D’ERLANGER is a highly influential Japanese band that played a significant role in shaping the Visual Kei movement during its inception in the 1980s. Known for their unique blend of rock, glam, and gothic aesthetics, D’ERLANGER quickly gained a dedicated fanbase with their captivating performances and innovative sound. After disbanding in 1990, the members pursued various solo projects and musical endeavors. However, their impact on the Visual Kei scene remained undeniable. In 2007, D’ERLANGER surprised fans by reuniting and embarking on a new chapter in their musical journey. Since their reunion, D’ERLANGER has released three studio albums, each showcasing their evolution and growth as artists. “Lazzaro” (2007), “The Price of Being a Rose is Loneliness” (2008), and “D’ERLANGER” (2009) received critical acclaim and further solidified the band’s status as pioneers of the Visual Kei genre. With their powerful and emotive music, D’ERLANGER continues to captivate audiences in Japan and beyond. Here’s a little chat with frontman kyo.
——How would you describe D’ERLANGER to those unfamiliar with it?
kyo: D’ERLANGER is truly one-of-a-kind. Our perspective on the world is unique, and we pioneered a style of rock music that was unprecedented at the time. We are constantly pushing boundaries and evolving, and that will never change. Our sound is a fusion of raw energy, soft melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics that resonate deep within the soul.
——The reunion of D’ERLANGER after a staggering 17-year hiatus, how did the reunion happen?
kyo: It was a convergence of destiny and an overwhelming desire to once again create music together. The passage of time had not diminished the bond that existed between the members of D’ERLANGER. In fact, it seemed to have intensified our connection. The sudden surge of inspiration and the shared longing to reignite the creative flame propelled us towards this momentous decision.
——What was it like playing together after such a long time (April 2007)?
kyo: It was very exciting!
——You are older now and undoubtedly more experienced. How has your music and the way you create it evolved?
kyo: It has probably changed, but I couldn’t tell you exactly how. I simply continue to make music that stimulates me. As we grow older and gain more experience, our perspectives and influences naturally shift. This evolution seeps into our music, shaping it in subtle yet profound ways. While I may not be able to pinpoint the exact manner in which our music has changed, I can confidently say that it has evolved organically. We’ll continue pushing boundaries and exploring new musical territories. We have an insatiable hunger for growth and a desire to create music that leaves a lasting impact. Our journey is far from over, and we are excited to share our future endeavors.
——You were pioneers of the Visual Kei movement in the 1980s. What are your thoughts on the evolution of this movement, and do you still consider yourselves a part of it?
kyo: It’s wonderful to see that Visual Kei is now recognized and known as a part of Japanese culture. Before our band formed, there was nothing quite like Visual Kei. The evolution of Visual Kei has been remarkable. It has grown from a niche subculture to a prominent and influential movement within the music scene. It’s incredible to witness how it has captured the imagination of fans worldwide and become a significant part of Japanese cultural identity. The impact it has had on the music scene cannot be understated, as it has paved the way for countless artists to express themselves freely and explore unconventional aesthetics. My hope is that visual-kei will continue to thrive and evolve, remaining a platform for artists to express themselves authentically. We hope it will continue to inspire and captivate audiences, both in Japan and around the world. visual-kei has the power to transcend boundaries and connect people through its artistic expression. We look forward to witnessing its continued growth and the incredible music and art it will inspire in the years to come.
——To what extent is the visual aspect of your music important today?
kyo: Hum… Isn’t it better to have appealing visuals and a good image rather than uninteresting stage performances? While visuals can certainly enhance the overall experience, it’s important to strike a balance between aesthetics and substance. Our music has always been at the core of our artistic expression, but we also recognize the impact that visuals can have in capturing the audience’s attention and creating a memorable atmosphere. It’s about creating a cohesive and immersive experience that complements the music without overshadowing it.
——Where do you draw inspiration for your lyrics, and what subjects do you enjoy writing about the most?
kyo: I have this feeling that the sound of D’ERLANGER’s imagination comes to me naturally and effortlessly because our music touches the heart directly. My favorite subjects to write about are the deep emotions that people experience, emotions that are usually hard to reach. For me, writing lyrics is a deeply personal and introspective process. I draw inspiration from my own experiences, as well as observations of the world around me. I strive to capture the raw and authentic emotions that resonate with listeners on a profound level. It’s about delving into the depths of human emotions, exploring the complexities of love, loss, longing, and the human condition. By tapping into these profound emotions, I aim to create a connection with the audience and evoke a visceral response through our music.
——Will we have the opportunity to see you this year in Europe?
kyo: We haven’t planned any tours in Europe in the near future, but we would be really happy to play here as soon as the opportunity arises! Our fans’ support means the world to us, and we always strive to bring our music to as many places as possible. While we don’t have any specific plans for this year, we are open to the possibility of touring in Europe and hope to have the chance to perform for our fans in the near future. We appreciate their patience and continued support, and we will make sure to keep them updated on any upcoming tour announcements.
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Mandah FRÉNOT
(c) VMJ
