Moi dix Mois Dis inferno XVIII LIQUIDROOM Live Stream

2020 was a difficult year, for so many reasons. Because of the pandemic, performers were especially hit hard. Many live shows were cancelled, including the Moi dix Mois Mana Birthday Sabbaths in March. Fast forward to the end of the year and more being known about how to reduce risk from the virus. Moi dix Mois returned to the stage for their annual end of the year show, Dis inferno~LAST YEAR PARTY. This time the venue was the LIQUIDROOM and many precautions were taken to protect both the staff and audience. In addition, there was a Moi dix Mois first. The show was filmed and then released online for a limited time. Which was wonderful for fans who could not travel to Dis inferno XVIII. So here is my review of that.

Each member walked on stage to the music of "En Lumière". Mana walked out with the ESP jeune fille X Ferrum -Cross Ray illusion- guitar. Right away they began playing the hard hitting "deus ex machina" with Seth on lead vocal and Ryux doing backing death vocal. This was the same opening as last year's Dis inferno. During the song Mana and Seth switched places with Mana standing center stage. This happened a number of times during the show and it looks great. 

"Welcome! We are Moi dix Mois!" shouted Seth in Japanese as a very intense "Front et Baiser" was next. In normal times there are cheers and people call out the names of the performers. While everyone clapped, I think the feeling of energy was not as present as it usually. I do think it may have affected the beginning of the show. Japanese audiences are usually polite, the virus increased that. Despite that, I am always impressed at how well the band plays. It's a credit to the talented and experienced musicians of Moi dix Mois.

I want to comment on the sound. I was wearing studio head phone for my first viewing and the sound was actually really good for this live performance. I could hear the individual instruments and the three vocalists, along with the high and low ends. However many people are use to having the low end boosted so the sound may seem a little less than what they are use to. Along with that, I could swear there was a live keyboardist, something I don't remember as much from actual performances. For cameras, maybe there was four or more. Given the short turn around time from the day of the performance to the start of streaming, they did a good job. I've seen a few online live streams which didn't look or sound this good.

The beautiful opening music to "Solitude" began and the stage lights brightened to show Ryux playing lead guitar and Sugiya on stand up bass for a bossa nova rendition of "Solitude". This was similar to Aristocrat Kitchen Knife shows last year, except there were no maracas. After a chorus, the band switched to the rock version with Mana now playing lead guitar and Sugiya on his usual bass. There was some concern noted online by attendees as to how the two versions would be put together. The comments about the editing was that it was well done. 

"The other side of the door", a homage to Grieg's "In the Hall of the Mountain King" quickly followed "Solitude". It has developed into a more driving song with heavier bass and drums and Seth's growling vocals. This was followed by the quick tempo "Eternally Beyond". The precision of playing is really shown here. I believe I caught Mana looking satisfied and relieved more than once during the show when songs ended.  

And then "a ghost whispers" began. Purple lights spread out behind Seth, looking like wings, with one purple spot light shining down from above. This was the first time the dramatic song was performed worldwide. I did miss sitting in the audience with the sounds swirling around me. I know I mentioned before that this song may be a tribute to MALICE MIZER Kami. Mana was on Twitter one night, showing something that had belonged to Kami. Later Mana tweeted that he heard a loud noise in the hallway that made him jump. My impression is that the song grew out of this and Mana remembering Kami at that time.

It was time for the Mana talk. "Agnus Dei" played while Seth began the MC. Usually it is Bach playing during these talks. My guess is that because of the filming, Mana didn't want to worry about copyrights or perhaps wanted to spotlight Moi dix Mois music. The message from Mana was that they are planning to have three days of birthday shows, but no information is available yet. Mana was wearing the Moi-même-Moitié Chiffon Shirring One-piece, which I wish they would have available again. Accenting all the black was the Blue Jewel Cross Pendant, along with a Frill Choker, the long ruffled chiffon vest and Demonia boots. For the first part of the live Mana wore the Lace Face Mask.

As for Seth, he had on the Moi-même-Moitié Ritual Print Gilet and Metal Emblem Necklace over an ascot, along with the addition of several braids accented with purple. Hayato's new hair cut was a partial shave and bright red hair. He was wearing the High Neck Puff Sleeve Blouse in black. I have that shirt in blue, it's really nice. Sugiya and Ryux were both wearing Moitié designed outfits including overskirts and the Rose Cross Pendant. Hayato was also wearing the pendant. One other thing to note was Ryux's hair. With the enhanced air circulation it flowed and moved, almost like a lion's mane. 

