DRUMMER REACTS TO AKANE SHOWING OFF!! BAND-MAID / FREEDOM Live

[@oldmanjimh3165]

She is good, very enthusiastic and smiles all the time.

[@Aaronacer]

Very nice pickup about the drum solo. Band-Maid has NO ego. They all are just as invested in everyone being great.

[@Killermcknight]

thank you Aaron! I appreciate that!

[@RyanMear]

Another hooked! It's a good thing, because they deliver SO much diversity. You won't have to think of which music to listen to, you'll just have to think of which BAND-MAID album you want to listen to.

[@EM-vh6nj]

Good to see you support new Bandmaid reactors. I've watched and enjoyed many of your Bandmaid reactions. Just wondering, have you heard of Eskimo Callboy or Dirty Loops? If not, you may consider We Got The Moves by Eskimo Callboy or Rock You by Dirty Loops. Never stop with Bandmaid though.

[@Killermcknight]

lol Thanks Ryan!

[@Mrthedutchman1]

I love it! Now we got you addicted to band maid reactions too! You've come full circle haha

[@nem447]

They're an eclectic mix of metal/prog-rock/blues/punk/pop/jazz/funk etc...but always with that Hard Rock base! Their style varies greatly from song to song, yet always recognizably _Band Maid._

[@myeckwaters]

As good as Akane's drumming is during the solo, my favorite part is that in some of the camera shots you can see the two guitarists standing in the shadows just stage right of her and they are cheering and pumping their fists for her.

[@Killermcknight]

yeah absolutely that was awesome to see!

[@Brain4Zombie]

Yeah, that was so awesome to see. I've never seen a band beside Die Ärzte (German band) and the Foo Fighters which have so much fun playing together. What I also like about Akana's solo: She's ending it and Misa is playing one bar of a pre-bridge, Miku and Kanami joining the bridge for 8 bars, Akana still in her solo, and then comes Kanami's solo!

[@herbpoints]

@@Brain4Zombie yes! it's great! 💪✨🥰

[@fifis677]

Lets face it, they're all killer. Even Miku's gotten much better at guitar (When you have a teacher like Kanami, I'm sure it helps). Akane though is incredible. She sort of reminds me of Taylor Hawkins (especially with that giant smile that's always on her face).

[@davestafford8273]

There are no egos in this band - everything they do is to make the song better. Their live videos are usually better than the MVs because composer/lead guitarist Kanami will add extra stuff in the arrangements. You should listen to this live again and focus on the bass lines that MISA is doing or the slides Kanami is doing before the chorus, all while they’re running around the stage. They often gather around Akane during a song, not to hype her up, but to make faces at her to try to get her to mess up. The vocals too are phenomenal - Saiki had to have throat surgery at one point and started taking care of her voice properly and it really paid off. Backup vocalist Miku was originally supposed to be the lead singer but recruited Saiki because she thought her vocals weren’t powerful enough for this style of music. They are really a great band but there are tons of terrific rock bands in Japan which has a huge music industry. The first great Japanese all-female rock band, Show-Ya, started in the early 1980s and are still active today.

[@mikeat2637]

Along with Show-Ya, who are just amazing, another really veteran group is SCANDAL, who are also amazing, and have been around for about 15 years or so and have done a lot of anime film music work. The number excellent female bands in Japan is unparalleled. There are literally 20 really good female bands in Japan, and probably more. My first experience with Japanese female bands were The 5,6,7,8's, who got great exposure in Kill Bill.

[@wepprop]

While Miku (rhythm guitar) was singing her verse, Kanami (lead guitar) came over and stared at her. This is because Miku forgot the words once and Kanami keeps reminding her. Then, several band members went back to make faces at Akane (drums), which they do all the time and it never bothers her. But then Akane made a face back at them and Saiki (lead singer) almost laughed.

[@mrmxypltk]

Kanami is also supposedly crouched that way as to block Miku from being able to see a lyric sheet, so she was testing her as well!

[@flugelhornoldman1362]

Thanks from Japan 有難う💛。 We say "Japan is a country obsessed by Rock Music". I believe the obsession started in 1966 when Beatles visited Japan and held 5 concerts at Budokan. Talking about hard rock / heavy metal music, a number of bands started to come to Japan thereafter : Led Zeppelin / Grand Funk Railroad (1971), Deep Purple (1972), Kiss (1977), Iron Maiden (1981) and so on. Now, any type of rock can be enjoyed here, especially by many all-female or women-fronted bands. Uh oh, we also say "Japan is a country obsessed by Jazz". It had started earlier than rock 😄

[@kaazan1]

