You may have found a band you can enjoy equally! They go harder than this, but they also do some really beautiful ballads. They do remind people somewhat of older hard rock and metal bands, but they're so inventive and complex that it never sounds like just a rehash. For example, I've heard a lot of people say they saw Led Zeppelin live and Band-Maid is their favorite band since then. A lot of Iron Maiden, Tool, and Rush fans are equally big Band-Maid fans. No worries on the exploitation front, although the concerns are understandable. Miku, the founder, lyricist, and rhythm guitarist (in the most wedding-cake dress here) worked in a maid cafe and it was her idea to contrast a cute, stereotypically submissive, maid image with a more aggressive sound. So you have what they call The Gap between five endearing personalities who call their concerts "servings" and their fans "masters and princesses," and their declared goal of World Domination with face-melting playing. The outfits were more uniform and sexy when they started and have evolved to fit each member's personality (also, bassist MISA and lead singer Saiki hate aprons). The music quickly makes the costumes just a trivial fun extra. They work closely with their management company's staff, but it seems to be a relationship of support and development rather than management telling them what to do. Their most recent album leaned heavily towards prog-thrash - and then they did an online acoustic concert on Christmas that blew people away. It is very hard to predict what they're going to do, even within one song ("How did we get to _this_ from the way it started?!" is a common reaction.) It's also common for fans to hear a new release and go, "I don't like this _at all_" but then a couple weeks later say, "Never mind, it's one of my favorites now." Even if they grab you from the get-go, there's a learning curve to wrap your head around everything they cram into their songs. Just to start with, the instrumentation on the second verse is never the same as the first. Live is where they shine, but they really have no lame songs - the cliches are A) Your favorite Band-maid song is the one you're listening to at the moment, and B) Everybody's list of top five Maid songs is twenty songs long. "Rinne" is generally considered their "hardest," but a lot of people are probably going to recommend the live twofer from an online concert of "Manners" (throwback 70s heavy groove rock) and "Black Hole" (220 bpm hard prog insanity) to give you a small idea of the range they're capable of.
bandmaid has been around for almost 10 years are well known, but are still gaining ground in the west. will be at aftershock. and are touring in the US later this year welcome to the pigeon hole. they have over 100+ songs to hear.enjoy yourselves
Nice reaction. This is the tip of a very large iceberg. They have so many great songs in various styles but they rock hard. They are their own genre really, though whatever style they are playing the quality is there and they still sound like 'Band-Maid'.
Band Maid is not a product of a studio but was an idea by the rhythm guitarist MIKU, who found the lead guitarist Kamani Tono and the rest were brought together by them. They have just sold out 13 shows here in the U.S. and will only get more popular.
Going to see them in Dallas in October and I am mega geeked. Onset is an instrumental only song that you really need to check out. But then, every Bandmaid song kicks ass.
Great Reaction! 🤘😎🤘 I would like to suggest you check out the 2 song live stream video (No audience because of covid) "Manners, BLACK-HOLE" "Manners" is a groovy, bluesy "Classic Rock" style song but with the BAND-MAID spice. "BLACK-HOLE" is a 220 bpm sonic onslaught of beautifully crafted and controlled instrumental chaos. (BLACK-HOLE is my current favorite BAND-MAID song) with their amazing layered vocals. Miku and Saiki sing different melodies and when they are combined it's a thing of beauty! Have I sold you on the video yet? Looking forward to more reactions!
Band Maid was started by Miku (rhythm guitar/backing vocals). She worked in a maid cafe and thought it would by cool to see ladies dressed as maids play music you wouldn't expect them to play. They call that "the gap". She found Kanami (lead guitar) online. Kanami knew Akane (drums) from playing in backing bands together. Akane knew MISA (bass) from attending the same music school. Miku was supposed to be lead singer but didn't think her voice was strong enough to sing the types of songs she wanted the band to play so she fired herself from that roll and the band hired Saiki. Miku didn't know how to play guitar so Kanami became her teacher.
That was song number 22 of 23 of a 2.5 hour set. No one does live like Band Maid ! I recommend you watch 'Freedom' official live from the same concert. The girls create their own costumes, which have evolved over the years. Enjoy !!
Hey there, they are actually going to be touring in the states this year in October through early November. They are an organically formed band that are known to actually hang out together outside work now. The maid outfits were the idea of band founder Miku (rhythm guitarist and back up vocals).
There are differences between a group and a band. Groups such as BTS, Blackpink, Babymetal, and even all the way back to Menudo are constructs of music executives. As they age simply bring in younger versions for plug-and-play formula vocals with any studio musicians and these groups can go on for decades. Formula groups can simply play from a soundtrack sounding exactly the same each time so they're always perfect with no soul. Band-Maid is built around all of the musicians skills and abilities that give them a distinctive sound and personality. The entire band is out front during the performances. Each member is showcased multiple times with all of their incredible talent on display and any mistakes being seen or heard. Real music by real musicians for real people that appreciate the real thing.
BabyMetal is not a construct of music executives. They started out on a shoestring budget borrowing clothes from friends for performances at Japanese strip malls and small venues and paid their dues. They now are respected by and have either performed or collaborated with the likes of Metallica, Slipknot, Judas Priest,Guns and Roses, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bring Me The Horizon, Sabaton and others. They now have fans all over the world and perform to sold out venues from 2,000 seat auditoriums to 55,000 indoor arenas to festivals of 60 to 100,000 fans. Lead singer Suzuka Nakamoto is unmatched in her vocal abilities and with their backup band of world class musicians from Japan, the U.S. and Europe (The Kami Band) they are an experience LIVE like no other.
@Rust bucket BabyMetal does not “bring in new members as the group ages”. Suzuka Nakamoto and Moa Kikuchi (Yui Mizuno left in 2018 because of health reasons) are BabyMetal and have been since BabyMetal was formed in 2010 when Suzuka was 13 and Yui and Moa were 11 yrs of age. They were all three friends and classmates at Sakura Gakuin where BabyMetal began as a heavy metal club within Sakura Gakuin but from performances at small venues in Japan grew in popularity and finally became BabyMetal (which means birth of a new metal genre - not the age of the members)
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babymetal here's the BabyMetal wikipedia page. It seems to me to be a corporate group. Yes, Su is a great singer. The biggest difference is Miku found the other members who were already talented musicians. The vocalists fo BabyMetal were put together. I'm not aware of any member of BabyMetal actually play instruments.
Guys, when you see "Blooming" you will not believe it, I had to see it more than 100 times to be able to assimilate it, I was in Shock!!!, 😵😵😵, when you see "Freedom", mmmmm, better not say anything. 😵💫😵💫😵💫 Band Maid is the best band I have ever seen, their talent is from another world.
Created by the rhythm guitarist Miku Kobato in 2013, and they still have all the original members. They have changed labels often, I would guess it's to keep their independence of music, and have written and composted most of their music since the song "Alone" from the Brand New MAID album in 2016, which was the first self written song allowed by their label onto a album. From that point on to the present they write most of their own material. Kanami Tono, lead guitar, is the main song writer and composer, but all the ladies have input to the final song. Miku is the main lyric writer, as well as being the front person, spokes person, rhythm guitar and second vocals, (there are several songs where she is the lead vocalist). Saiki Atsumi is lead vocalist and QC for the music. MISA is the bass guitarist and is known as the Barefoot Assassin, as she preforms without shoes during live shows. Akane Hirosa, is the drummer, and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, after watching Band-Maid live on back to back nights, asked to meet with her and complimented her on her drumming! All five of these ladies are masters of their craft, friends on and off stage, and are having fun doing what they love, which is infectious to the listeners! "Play", "Freedom", both live, "Manners", "Warning", "Sense", "Afterlife" are great newer songs from these ladies! If you want to go back a bit, try "Thrill", "Alone", "Yolo", "Dice", "Choose ME" for a look at the journey these amazing ladies have been on. You will hear this a lot from the Maidiacs, as band fans are known as, there are no bad songs from these ladies! Sorry to so long winded, but there is no amount of words to adequately describe these ladies!
they've been around since 2013. their sound is constantly evolving. they do rock justice ;) btw. they ARE coming to the US in OCTOBER 2022! (9 of 14 shows sold out already) their costumes are indeed hot, but they do sometimes will adjust it to the season. the others will fill you in on the rest im sure.
@@RyanSquared don't be so judgemental about everything from Japan. It's like saying Tool is fake because they're from the same country as Milli Vanilli. You could say a lot of things about American music too. Being from the same country doesn't mean they are the same. This is one of my pet peeves about Japan. Everyone is either I love everything Japanese or I hate everything Japanese. Both of those are wrong.
@@Jordan-Ramses I am a little confused about this comment. We have re-watched the video multiple times and we fail to see where we were judgmental. If you could put a time stamp in a reply as to where you feel we were being judgmental we would appreciate it.
@@RyanSquared you were saying that anytime you saw a band from over there (Korea and Japan are different places) that you worry that their record company is making them do it. What? There is no slavery in Japan. They can quit whenever they want. Especially female groups. Members quit all the time. One of my favorite Japanese metal groups has lost 5 women in 12 years. They can always just be a mom instead. Japan is very traditional. Then you said a bunch of untrue things about Babymetal. They're not ending. The Idol Group Sakura Gakuin that they were originally organized under is ending. They haven't been part of Sakura Gakuin for 10 years. A new Babymetal album is coming out soon. Also your characterization of their beginning is unfair. Yes, they were members of a talent agency. It wasn't some cynical plot. It was a producer Koba who was a metal fan and wanted to try combining Idol music with metal. They started with nothing and all of their success was organic.
Welcome to the Maidiacs! Believe it or not, that's just the tip of the huge iceberg of musical greatness from this incredible group of ladies and the more you hear from them, the more you'll love 'em! Some suggestions: Play, Freedom, Onset (Instrumental), Real Existence - All live, because that's when they really shine! Thanks! 🤘🤩🤘
There's no turning back now. B-M are 5 impossibly Hard Rocking Maids providing the most awesome music. A Small Pigeon, Ice Queen, Gorilla, Barefoot assassin & a Mincho say so :)
@@ShikataGaNai100 Dyk Shikata, there are a lot of people who don't know who that is. That's the difference between fans & Maidiacs, but all are welcome.🙂
The costumes never really crossed my mind..that is genuinally honest..they never have...I've seen many bands over the years wear clothes or costumes that make these ladies outfits look everyday...It's them as people that I like most..Their comradery on and off stage...I want that kind of interaction in my life...And the fact they are 5 of the most talented people to ever come together as a band..makes them a modern day miracle...as music for me hasn't really exsited for a long time.....But these ladies bring it on in buckets...I have heard everything they have done...And I can genuinaly say there is not a single bad track ..nothing..not one imho..They are a joy to behold...Long May They Reign.
Thanks, guys, nice reaction! You'll figure this out soon enough if you continue listening to Band-Maid (and you will be rewarded if you do ) that this band is not throwback of any kind, metal or otherwise; but they incorporate a more interesting blend of hard rock, punk, prog, groove, ballads, pop and metal elements, acoustic, etc. The songwriting and part-writing is what comes first, so you will never hear extended solos, just a treasure trove of superbly crafted and executed music. Also, they are 100% organic: lead guitarist and composer (Kanami) has played piano since age five; basist (MISA) and drummer (Akane) both went to the Toyko School of Music, the singer (Saiki) is IMO one of the top vocalists working today, and the rhythm guitarist/backup vocalist (Miku) writes excellent lyrics (although mostly in Japanese). Think of the dress-up in the same way you would Slipknot, Gwar, Kiss, Devo, etc.: this is an unforced band choice.
So glad you enjoyed it! We're excited to listen to more for sure. I love the mix of genres, no one should be expected to just stay in a box. It kinda reminds me of Queen when they were first starting out and everyone laughed at Bohemian Rhapsody and said it would never work... like no no... there's something there just let it ride!