There was more talking than usual from the members, and it was refreshing to see them interact beyond just playing music. Maybe because it has been over a year since they last performed together? Sadly my ability to understand spoken Japanese is not great but I did catch that Ryux tried to get different sections of the audience to clap since they could not yell, also he mentioned Mana's Moi-même-Moitié YouTube cooking videos.

"MAD INGRAIN~Experience~" was the first song after the MC. It's a special session with Sugiya and Hayato. This also occurred at last year's Dis inferno. Sugiya played stand up bass for part of the song. The song shows off their skills and Hayato's double kick drums. 

"Dead Scape began with just Sugiya and Hayato. Ryux and Mana returned followed by Seth. Mana played the ESP jeune fille X lazuli -Cross Ray- guitar center stage for most of the song. The energy level definitely had increased. 

"Perish" is an amazing song to see played live. The staging this time was the best that I've seen. Only back lit in blue with Mana's white cross glowing, lighting Mana's hand as he played, everyone in silhouette created a dark and intense feeling. It was an amazing image for the song along with being the best version I have heard Mana play. Ending with only the cross lit on the stage, I can only hope that this performance will be saved so everyone can view it. It was outstanding.

"Perish" was followed by the ethereal "Twilight Flower". This might also have been the first real world performance of this dark waltz. Swaying in the misty air, there was an otherworldly feeling. Next was "Immortal Madness" turning the energy up.  Usually people shout in response to Seth's commands during this song. No doing that this time. So Seth requested that everyone do "heart hands" to "Dix Love" during the song, and then jump in unison further along in the song. 

The powerful "Night Breed" was introduced by Ryux. Mana was definitely channeling his inner heavy metal guitarist at this point. The ominous "the Prophet" continued the hard rock assault. Seth's elegant voice was countered by Ryux's death vocals. Last song was called out and then Seth began "Ange~D side holy wings~". Seth's vocal strength was showcased along with the precision of the band. At the end of the song Mana took a bow and blew kisses to the audience after the band left the stage.

And now thanks to Mana uploading the video, I can add "Ange~D side holy wings~" to this post. Here is the video of the song. 

After a long break where clapping audience member normally would shout "Moi dix Mois", the encore began. With stage lights flashing, "Destructionxx" began to play. This was the same as the second 2019 Aristocrat Kitchen Knife show honoring K. Then band members came out. Ryux, Sugiya and Hayato wearing Moi dix Mois shirts and Seth in his fur coat with a lace shirt underneath and two wide belts, similar to his outfit from last year's Dis inferno. Ryux was also wearing his black fur coat.

"Beast Side" began with Ryux playing bass and Sugiya playing lead guitar for first part using the ESP guitar that Mana's cousin Katsuo gave Ryux. Hayato stayed on drums. Seth appeared holding K's guitar. He walked to the side where Mana usually stands.

Then Mana walked out to the middle of the stage holding the Moi dix Mois megaphone. I admit that I screamed a little when I saw this, even though it was late night here. In prior shows Mana plays drums because he loves playing drums. But because of the virus it may be why this was changed. It was an excellent decision because it looked great! 

Seth shouted out the first "Beast Side" and then Mana took over from there lip syncing to Seth's voice while Seth played K's guitar.

Mana began with the megaphone and then switched to a white E-II-ESP ARROW. Mana had changed into studded wrist bands, Moi dix Mois Face Mask and the Mana-sama Super Dollfie oversized shirt with a spiderweb scarf, perhaps in honor of K. The symbolism of a spider goes back to when Kami passed away, representing the cause of it. 

Seth continued singing the song while the three guitars rang out and the audience raised their hands in unison. Seth ended with holding up K's guitar.

Usually Ryux holds K's skull lighter and plays the guitar using it during "Beast Side". I noticed at the end of the song Ryux was running it along the strings of Sugiya's guitar.

"forbidden" was the last song played with Sugiya going back to bass and Ryux now on Katsuo's guitar. Once the song ended the band stepped forward. Seth gave instructions to the audience as the band members social distanced on stage. Normally there would be balloons falling at this point but because of the virus, that did not happen. Instead Seth asked everyone to clap ten times. I think then Seth called out "Happy New Year" in Japanese, which caused Ryux and others to laugh. The last part of the Dis inferno was everyone jumping together. A recorded version of "Je l'aime" began as the band members took bows and waved as they left the stage. Mana was the last to go, bowing and looking a little emotional.

