J-ROCK EXPLOSION 2012 Splendid Violent Emotion

Live Report

by Leela McMullen, posted February 21, 2012

ALSDEAD

Making a cool entrance with just enough flair in their silent greetings to excite the crowd, ALSDEAD powered right in with a hot riff to open “Into The Void.” In moments, Loft was awash with flying hair, though the hard number shifted into a pop-rock chorus. Guitarist Shin contrasted vocalist MAKI’s serious attitude with a touch of cute smugness which presented in dimpling smiles during his solo. “Kairi” continued with a lot of flat-out headbanging, similar in music though heavier in attitude.

“We’re ALSDEAD,” MAKI announced. “We have lives for three days from yesterday until tomorrow but today is the heaviest set. Now, we’re also going to cover a song from Danger Crue. We’re doing MUCC. It’s not a heavy one, though. Please listen. ‘Ryuusei.’” MAKI handled the fast but gentle melody well though he sang with so much spirit his rough voice cracked and ground, bringing a new sense of urgency to the number. Then “FRAGILE” began with a light digital beat that had the crowd clapping along before tough guitar ripped in. “You all got towels?” MAKI prompted, ruthlessly shouting the otherwise uplifting melody. “Come, you can dance and have fun before girugamesh take over.” The crowd were won over and danced, moshed, and waved their arms about through the final “CYNICAL” as the band roamed the stage right to the far wings in an exciting final display.

Set List

  1. Into The Void
  2. Kairi
  3. Ryuusei (MUCC cover)
  4. FRAGILE
  5. CYNICAL

Leela McMullen is a strong believer in the philosophy "no music, no life." Having traversed the range of Japanese fandoms, she found her home at last in visual kei and has made it her mission to share what she loves most with the world. Leela completed her B.A. in Japanese language from Griffith University in Gold Coast Australia. She now lives and works in Japan, striving to bring you the goods, hot from the scene. Follow her on twitter for juicy hints of upcoming articles if you've got a bit of Japanese language under your belt! http://twitter.com/#!/LeelaInTokyo

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