Versailles Presents Tokyo Metropolis Day Two

Versailles, Moi dix Mois and D present a feast of roses to ardent fans on the second night of Tokyo Metropolis.

The title for day two of Tokyo Metropolis couldn’t have been more suitable. Bara no kyouen, which roughly translates to “Rose Feast,” brought together three big names of visual kei with D and Moi dix Mois joining Versailles for a show that won’t be easily forgotten. The fans brought out their best attires with plenty of cosplayers and quite a few foreign faces and the excitement was palpable from the start as Liquid Room got ready for some heavy rock.

D

The lights fell and the crowd stirred in anticipation, red and black washing the stage to welcome D. With impressive instrumentals, fierce vocals and a contagious performance D carried the hall on an adventurous ride through sound, deep into their unique world of vampires and roses. HIROKI, Tsunehito, HIDE-ZOU, Ruiza and ASAGI made their entrance to the band’s latest intro, posing dramatically as they took the podium and the crowd welcomed each member with literally open arms. The classic Yami yori kurai doukoku no acapella to bara yori akai jounetsu no aria kicked off the show and got the crowd moving, the hand routines making the number visually impressive while the guitars blasted fiercely and bass pulsed to puissant drums. The band showed their unflagging energy from the start, moving zealously across the stage and thrashing heads to the beat while interacting continuously with the crowd.

By the second song the whole venue was moving in sync to the contagious beat. Eternally in character ASAGI danced theatrically to the title song of D’s latest single Dying message. With impeccable vocals and a charismatic performance the vocalist even engaged in some warmly welcomed fanservice as he provocatively caressed the blond guitarist to the crowd’s delight. From heavy to catchy the song went in waves, pumping fists giving way to a sweet dance of arms as the audience followed the choreography. The pumping fists continued for Eve no keifu, the transition from funky to heavy cleverly accomplished while the string trio helped with the death voice. As Ruiza jumped and swayed his head to the beat Tsunehito twirled and flashed contagious smiles to the crowd, HIDE-ZOU flirting with the fans while keeping it cool. “It’s a rose event indeed!” ASAGI grinned, congratulating Versailles on their anniversary in a casual and brief MC.

Back to business and more ardent numbers, D brought out the infamous D flags for the visually stunning Night-ship “D”. The hall became one with the string trio moving with the black and red flags while the vocalist exemplified the movements. Tsunehito was unstoppable as he worked the crowd between heavy head banging and growls, fingers flying over the strings for some torrid bass lines while HIROKI seemed to be having a blast as he attacked the cymbals fiercely, sticks flying rapidly as he set the pace for the tune. Arms rose slowly with the dramatic opening of 7th Rose and all hell broke loose with some fierce thrashing of heads. The hot medley 7th Rose ~ Yami no kuni no Alice combined two of D’s most remarkable numbers and testified to the band’s diversity, a mantle of smoke covering the stage and materializing the hot performance. HIDE-ZOU and Tsunehito moved forward and the crowd raised their arms welcomingly, the synchronized dances continuing in a lighter tone for the second song as the vocalist impeccably sang the tale of Alice between torrid guitar riffs that brought Ruiza to the front.

Toki no koe set the hall aflame with its contagious tune and the band’s daring performance. With a fierce howl ASAGI took the lead, rising and lowering his arm while he encouraged the crowd to follow, a dark human wave accompanying his every move, before chaos broke loose and hair went flying once more with the fast drums and fierce growls. The performance was sure to score D some new fans and set the bar high for the following bands.

Set List:


01. Yami yori kurai doukoku no a capella to bara yori akaijounetsu no aria

02. Dying message
03. Eve no keifu

04. Night-ship “D”

05. 7th Rose ~ Yami no kuni no Alice
06. Toki no koe

Moi dix Mois

The curtains moved to reveal Moi dix Mois already on stage, a white mantle of smoke covering the floor while Mana, K, Sugiya, Seth and Hayato posed dramatically, arms up in the metal devil-horn sign. The Seventh Veil kicked off the set with strong instrumentals, the outfits and staging making for a visually strong number that seemed to transport the hall to the depths of hell. The band kept the performance dramatic and dark, K moving like a broken puppet while Mana swayed to the beat before nailing a feisty solo.