Welcome to Band Maid. They dont have any bad songs . They the best rock in the world rt now. Especially to us maidiacs . They love their fans and one another as you will see if continue with them. Great react . Long Live the PO!
I don't know why Band Maid still get called a Metal band, they are a Rock Band and straddle everything from rock ballads to hard rock with influences from the 70's to date and yet are undeniably their own thing - Band Maid. Reinvigorated my love for rock music and yet to hear a bad song from them.
Great reaction!! the bands that are put together are called "Idol groups" they are not bands (in a traditional term) they are vocal and dancing units made by producers and backed by a talent agency or entertainement company, generally these groups only do dancing and singing and are more into the entertainement aspect than the musical and generally no actual musician (or someone who can play an instrument) would join such groups Idol groups are more of a niche even in Japan (generally have there own small fandom who buy all their stuff but they aren't really mainstream with some small exceptions) and are not at all representative of the whole music industry (at least not in Japan). It's like thinking One Direction (which basically the same as an idol group) is representative of all western music industry, that's false and that's exactly the same in Japan Rock/metal bands and even the vast majority of J-pop artists are musicians and songwritters and have a lot of control over there music (as much any artist anywhere in the world), which is also the case for Band-Maid, the rhytm guitarist formed the group with the maid idea (since she used to work in a maid-café which are popular in some areas of Tokyo) and just looked up for people to join her until she formed the band under the label and management company she was already under as a singer. In Korea on the other hand things are different since big idol factory companies are running the entire music industry and all you see there are idol groups who have pretty bad contracts with companies and since the music industry in korea is fairly new the big companies quickly monopolized the market, by comparaison in Japan the music industry is much much older and bigger (they have the second biggest music industry in the world) and more diverse there (it is not unusual in Japan for a metal or very experimental rock band to be in the top charts next to more mainstream music, it actually happens a lot) and the tradition of bands and playing s instrument is very present within Japanese culture so a lot of people tend to go the "form a band and write songs" route rather than join a "talent agency and sing music made by others"
imagine finding out about Band Maid and then realizing that they are doing a US tour but everything is sold out ... ;) Nice reaction btw :) I'l leave it to the rest of the cult to fill you in on details :D
Worth it to pay the vultures for third party tickets though in their case. Where there's a will (even if there's no more money for your kin to inherit), there's a way!
Don't quote me on this but I don't think they had complete creative control at their conception. Their song Alone released in 2016 was the first song I think they had complete creative control of and they took it from then on and have grown into something great. They are unique and talented songwriters that make you wonder what's next while also having catchy choruses to make it easy on the ears and none of their song are bad so that's a plus. Good reaction I'll check out more for sure, especially if it's Band Maid.
Band-Maid is one of the rare Japanese bands that is mainly organic. The maid outfits were the idea of the founder Miku Kobato (rhythm guitar and backing vocals). They were formed in 2013. They have a lot of control over what they do, unlike most Japanese bands. They are also one of the few bands that is actually better live than recorded. Each of the ladies is a master at their instruments. I am sure you will get filled in more by other Maidiacs as we are quite responsive to anyone promoting the band. For now I will leave these suggestions for you to check out. DICE RINNE WARNING PLAY, LIVE VERSION REAL EXISTANCE, LIVE VERSION
If you like metal! Go for Japanese all female talented metal band "Lovebites". Any song you pick, it will blow your mind away.. Also they have big fan base called "Wolfpack"
Band Maid formed in 2013-14 No lineup changes in the whole 8 years. Organically formed, genuine hard rock outfit! 5 friends playing serious hard rock. Cheers!
Band-Maid was founded by the rhythm guitar/backing vocalist in 2013. They made their break in 2015 with the song Thrill. Domination is the live video that gets everyone on board. Since then they have exploded and grown to new heights. Please check out more, I recommend Blooking, Manners, and Real Existence, to start. But honestly, you can't go wrong with any one of their songs.
I like you guys. Here's the story: the rhythm guitar/second singer, Miku, put the band together (and writes the lyrics). She was working in a maid cafe and got the idea of contrasting the submissive maid image with hard rock. She found the lead guitar, Kanami (who is also the songwriter), on RUclips. Kanami invited her sometimes backup drummer, Akane, to join them and Akane in turn brought in the bass, MISA, who she was attending music school with. Then they recruited the lead singer. Their first songs were written by others and they dressed up in sexy skirts. That was nine years ago when they were in their early 20s. Over a hundred songs later they've left those beginnings long behind. They write their own music, and control their own destiny. Band Maid is definitely real and they seem to get along wonderfully. They may be together for 9 more years - hopefully longer. And, by the way, they tour 14 American cities in October. Unfortunately, all but one or two is sold out. If you want to see how good they've become, check the Warning or Blooming MVs, or the Official Live Video for Manners/Black Hole. Then there's that hundred other songs.....
Two more all-female Japanese metal bands that I can’t get enough of: NEMOPHILA - twin lead guitars, a monsterous rhythm section, and an extremely charismatic vocalist. They are quite versatile, so check out several of their videos HANABIE - An innovative Metalcore trio
I had NO idea they've been around that long, I hope they go 9+ years too! Thank you so much for the background info, their fans are so great (as evidenced by the awesome conversations in the comments and video views haha) Thanks also for the recs, I will add them to the list!
This video was from their last performance in front of an audience. You already have some suggestions for a live performance of "Manners" and "Black Hole" ruclips.net/video/iaf94nNSRGE/видео.html The video is from a live streaming concert and the video was supported by a Japanese government program (J-LOD) aimed at keeping certain entertainment endeavors viable during covid restrictions. You should stop the video at 4:20 to discuss the first song "Manners." This is because you will have forgotten what you were going to say about it by the end of the video. "Black Hole" is an overwhelming experience, especially the first listen. It is mind-expanding.
Yes, Band-Maid is an excellent Japanese all-female rock band. They’re great musicians and they really shine in their live performances. My next recommendations are “Freedom”, “Manners”, “Turn me on”, “Take me higher”, “Daydreaming”, “Thrill”, “Real existence”, “Dice”, “Play” (all live when available) I guess that eventually you’re going to react to Nemophila (mostly heavy metal) and Lovebites (mostly thrash/heavy/power metal). These two bands are extremely talented and their live performances are outstanding, especially Lovebites. I discovered Lovebites two years ago and I’m still in owe. In general, Japan has many amazing rock bands with proficient musicians. Some people say that rock is not dead, it just moved to Japan. My suggestions: Lovebites: “Set the world on fire”, “Thunder vengeance”, “The Awakening/Hammer of wrath”, “Break the wall”, “Shadowmaker”, “When destinies align”, “Scream for me”, “Raise some hell” (just to name a few and all live) Nemophila: “Raitei”, “Oiran”, “Dissension”, “Life”, “Hypnosis”, “Revive”.
Band-maid was founded by Miku Kaboto, the rhythm guitarist. She recruited the band members. They did have to fight their management for control of their careers and to write their own music. Now they are in complete control of their destiny.
These ladies have such a wide variety and range, you can find a bit of anything in their music. I would say to hit their RUclips channel and start with the oldest and work your way forward. When you really want to dig in, they have a couple of full albums in their list as music tracks. Several of their songs were developed as Anime opening or end credits songs, and two songs were featured in the Netflix movie "Kate." There is also a few seconds of one song in the third episode of Peacemaker.
Great reaction and you raise an important point about the Japanese music industry. Band Maid are most definitely not a band put together by a record label or any impressario. They were formed in 2013 by the band's rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist, Miku Kobato (real name Mika Noguchi), who had worked in a Maid Cafe and wanted to put a rock band together that contrasted the Maid image with hard rock. She recruited Kanami Tono, who she saw playing on the internet. Kanami brought Akane Hirose into the band and she introduced bassist Misa, who Akane had studied with at music college. So Band Maid started out as a four-piece, though Miku felt her singing wasn't strong enough for the type of music she wanted the band to play and so approached her management company for recommendations for another vocalist. They recommended Saiki Atsumi, who'd already started to develop her career as a J-pop singer, and she was auditioned during a band rehearsal. To begin with their management company refused to release any of the band's own material and the music for their first mini-album, 'Maid in Japan', which was released in 2014, was written by Kentaro Akutsu and Masahiko Fukui, with several other songwriters also contributing for their first full-length album, Brand New Maid. Eventually the band changed their management company and began to write and perform their own music. 'Just Bring It' which was released in 2017, was mainly written by Kanami Tono (with the exception of two tracks on the album), with lyrics by Miku Kobato (and Saiki Atsumi on three tracks) and input for the arrangements by the other band members. Since then they've released three more albums ('World Domination' in 2018, 'Conqueror' in 2019, 'Unseen World' in 2021) and an EP under the band name 'Band Maiko', which are covers of Band Maid songs using traditional Japanese instruments. In my opinion they're the best rock band on the planet right now and possibly the best rock band to have emerged in the last 30-40 years. I'm a 61 year old Londoner who spent time in Japan and have seen most of the great rock acts numerous times and I can honestly say that these young women have totally reignited my love of rock music. Cheers from the UK!
MISA!!! MISA!!! MISA!!! 🥃🥃🥃 Badass Bass Assassin. Band-Maid are the best Hard Rock band in the world right now. Band-Maid have been in control of their own destiny since day 1 and taken control of their songs since 2016. I've seen B-M play twice here in LA back in 2018 and 2019. Band-Maid are doing their 1st US Tour in October. 11 cities and all venues are Sold Out. Band-Maid MV's are very good but their official Live videos are 10times better because you can see how talented these musicians really are in concert and how much fun they have on stage with each other. You should check out the official Live versions of Play, Onset, Freedom, Manners/Black Hole, Real Existence, After Life, Warning and Choose Me just to get you started down the Pigeon Hole 🕊🤙🏼
@@RyanSquared the Band-Maidiacs or Maidiacs can help you with those hard to find Live links to Don't You Tell Me, Moratorium, Take Me Higher, Turn Me On and Puzzle (both electric and acoustic versions)
They actually are! I am from part of asia that can not hav that privilage but they are comin to US for US TOUR on october this year d' ticket already sold out for 20.000 seats all over your city states and then actually they add 2 more concerts, hope you guys can have their tickets
Yes, Band Maid was put together by a deranged Pigeon in 2013 or so. Mi-ku (Head Pigeon, 2nd V, Rhythm G, Main song writer) found Ka-na-mi (Lead G, Main Composer) on RUclips. Kanami found A-ka-ne (Drums/half-Gorilla), who she did session work with. Akane asked Misa (Bass, barefoot Assassin), her Music College BFF, if she wanted to wear a Maid outfit and play Hard Rocking music. Misa had to think about it. Finally, Miku found Sai-ki (Lead V, Ice Queen) within the Record label, and did not tell her about the maid outfit until they were well into rehearsals, and near their first gig. The rest is music history that you will discover. Pigeon hole, we go, Po!