Hi, great reaction, unfortunately, there are no videos of real Akane solos on youtube, the few that are there are very poorly recorded. I have seen three Band-Maid concerts, in one Akane - Gorilla was forced by the audience to improvise a real solo, and I must say that it has nothing to do with this long fill in Freedom. I am a drummer a good drummer, and I can speak, I think Akane is certainly one of the best rock drummers of today, she is absolutely complete and original and she also has excellent technique, you realize that when you listen to the latest records and try to remake her fills you will take a day to remake one of her fills well, especially due to the high speed she has, you will always be inaccurate or in micro-delay and you will have to try many times before playing something decent, believe me, certain fills they are almost impossible. Akane then uses some very unique and unusual fractions between hands and feet and you will struggle to do them well, listen to the latest Band-Maid recordings for a drummer there is a lot to study. Then we have to talk about Akane's wonderful drumlines, truly unique, in many songs Akane is the real backbone. Then in any case Akane always remains the happiest drummer in the galaxy.🤣🤣❤❤😎😎👍👍

[@gt1man931]

Five of the most unselfish band members that exist. One of the best rock bands around. This is only your second track, they are so much more than you have seen so far.

[@zer0tzer0]

'Freedom ' is a good song for drummers. 'Also 'Rinne', especially if you want something heavier and more Metal influenced. Jimmy Page had to go backstage to compliment Akane on her drumming. But she's like Ringo. She doesn't really do extended drum solos. So it was nice that she did this one.

[@hiawatha.g]

Welcome back to Band-Maid. Their variety, creativity, unselfishness and sheer love of what they do, on top of being great musicians, make them the best rock band since the Beatles. And I'll stand by that.

[@Davey-Boyd]

Akane's drumming is really great on the MV for 'Rinne' (Reincarnation) and also on the official live of Manners & Black Hole. Manners is very bluesy/groove rock while Black Hole is their fastest to date at 220 bpm.

[@Parker--]

Black Hole is what happens when you mix LSD with Cocaine. It's like 8 songs in one. It's enjoyable in its own right, but it's a lot to take in at once.

[@Killermcknight]

That's impressive at 220 bpm I wouldn't expect anything less from Akane though she's like a human metronome.

[@Davey-Boyd]

@@Killermcknight The story goes that Kanami asked Akane how fast she could drum. Akane said 190-200 BPM. So Kanami wrote Black Hole at 220. Then Akane submitted 5 drum patterns for the song which ranged from what she labelled 'Easy Peasy' up to 'Hell'. The band chose 'Hell'.

[@renefrijhoff2484]

Still waiting for her promise to Herman Lee from DragonForce to write a song that's even faster then their song The Game (240 bpm).

[@Davey-Boyd]

@@renefrijhoff2484 Yeah me too!

[@mattdhorstman]

Welcome to the pigeon-hole. I'm subbed now so I can watch your journey into your new favorite band. :)

[@Killermcknight]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@tackle47]

2 songs in and already a Maidiac. These ladies just put a smile on your face EVERY time. Time to checkout Nemophilia now, Dissension is a good start.

[@Killermcknight]

Tackle I think you're right! It's time!

[@Parker--]

If you want something harder, watch Domination Live next. This is one of their simpler, more pop rock songs. To their credit, they go hard rock or metal or punk metal in the majority of their work but they always have pop sensibilities. That is to say, even when they have undeniably hard rock songs, they still put a catchy hook over the top with the vocals that you can sing or hum along to. They have plenty of great solos but they also have that sense to know just how long is long enough without derailing the song. My recommended order: Domination Live, Real Existence Live, Cross Live, then Warning MV (the live videos from Warning on out are all on a soundstage without an audience due to COVID :pensive: ), and Blooming MV which is arguably their best song. Then play Rinne. EDIT: lol I paused right before the drum solo. Not a minute later you basically explain what I meant by pop sensibilities and keeping within the song rather than derailing. That's hilarious.

[@Killermcknight]

Hell yeah Parker that's awesome!

[@hammerhiem75]

The hardest thing you can ask a maidiac is "pick a song" Like seriously, why do you hate me? I need a list of ten before I can cover the styles they play. Soft Rock: Daydreaming Hard Rock: Dice Punk Rock: Different Speed metal: Blooming Metal: Rinne Classic Rock: Choose Me Prog Rock: No God Bluesy Rock: Manners Pop Punk: Afterlife Fusion: Gion Cho

[@davidcanty7903]

The transition from the drum to guitar solo was perfect.

[@Killermcknight]

Yes it was

[@tamotsuish]

Thanks so much nice reaction! May be the ladies enjoyed the music. so I`m enjoy too!

[@foxgod4466]

Mu second favorite band in Japan. And One of My favorites songs. Simply Amazing!! Good react man. See you in the next 🤟🏻🦊🇯🇵🔥🔥🔥

[@troyeyton6229]

Love you're reaction They Rock 🎸 listen to more! You will understand!