And that was the end of the show. I am very grateful that I was able to watch it every day while it was available. Congratulations to Mana for creating a great show, given all the restrictions. I do wish that at least some of the songs could be offered again by Mana. We will have to wait and see what is planned for the new year. Mana has written that there will be more in 2021, both with Moi dix Mois (Birthday Sabbaths if possible) and Moi-même-Moitié.

(photos are all from Moi dix Mois Mana, Ryux and Seth's Twitter)

Ode to Joy in Yokohama, Part II

Imagine going to a place and being surprised by a choir and orchestral concert. Pardon the shaky video but this is what was happening inside Osanbashi Hall the day I visited. This is the baritone solo part of Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in D minor finale.

Or in less words, "Ode to Joy". Which is a New Year's tradition in Japan. The orchestra was the Yokohama Bay Philharmonic conducted by 松本 宗利音, Matsumoto Shurihito. I do not know the name of the baritone soloist.

I could hear the rest of "Ode to Joy" while looking at various things in Osanbashi Hall. Like these ema for the King, Jack and Queen Towers. Supposedly if you wish for something while looking at the three buildings, your wish will be granted. I'm guessing the idea for the ema here came from that. 

There's also a Japanese garden in the Hall. Well, a facsimile of part of one.

It was time for lunch and I noticed this very light space in the dark hall. 

 The restaurant is cafe&dining blue terminal.

I was seated at a rather high bar in the middle of the restaurant. Which felt a little ackward, to be honest. If a restaurant isn't full, why do they do this to solo diners?

 The place did have nice views.

I went with their lunch set. Coffee, 

salad, 

 and chicken curry. I was cold so warm was needed. And this was spicy hot. It was a nice Japanese style curry.

Back outside after eating my late lunch, I walked back to shore. That is the King, 神奈川県庁,  Kanagawa Prefectural Office. The Art Deco style building was built in 1928.

A final look back at Osanbashi Pier and everything that is there. 

Moi dix Mois Dis inferno XVII

December 1st and it was time to visit another new music venue. This time it was Veats Shibuya. The challenge was that there were no signs for the venue out on the main roads. So it was easy for people to walk right by it. My reconnaissance the day before was helpful.

 (from Ryux's Twitter)

The band also made it to the venue. Because it was time for the Moi dix Mois Last Year Party. Each year Mana holds a Dis inferno show, known for being a bit more creative and free wheeling than the usual shows.

(from Hayato's Twitter)

Inside, the venue was definitely smaller than SHIBUYA STREAM. There were less goods for sale, but they were doing well with the hoodies and tote bags. I bought these the first night, because the second night was all standing. Even with that, people were really good all through the concert. There was no crushing and one tall guy even moved to the side so he would block less people. I knew I would not be up front but there was still space over to the right of the stage, about half way back. I could see most of the stage.

(from Seth's Twitter)

"Destructionxx" began to play and the band entered the stage. Hayato and Sugiya were dressed in a similar style as the night before. Ryux was wearing his Silent From Me black faux fur coat again. However Seth was wearing a very different outfit.

(from Sugiya's Twitter)

Also wearing a faux fur coat, Seth's outfit was pure "hair band" hard rock. Rhinestone jewelry, big curly hair and a black mesh top underneath that coat. For someone who is always tweeting photos of pastries that he's eating, he is in excellent shape.

(from Mana's Twitter)

Mana again wore Moi-même-Moitié, this time with the ruffled chiffon vest that he's been wearing this year. His choice of make-up this time was a very elegant violet. It was nice to see Mana go with something different like this, it's a great look with the blue and black clothing.

There was definitely a hard rock air about the night's show. The first song "deus ex machina" was followed by "forbidden" and then "Night Breed". They moved into more melodic songs with "Solitude". "Invite to Immorality" opened for "Nocturnal Romance", followed by "L'intélieur dix" and "Lueur Blanche". 

(photo from Seth's Twitter)

We reached the point in the show for Seth's Message from Mana. Seth spoke about future events including Deep Sanctuary VII, the biannual reunion of the founding MALICE MIZER members. He spent a lot of time talking about Yu~ki, who would be coming down from the mountain. I think the recording of drums for the new album was mentioned. Which has now successfully happened.

(photo from Ryux's Twitter)

Seth had long lost his fur coat and Ryux removed his also at some point. Both were wearing black mesh shirts underneath. "Material Death" and "Perish" were followed by "a ghost whispers". If I remember correctly, everyone in the band surrounded Hayato's drums for "Material Death". Fan participation time with "Immortal Madness" had Seth asking everyone to shout in unison about Vampire Yu~ki. Not to be forgotten, Mana walked over to Seth and non-verbally reminded him that Mana was also a vampire. Mana put his hands up near his shoulders and moved them to indicate flying, as if with little vampire wings. Of course after that we all had to shout for Vampire Mana as "Immortal Madness" was continued. Mana indicated he was satisfied with the response. The band followed this with the songs "Dead Scape", "Twilight Flower", and the closing "Ange ~D side holy wings~".