Well by now you have read some of the comments (hopefully) and realize that these ladies were not created by corporations and are the REAL deal - a real band, doing exactly what they want, with the maid concept being the brainchild of the pig-tailed wonder pigeon, Miku Kobato. "Cute" is a thing in Japan - like big time, so I think their outfits are more to be cute than sexual. So now that you know they're no being used by some evil entity, I think maybe you'll enjoy their other songs even more. And boy will you love them - given enough songs, it's inevitable, because they are UNBELIEVABLY good, and even better at writing and arranging. You'll need some pain relievers, because your face will hurt from grinning so hard. This song is sort of middle to late-middle of their material, and they are all over the map genre-wise. Song after song you'll find yourself saying "this is nothing like their other songs" because they are constantly pushing the envelope, and they just do what they want. It's hard to choose because they don't write bad songs, but I'd recommend "Real Existence Live" for a bit earlier but fun hard rock, Daydreaming MV for a ballad (power ballad), Rinne MV if you want it harder, Choose Me and Blooming (live for Choose Me although MV also great) and Blooming MV, which were both featured in the Netflix Movie "Kate", Freedom for a great drum solo and the ladies have the time of their lives on stage, Manners MV for my favorite of their newer songs, No God for a crazy bass solo and some proggy-ness, Giovanni for complex proggy coolness, and the Sense MV for their anime opener that is just blistering, and the Manners (yes again)/Black Hole combo from one of their recent livestreams for a great one two punch of completely different styles. They can't be categorized, unless "bands that make you really happy" is a genre. We fans call ourselves "Maidiacs" although the band calls us "Masters and Princesses" because that's what they do in Japanese Maid cafes, where the aforementioned pigeon used to work. A common quote from the fandom is that we wouldn't care if they wore burlap sacks because they are that good and that much fun. One more thing - they're doing a 13 city US Tour in the fall, and don't let the "sold out" thing keep you from getting some tix on Stub-Hub or something. You'll want to kick yourself if you miss them live. Welcome and congratulations in advance because your life just got better.
If you like Rock music, you've hit the jackpot. Try these Lives: ONSET-LIVE, PLAY-LIVE, REAL EXISTENCE-LIVE. When you uncover all the tangibles and intangibles of Band-Maid you'll then know how Awesome they are. Peace. 447
These women are awesome and they are coming to the states in October. Unfortunately, all of their dates are sold out. A little background. Miku Kobato, the founder worked in a maid cafe at one time. She had a career as a pop group singer, but thought forming a rock band wearing maid costumes but kicking butt with the music. They have. They have recorded seven albums for the 8-9 years they have been together, Miku first auditioned Kanami Soto, the lead guitarist, who was also a classically trained pianist and plays multiple instruments. She is the groups musical composer. She suggested that Miku interview Akane Hirosi, the drummer and Misa (no last name given), the bassist. The both agreed to join the band and wear the maid costumes. Akane and MIsa played together in music school. By the way, Jimmy Page, yes that Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin fame, caught their act and was so impressed by Akane's drumming, he asked to go backstage after the concert and meet her. The had a picture taken together. It's on the internet. He said afterward Akane is the reincarnation of John Bohnam. High praise indeed not meant as flattery. Miku's soft voice did not lend itself to the rock music they were performing, so she opened auditions for a lead vocalist. Saiki Atsumi was a trained singer, dancer, and actress ansered the call and was hired. If you listen to more of their songs, you will find out how wide Saiki's vocal range is. Good luck and welcome to the rabbit hole of Band Maidiacs.
BAND-MAID: An impossibly hard rocking maid band. Die hard fans are Maidiacs. Saiki - lead vocal Akane - drums, the band will refer to her as half gorilla. Jimmy Page said she’s the reincarnation of Bonham. Misa - bass, writes the bass parts of the songs, she’s the Barefoot Assassin Miku - rhythm guitar, vocals, lyricist. Founded the band in 2013. The maid outfits were part of her vision of the band. Miku says her last name Kobato, means small pigeon, therefore she’s a small pigeon, ending sentences with, “Po.” Kanami, aka Kanamincho or Mincho - lead guitar, songwriter, musical genius. As you delve into BAND-MAID’s catalog you will understand.
The Maid outfits have developed over the years, they started off as straight up maid costumes as per Miku's vision but Saiki and Misa were not entirely on board with that (understatement) so what they wear now is more in line with their own personalities whilst still loosely sticking to the maid theme in the case of Saiki and Misa. Misa (barefoot assassin) - variously stated as early 20th century Chinese or Croatian maid dress, Saiki (ice queen) - mid 20th century Spanish maid, Kanami (Kanamincho, Mincho) - long maid outfit , she will wear anything she's told to as choosing clothes is a distraction from her main aim in life which is to compose a never ending stream of great songs, Akane (gorilla) - bell boy outfit, wears shorts, a convenience choice I would guess and Miku (little pigeon) - Her outfit has got frillier and more voluminous as the years have passed. If you react to Catharsis from their christmas online acoustic concert you will see an entirely different wardrobe which Saiki and Akane were responsible for as far as the theme goes. Then there is Band Maiko (Band Maid's alter ego) which is maiko (apprentice geisha) clothing- yakuta / kimono.
The legend says that there was a 800 years old pigeon which once worked at a maid cafe turned jpop star, one day she got the idea of mixing rock and maid so now we have Band Maid, There's interview of them floating on the internet, Let's go for more,
Just can't get enough of Band-Maid. I also love Trident (formerly Girls Rock Band Kakumei). Band-Maid was put together by Miku (rhythm guitarist), who also writes their songs, while Kanami (lead guitarist) primarily writes the music. They look like they are having fun, because they are and since forming have become best friends and stay completely humble.
They consider themselves Hard Rock. BAND-MAID is not like BabyMetal. It was formed by Backing Vocalist & Rhythm Guitarist Miku who used to work in a Maid Café. She found lead guitarist Kamai through her videos. Kanami suggested Akane on drums. Akane had gone to school at the Tokyo School of Music. She decided her voice wasn't strong enough for Hard Rock so she dropped back to backing vocals and had Kanami teach her guitar. They found Saiki working at their same Agency and auditioned her right away, careful not to mention the maid thing too soon, just saying they would be wearing cute clothes.
As somebody said: Not the typical japanese group, where the record company do the picking. I won't claim that Miku found Kanami, because somebody gave me an earfull for doing so. He said that her agent put her in contact with the young singer/songwriter. Kanami Tono knew Akane from a few collabs they had during the years. During the years at music school she (Akane) had a good friend she used to jam with, so then MISA on bass was put into the mix. When they started to play together, one thing was apparent. Though Miku had a past from a 3 piece all female pop group named "lil cummin", her voice wasn't very suited for hard-rock. So they deicided to audition... Miku knew about Saiki from the same management she was a part of and managed to lure her to join. She was warned that it might not be the bes idea to tell about the Maid-image untill a little later.
US Tour booked for Sept, mostly sold out and many moved to bigger venues. Clothes are all Miku's idea. 6 years together , same lineup. Freedom live . great solo by Akane. Jimmy Page, is a fan of hers , and been to see them live.
BAND-MAID is a band of top notch professional live-parformance musicians. In my opinion, one of the best live hard rock bands on the planet today. About the image of my hard rock metal changed by BAND-MAID: before: Wearing dirty leather and wearing cursed words with a moody face. Members are selfish. One or two prominent and distinctive member. after: A pretty girl dressed as a maid, i feel very clean. It looks very fun with a smile and makes me happy every time. Everyone plays the instrument as perfectly as ever. No selfish. All members are shining. If you like this live video, You should see Freedom live, Onset live, Play live next. Other MVs are great too. but live is soooo good.
I've seen a couple comments similar, that this band reinvigorated a love of rock, changed their view on it and I really love that people are open to this. It seems like it would be easy to write off a rock band in maid outfits and not even give it a try. I really enjoyed this first experience with them as well as your comment and we can't wait to explore more!
My discovery of Band-Maid a couple of years ago started me listening to a bunch of Japanese rock/metal bands. Prior to Band-maid the only Japanese band I ever heard was Maximum the Hormone, who I still enjoy but in small doses. Of all the Japanese bands I have heard, I would pay money to see only four of them. Three are all female bands and one is mixed with a female lead singer. The three all female bands are Band-Maid (I am seeing them in Dallas on October 21), Lovebites and Nemophila. The fourth is the Wagakki Band. I know the story of how Band-Maid formed has likely been told repeatedly in these comments. I will emphasize just a couple things. First, my utmost respect for Miku who had the vision for the band, had the eye for talent or good fortune or both to bring in Kanami into the band first, sacrificed her role as lead singer and learned guitar from scratch for the betterment of the band, and has tirelessly been one of the best spokespersons that any band could hope for. Second is the genius of Kanami Tono. Without her, Akane and Misa would not have joined and likely Saiki as well. For the last four albums, she has been the primary songwriter, and the last two she was the sole songwriter. Their last album, Unseen World, is in my top 10 of 2021. I have been listening to rock/metal for 50 years and if I was told to make a list of the 25 best rock/metal songwriters of the last 50 years, Kanami would be on that list. She is simply that good and is probably just getting started. As for Lovebites, most start with Holy War, although I think the order should be Break the Wall, Swan Song (with Chopin intro) and then Holy War. My introduction to Nemophila was watching their cover of Iron Maiden's Aces High. I have been a huge Iron Maiden fan since the beginning and Powerslave is my second favorite album. That video had me grinning and misty eyed at the same time. The lead singer, mayu, sang the hell out of that song. Might be a good beginning for y'all too.
I highly suggest their official music video Warning or Blooming. Those are two of their best tracks. They are more of a high energy hard rock band than a metal band but if you want metal metal listen to Rinne (aka Reincarnation). It has a music video as well.
If you're looking for female hard rock/metal bands the top three, IMO, are Band-Maid, Nemophila, and Lovebites, all from Japan. Also my opinion: Band-Maid is the best band on the planet right now and Japan produces the best musicians.
That's one........and you have 100 or so more to go. The best live official videos are Onset (an instrumental), Play, Freedom, Real Existence, Dice, Manners, Different and a bunch of others. And the band was started by the rythym guitarist Miku Kobato about 8 years ago. She worked at a maid cafe in Tokyo but wanted to start a band and wear maid costumes. She found three of the best female musicians around in Kanami Tono (lead guitar), Misa (bass) and Akane Hirose (drums) and a great lead singer in Saiki Atsumi. Miku was originally going to be the lead singer but realized that she didn't have what she needed for hard rock and brought on Saiki Atsumi. They didn't do any of there own music until their third album and after that it was Kanami composing and Miku writing the lyrics and it's been a wild ride since then. I was lucky enough to score tickets to the NYC date of their 2022 US tour on 10/28/22. I really can't wait.
The maid outifts are aimed a Japanese cultural trope. In Japan, they have a whole pop culture phenom of "maid cafes" where you can go and be served lunch by a cute girl in a victorian maid outfit who will entertain you with cute songs and routines. It's more "cute" than "sexual" (although there can be a modicum of sexualization). So to a Japanese audience, when they see girls in maid costumes on stage, they expect to hear cute, bubble-gum, idol-style pop. With Band-Maid you get the "cute" image, but then are hit in the face with scorching hard rock. To a Japanese audience, this would create a mental dissonance that the band has coined "The Gap": the confusions of what you are hearing not meshing with what you're seeing. For foreign audiences, not accustomed to the "maid culture", it's more curiosity or oddity.
US tour is sold out. In October. so, they added two new venues. One in NJ is 4000 seats. This should be available. It’ll be epic. I hope they will bring it, Puzzle, Moratorium, Unfair game, Matchless gum, Clang, Take it higher, Anemone, Daydreaming, Rinne, Hibana, Corallium and many others.
Yeah, you can't go wrong with any Band-Maid song. Their songs tend to really be different from one another, so you never know what to expect. Look for original MVs for Different, Warning, Blooming. Or live videos for Play and Manners/Black Hole. And yes, like everyone else mentioned, Band-Maid is their own thing. Not a studio creation. Just like most all Japanese all-women rock/metal bands. As you continue your Band-Maid journey, check out Nemophila, Hanabie, Lovebites, Aldiuous, Hagane, etc. Japan is loaded with all-women bands that rock.
Look at all the other rock groups and you will not find another group like Band-Maid they are always smiling and love what they are doing. Check out their live songs Play & Freedom
For some more Japan Female Metal Band goodness you should try out Lovebites. The two songs I would check out from them are Holy War [Live at Zepp DiverCity Tokyo 2020] or Set The World On Fire [Live from "Ride For Vengeance Tour 2021"] on the bands RUclips. As a bit of a bonus Lovebites sings in English. They just had the bass player leave and are looking for tryouts right now till the end of May sometime.