[@Killermcknight]

Troy I definitely will!

[@rustygear447]

7:43 That's what's special about Band-Maid. They are amazingly skilled, but they don't show off at the cost of the song. They do as much as they can in the service of the song, and they try to give spotlight to every member equally. "Tasteful" is exactly the word to describe them.

[@Killermcknight]

Thanks Seyha I appreciate that!

[@barrycounts490]

This is one of Band-Maids poppy songs and everyone loves it ! I always have a big smile after they play "Freedom" and to tell you the truth its not in my top 25 Band-Maid songs ! Some heavier songs are "Dice" - "Sence" or "Blooming" music videos. I know everyone is saying live but watch the Official Videos of these 3 songs ! 🎀🤘

[@edwardellico]

Rinne MV, Play LIVE Dice LIVE, and Moritoruim are a little harder rock that I enjoy.

[@dannyjarrell9625]

When 1st listened to them about 2yrs back. I became a fan and found out they go way back. Their very vids are badass. Start with Thrill it will draw you in.

[@u28one]

Great reaction. Dig into 'Manners and Black Hole' live, it's 2 tracks in one video that will blow your mind what these incredible musicians can do... all of them but you'll especially love Akane and Misa.

[@falconsooner]

Great reaction and analyis. I would recommend Play Live and the Domination Live next. Play was the 21st song in the concert and Domination the 22d. In fact...in the actual concert they went straight from Play and into Domination with virtually no break in between.

[@greylocke100]

They took just long enough for the ladies to get back to their pedal boards and set them up for Domination. That's it. No more, No less. All in the service of the song to the audience/fans. These ladies are consumate professionals, and really enjoy their jobs.

[@Killermcknight]

that's insane! thanks for the recommendations I will add them to my list for sure domination is next!

[@watcher2554]

MISA! MISA! MISA! Band Maid is the Hardest Rock'n Maid Band in the World!!! More Band Maid Always!! Put your Kitsune UP!! Po!

[@fredminier8547]

I'm a drummer too.... there MV. ALONE IS MY FAVORITE FOR AKANE'S DRUMMING STYLE. It's awesome. Thanks 👍👍👍🦧🦧🍌🍌🙏

[@VegetaRabbit]

If you like heavier, check out the videos for Rinne (mv), Dice (mv), Real Existence (live or mv), or Warning (mv) from their KZbin channel, they have lots more heavy songs they are just harder to find. Most of their songs are in Japanese with a few English lyrics thrown in, they do have a couple just in English. I would recommend Manners/BLACK HOLE (live) for more BAND-MAID awesomeness and great drumming.

[@StoveLad]

My favourites that highlight Akane's drumming. (Fast songs) Rinne HGK Blooming No god

[@wingtang6905]

Love blooming

[@cembor]

Welcome to your journey down the pigeon hole, PO! :) You'll eventually understand that means. Most people comment on Akane's double kick work, which is impressive but its really her high hat work that is just so sublime. She has an amazing sense of timing and paired with, arguably, one of the best bassists currently playing on the planet you have an amazing rhythm section (though MISA often plays bass lead during songs as well). I call them The Thunder Buddies as they are best friends outside of and before joining Band-Maid and are the backbone of this amazing group of talented artists. Enjoy your trip, I would recommend getting in the Way Back Machine and watching their first major hit, "Thrill". This was the song that broke them out and literally saved the band from ending. I would also recommend doing a 2fer video as there is the original music video as well as the live version. Watch the MV first then watch the live version. Cheers and welcome to the flock, PO!

[@Killermcknight]

Thank you Brian! I appreciate that!

[@Kevin6059]

Style wise they are all over the place. Hard rock, proggy rock, super fast complex stuff, and ballads that will make you cry like a baby.

[@christopherjq7414]

You should check the live acoustic version of Catharsis from their Christmas day acoustic show, the whole show was remarkable in the way they were able to reimagine their music to acoustic

[@wingtang6905]

Band maid actually did a 2 min cover of duality by slipknot.

[@Running-withscissors]

That was an awesome breakdown. It never occurred to me (Obvious now you pointed it out) but Akane's always machine-gunning those DBL Bass pedals, but it's not like she has three feet, and the high hat is taken for granted by me and probably most non-drummers. "Blooming" is an MV from them you might want to check out as Akane Hirose does some interesting things and some of (Assume) Kamane Tono's (main composer and lead guitar) recording input on low-fi in parts really stands out. Names? Might be an idea to get a 5x7 card or post it to put names on when reviewing? ;)

[@Killermcknight]

That's a great idea with the post cards it's going to take me a bit to get it down pat. I appreciate the kind words and suggestions!

[@moriganbecks4811]

Saw them in NYC and Akane did 2 drum solos. Great show.

