KITANOSHO, THE LAST BANQUET

After his defeat at the Battle of Shizugatake, the warlord Shibata Katsuie returned to Hokunosho Castle.

On the final night, knowing what awaited him, a banquet is said to have filled the castle with drinking, songs and laughter - almost as though they were celebrating a victory.

"Hokunosho, The Last Banquet" is a rock guitar instrumental inspired by that extraordinary night.

Despite the story of impending death, the music moves with a surprisingly bright and lively rhythm. Softly overdriven guitar expresses sorrow through long sustained notes and deep vibrato, while phrases accented with pinch harmonics bring strength, resolve and the proud spirit of a warrior.

Bright yet sorrowful. Sorrowful yet bright.
A feeling somewhere between laughing through tears and crying with a smile.

Knowing there would be no tomorrow, they still chose to drink, sing and laugh one last time. This piece portrays sorrow, acceptance and the courage to live fully until the very end.