Epic chops my dude! Lemmy would be proud. Keep checking them out, they are insanely talented musicians and craft some killer rock music. Best rhythm section in any band IMO.
Another band you should check out is Lovebites. They are another all female Japanese band that are extremely talented. They are also best live but you can't go wrong with anything you find.
🤘🤘❤🤘🤘 MISA MISA MISA!!!! 🤘🤘 Y'all are gonna be busy with these ladies!!! Trust me on that one!!!! Japan is a current bedrock of Heavy Rock and Metal currently!!!! 😉❤✌
hi, to answer your question, I can tell you that Band-Maid is perhaps one of the most genuine and self-built musical groups of today, they were born from the idea of Miku the second guitar and second voice, who shared his idea with Kanami, lead guitar, known online, then they selected Akane a talented drummer, Akane, in turn, invited her fellow student Misa a crazy bassist, who fills the sound of the Band-Maid with an unparalleled continuous phrasing at bass, in the end, Miku has given up being the first voice because she realized that she did not have enough power for the music she intended to make, so they selected the wonderful Saiki for ability and unparalleled presence on stage. They started with small country festivals and small theaters, but things were not going well, so they played all in and spent all their last money to make a video, "Thrill" which after the release in a few days made millions of views on youtube and from there the legend started. They have composed more than 100 songs in 8 years each one better than the other, no band has ever done this in the whole history of rock..
You have just stumbled upon one of the the best hard rock bands in the world ! They have e over 💯 great songs and shine when playing live. Should have found this band last month because they are coming to the US this Oct. but most of their shows are sold out=( They added some shows in Chicago and NJ and i think The Fillmore in Maryland still has tickets. Some suggestions "Play" Live - "Real Existence" Live or their first MV from 8 years ago "Thrill" Great Reaction / New Subscriber✌
The Chicago show sold out in 28 minutes, which I unfortunately found out when I tried to buy tickets 50 minutes after they went on sale to the general public. I'll be purchasing on the secondary market at some point because I NEED to see them live!
Absolutely my favorite band for the last few years... the song-wtiting and muscianship is so good I kind forgot about the outfits after about 5 songs... Greatest rock band on the planet...:) \m/ It's a bit like Van Halen... the shows were about fun and having a good time ...freakin' entertaining... \m/
Regarding the comment regarding idols. No - Band Maid is not a part of the idol culture. They have made their band themselves. And there are lots of bands in japan that also are self made. Of course, they often are signed with some company, and that might be complicated, but they own their own life. On the other hand, Babymetal are idols. I might be wrong, but I think they are a special case. I have never heard about any ill treatment, and they might even be rich for all I know. On the other hand (again) I have a favorite band that was VERY ill treated, and that is Crayon Pop in South Korea. It all looked so very nice and cozy with five adorable girls that seemed to have so much fun. But, eventually the bubble did burst and the story got out. They were literally owned by the company. Made no money, mainly because they had to pay for all their rehearsal time in studios. And the rehearsals were HARD work. They got strong and very fit. They were practicing strength, gymnastics and dance around the clock. And they lived in a special place and were not allowed to meet people, even their relatives. Sort of in prison. In the middle of this they made extremely good and fun videos. Of course, they did not write music or lyric or choreography, it was all made for them. Which, of course, was yet another reason for them getting no money. Eventually it did break and now they have their own lives doing normal people things. Crayon Pop is gone. Now, I have not checked what you have reacted to. But here is a nice list of Japanes artists that not are idols and make good metal or rock music. Most are all female. * BAND-MAID (Rock) * Nemophila (Almost anything, but with a metal touch. They are quite new, but they are all pro artists. They are right now growing. They can go hard. But they can also choose not to.) * Lovebites (Heavy metal, but also other stuff. Super tight artists.). * Hanabie (New group, fun, do not have that much yet, but what they have is very good. And it is mix between Kawai and very hard.) * Ningen Isu (old guys, but bangers! Power trio. Rock.)
The Band Maid rabbit whole awaits ! Amazing band of Amazing musicians and no bad songs believe me, if your keen on more female lead bands then Nemophila and Hannabie are amazing all female Japanese rock/metal bands formed like proper bands and if you want more than the Mexican sisters that form " the warning " is a must
FYI, there's a difference between bands and groups. Groups doesn't generally play their own instruments but focus more on performance and choreography. Bands on the other hand are generally more about musicianship. BTS, Blackpink and Babymetal are not bands, but groups. Band maid is however a band, much like Lovebites which I would highly recommend if you haven't watched them!
No, they are NOT an "industrial product". The band was brought together by a rhythm guitarist background singer. (As far as I know Mika Noguchi is a bourgeois name) But he is called Miku Kobato. (Po) I consider him a "spontaneous" band. I hope not too big. :)
One more thing I would like to add about Japanese bands. A lot of the idol band are as you describe, but many of the bands mentioned by others were organically formed by experienced musicians. It is not perfect but things have gotten better for female artists in Japan, Scandal (another female band) was able to form their own label. As for the sexualization of young girls (which can be common for idols), bands such as Band-Maid, Lovebites, Nemophila, Aldious, Mary’s Blood are primarily made up of women in their late 20s to mid 30s. Some of the musicians do look young and some reactors have thought that they are teenagers.
I really like hearing that women in/entering their 30s are continuing to push forward and really make a name for themselves. Female entertainers in general get the short end of the stick often I feel. I'm excited to explore and support more of these artists!
Things haven't "gotten better for female" for them, they always were better in Japan for female artists, all female rock bands existed in Japan way back in the 70s and 80s and where pretty successfull too.
@@jonasw3945 It is not just me saying things have gotten better for females. Keiko, from Show-Ya, has repeatedly said that things are better for female artists today. She has talked about how hard it was to be taken seriously as a female musician when they started versus how people see female musicians today and think it is just another female band. These are her exact words: “Things are totally different now. In the past, people said that it was impossible for female bands to make something of themselves, but attitudes have changed.” I will take her word on the subject.
See, women can enjoy band-maid too! Regarding their outfit, actually Miku and Kanami were the only ones comfortable wearing maid outfit from the start. Nowadays members all wear what suits their character and taste, they seem more comfortable. One of the reactors said they are made of 3 maids and 1 ninja and a half. Lol Apart from Miku the founder of the band, the members are rather shy and awkward. On the Christmas last year they took their maid armour off for their online acoustic live and were all commenting they felt a bit nervous without their stage armour. I recommend you to listen to them blindfolded and focus on their music with a good head phone. Their music is deceptively complex and layered. Drum fills are creative. Band-Maid have a massive catalogue of awesome songs and some amazing instrumentals. While being incredibly versatile, they still have their distinctive sound. Their early songs are less technical partly because Miku didn't have any experience with guitar back then. As time went on Miku's skill improved significantly and the whole band also progressed a lot. Lead guitarist Kanami had been writing bone of their most songs since 2015 if I remember correctly, but all members are actively involved in completing the song writing. Saiki the lead singer wrote a lyric to a song 'corallium' from their latest single that came out late last year. All 5 of them push each others limit, members are encouraged to be creative, as you can probably imagine from the information above. That results in the uniqueness of their sound. The only concern I have is because they work as one brain, none of their members are replaceable. Sorry for the long comment.
Blindfolded is a cool idea! No worries about the length of the comment, we greatly appreciate the background info as we try to go into these new bands as fresh as possible! I'll also add the song recs to our list!
Welcome to the "pigeon hole".......po.......you have just experienced the most dynamic band in rock today......please keep your arms and hands inside the ride at all times.......enjoy your journey, you have over 100 songs to choose from......do not fear......ANY track you pick will only bring you closer to being a "Maidiac"......nice work, and thanks
Band maid indeed was a "put together" band. It was a small pigeon who brought everyone together hehehe. There ae some awesome videos on the history of band maid broken into a video for each girl.
MISA MISA MISA! nailed it the Battle Uniforms (yes the BAND call them that) are for what is known in Japan as "the Gap" the difference between what you see and therefor expect and what You actually get, So no sexualization intended.
Band-maid was organically formed, and NOT a studio creation. Three are classically trained musicians... two of which met in music school. They are touring the USA this October.
Red Rose Miku, Sept. 14, 2017 interview: At the Band forming nobody in our band had done "Hard Rock" so we had started without knowing anything - we have grown greatly musically as a Band.
@@lakenneth374 So Miku worked for a talent agency of sorts and proposed the idea of a Hard Rock band wearing Maid outfits. Management liked the idea and they went looking for a guitarist. Miku had seen Kanami on a YT site of sorts and sought her out. It's pretty organically formed. Japan is a totally different culture. I don't see it as a "think tank" band.
![Twenty One Pilots - The Line (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XCz7WUotXs8/mqdefault.jpg)
You may have found a band you can enjoy equally! They go harder than this, but they also do some really beautiful ballads. They do remind people somewhat of older hard rock and metal bands, but they're so inventive and complex that it never sounds like just a rehash. For example, I've heard a lot of people say they saw Led Zeppelin live and Band-Maid is their favorite band since then. A lot of Iron Maiden, Tool, and Rush fans are equally big Band-Maid fans.
No worries on the exploitation front, although the concerns are understandable. Miku, the founder, lyricist, and rhythm guitarist (in the most wedding-cake dress here) worked in a maid cafe and it was her idea to contrast a cute, stereotypically submissive, maid image with a more aggressive sound. So you have what they call The Gap between five endearing personalities who call their concerts "servings" and their fans "masters and princesses," and their declared goal of World Domination with face-melting playing. The outfits were more uniform and sexy when they started and have evolved to fit each member's personality (also, bassist MISA and lead singer Saiki hate aprons). The music quickly makes the costumes just a trivial fun extra.
They work closely with their management company's staff, but it seems to be a relationship of support and development rather than management telling them what to do. Their most recent album leaned heavily towards prog-thrash - and then they did an online acoustic concert on Christmas that blew people away. It is very hard to predict what they're going to do, even within one song ("How did we get to _this_ from the way it started?!" is a common reaction.) It's also common for fans to hear a new release and go, "I don't like this _at all_" but then a couple weeks later say, "Never mind, it's one of my favorites now." Even if they grab you from the get-go, there's a learning curve to wrap your head around everything they cram into their songs. Just to start with, the instrumentation on the second verse is never the same as the first.
Live is where they shine, but they really have no lame songs - the cliches are A) Your favorite Band-maid song is the one you're listening to at the moment, and B) Everybody's list of top five Maid songs is twenty songs long. "Rinne" is generally considered their "hardest," but a lot of people are probably going to recommend the live twofer from an online concert of "Manners" (throwback 70s heavy groove rock) and "Black Hole" (220 bpm hard prog insanity) to give you a small idea of the range they're capable of.
Steve you're putting me to shame with your awesome comments....long may it continue.🙂
@@GaryHolloway-810 Gary, how do you always know what too say, don't ever stop being clever ! Nice JOB Steve !!
@@lonniekramlich6241 IDK Lonnie, i just chat & nonsense spews forth :)
💯% true....all of this
That was an extraordinarily great comment.
bandmaid has been around for almost 10 years are well known, but are still gaining ground in the west. will be at aftershock. and are touring in the US later this year welcome to the pigeon hole. they have over 100+ songs to hear.enjoy yourselves
Nice reaction. This is the tip of a very large iceberg. They have so many great songs in various styles but they rock hard. They are their own genre really, though whatever style they are playing the quality is there and they still sound like 'Band-Maid'.
Band Maid is not a product of a studio but was an idea by the rhythm guitarist MIKU, who found the lead guitarist Kamani Tono and the rest were brought together by them. They have just sold out 13 shows here in the U.S. and will only get more popular.
💯% correct
can't wait to see them live!
@@Bekka_Noyb it is just awesome, you shouldn't be disappointed. 🤙🏼
I hope they get more popular here! I'd love to see them live
Going to see them in Dallas in October and I am mega geeked.