Like a black and red minion the vocalist contorted his body as he went from singing to growling, theatrics high for the gloomy unmoved. The band set an example, thrashing heads fiercely to the tune and the crowd followed, Seth’s growls echoing frightfully through the venue. The lights dimmed for Pendulum and the sound of heavy rain enveloped the hall. Thunder roared in the distance and the vocalist took the lead for one of the band’s strongest numbers. With the blue cross on his guitar flashing, Mana let his fingers effortlessly fly over the strings, hair covering his face as he thrashed his head back and forth, lost in the beat. With the lead guitarist in the center the vocalist approached him, kneeling and singing to him in a haunting lament that allowed the hall to fully appreciate his vocal range.

“We are celebrating our 10th anniversary this year. The next song expresses our appreciation to all of you who supported us over these ten years!” the vocalist explained, introducing Je l’aime. The number was carried out in a solemn fashion, audience and band barely moving, while instrumentals raced and eased in waves in a song that surely took the band away from their comfort zone and testified to their diversity. Far from their dramatic opera/gothic numbers the song was catchy and sweet, the contrast between the thundering drums and sweet melody interestingly accomplished.

An MC followed with Seth shedding some light on the rose-relation between the bands present. “So the descendants of the rose, Versailles, gathered the children of the rose, D and the blue rose from hell … our own Mana-sama, to celebrate their fifth anniversary and we are very glad to be here!” At the mention of “blue rose” Mana blew a kiss on the blue rose he was holding and threw it to the crowd who cheered. The “Message from Mana-sama” MC corner got the hall laughing as Seth read said message, trying not to laugh while Mana gesticulated exaggeratedly for emphasis. “KAMIJO-kun and -sama have known each other for quite a few years!” Seth explained before clearing his voice and continuing in a dramatic narrative style, “It was the live of Malice Mizer at Meguro Rokumeikan. The new roadie KAMIJO came in wearing … jeans and a white shirt.” “Now, a message for KAMIJO from Mana-sama: Bonjour, KAMIJO,” Seth continued in a cute voice before continuing as Mana flashed the devil-horn sign once more. “Let’s rock!”

Rock the five did with the heated Immortal madness. “Since it’s a rose event let’s yell “Rose love” for the chorus!” Seth suggested and the hall complied as they followed the hand routines. Growls intertwined with feisty guitar solos that got K flashing his guitar to the sky while Mana moved forward, interacting with the audience. The heavy numbers continued with Dead Scape 2012 and Ange~D side holy wings between pumping fists and head banging that got the hall moving, Mana’s blue hair flying dangerously while he squatted, knees almost kissing the floor in a passionate performance to hot bass lines and steady drums.

Set List:

01. The Seventh Veil
02. unmoved
03. Pendulum
04. Je l’aime
05. Immortal madness
06. Dead Scape 2012
07. Ange~D side holy wings

Versailles

Light roses sprouted from the crowd, welcoming the members one by one for the “We are Versailles!” call. All hands rose to welcome KAMIJO, HIZAKI, TERU, MASASHI and YUKI, the five clad in dark outfits that gave them a harsher tone that contrasted with the previous night’s light one.

With the colorful roses up in the air, red took the stage and the guitars raced for ASCENDEAD MASTER. KAMIJO’s voice was clear and strong, embracing the hall in a song where fast and strong drums combined cleverly with the sweet melody. The vocalist exemplified the hand routines and the audience followed, arms crossing and swaying with the beat. The song ended with a powerful piano and vocal duet, KAMIJO welcoming the crowd and asking in English “Give me your voice!” before diving into Shout & Bites. The crowd moved back and forth like a giant human wave, the vocalist punching the air and swaying from one foot to the other as he stayed in character. The synchronized twirls and dances made for a strong performance to feisty instrumentals that set the hall on fire.

“So, what kind of roses do you like?” KAMIJO asked with a teasing grin. “My favorite roses are the ones showered by the rain … like my chest” he added revealing some sweaty flesh. DRY ICE SCREAM was followed by the dramatic Thanatos, sweet and determined vocals combined with hot bass riffs that got MASASHI tapping at the chords with zeal while YUKI attacked the cymbals with powerful and precise blows.