[@AMetalheadsPerspective]

Hey really cool and insightful!!! Maybe this will intrigue you to check out more from them! I recommend the live performance on Band-Maids main channel of Manners/black hole live. Lets just say she its a solid and consistent 220bpm on the kit!!!

[@Glenner7]

Second that!

[@LostAgain1970]

In an interview with Miku-san (she with the red rose and she is the one who write the majority of their lyrics) about how and why they mix Japanese and English in their songs. Her strategy is she choose the language that best describes what she wants to say. Because Japanese and English differ so much in sentence construction, she has found that sometimes it's easier to use English. Regarding their music style. They describe themselves: "BAND-MAID is an impossibly hard rocking maid band." As I see it, they have no pronounced style but hover between rock, heavy metal, punk, progressive-ish. Each album sound a bit different depending what "theme" it has. You gonna get many suggestions on songs and I have some favorites I think pretty well describes who they are: YOLO (every time I hear something new in it), The non-fictions days, DICE (I just say: MISA, MISA, MISA (the bassist)), Blooming, Bubble and RINNE (inspired by the horror movie Rinne/Reincarnation). The most incredible of it all; in total they have made over 100 songs and no one is a bad one!

[@bobespirit2112]

Facts

[@falkarios2944]

One thing you'll start to figure out the more you listen to this band, is that they have so much variety. Some songs have some pop rock elements, and others are more focused on Hard Rock. They also have some Metal, power ballads, punk rock, classic rock, etc. This band really blew me away with how creative and talented they are, and every song after 2017 was written by the band members. (Mainly the lead guitarist Kanami, but the other members help with lyrics and other stuff).

[@Bodneyblue]

There are DVD's and Blu-rays that come with some of the albums which has camera focused video clips of each member playing their instruments.

[@vincenzo-maidiac-5457]

Saiki (the singer) is one of those rare cases where the voice is much better live than the studio version. However you will love this band, it is a promise. On their latest album, the drums are insane. Anyway I suggest "bubble" as your next reaction, fascinating drum work.

[@Killermcknight]

Thanks for the recommendation! I'm making a band-maid list now because of all the suggestions. I'm going to have to figure out how to pronounce all the band members names!!! I thought Akane sounded like how it's spelt and saw someone say it was like A-Con-Ney which I would have never have guessed. Saiki would have guessed sounded like the guy from Ghost of Tsushima

[@quasar6514]

@@Killermcknight It sounds as what is spelled though. A-Ka-Ne. You'll get it once you see videos calling them there names. 😊

[@me262talon2]

Thanks Killermcknight!

[@randelldanner8588]

If I remember right onset is the first one I stumbled upon. I was blown away and was hooked.

[@danjoseph7515]

Watching Freedom is like taking Happy Pills in musical form! 🤩

[@Killermcknight]

Your comment reminded me of We Happy Few the video game

[@theotherbrotherguy]

Great reaction! I highly recommend Dice, Blooming, No God (Live), Play (Live). They will blow you mind

[@Puyax01]

The Drum solo is ok in this one, but her fill within the songs are bad ass. Check out Warning

[@crabuki1273]

Henk Poort, when talking about how a metal singer (Floor Jansen) could be so good at singing opera, put it in a way I gravitate towards. 'Good music is good music.' MOST musical acts that you hear on commercial radio are derivative copies. As you grew up, rock was more popular, and I'm willing to bet most of rock you hear was pretty derivative. BAND-MAID make familiar sounds - it's recognizably hard rock centered - but structure them so they surprise and delight. You mentioned your tastes lean heavy. They have you covered there. Want a power ballad? They can do that. Hell, they have a song with some SICK turns that will remind you of hard rock, then doom metal, then jazz, then pop sing along with synth wave over the top, right back to hard rock, all in one song. And you think, 'There's no way to make that make sense in a song' but it does. They're just nuts in the best possible way.

[@kelleymeeley2073]

The drummer Akame had a visitor after a concert, were she could not believe it, she thought she was being rank. The visited ask to met the Band Maid drummer Akame was Led Zepplin guitarist Jimmy Page. There is as picture out of a metal magazine in Japan with them two posing.

[@lautaroleftraru612]

Thank you very much for the reaction! I highly recommend Secret My lips!

[@Killermcknight]

Added!

[@kyleohlmann3488]

I agree with others that Domination is a good next step. I think that the live for Dice and Different (two in one video) is a really good step after that, though I may be biased because Dice is one of my absolute favorites.

[@mikeat2637]

Dice is great !!!!!! One of their underrated songs, in my opinion.

[@ShikataGaNai100]

Another worshiper at the Temple of TinyHat-san.

[@thunderchild7137]

It is always, ALWAYS about the song.

