The process of writing and producing an album was both exiting and stressing, and even if this was not the first time they did it, it was the first time their work would be something more than a small album intended to give some exposure to the band.
At first they debated whether they should the songs they had already presented in bars and small presentations, especially since those were already known by their public and they would only need dome adjustments to make them perfect. In the end, they decided to use some of those but also to write new and better songs for what they hoped was their break through.
In the meantime, they were supposed to make some promotion for the band, think about the presentation of the album and if they were going to use some art or just stylish photos of them to present it.
They decided to go for the artistic version of things, which in the end only meant that they needed to contact an artist willing to make some art for them.
It was supposed to be somewhat easy, but after several interviews and portfolios, they decided it was not so much.
One day during one of their regular diners, Hiroshi mentioned in passing that even if the recording of the album was moving along perfectly well, they were unable to find the right artist for what they had in mind for the concept art of the album.
"It's not even that difficult, we just need someone willing to listen to the songs and connect with what we are trying to transmit with them".
Usagi and Mamoru exchanged a meaningful look after hearing this, before Usagi cheerfully offered "I might be able to ask around my colleagues and friends about someone willing to give a go to your project. Who knows we might find the ideal artist for your project on this side of business!"
"Usa-ko, I'm not sure Manga Artists and illustrators are really what Hiroshi is looking for"
"Fortunately, that is not the only type of artist I know. Hiroshi-san, let me get in touch with a couple of people and I'll get back at you ok?"
Not knowing what else to say, and feeling desperate enough on that matter, he nodded to show his acceptance before getting back to his food.
Someone was knocking on his door. At first, he was not entirely sure it was actually happening, in part because he was in the shower and the noise did not get that far and also because who could be knocking if he had a perfectly functioning doorbell for that purpose?
For a moment, Hiroshi considered to ignore it until whoever that was decided to leave, but then he thought that maybe whoever this was could be under some kind of duress that did not let him thing or act right. So he slipped into a pair of faded jeans and throwing a towel around his shoulders, before opening the door.
Behind it however, was not what he was expecting to see. Instead of a boy or a girl in extreme distress who was looking for some help, there was a blond man with an annoyed pout on his lips, a look of disdain on his green eyes and looking as if he preferred to be anywhere else that in that filthy place.
Which to be honest was quite insulting because his apartment building was in prime condition.
"Yes, what can I do for you?"
At this, the blond turned to look at him, assessing him from head to toe and after a couple of minutes in which he deemed him worthy of his attention, the blond answered "My name is Matsumoto Yuki, a friend of mine told me you were in need of an artist".
"I'm sorry, what?"
"Oh god, please tell me your hair is not the only bright thing on you"
Hiroshi knew the comment was supposed to be insulting, he knew that whoever this Yuki person was, he was just looking for an excuse to annoy him into making him leave. Sadly for the other man, Hiroshi found this attitude more amusing than anything, so instead of getting mad, he just poked the blond back.
"Oh I assure you, there are several bright things on me, but you are not allowed to see any of them! Either way, why don't you come inside so you can tell me about this friend of yours?"
Conversation between them went smoothly, Hiroshi with a cup of coffee, Yuki with some black tea. They discussed what Hiroshi and his band were hoping to accomplish for the album's art, how they wanted it to connect with the public and to be as much a part of the album as the music itself.
"That sounds interesting but you haven't told me what the album is about or what the main topic of your songs is"
"Would you be willing to come to one of our recording sessions? I think it would be better if you hear us instead of just reading some lyrics"
They agreed on a date, a place and a time, and after some more small talk, Yuki excused himself saying that he had another appointment to attend.
"What a strange guy, but maybe he is what we have been looking for all this time".
I must really apologize for my long absence. Suffice to say I'm still alive and as busy as ever.
Still, i haven't forgotten about this story.
Title of the chapter by Opeth - Faith in Others.