Those familiar with Chthonic will know that their songs incorporate all matters political and historical and promote them to people who otherwise may not have had a clue about the rich and diverse culture the band come from. By getting the events depicted in their songs made into fine works of art emphasises the unique outlook that Chthonic have on the world, but also provides a visual aid to what can sometimes be complex themes and fascinating pieces of history and folklore. They’ve incorporated the talents of the famous Taiwanese arts group Yamyoukan to bring the songs to life, and the result is the truly stunning book Unsealing the Bú-Tik.
Included in the 32 pages of illustrations is the headhunt from Seediq Bale(2005), the departure of the Takasago Army from the album Takasago Army (2011), the final battle at Sing Ling Temple from Takasago Army (2011) & Mirror Of Retribution (2009); all of which are brought to vivid and visceral life and will enchant any fan of their music, but also fine art enthusiasts. The book also features artwork from Chthonic’s new album Bú-Tik(2013) which is available now for purchase. Fans can purchase the book at this location.
Chthonic’s bassist Doris Yeh and singer Freddy Lim have made contributions to the book in the form of their own drawings, which will feature side by side with the other pieces.
Doris had this to say about the art book:
It has always been our dream to turn the stories behind our music into images; I feel so moved as I hold this illustrated book in my hand…
Chthonic’s drummer Dani also commented:
I’m really grateful that Yamyoukan invited us to take part in the drawing process, so that I could pick up the drawing pen again. It’s always been a passion of mine…
Chthonic appeared for the second time at Download festival this year and have played at Bloodstock in 2012 where Dan Mullins [My Dying Bride] came in as guest drummer and the whole crowd were informed by Freddy Lim of the lack of a Taiwanese team in the Olympics; who instead had to be called Chinese Taipei. The Bloodstock crowd responded in force to chanting ‘Taiwan’ to the band and showing their support for the political battle still on-going between China and Taiwan.
At Download 2013 Chthonic played with a six-piece Taiwanese orchestra which would have been an astounding spectacle to behold and would have brought energy to their material that has never been witnessed on these shores.
A full UK tour is currently being planned for autumn 2013.
Chthonic online:
http://facebook.com/CHTHONIC
http://facebook.com/CHTHONICtw
http://youtube.com/CHTHONICtw
http://www.CHTHONIC.tw
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- Chthonic announce 24 hour stream of Bú-Tik via Soundcloud (valkyrianmusic.com)
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