As previously mentioned, UNDER CODE is supporting ex-「あゃ」 (「Aya」) [and ex-chariots support] drummer 兼継 (Kentz) by sponsoring his “last stage” events. It turns out that “last stage” doesn't just refer to musical retirement...
Through a press release, Kentz has revealed that he has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. He wants to take the stage one last time to, quite literally, celebrate the last stage of his life. Below is a rough translation of his statement:
_I've come to understand that I have terminal cancer, and I decided I wanted to return to the stage in my short remaining life, so I talked with the ex-「Aya」 members about a revival live.
- Each member, despite his current activities, willingly agreed and so we set about determining the details.
It crossed my mind that I was with chariots two years ago.
- Since this will probably be my life's last live, I thought chariots should by all means appear and suggested this idea to KISAKI, who agreed.
At first I intended to produce the event myself, but since I didn't have any experience I found it difficult to book a lineup, and so I contacted KISAKI (who has considerable experience with event production) and he agreed to arrange everything.
- For KISAKI's willing agreement, I am truly grateful.
KISAKI has been involved in many crossroads in my life.
- Back when 「Aya」 was expanding through Kantou, whenever we had office problems, he constantly invited us to chariots lives and always kindly gave us advice.
And now, with my cancer battle, he tells me “don't give up”.
- In that way my respect for KISAKI has grown considerably, and for his help producing my last live, I am truly grateful.
After all of this, I consider him an older brother.
Everyone, please come to my life's last stage and burn the images into your eyes and commit them to happy memory.
(Kentz) http://www.under-code.jp/kentz/_
-- And KISAKI adds “I've decided to support Kentz, a valued junior who is in the middle of fighting an illness, through his life's LAST STAGE. Everyone, please lend your support.” http://ameblo.jp/undercode-(108)/KISAKI/entry-11170327897.html
Very sad. This news really changes the meaning of the live, doesn't it? Let's pray for Kentz and wish him a final period filled with happiness. Good luck Kentz!
Update on Kentz' last stage...
Oh damn, I began to translate this entry and now I'm so sad.... TWT
2012-03-30
Approve Edit Restrict Delete Lock threadUpdate on Kentz' last stage...
This is really sad and tragic. It will be both beautiful and sad for him to take the stage knowing it's his last time. This gives a very empty feeling thinking about it. I wish good luck at the live.
2012-02-25
Approve Edit Restrict Delete Lock threadUpdate on Kentz' last stage...
Ah that is so sad - I had no idea when they were talking about his retirement it was for such a terrible reason. On the other hand I think it's fantastic that he can take the opportunity to play and say goodbye in this way.
2012-02-20
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Wow, I'm really shocked! I am sure he will have an amazing live, I wish I could help celebrate it with him. I hope we get to see this eventually! Other than that, I'm kinda speechless...
2012-02-20
Approve Edit Restrict Delete Lock threadUpdate on Kentz' last stage...
Since I'm going to attend this event, I'll try to do my best supporting him and enjoying his last live appearance, but, damn, it's one of the saddest stories I have ever read...
2012-02-20
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I don't know how to comment but I wish him to have a good life in the next world. T_T He's just too young...
2012-02-20
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I'm glad he'll have a chance to go on stage and play before he gets too sick, so he can bid everyone farewell--and everyone can send him off as he does something he loves. This is sad, but good as well.
2012-02-20
Approve Edit Restrict Delete Lock threadUpdate on Kentz' last stage...
Wow...while reading this I started to tear up...you are right on how this truely does change the meaning of a live... This really touches me with my own experience of cancer affecting my loved ones. My heart goes out to him and his family and his friends. I hope he has the best live ever! Thank you for this translation!
2012-02-20
Approve Edit Restrict Delete Lock threadYeah :/ But it's good that he'll get a chance to return to the stage once again. I hope it's a great live.
And fuck cancer :/ I'm sorry to hear that you've had close experience with it.
2012-02-20
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