Onset is an instrumental only song that you really need to check out. But then, every Bandmaid song kicks ass.
Great Reaction! 🤘😎🤘 I would like to suggest you check out the 2 song live stream video (No audience because of covid) "Manners, BLACK-HOLE" "Manners" is a groovy, bluesy "Classic Rock" style song but with the BAND-MAID spice. "BLACK-HOLE" is a 220 bpm sonic onslaught of beautifully crafted and controlled instrumental chaos. (BLACK-HOLE is my current favorite BAND-MAID song) with their amazing layered vocals. Miku and Saiki sing different melodies and when they are combined it's a thing of beauty! Have I sold you on the video yet? Looking forward to more reactions!
+1 on Manners/Black Hole :)
thank you for the rec! adding to the list now, it's so hard not to go through their backlist immediately haha!
Band Maid was started by Miku (rhythm guitar/backing vocals). She worked in a maid cafe and thought it would by cool to see ladies dressed as maids play music you wouldn't expect them to play. They call that "the gap". She found Kanami (lead guitar) online. Kanami knew Akane (drums) from playing in backing bands together. Akane knew MISA (bass) from attending the same music school. Miku was supposed to be lead singer but didn't think her voice was strong enough to sing the types of songs she wanted the band to play so she fired herself from that roll and the band hired Saiki. Miku didn't know how to play guitar so Kanami became her teacher.
My favorite Band on the planet! Seeing them October 25th Washington DC. Can't wait. Great Reaction! 😊😎🤘🤘
awesome! I hope you have the BEST time!
@@RyanSquared 😎😎😎
That was song number 22 of 23 of a 2.5 hour set. No one does live like Band Maid ! I recommend you watch 'Freedom' official live from the same concert. The girls create their own costumes, which have evolved over the years. Enjoy !!
Hey there, they are actually going to be touring in the states this year in October through early November. They are an organically formed band that are known to actually hang out together outside work now. The maid outfits were the idea of band founder Miku (rhythm guitarist and back up vocals).
Unfortunately all concerts are SOLD OUT already. Gives an idea of how popular they are.
There are differences between a group and a band. Groups such as BTS, Blackpink, Babymetal, and even all the way back to Menudo are constructs of music executives. As they age simply bring in younger versions for plug-and-play formula vocals with any studio musicians and these groups can go on for decades. Formula groups can simply play from a soundtrack sounding exactly the same each time so they're always perfect with no soul.
Band-Maid is built around all of the musicians skills and abilities that give them a distinctive sound and personality. The entire band is out front during the performances. Each member is showcased multiple times with all of their incredible talent on display and any mistakes being seen or heard. Real music by real musicians for real people that appreciate the real thing.
I think that's a really great distinction between the two, one I hadn't considered before. Thank you!
I agree. Also these ladies can play instruments. Most company created groups are singers only with no musical talent.
BabyMetal is not a construct of music executives. They started out on a shoestring budget borrowing clothes from friends for performances at Japanese strip malls and small venues and paid their dues.
They now are respected by and have either performed or collaborated with the likes of Metallica, Slipknot, Judas Priest,Guns and Roses, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bring Me The Horizon, Sabaton and others. They now have fans all over the world and perform to sold out venues from 2,000 seat auditoriums to 55,000 indoor arenas to festivals of 60 to 100,000 fans.
Lead singer Suzuka Nakamoto is unmatched in her vocal abilities and with their backup band of world class musicians from Japan, the U.S. and Europe (The Kami Band) they are an experience LIVE like no other.
@Rust bucket BabyMetal does not “bring in new members as the group ages”. Suzuka Nakamoto and Moa Kikuchi (Yui Mizuno left in 2018 because of health reasons) are BabyMetal and have been since BabyMetal was formed in 2010 when Suzuka was 13 and Yui and Moa were 11 yrs of age. They were all three friends and classmates at Sakura Gakuin where BabyMetal began as a heavy metal club within Sakura Gakuin but from performances at small venues in Japan grew in popularity and finally became BabyMetal (which means birth of a new metal genre - not the age of the members)
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babymetal here's the BabyMetal wikipedia page. It seems to me to be a corporate group. Yes, Su is a great singer. The biggest difference is Miku found the other members who were already talented musicians. The vocalists fo BabyMetal were put together. I'm not aware of any member of BabyMetal actually play instruments.
Guys, when you see "Blooming" you will not believe it, I had to see it more than 100 times to be able to assimilate it, I was in Shock!!!, 😵😵😵, when you see "Freedom", mmmmm, better not say anything. 😵💫😵💫😵💫
Band Maid is the best band I have ever seen, their talent is from another world.
Created by the rhythm guitarist Miku Kobato in 2013, and they still have all the original members. They have changed labels often, I would guess it's to keep their independence of music, and have written and composted most of their music since the song "Alone" from the Brand New MAID album in 2016, which was the first self written song allowed by their label onto a album. From that point on to the present they write most of their own material. Kanami Tono, lead guitar, is the main song writer and composer, but all the ladies have input to the final song. Miku is the main lyric writer, as well as being the front person, spokes person, rhythm guitar and second vocals, (there are several songs where she is the lead vocalist). Saiki Atsumi is lead vocalist and QC for the music. MISA is the bass guitarist and is known as the Barefoot Assassin, as she preforms without shoes during live shows. Akane Hirosa, is the drummer, and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, after watching Band-Maid live on back to back nights, asked to meet with her and complimented her on her drumming! All five of these ladies are masters of their craft, friends on and off stage, and are having fun doing what they love, which is infectious to the listeners! "Play", "Freedom", both live, "Manners", "Warning", "Sense", "Afterlife" are great newer songs from these ladies! If you want to go back a bit, try "Thrill", "Alone", "Yolo", "Dice", "Choose ME" for a look at the journey these amazing ladies have been on. You will hear this a lot from the Maidiacs, as band fans are known as, there are no bad songs from these ladies! Sorry to so long winded, but there is no amount of words to adequately describe these ladies!
THE best Rock band on Earth. And beyond. Think that's everything covered.
you're efficient, I like that!
@@RyanSquared 🤘
they've been around since 2013. their sound is constantly evolving. they do rock justice ;)
btw. they ARE coming to the US in OCTOBER 2022! (9 of 14 shows sold out already)
their costumes are indeed hot, but they do sometimes will adjust it to the season.
the others will fill you in on the rest im sure.
BAND-MAID are my anti-depressant of choice, there's so much joy in what they do.
You can for sure feel it!
@@RyanSquared don't be so judgemental about everything from Japan. It's like saying Tool is fake because they're from the same country as Milli Vanilli. You could say a lot of things about American music too. Being from the same country doesn't mean they are the same.
This is one of my pet peeves about Japan. Everyone is either I love everything Japanese or I hate everything Japanese. Both of those are wrong.
@@Jordan-Ramses I am a little confused about this comment. We have re-watched the video multiple times and we fail to see where we were judgmental. If you could put a time stamp in a reply as to where you feel we were being judgmental we would appreciate it.
@@RyanSquared you were saying that anytime you saw a band from over there (Korea and Japan are different places) that you worry that their record company is making them do it. What? There is no slavery in Japan. They can quit whenever they want. Especially female groups. Members quit all the time. One of my favorite Japanese metal groups has lost 5 women in 12 years. They can always just be a mom instead. Japan is very traditional.
Then you said a bunch of untrue things about Babymetal. They're not ending. The Idol Group Sakura Gakuin that they were originally organized under is ending. They haven't been part of Sakura Gakuin for 10 years. A new Babymetal album is coming out soon. Also your characterization of their beginning is unfair. Yes, they were members of a talent agency. It wasn't some cynical plot. It was a producer Koba who was a metal fan and wanted to try combining Idol music with metal. They started with nothing and all of their success was organic.
Welcome to the Maidiacs! Believe it or not, that's just the tip of the huge iceberg of musical greatness from this incredible group of ladies and the more you hear from them, the more you'll love 'em! Some suggestions: Play, Freedom, Onset (Instrumental), Real Existence - All live, because that's when they really shine!
Thanks! 🤘🤩🤘
They have been going since 2013..
many songs..100+
going strong and have broken away from the system.. *if you will*
Great band worth your time.
🤘😁🤘
I'm so happy they were rec'd to us, such a backlist to go through! 🤘
There's no turning back now. B-M are 5 impossibly Hard Rocking Maids providing the most awesome music. A Small Pigeon, Ice Queen, Gorilla, Barefoot assassin & a Mincho say so :)
Mika Noguchi approves.
@@ShikataGaNai100 Dyk Shikata, there are a lot of people who don't know who that is. That's the difference between fans & Maidiacs, but all are welcome.🙂
I say so, too.😎
👍🏼
@@patron40silver 🤙🏼
The costumes never really crossed my mind..that is genuinally honest..they never have...I've seen many bands over the years wear clothes or costumes that make these ladies outfits look everyday...It's them as people that I like most..Their comradery on and off stage...I want that kind of interaction in my life...And the fact they are 5 of the most talented people to ever come together as a band..makes them a modern day miracle...as music for me hasn't really exsited for a long time.....But these ladies bring it on in buckets...I have heard everything they have done...And I can genuinaly say there is not a single bad track ..nothing..not one imho..They are a joy to behold...Long May They Reign.
Thanks, guys, nice reaction! You'll figure this out soon enough if you continue listening to Band-Maid (and you will be rewarded if you do ) that this band is not throwback of any kind, metal or otherwise; but they incorporate a more interesting blend of hard rock, punk, prog, groove, ballads, pop and metal elements, acoustic, etc. The songwriting and part-writing is what comes first, so you will never hear extended solos, just a treasure trove of superbly crafted and executed music. Also, they are 100% organic: lead guitarist and composer (Kanami) has played piano since age five; basist (MISA) and drummer (Akane) both went to the Toyko School of Music, the singer (Saiki) is IMO one of the top vocalists working today, and the rhythm guitarist/backup vocalist (Miku) writes excellent lyrics (although mostly in Japanese). Think of the dress-up in the same way you would Slipknot, Gwar, Kiss, Devo, etc.: this is an unforced band choice.
So glad you enjoyed it! We're excited to listen to more for sure. I love the mix of genres, no one should be expected to just stay in a box. It kinda reminds me of Queen when they were first starting out and everyone laughed at Bohemian Rhapsody and said it would never work... like no no... there's something there just let it ride!
Welcome to Band Maid. They dont have any bad songs . They the best rock in the world rt now. Especially to us maidiacs . They love their fans and one another as you will see if continue with them. Great react . Long Live the PO!
I don't know why Band Maid still get called a Metal band, they are a Rock Band and straddle everything from rock ballads to hard rock with influences from the 70's to date and yet are undeniably their own thing - Band Maid. Reinvigorated my love for rock music and yet to hear a bad song from them.
You do get a more rock vibe than metal, I like that they are versatile and make music they are really happy doing!
@@RyanSquared They do get close to metal sometimes to be fair, albeit still with something of a pop element. eg: Rinne, and Dice
Great reaction!!
the bands that are put together are called "Idol groups" they are not bands (in a traditional term) they are vocal and dancing units made by producers and backed by a talent agency or entertainement company, generally these groups only do dancing and singing and are more into the entertainement aspect than the musical and generally no actual musician (or someone who can play an instrument) would join such groups
Idol groups are more of a niche even in Japan (generally have there own small fandom who buy all their stuff but they aren't really mainstream with some small exceptions) and are not at all representative of the whole music industry (at least not in Japan). It's like thinking One Direction (which basically the same as an idol group) is representative of all western music industry, that's false and that's exactly the same in Japan
Rock/metal bands and even the vast majority of J-pop artists are musicians and songwritters and have a lot of control over there music (as much any artist anywhere in the world), which is also the case for Band-Maid, the rhytm guitarist formed the group with the maid idea (since she used to work in a maid-café which are popular in some areas of Tokyo) and just looked up for people to join her until she formed the band under the label and management company she was already under as a singer.
