WRITTEN BY: ERIN
The new J-Rock band, VAMPS, was formed by Hyde(L'Arc~en~Ciel) and K.A.Z.(Oblivion Dust) after the two had collaborated together on Hyde's solo career since 2003. Upon the formation of their new band, VAMPS played a nationwide tour in Japan called, "VAMPS LIVE 2008." From August 1 to October 28, 2008, the duo played 46 shows at the Zepp houses throughout Japan, selling out a record amount of concerts.
Their enormous success in Japan has brought them to their US tour, covering ten cities from July 11 to August 1, 2009, kicking the celebration off at The Fillmore in New York City. Their lineup of assisted musicians includes Arimatsu on drums, Jin on keyboard and Ju-ken on bass, who has also worked with Gackt(ex-Malice Mizer) and Heath(X-Japan) in the past. VAMPS' first single came out on July 2, 2008 called, Love Addict. Their second, I Gotta Kick Start Now, came out on March 13, 2009 and their third, Evanescent, was released on May 13, 2009. Their first album, VAMPS, was just released on June 10, 2009 and features all three singles as well as ten other tracks. The limited edition comes with a DVD featuring the music videos for the singles.
I've been a J-Rock fan since the 90's and Hyde has always been a big part of this musical experience. To put his deep and powerful voice to K.A.Z's guitar, it's a match made in heaven