[@shadowcat3163]

The term you were looking for to describe their style was "Clean". Many bands tend to muddle or distort and their style is crisp and clean.

[@Dobijasek]

my recommndation about BM: whatever song you pick I recommend to pick LIVE version, its always more enjoyable, energetic and often additional solos

[@ranger_a6953]

Except possibly Warning, but yeah absolutely the live ones.

[@elevown]

Not true- the MVs are way better for some songs. Hence why they get recommended. And also plenty of album versions have a LOT more going on than in the lives not less. The studio songs are produced and recorded /balanced etc amazingly well- its wrong to just dismiss them and say go watch the lives. In MANY cases the live versions are great / better to watch - but not all. There isnt even live versions for LOTS of great songs- they shouldnt be ignored for that.

[@bohicagaming4462]

I think one of my favorite parts about band maid outside their talent is they all stay in their lane, but they're all given the opportunity to show off their individuality and skill in their lane. There's also how much work they put into their music for the listener.

[@hazardouswaste08]

you gotta pay extra attention to the fills akane is throwing out there. shes so good at mixing it up and keeping it fresh!

[@JuanSan66]

Great job!. Domination Live next, please. You´ll be amazed

[@Killermcknight]

Hell yeah man! I can't wait!

[@Pit_Wizard]

I would definitely classify Band-Maid as hard rock and pop punk fusion. I'm a 30 year old percussionist and I've been a hardcore metalhead since I was like 14. And somehow these girls blindsided me last year and became my favorite band of all time. Their music is catchy enough for the masses but loaded with little touches that make a musician's ears perk up. My favorite thing about this band is that you can actually hear the bass in the mix! For a great display of the bassist's prowess and the band's versatility as a whole, I recommend the Manners / Black Hole combo video. The drumming is fantastic in those as well!

[@robert-gillesmartineau1208]

Dear Killer! Greetings from Shizuoka! Mount Fuji is invisible because we are in the middle of the night! LOL Refreshing and very entertaining reaction! You have opened a Pandora box into infinity! Like jk, and many fans will tell you, there is absolutely no dearth to comment on! From the moment they were allowed to write completely by themselves and perform Alone they have not looked back. These girls do not have B sides. All their songs are between good and sublime and constantly endeavoring to reach new heights. They play too many genres to put a sticker on them. They are just band Maid. I could recommend my own favorites but that is not fair to them. Just go and pick anything and have a surprise every time. You will then understand why their fans are so passionate. Be sure I will write books of comments to your reactions! Take good care of yourself! Best regards, Robert-Gilles

[@Killermcknight]

Thanks Robert I appreciate that and I can't wait to discover more of their music!

[@GaryHolloway-810]

I always thought a shining B-M bow beacon on Mt Fuji to illuminute the summit at night would look rather awesome :)

[@robert-gillesmartineau1208]

@@Killermcknight You are most welcome!😁 Incidentally, read carefully comments by Gary Holloway, Vladimi Chupin among their super fans whose list is unending!😁

[@robert-gillesmartineau1208]

@@GaryHolloway-810 Actually the morning sun rising behind its summit is called Fuji Diamond and only one sake brewery may use the name!😁 Sometimes the moon can be seen rising behind it, too, but I forgot the name!😁 Incidentally, where do you hail from these days?!😁

[@treestone1743]

Yeah, that's Band Maid you just heard MV and Live is the same, they played so clean and fantastic like recording. I like your reaction, loved it...plz continue The Band Maid journey. You just react my favorite band ever so, I subscribe. If you want to see Band Maid drummer skill (btw, she's name is Akane), you'll be shocked to her drum pattern. I'm glad if you want to check out their songs again ; - I still seek revenge - The non-fiction days - Blooming - Secret my lips - After life - without Holding Back (instrumental) - No God (instrumental) - Geovanni (instrumental) Enjoyed ...😁👍

[@Wishbringer7]

I echo some of the other comments here: what I like very much about Band Maid is how much they ENJOY what they're doing... and how much they bring the audience into it. I love Akane's smile; she's a drummer... and smiling ear to ear her whole set. She's just LOVING it. And like Myeck says, the other band members cheering her on during her solo. And then that perfect blend and precise join-back when they switch from the solo back to the full band again. It's just flawless. I agree with Killer that their vocals are CLEAN. They're not distorted, mumbled, cant-understand (well, I can't understand because I don't speak Japanese, but if I did I could certainly discern the words). As the reviewer said repeatedly, Band Maid is just. plain. good. Every one of them. And the fact that they're a self-maid band (snicker) rather than a corporate girl group makes it all that much better. This is the real thing. The official term for this is "J-pop" but as one reviewer said on another video, Band Maid has a sound all its own that simply rises above the norm.

