December 20, 2011

Shades of [Dir en] Grey


The 5 guys of Dir en Grey have come a long way from their visual kei wearing days, and although they've changed quite a bit over the years, their image has remained as tough as ever as they continue to push boundaries with their music.  Their musical style has evolved a lot since the early days of GAUZE, continuously experimenting as they formed their own niche in Japan and the world over.  Even after all these years, there is something captivating about Kyo's guttural screams, the powerful guitar work of Kaoru, Die, and Toshiya, and Shinya's drums that I can't stay away from.

Their show at Irving Plaza this past week showed just how strong they are today as they were when they began.  (Not to mention the RIOTOUS crowd that gathered around the stage helps to prove this point!)  Although I had to leave the show early, the few new songs I heard were typical DEG flavor; Kyo screaming at the top of his lungs (and then some) Kaoru and Toshiya rocking out on our end of the stage, and Shinya banging happily on his drums at the back.  Never has unleashing all that pent up anger looked so beautiful and done in such style.







Ah, Diru is great, I cannot wait for their next show!  They are a powerful force that cannot be stopped and all the more appreciated when seen live.

The opening act was a welcome surprise, the Birthday Massacre!  This Canadian Gothic rock group enchants with beautiful yet haunting vocals and metal background.  They were the perfect warm up for DEG in my opinion and a special treat!  Think Evanescence to start with, but they have their own unique style that sets them apart and makes them a strong act in their own right. 



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