(photo from Hayato's Twitter)

"Angel of Death" by Slayer blasted for Mana's entrance as the band came back for the encore. He wore the Moi-même-Moitié Super Dollfie big t-shirt and spiked wrist bands for his drum performance. The band was in gothic Motley Crue mode. The song choice for this was "Beast side" with Hayato playing support guitar. It was a fun and gallant rendition of the song, with Mana flailing at the cymbals at the end. Giant balloons were released, bouncing as people in the crowd pushed them back up in the air. The last song was "Vizard". If I remember correctly, Mana was playing a white Flying V guitar while battling the giant balloons. (It was either during this or earlier in the show that Mana played this guitar. I lost my notes so I'm going by what I remember). After this, the band was taking their bows. Either at this time or not long before, Mana walked to the other side of the stage and then disappeared. Turns out that Mana fell of the stage. He later tweeted that he was okay, thankfully. As the large balloons popped and the small ones were batted about, Hayato took selfie photos. Mana had reappeared on stage to the cheers of everyone. The show was over and everyone grabbed balloons and headed out.

(photo from Mana's Twitter)

People were still buying goods as they left. For the show Mana chose to have new Moi dix Mois hoodies in black with silver print and black with blue print. He calls them "M Warm" and they definitely are. I wasn't planning on buying much this trip except at the shows. So I will admit to getting one of both versions.

The other new item were these light weight drawstring tote bags. Super good timing since next year, where I live, there will be a fee for bags at stores unless you bring your own. The color choices were black with blue print and navy blue with silver print. I did get both versions and I'm already using them.

I also ended up with a green balloon. Which I deflated at the end of my trip and brought home with me. A little silly but it's a reminder of a very fun set of shows that I finally got to experience. Good memories were made. Thank you Moi dix Mois and Mana.

Moi dix Mois ~Scarlet Sabbath~

I'm not sure where to start with this. So perhaps it would be good to begin with a couple photos for the new venue where the Moi dix Mois ~Scarlet Sabbath~ was going to be held. That was the SHIBUYA STREAM. 

Since it was a little unclear on Google Maps where the place was, I made my way there the day before. Just in case I got lost on the way. So once I made it out of Shibuya Station, I found myself going up escalators. Many escalators.

Thankfully they had a lot of signage inside the vast building where SHIBUYA STREAM is. And in case I wasn't sure, there were video screens of flowing water.

Finally the last escalator. Which on the day of the concert was open for everyone to go up. Something else about this building, it is very open. Lots of windows and air flowing through. It is very different from other venues I've been at in Japan. 

The area outside the hall was really large. Lots of room for the goods table. Along with a flower arrangement from ESP Guitars. Because today was the debut for the new Moi dix Mois guitar strap. 

Up another escalator and into the venue. Which was much smaller than I expected. Six rows of seats and then an area for standing behind those. On stage was the familiar Moi dix Mois banner along with the rose gates and the band's instruments. Personally I did not know what to expect. It was my first time experiencing the end of the year show, but this was actually an added live. I felt rather lucky that the time I decided to attend there were two shows. So I found myself sitting next to a vampire for this Scarlet Sabbath. Who told me my shoes were very elegant.

(from Mana's Moi dix Mois Twitter)

I suppose the best way to describe the band's look as they each entered the stage to the instrumental "En Lumiére" is to show Mana's make-up for the night. Everyone wore black with red accents. Mana wore the Moi-même-Moitié Falling Cross Print Gauze Shirt for a more hard-core look with the red contacts and red and black make-up. The feeling from the band's appearance was this would be a dark night of music. And it was.

The first song was "unmoved" followed by "Sanctum Regnum". Right off the audience was into the music and the band responded in kind. For me, I had two questions. The first was how lead singer Seth would sound after his vocal chord surgery.

(from Seth's Twitter)

The answer to that question came quickly. Seth had no problem handling the range of the Moi dix Mois songs. His voice moved easily from a growl into the higher notes needed for some songs. While he had been singing enka since his surgery, this was his first time singing with Moi dix Mois and I can say he sounded great. A test was the chorus of next song, "Gloire dans le silence" and it was marvelous. 

