J-Rock Revolution Day 2

The second day had a little more time since there were only 4 bands. As I thought, first out the gate was Merry. They played a vary interesting and softer set than usual. They had a 7 song set that Featured a brand new song which was un named at number 3. The only really crazy and hard song they played was their old great single “Japanese Modernist”. Although their set was slower, I think it showed everyone the kind of range they have and the direction they are going. Gara introduced the band with Japanese Calligraphy and wrote “Hello” in Katakana in which most people know what it meant! Then wrote “Merry”. As for the English speaking, Nero took the honors and did a decent job. His best was his last words “ We will be back”! I am sure America will be waiting!
Girugamesh was next and what can I say but wow! For some young guys and the most miner out of the 4, they definitely held their own. They were about the heaviest band of the night with hard and groovy songs. The fans really seemed to know the songs and I and the band didn’t seem to know why! I told them after the show that YouTube is probably the reason why so many knew of there music. For that matter, YouTube is the reason for all of the band gaining fans and a great way for people to see current Japanese Rock bands in action being it live or a promotion video. Let also give a shout out to MySpace.com too. Now I believe that the people were so into Girugamesh that by the time Despairs Ray came out, everyone was worn out! They also had a 7 song set which featured only one slow tempo song. It was good stuff and I am sure they gained a lot of new fans. It was also the first out of Japan for the group too!
Now, Despairs Ray has played the most in the States besides Dir en grey and their core fans came out in droves to see them. They play a strong 8 song set and won over a lot of people. However, I felt that a lot of the songs sounded similar and the vocals sounded too much the same. I saw them about 6 years ago and they sounded pretty much the same as I remembered and nothing really to new. However, they do have a good thing going so why change! They will be back and there fans won’t be disappointed.
Before the last band, Yoshiki came out again and thanked the bands and the fans for coming out to LA again. He and the bands were happy to play and I am sure they will be back. Oh, he also mentioned that the Japan Expo (July 2007) in France has invited him to come and is pretty sure he will go!
MUCC decided to show a short documentary of there show overseas before coming out and it was interested seeing all of the different places they have played. They have been all over but this was only the second time playing in America (first time was at an Anime Expo in Wisconsin) Tatsuro (vocalist) told me after the show. He mentioned that they definitely want to play again in LA! Now, their set about 7 or 8 songs and all were tight and pretty heavy. I have seen them about 3 times and they always seem to put on a great and engaging show. I am sure they can make it in the States just like Dir en grey if they want too.

Now I would like to Thank everyone at Jrock Revolution for inviting me to the show and to all of the bands that came and played their hearts out. Also, and most important are all of those fans that came from all over the U.S. to see the bands play in LA. This was a true mind opening experience that myself and all of the bands will never forget. Let’s keep this going and keep on supporting these great and talented Japanese Rock artist!
by
William White Jr.
AMU Founder, Director and Producer