In Korea on the other hand things are different since big idol factory companies are running the entire music industry and all you see there are idol groups who have pretty bad contracts with companies and since the music industry in korea is fairly new the big companies quickly monopolized the market, by comparaison in Japan the music industry is much much older and bigger (they have the second biggest music industry in the world) and more diverse there (it is not unusual in Japan for a metal or very experimental rock band to be in the top charts next to more mainstream music, it actually happens a lot) and the tradition of bands and playing s instrument is very present within Japanese culture so a lot of people tend to go the "form a band and write songs" route rather than join a "talent agency and sing music made by others"
Band maid is so much more than you could ever imagine they are the living legends known as band maid as you will see
imagine finding out about Band Maid and then realizing that they are doing a US tour but everything is sold out ... ;)
Nice reaction btw :) I'l leave it to the rest of the cult to fill you in on details :D
Worth it to pay the vultures for third party tickets though in their case. Where there's a will (even if there's no more money for your kin to inherit), there's a way!
@@Kevin6059 sigh ... I'll be crying in European in the corner ...
@@SocialNetwooky 😞
Right? the injustice! ;)
They increased the capacity so you can still get tickets to some of their shows.
After Kanami finishes her last blazing solo, Saiki sings, "Our pulses race together." Indeed! Band-Maid. Domination. Nuff said!
Ah, Band-Maid. Well, "Freedom" (live) next, please. And "Onset" (live) as well. Thank you and enjoy !
Don't quote me on this but I don't think they had complete creative control at their conception. Their song Alone released in 2016 was the first song I think they had complete creative control of and they took it from then on and have grown into something great. They are unique and talented songwriters that make you wonder what's next while also having catchy choruses to make it easy on the ears and none of their song are bad so that's a plus. Good reaction I'll check out more for sure, especially if it's Band Maid.
Band-Maid is one of the rare Japanese bands that is mainly organic. The maid outfits were the idea of the founder Miku Kobato (rhythm guitar and backing vocals). They were formed in 2013. They have a lot of control over what they do, unlike most Japanese bands. They are also one of the few bands that is actually better live than recorded. Each of the ladies is a master at their instruments. I am sure you will get filled in more by other Maidiacs as we are quite responsive to anyone promoting the band. For now I will leave these suggestions for you to check out.
DICE
RINNE
WARNING
PLAY, LIVE VERSION
REAL EXISTANCE, LIVE VERSION
Lol organically-formed bands are nothing rare in Japan.
If you like metal! Go for Japanese all female talented metal band "Lovebites". Any song you pick, it will blow your mind away.. Also they have big fan base called "Wolfpack"
Band Maid formed in 2013-14 No lineup changes in the whole 8 years. Organically formed, genuine hard rock outfit! 5 friends playing serious hard rock.
Cheers!
They are actually having a concert here at the US around May. Not really sure where but they are surely to have a concert here.
Band-Maid was founded by the rhythm guitar/backing vocalist in 2013. They made their break in 2015 with the song Thrill. Domination is the live video that gets everyone on board. Since then they have exploded and grown to new heights. Please check out more, I recommend Blooking, Manners, and Real Existence, to start. But honestly, you can't go wrong with any one of their songs.
Blooming
@@bigbrutalbassbeer410 I now want Kanami to write "Blooking".
@@himbo754
“Blooking” sounds like some kind of weird Aussie or British slang!🤣💪🏻🤘🏻
Welcome to Brand Maid world! One of the best bands around. More please! Keep Rocking amigos!!!✌🏻👍🏻🤘🏻
I like you guys. Here's the story: the rhythm guitar/second singer, Miku, put the band together (and writes the lyrics). She was working in a maid cafe and got the idea of contrasting the submissive maid image with hard rock. She found the lead guitar, Kanami (who is also the songwriter), on RUclips. Kanami invited her sometimes backup drummer, Akane, to join them and Akane in turn brought in the bass, MISA, who she was attending music school with. Then they recruited the lead singer. Their first songs were written by others and they dressed up in sexy skirts. That was nine years ago when they were in their early 20s. Over a hundred songs later they've left those beginnings long behind. They write their own music, and control their own destiny. Band Maid is definitely real and they seem to get along wonderfully. They may be together for 9 more years - hopefully longer. And, by the way, they tour 14 American cities in October. Unfortunately, all but one or two is sold out. If you want to see how good they've become, check the Warning or Blooming MVs, or the Official Live Video for Manners/Black Hole. Then there's that hundred other songs.....
Kanami: invited by Miku
Akane: invited by Kanami
Misa: invited by Akane
*Saiki: got scammed!!!*
Also they're on I believe their 3rd label now as they keep moving up, so not a product of any specific label.
Two more all-female Japanese metal bands that I can’t get enough of:
NEMOPHILA - twin lead guitars, a monsterous rhythm section, and an extremely charismatic vocalist. They are quite versatile, so check out several of their videos
HANABIE - An innovative Metalcore trio
I had NO idea they've been around that long, I hope they go 9+ years too! Thank you so much for the background info, their fans are so great (as evidenced by the awesome conversations in the comments and video views haha) Thanks also for the recs, I will add them to the list!
@@Greg-om2hb We have Nemophila on the list but not Hanabie, thank you!!! adding now.
This video was from their last performance in front of an audience. You already have some suggestions for a live performance of "Manners" and "Black Hole" ruclips.net/video/iaf94nNSRGE/видео.html The video is from a live streaming concert and the video was supported by a Japanese government program (J-LOD) aimed at keeping certain entertainment endeavors viable during covid restrictions. You should stop the video at 4:20 to discuss the first song "Manners." This is because you will have forgotten what you were going to say about it by the end of the video. "Black Hole" is an overwhelming experience, especially the first listen. It is mind-expanding.
Yes, Band-Maid is an excellent Japanese all-female rock band. They’re great musicians and they really shine in their live performances. My next recommendations are “Freedom”, “Manners”, “Turn me on”, “Take me higher”, “Daydreaming”, “Thrill”, “Real existence”, “Dice”, “Play” (all live when available)
I guess that eventually you’re going to react to Nemophila (mostly heavy metal) and Lovebites (mostly thrash/heavy/power metal). These two bands are extremely talented and their live performances are outstanding, especially Lovebites. I discovered Lovebites two years ago and I’m still in owe. In general, Japan has many amazing rock bands with proficient musicians. Some people say that rock is not dead, it just moved to Japan. My suggestions:
Lovebites: “Set the world on fire”, “Thunder vengeance”, “The Awakening/Hammer of wrath”, “Break the wall”, “Shadowmaker”, “When destinies align”, “Scream for me”, “Raise some hell” (just to name a few and all live)
Nemophila: “Raitei”, “Oiran”, “Dissension”, “Life”, “Hypnosis”, “Revive”.
Band-maid was founded by Miku Kaboto, the rhythm guitarist. She recruited the band members. They did have to fight their management for control of their careers and to write their own music. Now they are in complete control of their destiny.
These ladies have such a wide variety and range, you can find a bit of anything in their music. I would say to hit their RUclips channel and start with the oldest and work your way forward. When you really want to dig in, they have a couple of full albums in their list as music tracks. Several of their songs were developed as Anime opening or end credits songs, and two songs were featured in the Netflix movie "Kate." There is also a few seconds of one song in the third episode of Peacemaker.
Always good watching introductions to Band Maid. The Maids are the real deal and I hope you get the chance to check that out. Enjoy the ride.
Great reaction and you raise an important point about the Japanese music industry. Band Maid are most definitely not a band put together by a record label or any impressario. They were formed in 2013 by the band's rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist, Miku Kobato (real name Mika Noguchi), who had worked in a Maid Cafe and wanted to put a rock band together that contrasted the Maid image with hard rock. She recruited Kanami Tono, who she saw playing on the internet. Kanami brought Akane Hirose into the band and she introduced bassist Misa, who Akane had studied with at music college. So Band Maid started out as a four-piece, though Miku felt her singing wasn't strong enough for the type of music she wanted the band to play and so approached her management company for recommendations for another vocalist. They recommended Saiki Atsumi, who'd already started to develop her career as a J-pop singer, and she was auditioned during a band rehearsal. To begin with their management company refused to release any of the band's own material and the music for their first mini-album, 'Maid in Japan', which was released in 2014, was written by Kentaro Akutsu and Masahiko Fukui, with several other songwriters also contributing for their first full-length album, Brand New Maid. Eventually the band changed their management company and began to write and perform their own music. 'Just Bring It' which was released in 2017, was mainly written by Kanami Tono (with the exception of two tracks on the album), with lyrics by Miku Kobato (and Saiki Atsumi on three tracks) and input for the arrangements by the other band members. Since then they've released three more albums ('World Domination' in 2018, 'Conqueror' in 2019, 'Unseen World' in 2021) and an EP under the band name 'Band Maiko', which are covers of Band Maid songs using traditional Japanese instruments. In my opinion they're the best rock band on the planet right now and possibly the best rock band to have emerged in the last 30-40 years. I'm a 61 year old Londoner who spent time in Japan and have seen most of the great rock acts numerous times and I can honestly say that these young women have totally reignited my love of rock music. Cheers from the UK!
Band Maid toured in 2019 sold out every show. Their tour starts in October with and shows are selling fast if covid doesn't stop it.
MISA!!! MISA!!! MISA!!! 🥃🥃🥃 Badass Bass Assassin. Band-Maid are the best Hard Rock band in the world right now. Band-Maid have been in control of their own destiny since day 1 and taken control of their songs since 2016. I've seen B-M play twice here in LA back in 2018 and 2019. Band-Maid are doing their 1st US Tour in October. 11 cities and all venues are Sold Out. Band-Maid MV's are very good but their official Live videos are 10times better because you can see how talented these musicians really are in concert and how much fun they have on stage with each other. You should check out the official Live versions of Play, Onset, Freedom, Manners/Black Hole, Real Existence, After Life, Warning and Choose Me just to get you started down the Pigeon Hole 🕊🤙🏼
I don't think they know what hit them Curtis :)
@@GaryHolloway-810 nope, they do now. Maidiacs in force will help these 2 🙂🤙🏼
Adding to the list! Thank you for the information and the recs, we would love to catch them live!
Moratorium, Puzzle, Secret My Lips, Anemone, Wonderland, Giovanni, About Us, Youth, Sayonakidori, Why Why Why...God I have to stop for now.
@@RyanSquared the Band-Maidiacs or Maidiacs can help you with those hard to find Live links to Don't You Tell Me, Moratorium, Take Me Higher, Turn Me On and Puzzle (both electric and acoustic versions)
They actually are!
I am from part of asia that can not hav that privilage
but they are comin to US for US TOUR on october this year d' ticket already sold out for 20.000 seats all over your city states
and then actually they add 2 more concerts, hope you guys can have their tickets
Yes, Band Maid was put together by a deranged Pigeon in 2013 or so. Mi-ku (Head Pigeon, 2nd V, Rhythm G, Main song writer) found Ka-na-mi (Lead G, Main Composer) on RUclips. Kanami found A-ka-ne (Drums/half-Gorilla), who she did session work with. Akane asked Misa (Bass, barefoot Assassin), her Music College BFF, if she wanted to wear a Maid outfit and play Hard Rocking music. Misa had to think about it. Finally, Miku found Sai-ki (Lead V, Ice Queen) within the Record label, and did not tell her about the maid outfit until they were well into rehearsals, and near their first gig. The rest is music history that you will discover. Pigeon hole, we go, Po!
I think their 2022 US tour is sold out. I have my VIP tickets to the Houston, TX show. So excited.
