrics. Finally we fired David (our drummer) and replaced him by coumputer beats and one computer instrument.

What is most important to you when you write lyrics and music?

Oh, it’s difficult question. I don’t know. I just want it to sound good, kick ass or send emotions.

Are there any particular areas that you would like to see Rukia grow in over the next few years?

No. I want Rukia to spread all over the world.

Your band is quite unique compared to other Polish bands, because it infuses many different cultures into its music. How do audiences respond to your music at live performances?

People hate us. Really. The Polish rock scene is dominated by punk and death metal bands. We are a little bit more original, so they call us "Tokio hotel", "Szczecinek hotel", or simply- "Bills". That’s why we found playing gigs meaningless like for now, and are promoting our music through internet.

If given the chance, would you like to perform in other countries? Are there any countries that you are especially interested in performing at?

Japan of course. It would be an honor. Maybe New Zealand or California too.

What are your future plans for the band?

Like for now I’m working on my solo project and promoting "Seishin Assault". In October 2007 I may go study to the other city and that means a lack of gigs and recording for one year. Paulina would join me in October 2008, and we would propably search for new members. There’s a second option. If I would stay in my home town for one more year, we would propably realase a few more songs. Third option is being released by some label and not studying at all. I think that would be best.

Can you give a message to your fans?

I know you exist. Show up yourself, because I can’t see you.

Additional Information

Official Site For Rukia
Check out Rukia’s Official Site for more information on their history, lyrics, discography, and more!


Rukia @ J-Music Ignited
Click here to see J-Music Ignited’s page for Rukia!

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