BraveWords.com has received the following update on Taiwanese symphonic black metal band CHTHONIC:

In addition to his ever-growing work for T for Tibet, the internationally recognized photographer Clive Arrowsmith came to Taiwan to shoot the band for Chthonic’s new album, Mirror Of Retribution, which is set for an August 18th release date in North America and August 10th release in Europe.

The core beauty of Chthonic’s music lies in their love of the amazing folklore and the richness of their own country’s history. Taiwan’s past has been troubled by war, and besieged too many times by external invaders.

Seeing Tibet’s current circumstances mirroring Taiwan’s bloody history, Chthonic empathizes with the fear of loss of human rights and individual expression, and the erosion of an ancient nation’s identity.

So, on the year that marks the 50th anniversary of Tibet’s Memorial Day, “Guts United Taiwan” leader Freddy decided that now is a good time to invite the socially-luminous photographer, Clive Arrowsmith, to do a Taiwan-based photo-shoot for T for Tibet as well as Chthonic’s upcoming album.

Clive himself, was very unsure of the reception that he would get in Taiwan, as his work for T for Tibet has not always been welcomed by all the countries so far. He has encountered many obstacles from government bodies, including having his visa rejected and being abruptly forced to stop working.

Grateful for the efforts of “Guts United Taiwan” for the smooth progress and completion of his work in Taiwan, Clive Arrowsmith also praised them for being forward-thinking youths and for their passion towards human rights advocacy, especially pertaining to Tibet.

It is worthy to note that Taiwan is the first Asian country to allow the T for Tibet movement to be shot in their country.

Chthonic’s bass player, Doris, joined in the photo shoot as a model. Bound by black lines, along with numerous printing of “Free Tibet” all over herself, she represented a soul that stands for human rights, freedom, and pure strength of self.

Back in 2003, Freddy had already made a stand by organizing a “Tibetan Freedom Concert”, which had gathered international supporters like the Beastie Boys alongside local celebrities who also believed in the movement…in Taiwan itself. Geographically, it was the closest to China that the “Tibetan Freedom Concert” would ever be performed. In 2009, Freddy led “Guts United Taiwan” to Dharmsala, India.

The upcoming 2009 “Tibetan Freedom Concert”, already has the blessing and approval of the Dalai Lama.

Plans have been made to erect a billboard in June, pleading the cause to “Free Tibet” in the heart of Taiwan’s capital commercial district, 1 month before the concert. Many international and local Taiwanese acts will be performing at the night of July 11th, at Taipei, in order to encourage young people to start caring about global issues.