China’s first visual rock band, Silver Ash’s initial success when they debuted in 2000 turned to disappointment when the authorities, scandalized by the flamboyant appearances and heavy use of makeup, began to throw up impediments to the group’s career. After going on hiatus in 2005, SA finally came back with a bang this year, internationally releasing a new single, ‘Pretty but Evil.’ Lead singer Ling spoke to us about first principles and overcoming stigma.
What inspired your style?
I was following in the footsteps of Western artists, but their Western makeup didn’t fit our Eastern faces well. One day, I saw a very famous Japanese visual kei band, Luna Sea, on a Chinese TV show that introduced Japanese pop music. I was shocked by [guitarist] Sugizo’s playing style… It was then I was convinced that I wanted to gather together musicians who were good looking to join my band.
Did you find it difficult to cope with the criticism you suffered thanks to your then mold-breaking style?
When Silver Ash was a new band, I felt it was a little bit unfair in some situations, because most of the discrimination was coming from certain media. I don’t know why they didn’t like us; they might have thought that SA was not how they imagined a ‘rock’ band should be. But it really doesn’t matter anymore.
What song would you recommend to new listeners?
I suggest ‘Lunar Eclipse’ from our 2002 album, ‘Seduction’ from our 2002 EP and ‘Metamorphosis’ from our 2004 EP. The newest song, ‘Reborn,’ is my top recommendation. These songs represent the different phases of our evolution.
// Silver Ash are performing on Aug 31. RMB100-150, 5pm. QSW Culture Center, 179 Yichang Lu, by Jiangning Lu 宜昌路179号, 近江宁路 (6266 1110) For an extended interview visit www.thatsmags.com
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