Almost three months after the latest Jrock event in Tivoli de Helling (Calmando Qual gave an exclusive gig) it’s time for the venue to open its doors for the Dutch Jrock fans again. This time it’s Ayabie who’ll rock the Netherlands , one of the most popular Visual Kei acts of the moment. At home in Japan and in Germany the band has collected a big fan base, and judging on the well filled venue they’re doing well in Holland too.

The band is playing without a support act tonight, and it’s just a few minutes past eight when the lights dim and the crowd prepares itself for Ayabie. A heavy intro introduces all the band members, one at a time, all welcomed by a lot of screaming girls at the front row. The group’s music isn’t easy to describe, it has the typical Jrock sound, yet it’s also a typical Ayabie sound. The ‘men’ look pretty tonight, dressed in skirts, knee-stockings and loads of glitter, that combined with the music makes them a real pleasure for ear and eye.

The audience exists of loyal fans, singing along with almost all the songs and filling up the quiet moments with cries for their favourite members. The band members seem to enjoy themselves too! When they try to say a few things in Dutch the whole crowd cheers, and the band won’t stop with the ‘I love you’-s.

And the love is obviously mutual! Because of not having a support act the men take their time for the gig. Halfway drummer Kenzo treats us at a great drum solo, something he obviously did before – it sounds awesome! – and it even gets the Dutch a-rhythmic crowd clapping in tune. Even the ‘furitsuke’ (Japanese for ‘choreography’, special dance and hand moves which bands attach to songs in videos and at live performances) are showcased not only by the band, but also by the audience.

After two hours time is really over and Aoi, Takehito, Yumehito, Intetsu and Kenzo really have to leave the stage. They leave a frantic yet content audience behind. It’s clear why Ayabie is this popular, and I hope that the band lives up to their promise to come to Holland again soon! Conclusion: Ayabie, we love you too!

Review by: Seraphictine