[@Killermcknight]

Thank you so much for the kinds words! Sorry for the late response I've been unplugged for a week on vacation!

[@zabriabubakar5982]

Their live 2020/2021 songs Domination, Play, Turn Me On, Manners, Thrill, Take Me Higher, Don't You Tell Me, Difficult, all songs with bass solo's, FYI, LOVEBITES latest AUDIO cover songs PAIN KILLER(JUDAS PRIEST) Bro, check also another all female Metal Bands NEMOPHILA - songs Revive(in English), Dissension, Raitei(Thunder), Hoozuki/live HANABIE - song We Love Sweets (this girls will surprised you dude) 😀 ASTERISM - songs Gunfire, Rising Moon, Dawn, Faced, Church, all songs with seven string bass solo's

[@mikeat2637]

There is so much more.....the live official videos of Domination, Don't You Dare, Black Hole, Rinne, Real Existence, Play, The Non-Fiction Days, Choose Me and a host of others are there for your pleasure.

[@tommyjohnson9175]

Actually, a lot of these solos are enhanced or extended in their live performances. They do such a wide variety of things. They can start out with a Metal beat, move to a hard rock vibe, go into a catchy almost pop rock chorus, get the crowd involved like the punk rockers of old, throw in a breakdown with a couple face melting solo's, seamlessly transition into the bridge and throw in a couple more changeup's as they build up for the outro. And all that can happen in just one four-minute song. I think this was song number 21 or 22 of 23 songs in this set. In fact, I don't think that first song you reacted to, "Onset" that's only done live, you won't find that on any of their studio albums. I'm thinking you'll really like their song called "Play" live... or "Domination" live. Have a blast rocking out to Band-Maid with the rest of us Maidiac's.

[@Killermcknight]

Thanks Tommy I appreciate that!

[@RVREVO]

Best combo, onset, dice, thrill, domination

[@doobiejones9388]

Akane Hiroso is the drummer. Her Nick Name is The Gorilla. For how hard she hits the drums and because she eats like half the bananas in Tokyo. I call her Queen Kong! She and Misa (bass) went to Tokyo School of Music together. Played in band's before Band Maid. They've literally played together half their lives! They can read each other's minds. That's how you get a rythm section that's as good as any ever! Great Reaction Brother! 😊😎✌🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@Tristan_Anderwelt]

I was sure you will like this song. The transition from drum solo to guitars gives me an eargasm everytime. My head seems to explode by happiness and joy. Absolutely awesome!

[@Killermcknight]

It was an absolute Eargasm especially when the drum solo just flows right into the rest of the band picking up even if it was just for a few seconds before the guitar solo I agree mind blown and pure genius!

[@Tristan_Anderwelt]

@@Killermcknight Exactly! :)

[@steveokahn7249]

I think you recognized several reasons why some of us have learned to love Band Maid. For me, the #1 reason is they really seem to love what they do and love doing it together...it is impossible to not be drawn into the upbeat world they create for their fans. They are all very good at what they do, but they don't let their egos get in the way of the team dynamic - which I think is a dynamic of Japanese culture that has made so many Japanese rock bands so good. If you listen to a lot of their music, I think you realize that rather than "solos", they craft music that allows each musician to be featured somewhere along the way. These "features" are rarely long enough to go out on their own, but rather done in a way to maintain continuity within the song. On those rare occasions where a longer solo is done, you see the other band members watch in appreciation rather than take a break off stage. Some may criticize that they still have some "pop" influence and are not heavy metal enough. But for me that is great...it is good old hark rock that is not too enamored with itself to the point it is about technical showmanship rather than a sound that is relatable to a normal fan who just wants to go along on the ride.

[@freewheeler2go]

Band-Maid ... is the answer!!!

[@garylai363]

The drum solo and transition into the guitar solo was put in just for the live performances! They've had other versions and iterations but they like to do special arrangements for their shows as a treat to the audience who came to see them. After all, you don't want to go to a concert to hear it exactly like on the album anyways. Hope you continue down the journey. My suggestion would be Blooming if you haven't heard it already.

[@garykeeling2275]

Guys, do you think he's ready yet for the revelation that Band-Maid are not all humans? That their backup guitarist/backup vocalist/lyricist/founder is an 810-year-old pigeon who is just disguised as a human?

[@Killermcknight]

:)

[@craigfenson]

this live version of 'freedom' is just a showpiece, as they all take turns at the solo spot in their repertoire. the fill beast's drum IQ is more apparent in their other songs. if it piques your interest, you can dig into 'sayonakidori', 'black hole', 'manners', 'cross', 'dice', 'warning', 'daydreaming', 'you', and/or 'secret my lips'. also 'flying high', if you want old magic tricks with a twist.