“This feels great, thank you!” the vocalist confessed with a pleased smile. “Are you having fun? The set is very hot today! Let me tell you about the bands accompanying us today. D has been with us forever yet we played together for the first time this year at their event Mad Tea Party. It was an honor and we are happy that they agreed to play with us today. Moi dix Mois … well Mana-sama already explained it … and since he revealed a secret now it’s my turn!” the blond grinned. “When I was a roadie for Malice Mizer, everyone used to call Mana, Mana-chan when we were backstage. One day I did so too, by accident. I was so embarrassed afterwards that I never forgot that awful incident. Today, I decided to ask Mana if he remembered and I was shocked to know he didn’t,” he confessed, laughing.

Since roses are not the only thing that the three bands share, Versailles made sure to bring out their own Vampire with the next song. Freely KAMIJO danced and thrashed his head to the feisty beat as the hall embraced the gothic tune, the outfits matching the darker tone perfectly and giving the vocalist a devilish appearance as he defiantly pronounced each word. The band’s latest single ROSE followed in the same fashion, the bass haunting while MASASHI attacked the strings, knees almost touching the floor. Like a battle call the rhythm built up to fast guitars and roaring drums that made the transition to the classic The Red Carpet Day very smooth.

After a heated encore demand the band returned for one of their earliest songs, the sweet Sympathia. The light roses returned, Versailles encouraging the crowd to bring out the D flags and Moi dix Mois devil-horn signs as well. It was a visually stunning number with the hall waving their colorful roses and flags in unison to the melancholic tune. The Revenant Choir closed the set in a party mood with the hall thrashing heads fiercely. One by one KAMIJO introduced the members, the “We are Versailles” echoing like a mantra for the grand finale. Between cheers and waves the band bade farewells, congratulating all the bands that took part in the event. With the hall singing as one Tokyo Metropolis ended, the two nights not easily forgotten by the lucky ones present.

Set List:

01. ASCENDEAD MASTER
02. Shout & Bites
03. DRY ICE SCREAM
04. Thanatos
05. Vampire
06. ROSE
07. The Red Carpet Day

Encore 1
01. Sympathia
02. The Revenant Choir


Sc: JaME World U.K.

Versailles Presents Tokyo Metropolis Day One

An explosive fifth anniversary celebration with sublime music and great fun.

On June 23rd Versailles gathered bands of bond for a fervent anniversary celebration at Ebisu’s own LIQUIDROOM. Matenrou Opera, Kaya, DaizyStripper and Lin proved to be an explosive line up with plenty of juicy MCs and songs for all tastes.

Matenrou Opera

A diverse crowd, dressed in their best attires, waited patiently for the start of the show, all voices silencing as the lights abruptly dimmed and the curtains moved. Blue lights made their way through the red tainted stage as an eerie gothic tune welcomed Matenrou Opera. With a yell of “Jump!” vocalist sono fired up the crowd for the heated alkaloid showcase. Pointing to the keyboardist, sono stepped back and all eyes fell on ayame as he elegantly attacked the white keys for a wicked solo.

“Hi Tokyo! Are you having fun?” the vocalist yelled cheerfully. “Versailles are celebrating their 5th anniversary and we would like to congratulate them! As you know, our drummer yu injured his left arm and won’t be able to play for a while. We were in a difficult situation but YUKI came to the rescue and promptly agreed to play with us! Don’t worry about yu though, he is fine!” he assured before adding as he glanced to the side of the stage. “He’s actually there air drumming!” Laughs from the audience set the engines for EVE. The blistering lights and guitar made the way for a heavy number, the venue effusively thrashing heads to the drums. Lured by the energetic audience, bassist yo took the forefront with a feisty riff, fingers flying unflaggingly over the strings while sono swayed sensuously, a powerful yell leaving his lips for the dramatic finale.

Wasting no time, Matenrou Opera dashed into the classic Hiai to Melancholy. Changing his gear to a portable keyboard, ayame joined yo in the front, both cheerful and energetic as they worked the crowd. The vocalist was unstoppable, punching the air between half sang and half growled verses to the crowd’s pumping fists while anzi let his fingers dance over the strings effortlessly. Twirling towels and head banging came together for the last song of the set, ANOMIE. The crowd followed the choreography zealously, jumping in unison while anzi and yo swung their instruments in a synchronized dance that wowed the hall. As the tune eased, bluish light sticks came to life, band and fans coming together in a stunning and memorable finale that got the whole venue singing in unison.

