Art of the day:

Yoshitaka Amano’s Vampire Hunter D. Amano’s style is unmistakable, a cultured viewer would immediately recognize the style of official Final Fantasy artwork, and more. The story of D is difficult to summarize. It’s ambience and world building is incredible, the creatures and lore within blur lines between high fantasy and science fiction – D himself being some sort of half vampire (Dhampir), genetically engineered. His horse is cybernetic, the world is post apocalyptic. While I haven’t read the novels, I have seen both the original movie and Bloodlust the movie (a visually stunning film by Madhouse). It is both strange, unusual, and beautiful. I imagine it must be a lonely life to be D. Feared by man, seemingly burdened with purging the world of creatures like himself. It’s a complex world that’s difficult to understand. Much like real life there are those that believe they are entitled to control this world, it and define its nature.

Song of the day:

A visual treat that shows some of the amazing animation and style within Bloodlust the movie; we have Gorodki’s – Vampire. Darkwave, post punk, a modern artist that I adore. Upon finding this video and the Russian artist, I immediately purchased their works on their Bandcamp. Finding new artists like this that fits such a niche vibe are few and far between. I’m often left with only crumbs and “you may likes”, tags, or artist clouds. Alas, the quest for more goes on. October continues, and as we get closer to Halloween I cannot recommend this film experience enough – as strange and unusual as it is.

Thought of the day:

A lot of hate spawns from things people don’t try to understand or have ever experienced. Prejudice against harmless fandoms like furries, undertale, punks. I associate myself with a lot of the goth and post-punk culture, the music, and while I wish I could keep up rarely the fashion. Yes, I like vampires and bats and Peter Murphy. Is it weird? I don’t think so. People fear what they don’t understand. Extreme expression through fashion, piercings, makeup, art, music… whatever it is, express yourself. If you identify with something, don’t get bullied out of it – from the outsiders or within. “Gatekeeping” is the common term these days, and I’m not entirely sure why perfect strangers are so invested with the things you and I may enjoy to begin with. Hate from within a community you feel like you belong in is just sad. Seeing it so often now is sad. Especially amongst LGBTQIA+. I digress. Love yourself.