[@pulp-tx6lq]

Manners / Black Hole live is a great Band Maid clip. Black hole has some amazing drum fills you will enjoy

[@Wuppser]

Unfortunately the pandemic has kept me from doing that for the last two years, but the years before that I've had the great pleasure of seeing Band-Maid live a few times, and they're just fantastic live. I'm an old man and I don't go to many live shows anymore, but for Band-Maid I like to flex my old bones.

[@Crash_20020]

Good Reaction Video! Another band to check out is Rolling Quartz especial their Blaze video. There is a video of just the drummer Yeong Eun playing Blaze. Its called Blaze - YEONG EUN (Drum solo) from Rolling Quartz.

[@jamesredman1263]

The song: is about defiantly, yet joyfully declaring one's personal freedom. Basically, "I'm going my way. You can come with, or go away." In other words, not accepting anyone's control/manipulation. In the beginning, management arranged for other people to supply songs. Then Miku Kobato (band founder, second guitar, second vocalist, with red rose and mostly white outfit) persuaded them to let her write some lyrics. This is one of those; a third party composer wrote the melody. Then the band gave it punch. Getting approval for them to compose the music also was hardest, but finally the song "Alone" got the green light with both Miku's lyrics and Kanami's composition and that broke open the door for most of their songs to be really theirs after. It is a nice song, worth hearing and reacting to sometime BTW. Kanami Tono is the lead guitarist on the far right, on a PRS. She composes, arranges, coaches Miku on guitar (who has become impressive herself), and has really blossomed and gained confidence in this group. But Freedom is a lot of fun and they have kept it in concerts often. They constantly change it up to keep fresh, so Akane's little solo here is more the exception than the rule. I love it. I agree that most drum solos are showing off and to hell with any connection to the song. And that makes me appreciate Akane's approach even more. With every contract expiration, they have expanded their autonomy and become more independent of the dictates of others and made this song come true! I want to keep going on about them, but will just add the other two: Saiki Atsumi is lead singer, youngest member (turned 28 on Feb 8) and recent songwriter as well. She is trusted to be totally honest in assessing song viability and has final say on what she will sing. And it was her most of all, who steadily encouraged Kanami to keep trying through the dark days of rejection of her compositions to success, for which we all owe her. Bass player MISA is MISA. We don't get to know a surname. She could tell you but then she'd have to kill ya... Known as the barefoot Assassin because she is over there usually in shadows in black, usually solemn and looking like a tall Ninja on the way to off someone. That is part of her way of focusing and handling stage fright, along with a drink or two before concerts. That's improving though. While the others generally use a click track, she takes off her shoes before they begin so she can feel Akane's drumbeats through the floor and stay in tight synch with her, most of all. But the bottom line is that she is one of the best, most creative bassists around. And in this band, she gets her openings to shine. They all do.

[@ThouDailyBlab]

Her solo is within the frame of the song. Ringo's one and only on Abbey Road did the same. She is the best drummer out there. If you want to check her drumming out (any video would do) but check out Secret My Lips video (off the charts good) and Rinne (heavy stuff) and Black Hole (220bpm speed metal). At the beginning of that Freedom (clip) show they open with Rinne and Blooming - if you can find it online - it is a masterclass of drumming. I suspect she has separate extra brains to operate her limbs. Oh and you might have noticed she actually smiles while she drums. Most drummers look like they are trying to hold in a wet fart as they play. She does it with ease and with a big goofy smile.

[@reesereese2524]

Band Maid live their dream ,and we are beneficiaries

[@michaelpalmer3717]

This band has talent off the scale and no ego. They have their own genre from very hard rock - Rinne - to emotional acoustic - Puzzle. Have you noticed how much the drummer laughs when playing? They are the best on the planet and Kanami - lead guitar and composer - is a genius. Check out bassist Misa who can switch from picking to slapping and back in a instant. What a group!!

[@enol8603]

Bandmaid and Nemophila will be performing at Aftershock festival 2022!!!!!

[@chelollo]

You should go to the Band-Maid homepage and order their live recordings. Best regards

[@JESTERSFALLS]

Oh wow, I've seen many reactions to freedom but your detail to akane's drum solo was perfectly explained. I hear that solo totally different now. Please do more reactions, these ladies surprise me when I think I have them figured.

[@Killermcknight]

Thanks KJ I listen back to it and there was so much more that I wanted to say but live action reaction! haha thank you I really appreciate it!

[@joshmcclung4647]

Love this song🤷 and that drummer😍

[@randelldanner8588]

Their music is raw and pure, not much tweaking needed between live and album

[@ShikataGaNai100]

...and, remember, they keep at this level of intensity for their entire 2-hour shows. BAND-MAID doesn't phone it in.