Set List:

01. alkaloid showcase
02. EVE
03. Hiai to melancholy
05. ANOMIE

Kaya 

Kaya was next, his entrance dramatic, like Kaya himself. Blinding crimson illuminated his path as he slowly walked on stage, head covered by a black shawl. Revealing himself, he wowed the hall with the costume for his newly released single SALOME, kicking off the set with the title song. The crowd was swept away from the start with Kaya’s unswerving presence and undeniable charisma. “Let me hear your voices!” he demanded between Arabian-inspired dances and the audience complied, shouting his name with enthusiasm.

“Hello, I’m Kaya,” he greeted in a sweet tone before congratulating Versailles on their fifth anniversary. “We’re like family... you know, KAMIJO is my official number one lover!” The voice tone changed abruptly as Kaya let an obnoxious laugh escape his lips and the audience laughed. “The next song is SALOME’s coupling song, BABYLON.” Kaya conveyed through his performance the emotion contained in the lyrics, vocals and movement combining for a strong number where electronics and goth came together interestingly. The dark yet sensual song had the audience riveting on the performance, Kaya’s sensuous dances striking as he twirled across the stage, arms to the side, moving slowly like snakes.

With the stage dimly lit the vocalist approached the drums. Sitting, he slowly took his sandals off, a tragic opera going on in the back. As if devoured by insanity Kaya let out a frightful laugh, the laughter multiplying and dragging the hall to the world of Kairai. “Who am I!” he demanded like a mantra and shouts of “Kaya” came in reply, shaking the hall while the vocalist moved from one side to the other, reaching daringly for the crowd. The frantic performance showed another side of Kaya and once more proved the musician's versatility and showmanship. Rose Jail proceeded in the same fierce fashion and got the crowd moshing to the heavy beat, bodies dashing forward as the fans tried to reach the edge of the stage, fired up by Kaya’s frightful growls. Daring and contagious the performance set the bar high for the following acts.

Set List:

01. SALOME
02. BABYLON
03. Kairai
04. Rose Jail

DaizyStripper

DaizyStripper caused a sudden and drastic change in the atmosphere, the “black sheep” of the group, as Yugiri put it himself, dazzling LIQUIDROOM with their energy and bright performance. The curtain moved to reveal the band in position, bright lights washing over the stage. Awairo no yume got the audience jumping, Yugiri’s voice carried confidently through the hall as he worked the crowd. The guitars made their way through the heavy drums, Nao in the front for a feisty solo while Kazami moved arms in a wild dance, from cymbal to cymbal. Hundreds of hands flashed up for PSHYCHEDELIC HEAVEN, band and fans clapping in unison to the beat, the mix of heavy and bright cleverly accomplished. The song sent bodies thrashing right and left, the mosh and growling catching the newcomers off guard.

“We are also celebrating five years on the road!” the vocalist explained cheerfully after congratulating Versailles on their anniversary. The announcements followed, with a one-man show at the infamous ZEPP and the release of a new album. From the new album came the song Kanojyo wa emerald, Yugiri taking the lead with impeccable vocals while guitar, bass and drums took the hall on a fast ride that got hair flying between interesting hand movements.

“We all have dreams and in order to accomplish those dreams, we must cut our way through adversity. The next song is for all the dreamers!” Yugiri solemnly explained as he introduced Zetsubou no Freesia. Determined drums guided the song and set the tempo for the jumps and pumping fists, Kazami head banging fervently as he attacked the cymbals, hair covering his face in the process. Rei plucked some fierce notes from the bass and Nao entertained the fans with goofy faces and original moves while Mayu blew cool kisses to the crowd, throwing his head back lost in the tune as he sang.

A knowing grin lit Yugiri’s face as he yelled “Last!” With the vocalist shaking his hips to the tune all hell broke loose with the crowd dashing right and then left as they followed the vocalist’s commands. It was a unique sight that made decade the perfect finale for a very hot performance and made DaizyStripper score some points with the audience.

Set List:

01. Awairo no yume
02. PSYCHEDELIC HEAVEN
03. Kanojo wa emerald
04. Zetsubou no Freesia
05. decade

Lin

A loud yell announced Lin, glam visuals and intricate dances bringing a taste of Osaka to Ebisu. With vocalist RIKU and bassist KISAKI in the center, the band ignited the crowd for Metamorphose. The light bits of the song allowed the guitar and bass to shine with some feisty riffs, MIZUKI getting the crowd to wave while KANATA took the center with a fast riff, band and crowd swaying right and left in unison.

