this news has truly saddened me as i was/still am a big fan of Kagrra, and Isshi. i've been worried about him since last summer's scare when he lost his voice and they had to cancel shows. then Kagrra,'s "demise" was announced in November and i wondered quietly if there was more to that health issue than was let on. it would be somewhat typical, imo, for him to forge ahead with the next project as quickly as possible if there had been a significant problem found.

we may never know the circumstances of his death as the family is very traditional apparently and wants their privacy. i can respect that. from a translation done by a Kagrra, community member on lj, it was pointed out that only english language sources were using the harsher sounding "found dead", which leads the imagination to picture lurid tabloid articles of other celebrities "found dead" in their homes. i do not believe this was the case, but rather something more natural and yet still unfortunate befell this talented and well-loved young man.

his voice will be missed by many, his kind words, friendship and good heart by many more. i've found myself listening to Kagrra's works primarily these last few days. rather than disheartening, i find them comforting as i always have. i feel quite sure Isshi-san is at peace and sharing his talents in whatever afterlife he believed in. my condolences go to his family, friends, loved ones and all who loved and will miss him. Ouka Ranman is one of my many favorites, this ending snippet as translated by Sparrow(lj community) are fitting i think.
" Beneath these cherry blossoms in full bloom, I'm with you again

Watch over me with your pale red kindness
I walked on the road of dazzling light
To you who could conceal the faded sky
It resounds, my song that changes eternity into a smile

Although the dancing and scattering flowers are filling up before my eyes
From now on I'll go forward, crossing into the world I can't see
To you who taught me about the dreams that never end
If I could say anything now, thank you"

also, the pv for one of Kagrra,'s most lovely songs is a fitting epitaph of sorts. Utakata. couldn't find the version i wanted on YT, but this is link to a sub version. http://youtu.be/XF5pRuxGer8
my thanks to the poster.

i know, i sound sappy. on the other hand, i wonder if his solo CD will be released in September after-all? the one snippet/song i had heard from his Shiki project was beautiful and i was looking forward to the release so much.