[@haggaisimon7748]

Despite seeing quite a few reactions of drummers, I can say that yours in the best. You rightfully pointed out about the place of the drum solo in the song and how it fits the song.

[@andrewwiggin]

Glad you're on this journey. Every song has its own individual style and these ladies are skilled enough to crush it every time. The one thing that does run through every song are incredibly catchy, pop choruses that really pulls a listener through a song.

[@Killermcknight]

I couldn't agree more

[@mrframeofmind1]

There is no better setup audio then Akani's drums in the business.

[@phaeron]

Well realized that their solos very much serve the song and not necessarily to show off. This is generally a quality that distinguishes this band. After almost every solo, you wish there were more of it, but that wouldn't have done the song any good. Are these ladies technically the best musicians there are? Certainly not. But together as a band, with their individual talent and understanding of music and each other, they play in their very own league and make even big names look really bad, imo. And that they obviously have a ton of fun at doing what they do, puts the crown on the whole thing. This song has been around for quite a few years, since 2016 to be exact. It's not even one of the songs written by the ladies themselves. You'll be damn surprised how their sound has evolved until today. The MV to 'Dice' (2018) would be a good example of that, or if you like it 'a bit' rougher, I can only recommend the MV to 'Rinne' (2019). :) _____________________ 【 _Our rock never dies ever. Forever!_ 】- from BAND-MAID 'Manners' 🕊️

[@Killermcknight]

I couldn't agree more with your comments. If this is an older song by them then I can't wait to hear their new stuff!

[@jamesredman1263]

Well... Miku wrote the lyrics. The music was composed by a non-bandmember. About the same time, Miku and Kanami put together "Alone" which broke down the resistance to their all-Band-Maid songs.

[@redj59]

thanks - learned some good things from this

[@Killermcknight]

Glad it was helpful!

[@saikisfang9339]

I suggest a music video next. " Dice."

[@imrekalman9044]

This was the 6th song on that concert. "Play" and "Domination" were 21st-22nd out of 23. You may listen to those back to back. Or not. 😁

[@garryhorton5899]

You need to react to Don't you tell Me live from Zepp Tokyo, the power trio in the middle of the song will blow you away, you won't be disappointed, trust me 👍

[@joshuaswanson1977]

If you want an amazing drum solo, look up Neal Peart drum solo - Rush Live in Frankfurt. His kit is crazy! Not taking away from Akane. I love watching her play. She always seems so happy.

[@glenkelley6799]

Great reaction and thank you for the analysis of Akane's drumming. I'm not a drummer but I do follow a number of drum channels (Andrew Rooney for example) as it helps me hear and understand a bit better what the drummer is doing. I've discovered there are some very good drummers from Japan and a lot of them are women. If you haven't already heard of her, you might want to check out a young female drummer (she's now 12) called Yoyoka, probably one of the best young drummers out there currently, Her cover of Rush's YYZ when she was 11 is just wonderful or her cover of Deep Purple's Burn when she also 11 is great (Ian Paice praised her on his channel). Here's the YYZ cover, these are all one take covers, - kzbin.info/www/bejne/oniohYqfZraonKc

[@SpecJack15]

Rina from SCANDAL is another amazing drummer!

[@charleslatora5750]

Rock didn't die, it just moved full time to Japan.

[@ricklarsen7189]

Yes, it’s true that Akane hasn’t done lots of long solos. Although they do seem to be a bit more frequent lately. In fact, this show opens with a drum intro for Rinne that is quite awesome. God I love this band! Liked & subbed. 🤘

[@Killermcknight]

lol Thanks Rick I appreciate that!

[@philipebbrell2793]

She played a drum solo at the last concert, I was at. First time I had seen that out of all four Bandmaid concerts I attended. The sound at all Japanese concerts is amazing. Check out Fumi of Accent only 13, but already very good. She has a bright future if she continues in music.

[@TheStefan6969]

They do have a couple of all English songs, and all of their songs have English words wrapped into them too. Domination they all get a little shine peice in it.

[@scuppernog1]

"Manners/ Black Hole" is a fantastic double live video to react to.

[@Parker--]

Almost all of Band-Maid's music is Japanese with English sprinkled in, often during the chorus. Only one song is in all English, Don't Let Me Down, which is honest to God one of their best songs IMHO.

[@wanderleyjesus6772]

and Dragon cries

[@Parker--]

​@@suzuki8582 Honestly forgot about Dragon Cries. Good call.

[@stephenriggs8177]

Miku (the rhythm guitarist) is Band-Maid's chief lyricist. (This was one of if not her very first song, in fact.) You won't usually hear her take lead, though she has a couple of songs that are all her. Miku writes mainly in Japanese, but she peppers the songs with English, especially in those places where saying the same thing in Japanese would require a flood of syllables that would disrupt the meter.