Red lights washed over the stage for Royal Blood and Lin took the hall on a vertiginous ride where heavy and light vocals mingled cleverly under fast riffs. “Tokyo, we are Lin! Let us hear your voices!” RIKU welcomed before congratulating Versailles on their anniversary. “We are trying to look elegant today!” he continued with a grin, referring to the band’s predominantly black outfits. “You know, KISAKI and KAMIJO have known each other for over fifteen years. I was surprised to hear them calling each other KI-chan and KA-kun!” he confessed with a joyful laugh before adding “Oh, and KANATA wanted to cosplay HIZAKI but we told him it would look strange. I don’t think it would go with our outfits.”

The casual MC got the hall in a great mood and ready for Flowers bloom. Heavy yet lively, the song was contagious with a choreography that got the venue clapping. Arms moved right and left in unison, the band exemplifying the dances between smiles, the number shocking those new to Lin, mainly due to the contrast between the band’s cold image and their friendly and warm attitude on stage. KANATA joined KISAKI in the forefront for a fiery battle, both men swaying to the beat while REIYA attacked the cymbals fiercely. All surrounded the drums for the set’s final song, Foolish. Lights flashed to the pacing rhythm and the audience thrashed heads with it between pumping fists. RIKU continuously demanded more, KISAKI surprising everyone as he left the stage, returning an instant later clad in a gold glittering gown. Throwing a rose into the moshing crowd he raced across the stage, firing up the audience as the song approached its final round. With a powerful blow, KISAKI hit the gong placed by the drums and with its sound still carrying across the hall the band bade farewell, surely to have left their mark on the capital.

Set List:

01. Metamorphose
02. Royal Blood
03. Flowers Bloom
04. Foolish

Versailles

Versailles made their entrance in a theatrical way, the pompous intro roaring fiercely in the back as the crowd chanted “We are Versailles!” Hands rose as KAMIJO took the center, all hell breaking loose for the fierce Aristocrat’s Symphony. The crowd bent forward to the heavy beat, hands gently fluttering to the harmonious twin guitars. “Let’s make this night bloom like a beautiful rose!” KAMIJO’s words carried sweet and mellow like the calm before the storm. Roaring drums and thunderous guitars accompanied the powerful Judicial Noir, lights flashing under the fast instrumentals.

“I can’t believe it’s been five years. Thank you for your support and for being here today. The bands we gathered here all have a deep connection with us. Matenrou Opera are like our younger brothers. We shared labels and have supported each other through difficult times. YUKI played for them today and yo played with us in the past. I’ve known Kaya for a long time, we have performed together many times and HIZAKI writes for him sometimes. DaizyStipper came as a surprise for some people, I’m sure. The truth is Kazami played the piano part for The Revenant Choir and The Love of Dead Orchestra while Yugiri recorded at our studio. Regarding Lin, you all know KISAKI and I have been friends for a long time. HIZAKI took part in KISAKI Project, and we also played with RIKU’s former band Chariots,” the vocalist explained.

With KAMIJO urging the audience to put their hands up and clap Versailles dashed to zombie. The song combined heavy growls with a cheerful tune in a fierce number that got the frontman thrashing his head with the crowd. While the venue head banged TERU took the forefront, fingers digging some hot notes from the strings in a fierce riff. The tone lightened with Illusion and the sweet After Cloudia. With catchy tunes and graceful choreographies the band had the crowd in their hands, the outfits making for a visually impressive performance. The vocalist seemed to be having a blast, his cheerful attitude contagious while he allowed his voice to rise and fall effortlessly with HIZAKI blowing the crowd away with some haunting solos.

The experimental ayakashi brought with it some Japanese sounds in what KAMIJO explained to be “Versailles most Japanese song.” The number mixed gothic, opera and gypsy-inspired influences with the bass standing out with some ardent riffs. Two favorites closed the set and got the hall rocking, The Red Carpet Day with its pumping fists and fast drums making the transition to MASQUERADE very smooth. HIZAKI moved forward, approaching the crowd who rushed forward and the others followed in a warm interaction with the fans.