(from Ryux's Twitter)

That was one of the songs I really wanted to hear, so I was happy Mana chose it. What happened next was a big surprise to me. Because it was the one song I had wanted to hear the most. I kind of have mentioned this on Twitter for a few years now. But I did not expect it. The last time it was played live was in 2016 in Hong Kong. Mana did say there would be songs they had not done in a while, so I was indescribably happy when the opening notes of "Deflower" played. It was amazing to hear live, the sound being much deeper and darker than the recorded version. Along with Ryux's beautiful backing vocals, "Deflower" was perfect. I hope Ryux will get to sing more. I love the choral style songs, and he is great backing Seth's singing. I do wish they did "Deflower" more often, but this time, it felt special. My second question had been answered.

"Invite to Immorality" played and then the band rocked "Nocturnal Romance". The instrumental "A Lapis Night's Dream" flowed into another not played recently song that I had hoped they would play, "Lamentful Miss". In a way, this song has meaning for the current band, being the first single released where drummer Hayato and bassist Sugiya were listed as official band members. A song about a fallen angel, it really is wonderful to hear live. Next up was the new song "A ghost whispers". It's great to know the actual title of the song. I look forward to when this is recorded and everyone can hear it. Because there is a bit of a story behind it, and I think it is also played out in the samples used for it.

(from Hayato's Twitter)

Next up was a bit of fun. It was time for Seth's MC, in which he reads "Message from Mana". There were announcements for future events like the two Mana-sama birthday shows, Deep Sanctuary VII and Mana going to Russia and America for events in 2020. What also happened was Mana came out with two bouquets of red roses for Hayato and Sugiya, for their recent November birthdays. I give them credit for not tearing them apart and throwing the roses everywhere, like someone else does. Following the roses, Seth had us participate in repeating some crazy phrases that Sugiya and Hayato came up with. Besides the two performing an awesome version of "MAD INGRAIN" together with just bass and drums, we were asked to repeat "Sugi-sama, Sugi-sama, Sugi-sama, Sugi-sama, Sugi-sama" and "Haya, Haya, Haya, Haya, Haya-sama" a number of times as part of "Immortal Madness". The audience did really well. Me, I did okay when I wasn't laughing.

(Sugiya and Hayato from Hayato's Twitter)

All members came back to play "Dead Scape" and "Perish". I have to say everything was right on this night. And Mana looked like he was really into playing guitar. Everything sounded like it was going well. And it was time for another new song. Which we now know the actual title is "Lueur Blanche". Once again, it was exquisite in how delicate yet strong this ballad is. And Seth's vocals were superlative. It's going to be a wonderful moment to hear how this ends up sounding once it is recorded. Another great Seth song is "Twilight Flower". Besides how this has turned into a very elegant waltz complimented with his singing, Seth's movements really bring out the drama of this song. 

Back into more hardcore rock, Mana tore into "Immortal Madness" (this is where that audience participation happened). This was followed by "Beast Side" and then "Ange~D side holy wings~", which has become the closing song. The band left the stage and we in the audience began chanting "Moi dix Mois". Slowly each member came out wearing the new M warm Moi dix Mois hoodies. Well not everyone one.

(from Ryux Twitter)

Ryux came out wearing this thick black faux fur coat. And Mana, well he did have the hoodie with him.

(from Mana's Twitter)

Besides having the draped the hoodie on one shoulder, Mana was wearing black bunny ears, much to the crowd's enjoyment.

(from Mana's Twitter)

Mana continued to wear the rabbit ears while the band played their closing number, 

"Je l'aime". Mana threw his final guitar pick much harder than the previous ones. It made it to the fifth row in front of me, where it disappeared. No one could find it. 

(Mana Death Bunny from Mana's Twitter)

While we were all not wanting it to end, there was a feeling of anticipation. Because the next night would be that annual festive night, Dix inferno XVII ~Last Year Party~. And I was pretty happy because of something nice that had happened.

I, like many, had hoped to get a ticket for a seat. I was concerned that standing two nights in a row would not be easy for me. I had not been lucky, I ended up with a standing ticket. I had been checking Twitter when I saw someone offering for sale at face value, one seat ticket. I contacted this lovely lady and everything worked out. I got my ticket at the venue. Even though I ended up paying for two tickets, it was worth it. She and her friend were sitting in the row in front of me, so that was nice.

And she gave me sweets! The cookies were really good. Thank you very much to this lovely lady for helping me out. And thank you to Moi dix Mois and Mana for another wonderful show. Everything went smoothly it seemed, and the music was excellent. And finally getting to hear "Deflower" live, it was amazingly better than I could have ever imagined.