Well by now you have read some of the comments (hopefully) and realize that these ladies were not created by corporations and are the REAL deal - a real band, doing exactly what they want, with the maid concept being the brainchild of the pig-tailed wonder pigeon, Miku Kobato. "Cute" is a thing in Japan - like big time, so I think their outfits are more to be cute than sexual. So now that you know they're no being used by some evil entity, I think maybe you'll enjoy their other songs even more. And boy will you love them - given enough songs, it's inevitable, because they are UNBELIEVABLY good, and even better at writing and arranging. You'll need some pain relievers, because your face will hurt from grinning so hard.
This song is sort of middle to late-middle of their material, and they are all over the map genre-wise. Song after song you'll find yourself saying "this is nothing like their other songs" because they are constantly pushing the envelope, and they just do what they want. It's hard to choose because they don't write bad songs, but I'd recommend "Real Existence Live" for a bit earlier but fun hard rock, Daydreaming MV for a ballad (power ballad), Rinne MV if you want it harder, Choose Me and Blooming (live for Choose Me although MV also great) and Blooming MV, which were both featured in the Netflix Movie "Kate", Freedom for a great drum solo and the ladies have the time of their lives on stage, Manners MV for my favorite of their newer songs, No God for a crazy bass solo and some proggy-ness, Giovanni for complex proggy coolness, and the Sense MV for their anime opener that is just blistering, and the Manners (yes again)/Black Hole combo from one of their recent livestreams for a great one two punch of completely different styles.
They can't be categorized, unless "bands that make you really happy" is a genre. We fans call ourselves "Maidiacs" although the band calls us "Masters and Princesses" because that's what they do in Japanese Maid cafes, where the aforementioned pigeon used to work. A common quote from the fandom is that we wouldn't care if they wore burlap sacks because they are that good and that much fun.
One more thing - they're doing a 13 city US Tour in the fall, and don't let the "sold out" thing keep you from getting some tix on Stub-Hub or something. You'll want to kick yourself if you miss them live. Welcome and congratulations in advance because your life just got better.
If you like Rock music, you've hit the jackpot. Try these Lives: ONSET-LIVE, PLAY-LIVE, REAL EXISTENCE-LIVE. When you uncover all the tangibles and intangibles of Band-Maid you'll then know how Awesome they are. Peace. 447
Don't You Tell Me - Live, Moratorium - Live .......... any of them - Live!
lol Cheers!
These women are awesome and they are coming to the states in October. Unfortunately, all of their dates are sold out. A little background. Miku Kobato, the founder worked in a maid cafe at one time. She had a career as a pop group singer, but thought forming a rock band wearing maid costumes but kicking butt with the music. They have. They have recorded seven albums for the 8-9 years they have been together, Miku first auditioned Kanami Soto, the lead guitarist, who was also a classically trained pianist and plays multiple instruments. She is the groups musical composer. She suggested that Miku interview Akane Hirosi, the drummer and Misa (no last name given), the bassist. The both agreed to join the band and wear the maid costumes. Akane and MIsa played together in music school. By the way, Jimmy Page, yes that Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin fame, caught their act and was so impressed by Akane's drumming, he asked to go backstage after the concert and meet her. The had a picture taken together. It's on the internet. He said afterward Akane is the reincarnation of John Bohnam. High praise indeed not meant as flattery. Miku's soft voice did not lend itself to the rock music they were performing, so she opened auditions for a lead vocalist. Saiki Atsumi was a trained singer, dancer, and actress ansered the call and was hired. If you listen to more of their songs, you will find out how wide Saiki's vocal range is. Good luck and welcome to the rabbit hole of Band Maidiacs.
They upgraded some of their venues and added more shows that tickets are still available.
People can also get tickets from 3rd party seller.
I think the best starter songs for Band-Maid are Dice, Blooming, Rinne, and Freedom. You won't go wrong with any song you pick though.
BAND-MAID:
An impossibly hard rocking maid band.
Die hard fans are Maidiacs.
Saiki - lead vocal
Akane - drums, the band will refer to her as half gorilla. Jimmy Page said she’s the reincarnation of Bonham.
Misa - bass, writes the bass parts of the songs, she’s the Barefoot Assassin
Miku - rhythm guitar, vocals, lyricist. Founded the band in 2013. The maid outfits were part of her vision of the band. Miku says her last name Kobato, means small pigeon, therefore she’s a small pigeon, ending sentences with, “Po.”
Kanami, aka Kanamincho or Mincho - lead guitar, songwriter, musical genius. As you delve into BAND-MAID’s catalog you will understand.
The Maid outfits have developed over the years, they started off as straight up maid costumes as per Miku's vision but Saiki and Misa were not entirely on board with that (understatement) so what they wear now is more in line with their own personalities whilst still loosely sticking to the maid theme in the case of Saiki and Misa. Misa (barefoot assassin) - variously stated as early 20th century Chinese or Croatian maid dress, Saiki (ice queen) - mid 20th century Spanish maid, Kanami (Kanamincho, Mincho) - long maid outfit , she will wear anything she's told to as choosing clothes is a distraction from her main aim in life which is to compose a never ending stream of great songs, Akane (gorilla) - bell boy outfit, wears shorts, a convenience choice I would guess and Miku (little pigeon) - Her outfit has got frillier and more voluminous as the years have passed. If you react to Catharsis from their christmas online acoustic concert you will see an entirely different wardrobe which Saiki and Akane were responsible for as far as the theme goes. Then there is Band Maiko (Band Maid's alter ego) which is maiko (apprentice geisha) clothing- yakuta / kimono.
I smile every time I hear this band.
The legend says that there was a 800 years old pigeon which once worked at a maid cafe turned jpop star, one day she got the idea of mixing rock and maid so now we have Band Maid,
There's interview of them floating on the internet,
Let's go for more,
Just can't get enough of Band-Maid. I also love Trident (formerly Girls Rock Band Kakumei). Band-Maid was put together by Miku (rhythm guitarist), who also writes their songs, while Kanami (lead guitarist) primarily writes the music. They look like they are having fun, because they are and since forming have become best friends and stay completely humble.
They consider themselves Hard Rock. BAND-MAID is not like BabyMetal. It was formed by Backing Vocalist & Rhythm Guitarist Miku who used to work in a Maid Café. She found lead guitarist Kamai through her videos. Kanami suggested Akane on drums. Akane had gone to school at the Tokyo School of Music. She decided her voice wasn't strong enough for Hard Rock so she dropped back to backing vocals and had Kanami teach her guitar. They found Saiki working at their same Agency and auditioned her right away, careful not to mention the maid thing too soon, just saying they would be wearing cute clothes.
As somebody said: Not the typical japanese group, where the record company do the picking.
I won't claim that Miku found Kanami, because somebody gave me an earfull for doing so.
He said that her agent put her in contact with the young singer/songwriter.
Kanami Tono knew Akane from a few collabs they had during the years. During the years at music school she (Akane) had a good friend she used to jam with, so then MISA on bass was put into the mix.
When they started to play together, one thing was apparent.
Though Miku had a past from a 3 piece all female pop group named "lil cummin", her voice wasn't very suited for hard-rock.
So they deicided to audition... Miku knew about Saiki from the same management she was a part of and managed to lure her to join. She was warned that it might not be the bes idea to tell about the Maid-image untill a little later.
It's common with idol groups, not actual bands.
lol subscribed just bc how much you made me laugh when you said " someone's just mad at us for pausing before the break"
US Tour booked for Sept, mostly sold out and many moved to bigger venues. Clothes are all Miku's idea. 6 years together , same lineup. Freedom live . great solo by Akane. Jimmy Page, is a fan of hers , and been to see them live.
BAND-MAID is a band of top notch professional live-parformance musicians.
In my opinion, one of the best live hard rock bands on the planet today.
About the image of my hard rock metal changed by BAND-MAID:
before:
Wearing dirty leather and wearing cursed words with a moody face.
Members are selfish.
One or two prominent and distinctive member.
after:
A pretty girl dressed as a maid, i feel very clean.
It looks very fun with a smile and makes me happy every time.
Everyone plays the instrument as perfectly as ever.
No selfish.
All members are shining.
If you like this live video,
You should see Freedom live, Onset live, Play live next.
Other MVs are great too. but live is soooo good.
I've seen a couple comments similar, that this band reinvigorated a love of rock, changed their view on it and I really love that people are open to this. It seems like it would be easy to write off a rock band in maid outfits and not even give it a try. I really enjoyed this first experience with them as well as your comment and we can't wait to explore more!
My discovery of Band-Maid a couple of years ago started me listening to a bunch of Japanese rock/metal bands. Prior to Band-maid the only Japanese band I ever heard was Maximum the Hormone, who I still enjoy but in small doses. Of all the Japanese bands I have heard, I would pay money to see only four of them. Three are all female bands and one is mixed with a female lead singer. The three all female bands are Band-Maid (I am seeing them in Dallas on October 21), Lovebites and Nemophila. The fourth is the Wagakki Band.
I know the story of how Band-Maid formed has likely been told repeatedly in these comments. I will emphasize just a couple things. First, my utmost respect for Miku who had the vision for the band, had the eye for talent or good fortune or both to bring in Kanami into the band first, sacrificed her role as lead singer and learned guitar from scratch for the betterment of the band, and has tirelessly been one of the best spokespersons that any band could hope for. Second is the genius of Kanami Tono. Without her, Akane and Misa would not have joined and likely Saiki as well. For the last four albums, she has been the primary songwriter, and the last two she was the sole songwriter. Their last album, Unseen World, is in my top 10 of 2021. I have been listening to rock/metal for 50 years and if I was told to make a list of the 25 best rock/metal songwriters of the last 50 years, Kanami would be on that list. She is simply that good and is probably just getting started.
As for Lovebites, most start with Holy War, although I think the order should be Break the Wall, Swan Song (with Chopin intro) and then Holy War.
My introduction to Nemophila was watching their cover of Iron Maiden's Aces High. I have been a huge Iron Maiden fan since the beginning and Powerslave is my second favorite album. That video had me grinning and misty eyed at the same time. The lead singer, mayu, sang the hell out of that song. Might be a good beginning for y'all too.
I highly suggest their official music video Warning or Blooming. Those are two of their best tracks. They are more of a high energy hard rock band than a metal band but if you want metal metal listen to Rinne (aka Reincarnation). It has a music video as well.
Got them on the list!! thank you
I’m going to see them live in Seattle 10/12/22. Most of their 2022 tour concerts are sold out. There is not a weak link in this band.
If you're looking for female hard rock/metal bands the top three, IMO, are Band-Maid, Nemophila, and Lovebites, all from Japan. Also my opinion: Band-Maid is the best band on the planet right now and Japan produces the best musicians.
That's one........and you have 100 or so more to go. The best live official videos are Onset (an instrumental), Play, Freedom, Real Existence, Dice, Manners, Different and a bunch of others. And the band was started by the rythym guitarist Miku Kobato about 8 years ago. She worked at a maid cafe in Tokyo but wanted to start a band and wear maid costumes. She found three of the best female musicians around in Kanami Tono (lead guitar), Misa (bass) and Akane Hirose (drums) and a great lead singer in Saiki Atsumi. Miku was originally going to be the lead singer but realized that she didn't have what she needed for hard rock and brought on Saiki Atsumi. They didn't do any of there own music until their third album and after that it was Kanami composing and Miku writing the lyrics and it's been a wild ride since then. I was lucky enough to score tickets to the NYC date of their 2022 US tour on 10/28/22. I really can't wait.
Welcome to ye fandom! ;) I suggest the following Band Maid songs: Thrill, Dice, Manners, Bubble, No God (live) & Warning (live)
The maid outifts are aimed a Japanese cultural trope. In Japan, they have a whole pop culture phenom of "maid cafes" where you can go and be served lunch by a cute girl in a victorian maid outfit who will entertain you with cute songs and routines. It's more "cute" than "sexual" (although there can be a modicum of sexualization). So to a Japanese audience, when they see girls in maid costumes on stage, they expect to hear cute, bubble-gum, idol-style pop. With Band-Maid you get the "cute" image, but then are hit in the face with scorching hard rock. To a Japanese audience, this would create a mental dissonance that the band has coined "The Gap": the confusions of what you are hearing not meshing with what you're seeing. For foreign audiences, not accustomed to the "maid culture", it's more curiosity or oddity.