The “We are Versailles!” call invaded the hall once more in the band’s trademark encore call. Versailles soon returned, thanking the fans for their support. “We all go through good and bad moments. As a band we are still young and we are only able to stand here today because of you, our staff and our friends. We wrote the next song to convey this feeling!” KAMIJO solemnly addressed the crowd, introducing PRINCE. The determined ballad with its sad piano and confident guitars brought the hall to tears, crowd and band clearly moved. Philia brought the festive mood back, hair flying wildly as crowd and band gave it all for the final song. It was, like Versailles, a fierce, warm and embracing performance that will forever remain in the memory of the lucky ones present.

Set List:

01. Aristocrat’s Symphony
02. Judicial Noir
03. zombie
04. Illusion
05. After Cloudia
06. ayakashi
07. The Red Carpet Day
08. MASQUERADE

Encore
01. PRINCE
02. Philia


Day two promises many more surprises and a completely different tone with a superb line up of the crème de la crème of visual goth with D, Moi dix Mois and Versailles in a show that promises to set Ebisu ablaze. Stay tuned for the second day of Tokyo Metropolis!


Sc: JaME World U.K.

VERSAILLES' Kamijo Shares An Important Message On His Twitter

Versailles' Kamijo has sent a message to his fans, explaining to them what kind of content they can share and translate freely, and asking them to stop sharing private and copywritten material.

The message came after the it was brought to Kamijo's attention that fans had been translating the band's interviews with various magazines and sharing them to the world. While he appreciates the thought, he points out that its not right for people to do that.

The singer also asked fans not to share exclusive fan club material to those who aren't in the fan club.

Check out Kamijo's full message below:


REASON
I’ve received lots of messages about my “Onegai (Please do me a
favor)” text. Many thanks.

Did I sound a bit too harsh?
No, I didn’t mean to be harsh at all.
But I’ve come to realize that my explanation was insufficient and that
I have to explain it fully for you to understand what I mean.
First of all, I always thank all of you and street teams in every
country who continuously support us by rendering our info and news
into your languages and by posting them on your websites and/or blogs.
That really helps spread my band and our info to the world, which is
nothing but wonderful! I really appreciate that a lot! 
m(k)m
The main reason why I decided to post the “Onegai” text is that I got
a message saying, “I’m going to translate the column in ____ magazine,
put it on my website and spread it to the world.” It’s great that the
person wants to spread us to the world. But there’s a big problem. All
the interviews/texts/info appear in any magazine belong to its
publisher and they are called “copyrighted work.” If you translate any
copyrighted work without the publisher’s permission, it’s called a
“breach of copyright.” As you know, it’s against the law. I just
couldn’t let it pass because I knew one of our great fans was about to
do something illegal. Those publishers run our interviews and info in
their magazines just because they support us as much as all of you
fans out there do. We are all in the same family circle of Versailles
and we care them and you fans equally. So please ask the publisher for
permission first before you start working on the translation.

I’m writing what I wanted to say in my “Onegai” text here again to
make it clear:Please do not reprint, translate or post all the copyrighted work
belongs to our management, record company, and band such as music,
visuals, photographs, website contents, pictures in our CD artworks
and photo collection books.

What is free to reprint, translate and post is promotional photos/info
on our official website, texts in our blogs open to public in addition
to my tweets and photos on my twitter and facebook. You are absolutely
welcome to utilize them on your websites or blogs. Feel free to do
whatever you think is good for us.

Closed info and our website
contents exclusively for registered fan club members are not included.
And please remember, all the translated texts and info about us
rendered by our fans are personal interpretation of the translator.
Both translators and readers, please keep that in mind.
Regarding all the copyrighted work such as magazine contents, I leave
a decision up to the magazine publishers. So please contact them
first.

Regarding the texts and info for KAMIJO World members only, reprint
and translation are basically prohibited. If you are a KAMIJO World
member and if you want to translate for other members who don’t read
Japanese, please post the translated text on comment space. It’s a
good suggestion from some members and I think it works well in this
case. I hope to create our ideal world together with all of you by
exchanging good ideas and express things honestly. Thank you!
KAMIJO


Sc: jpopasia.

VERSAILLES Release Details For Their Last Album "Versailles"

Versailles is scheduled to release their last album before they go on hiatus on September 26th. They will also hold a final tour called "Versailles TOUR 2012 'Chateau de Versailles'".

“Versailles”, the name for the new album, will contain 11 song and will be released with a DVD that contains a short film/documentary called "ASCENAD MASTER (STORY I~III)" and the MVs of their songs "ASCENDEAD MASTER", "Serenade", "DESTINY", "Philia", "MASQUERADE" and "Vampire".