From the same concert if you will. Freedom Choose me and Play !
US tour is sold out. In October. so, they added two new venues. One in NJ is 4000 seats. This should be available. It’ll be epic. I hope they will bring it, Puzzle, Moratorium, Unfair game, Matchless gum, Clang, Take it higher, Anemone, Daydreaming, Rinne, Hibana, Corallium and many others.
Looks like the new Chicago show is also sold out. So it is now either New Jersey or paying very high prices for resale tickets
Yeah, you can't go wrong with any Band-Maid song. Their songs tend to really be different from one another, so you never know what to expect. Look for original MVs for Different, Warning, Blooming. Or live videos for Play and Manners/Black Hole.
And yes, like everyone else mentioned, Band-Maid is their own thing. Not a studio creation. Just like most all Japanese all-women rock/metal bands. As you continue your Band-Maid journey, check out Nemophila, Hanabie, Lovebites, Aldiuous, Hagane, etc. Japan is loaded with all-women bands that rock.
nice reaction! you can't go wrong with BAND-MAID's official live videos for future reactions
Look at all the other rock groups and you will not find another group like Band-Maid they are always smiling and love what they are doing. Check out their live songs Play & Freedom
For some more Japan Female Metal Band goodness you should try out Lovebites. The two songs I would check out from them are Holy War [Live at Zepp DiverCity Tokyo 2020] or Set The World On Fire [Live from "Ride For Vengeance Tour 2021"] on the bands RUclips. As a bit of a bonus Lovebites sings in English. They just had the bass player leave and are looking for tryouts right now till the end of May sometime.
Epic chops my dude! Lemmy would be proud. Keep checking them out, they are insanely talented musicians and craft some killer rock music. Best rhythm section in any band IMO.
thanks!
We definitely plan to keep going with them, we both really liked this one and are excited for more!
Another band you should check out is Lovebites. They are another all female Japanese band that are extremely talented. They are also best live but you can't go wrong with anything you find.
Great band! Love them! Traveling to see them twice this year.
Very cool. Have a great time.👍
that's awesome!!!
🤘🤘❤🤘🤘 MISA MISA MISA!!!! 🤘🤘
Y'all are gonna be busy with these ladies!!! Trust me on that one!!!! Japan is a current bedrock of Heavy Rock and Metal currently!!!! 😉❤✌
Maid culture is a thing in Japan and is a cosplay thing. Japan is the center of the cosplay universe.
hi, to answer your question, I can tell you that Band-Maid is perhaps one of the most genuine and self-built musical groups of today, they were born from the idea of Miku the second guitar and second voice, who shared his idea with Kanami, lead guitar, known online, then they selected Akane a talented drummer, Akane, in turn, invited her fellow student Misa a crazy bassist, who fills the sound of the Band-Maid with an unparalleled continuous phrasing at bass, in the end, Miku has given up being the first voice because she realized that she did not have enough power for the music she intended to make, so they selected the wonderful Saiki for ability and unparalleled presence on stage.
They started with small country festivals and small theaters, but things were not going well, so they played all in and spent all their last money to make a video, "Thrill" which after the release in a few days made millions of views on youtube and from there the legend started.
They have composed more than 100 songs in 8 years each one better than the other, no band has ever done this in the whole history of rock..
The best live rock band of the past 30 years.
💯% agree 🤙🏼
You have just stumbled upon one of the the best hard rock bands in the world ! They have e over 💯 great songs and shine when playing live. Should have found this band last month because they are coming to the US this Oct. but most of their shows are sold out=( They added some shows in Chicago and NJ and i think The Fillmore in Maryland still has tickets. Some suggestions "Play" Live - "Real Existence" Live or their first MV from 8 years ago "Thrill" Great Reaction / New Subscriber✌
The Chicago show sold out in 28 minutes, which I unfortunately found out when I tried to buy tickets 50 minutes after they went on sale to the general public. I'll be purchasing on the secondary market at some point because I NEED to see them live!
Absolutely my favorite band for the last few years... the song-wtiting and muscianship is so good I kind forgot about the outfits after about 5 songs... Greatest rock band on the planet...:) \m/ It's a bit like Van Halen... the shows were about fun and having a good time ...freakin' entertaining... \m/
Just another BAND-MAID support comment, 'cause comment section is packed full of all the info you need going forward. Cheers!
Regarding the comment regarding idols. No - Band Maid is not a part of the idol culture. They have made their band themselves. And there are lots of bands in japan that also are self made. Of course, they often are signed with some company, and that might be complicated, but they own their own life.
On the other hand, Babymetal are idols. I might be wrong, but I think they are a special case. I have never heard about any ill treatment, and they might even be rich for all I know.
On the other hand (again) I have a favorite band that was VERY ill treated, and that is Crayon Pop in South Korea. It all looked so very nice and cozy with five adorable girls that seemed to have so much fun. But, eventually the bubble did burst and the story got out. They were literally owned by the company. Made no money, mainly because they had to pay for all their rehearsal time in studios. And the rehearsals were HARD work. They got strong and very fit. They were practicing strength, gymnastics and dance around the clock. And they lived in a special place and were not allowed to meet people, even their relatives. Sort of in prison. In the middle of this they made extremely good and fun videos. Of course, they did not write music or lyric or choreography, it was all made for them. Which, of course, was yet another reason for them getting no money. Eventually it did break and now they have their own lives doing normal people things. Crayon Pop is gone.
Now, I have not checked what you have reacted to. But here is a nice list of Japanes artists that not are idols and make good metal or rock music. Most are all female.
* BAND-MAID (Rock)
* Nemophila (Almost anything, but with a metal touch. They are quite new, but they are all pro artists. They are right now growing. They can go hard. But they can also choose not to.)
* Lovebites (Heavy metal, but also other stuff. Super tight artists.).
* Hanabie (New group, fun, do not have that much yet, but what they have is very good. And it is mix between Kawai and very hard.)
* Ningen Isu (old guys, but bangers! Power trio. Rock.)
The Band Maid rabbit whole awaits ! Amazing band of Amazing musicians and no bad songs believe me, if your keen on more female lead bands then Nemophila and Hannabie are amazing all female Japanese rock/metal bands formed like proper bands and if you want more than the Mexican sisters that form " the warning " is a must
FYI, there's a difference between bands and groups. Groups doesn't generally play their own instruments but focus more on performance and choreography. Bands on the other hand are generally more about musicianship. BTS, Blackpink and Babymetal are not bands, but groups. Band maid is however a band, much like Lovebites which I would highly recommend if you haven't watched them!
yeah! We have Lovebites on the list!! Excited to get to it.
Best rock band on the planet. October 21st in Dallas can't get here soon enough!
No, they are NOT an "industrial product".
The band was brought together by a rhythm guitarist background singer. (As far as I know Mika Noguchi is a bourgeois name) But he is called Miku Kobato. (Po)
I consider him a "spontaneous" band. I hope not too big. :)
Enjoy watching people loose their BAND-MAID cherry!
"human malware".... Love that reference.... That was Great.
Welcome to Band-Maid!
One more thing I would like to add about Japanese bands. A lot of the idol band are as you describe, but many of the bands mentioned by others were organically formed by experienced musicians. It is not perfect but things have gotten better for female artists in Japan, Scandal (another female band) was able to form their own label. As for the sexualization of young girls (which can be common for idols), bands such as Band-Maid, Lovebites, Nemophila, Aldious, Mary’s Blood are primarily made up of women in their late 20s to mid 30s. Some of the musicians do look young and some reactors have thought that they are teenagers.
I really like hearing that women in/entering their 30s are continuing to push forward and really make a name for themselves. Female entertainers in general get the short end of the stick often I feel. I'm excited to explore and support more of these artists!
Things haven't "gotten better for female" for them, they always were better in Japan for female artists, all female rock bands existed in Japan way back in the 70s and 80s and where pretty successfull too.
My wife is from Jakarta Indonesia. Asians have a tendency to age extremely well. Especially the Japanese !
@@jonasw3945 yep. Show-Ya. playing rock since last century. I believe they run a woman band all female band concert once or twice a year in Japan
@@jonasw3945 It is not just me saying things have gotten better for females. Keiko, from Show-Ya, has repeatedly said that things are better for female artists today. She has talked about how hard it was to be taken seriously as a female musician when they started versus how people see female musicians today and think it is just another female band. These are her exact words: “Things are totally different now. In the past, people said that it was impossible for female bands to make something of themselves, but attitudes have changed.” I will take her word on the subject.
See, women can enjoy band-maid too!
Regarding their outfit, actually Miku and Kanami were the only ones comfortable wearing maid outfit from the start.
Nowadays members all wear what suits their character and taste, they seem more comfortable. One of the reactors said they are made of 3 maids and 1 ninja and a half. Lol
Apart from Miku the founder of the band, the members are rather shy and awkward.
On the Christmas last year they took their maid armour off for their online acoustic live and were all commenting they felt a bit nervous without their stage armour.
I recommend you to listen to them blindfolded and focus on their music with a good head phone.
Their music is deceptively complex and layered. Drum fills are creative.
Band-Maid have a massive catalogue of awesome songs and some amazing instrumentals.
While being incredibly versatile, they still have their distinctive sound.
Their early songs are less technical partly because Miku didn't have any experience with guitar back then.
As time went on Miku's skill improved significantly and the whole band also progressed a lot.
Lead guitarist Kanami had been writing bone of their most songs since 2015 if I remember correctly, but all members are actively involved in completing the song writing. Saiki the lead singer wrote a lyric to a song 'corallium' from their latest single that came out late last year.
All 5 of them push each others limit, members are encouraged to be creative, as you can probably imagine from the information above.
That results in the uniqueness of their sound.
The only concern I have is because they work as one brain, none of their members are replaceable.
Sorry for the long comment.
Blindfolded is a cool idea! No worries about the length of the comment, we greatly appreciate the background info as we try to go into these new bands as fresh as possible! I'll also add the song recs to our list!
Welcome to the "pigeon hole".......po.......you have just experienced the most dynamic band in rock today......please keep your arms and hands inside the ride at all times.......enjoy your journey, you have over 100 songs to choose from......do not fear......ANY track you pick will only bring you closer to being a "Maidiac"......nice work, and thanks
They are touring the states in October. 14ish cities, All sold out!. Got my tickets for Boston! Can’t freakin wait!
Band maid indeed was a "put together" band. It was a small pigeon who brought everyone together hehehe. There ae some awesome videos on the history of band maid broken into a video for each girl.
Rabbit hole?...no no..Pigeon hole!!.. Po!
MISA MISA MISA! nailed it the Battle Uniforms (yes the BAND call them that) are for what is known in Japan as "the Gap" the difference between what you see and therefor expect and what You actually get, So no sexualization intended.
Band-maid was organically formed, and NOT a studio creation.
Three are classically trained musicians... two of which met in music school.
They are touring the USA this October.
Red Rose Miku, Sept. 14, 2017 interview: At the Band forming nobody in our band had done "Hard Rock" so we had started without knowing anything - we have grown greatly musically as a Band.
@@lakenneth374 So Miku worked for a talent agency of sorts and proposed the idea of a Hard Rock band wearing Maid outfits. Management liked the idea and they went looking for a guitarist. Miku had seen Kanami on a YT site of sorts and sought her out. It's pretty organically formed. Japan is a totally different culture. I don't see it as a "think tank" band.
Other good videos from this concert are Play, Freedom, Choose Me.
LoL. Asking for the history of BAND-MAID. Well the Madiacs will give you that and then some.😁
They're still history in the making.😁
Surely and I don't have to do those history part🤣.. I'll just read that