Regular Edition

01. Prelude
02. ROSE
03. Rhapsodey of the Darkness
04. Edge of the World
05. Illusion
06. Ayakashi
07. Created Beauty
08. Holy Grail -amoroso-
09. Brave
10. Truth
11. Sympathia

Limited Edition

Versailles TOUR 2012 "Chateau de Versailles"
1/11/2012 Kanagawa, Yokohama SUNPHONIX HALL in YOKOHAMA ARENA
4/11/2012 Fukuoka, Hakata DRUM Be-1
7/11/2012 Hiroshima, Hiroshima Namiki Junction
9/11/2012 Aichi, Nagoya ELL
17/11/2012 Niigata, Niigata Live Hall GOLDEN PIGS (Red stage)
19/11/2012 Miygai, Sendai darwin
21/11/2012 Hokkaido, Sapporo cube garden
28/11/2012 Osaka, Osaka umeda AKASO
20/12/2012 Tokyo, NHK Hall


Sc: jpopasia.

Versailles World Tour 2012 – Holy Grail – Grand Final ~Château de Versailles~

Versailles concluded their world tour with a mix of rococo inspired outfits, fast guitars, potent drums, hot bass lines and versatile vocals.


Versailles set C.C. Lemon Hall aflame for their 2012 World Tour Grand Final. The memorable live brought together great music and dramatic staging with songs for all tastes. Many male fans stood out in the crowd among Lolitas, housewives and wizened fans ready for some serious headbanging.

The stage was simply adorned, red roses covering the amplifiers and microphone stands while a wide screen dangled from the central wall. A loud roar shook the venue as the lights dimmed and the screen came to life flashing pictures of the members as they made their appearance. In their rococo inspired wardrobe YUKI, MASASHI, TERU, HIZAKI and KAMIJO made their entrance to Prelude.

Kicking off the show with MASQUERADE the band showed great confidence and vigor on stage. A masquerade mask appeared on the screen for the intro and soon after three black clad figures appeared behind the band dancing on a high platform placed behind the drums. Visually it was a very well accomplished piece that set the mood for the show, with the crowd following the hand choreographies while the band twirled in unison to the word “Masquerade.” With a smile KAMIJO addressed the crowd for the first time shouting out “Welcome to Versailles” before adding in French “Bonjour!” Obviously amused, the fans repeated the words back and wasting no time the band proceeded to Philia now without the extras. With HIZAKI on the lead the show fired up, the four men at the front taking advantage of the stage as they moved energetically.

The crowd moved to Judicial Noirbefore night and darkness enveloped the hall, welcoming Thanatos. The song appropriately named after the Greek god of death brought a sad yet demanding tone with it. KAMIJO defied and questioned death with every word, his plea turning into a growl as the song built up to potent drums and hot bass. Anger was appeased by desire in the lively Libido, KAMIJO and TERU gracing the crowd with some hot fanservice as they danced to the sensuous lyrics.

The still unnamed New song got a good response from the audience who pumped fists vigorously to the beat. MASASHI skillfully delivered some fiery bass lines while the song switched from fast to slow like a wave. The previous song’s dramatic ending made the transition for the epic DESTINY – The Lovers – very smooth. Colorful roses in full bloom sprouted among the crowd in a visually stunning piece for the heartwarming ballad. The guitars and drums speeded off as the song grew in strength, the front man putting all his passion into the lyrics.

Alone on stage KAMIJO took the lead for the epic ballad Love will be born again, his voice warmly embracing the hall to a melancholic piano. As the song approached its climax the others returned. Like the hopeful morning sun a yellow light grew brighter on stage, anticipating the new beginning expressed by the title.

With the front man gone the remaining four dove into some instrumental pieces, first with Holy Grail – Amoroso to a sorrowful piano and violin, followed by Threshold. The guitars and bass mingled perfectly with the powerful drums in these epic pieces that left the crowd in awe. To red lights the vocalist returned for DRY ICE SCREAM, gracing the hall with a fiery performance that got the crowd pumping fists to deafening shouts of “Oi!”

The show lightened to Flowery, flowers invading the giant screen while HIZAKI skillfully jumped with his 18th century multilayered long dress. Intricate guitar solos set the tempo for the dancing, KAMIJO twirling around the room as he danced first with TERU and then with HIZAKI. From ball-dancing to moving across the stage like a madman KAMIJO went with Glowing Butterfly. The heavy growls and stronger beat eased the transition to the new song Rhapsody of the Darkness. The song was accompanied by the three extras who now wore red belly dancing inspired costumes. In a positive attempt to create a different atmosphere, the dancers ended distracting fans from the song itself with their flashy and repetitive moves.

With the dancers gone the band got back to work with Vampire. Red lights accompanied the dramatic intro, opening the way for the guitar and bass solos. The band showed endless energy, moving constantly as they encouraged the crowd to follow the choreographies. One of the night’s highlights was definitely the classic The Red Carpet Day. Welcoming the final song with a vibrant yell KAMIJO incited the crowd to yell and pump fists. All hell broke loose as the hall moved like one to the thunderous drums and ardent guitars.

An unusual encore demand soon started with the fans yelling out “We are, Versailles” instead of the habitual “encore.” Returning promptly the band made some warmly welcomed announcements before diving into the sweet ballad Remember Forever. Again the colorful roses sprung from the crowd, adding intensity to the performance and testifying the close connection between the band and their fans. The whole venue sang as one in one of the night's most memorable moments. “Let’s dye the venue in the color of roses!” KAMIJO exclaimed with a growl before the hall was engulfed in red for Aristocrat’s Symphony. YUKI pounded the drums vigorously as he set the pace for the choreographies while KAMIJO moved back and forth with the crowd. The string trio took the lead for the grand finale, taking the song home with impressive instrumental lines.

Again Versailles bade farewell, returning one last time in response to the shouts of “We are, Versailles” for two of the band’s most impressive works. The powerful Faith & Decision with its long instrumental moments, fast guitars and dramatic lyrics made quite an impact both visually and musically. The Revenant Choir closed the set with the hall singing as one in a perfect ending for the band’s 2012 world tour, thousands of shinny silver stripes falling from the sky for the grand finale.

Stay tuned for more adventures in Versailles epic world of rococo inspired outfits, fast guitars, potent drums, hot bass lines and versatile vocals.


Set List
SE. Prelude
01. MASQUERADE
02. Philia
03. Judicial Noir
04. Thanatos
05. Libido
06. New song (unnamed)
07. DESTINY – The Lovers –
08. Love will be born again
09. Holy Grail – Amoroso (new song)
10. Threshold
11. DRY ICE SCREAM
12. Flowery
13. Glowing Butterfly
14. Rhapsody of the Darkness (new song)
15. Vampire
16. The Red Carpet Day

Encore 1
01. Remember Forever
02. Aristocrat’s Symphony

Encore 2
01. Faith & Decision
02. The Revenant Choir


Sc: JMW

Versailles Releases their New Single "Rose"

Versailles recently revealed their brand new look, and now to go along with that new look they reveal more details on their upcoming single "Rose." The single releases on June 20th and is available in two versions.

The first version of the single is a 5th Anniversary Box set with the single's CD along with a DVD; this special set costs 5,555 yen. The second version of the single is the regular edition, which includes only the CD, costing 1,200 yen. See the track listings below for more details.

CD Track listings [Included with both types]
1. ROSE
2. -ayakashi-
3. Love will be born again (Japanese Version)
4. THE RED CARPET DAY

DVD [Included only in the Anniversary set]
1. History of the Descendant of the Rose
2. Live from World Tour 2012 Holy Grail – Grand Final ~Chateau de Versailles~ 2012.2.12 (MASQUERADE / Judicial Noir / Thanatos / DRY ICE SCREAM!!![Remove the Silence] / Flowery / Vampire / Remember Forever)


Sc: JA

Versailles Releases New Singles From Tour

Visual Kei rock band Versailles announced the release of two new songs from their 7 month tour that ended last month on the 12th. The singles are to be released on April 25th. Their last album Holy Grail which was released last June will make it about 10 months since a release of something new.

"Rhapsody of the Darkness" which the lyrics were written by vocalistKAMIJO and the song was written by guitarist HIZAKI is one of the to be released singles. KAMIJO also wrote the other single "Illusion". When these songs were played on the tour, fans demanded the release of a new single and to meet that demand they decided to release these two songs.

It has also been announced that in June, the band will celebrate their 5th year anniversary since forming and will release a 5 year collection.

Sc: JA