Let see if Band-Maid Can Back it Up! Dominiation - Reaction

[@jeffedwards9180]

Miku mashing that rhythmic solo at 9:26 is just pure joy for me no matter how many times I see it. 🤘

[@RyanMear]

Welcome...... you are hooked and every song just sinks it deeper!

[@frankmg7862]

If I remember correctly it took you two songs to get hooked too lol!

[@Pit_Wizard]

As a musician myself, Band-Maid just does something special for me. On the surface they have catchy hooks and pop sensibilities, but they weave in so many interesting layers, dynamics, tempo and feel changes, ect. The two songs you've listened to so far are among their most straightforward. For a good example of their stylistic range, I recommend the double-feature video of Manners and Black Hole. Manners is funky groove rock, while Black Hole is basically speed metal. It's such an interesting dichotomy.

[@PrymalChaos]

I'll check it out!

[@Greish-esquire]

@@PrymalChaos Black Hole could of have been written by Syd Barrett as of Pink Floyd in about 1967 and updated by BM in 2020's

[@Dragon-Believer]

@@PrymalChaos if you want fun it's Play or Choose Me. Those are so much fun.

[@dragonvert3633]

@@Greish-esquire that's the very year John Wheeler used the phrase 'Black Hole' for the first time at a lecture in NY.

[@RyanMear]

Great comments and observations👍 Anemone is a fantastic ballad....Blackole will rip your face off and you'll be happy about it

[@curtisrrobles7885]

🤙🏼

[@Mythricia1988]

I see you, too, are caught up in the Band-Maid reaction whirlpool. I wonder if there is any escape!

[@phaeron]

@@Mythricia1988 I don't think so as long as there are reactors like Ryan, Champ, Wave, Chase, etc.... and now PrymalChaos. We love the ladies too much for that and are very glad when more people really appreciate their talent and what they do. Maybe among them is a possible new member of the Maidiacs, which brings the ladies one step closer to achieve their goal of world domination. :) _____________________ 【 _Our rock never dies ever. Forever!_ 】- from BAND-MAID 'Manners' 🕊️

[@paulmarks3662]

Lol Ryan is one of us.

[@curtisrrobles7885]

@@paulmarks3662 for a while now

[@realdocloco]

Lovely reaction! They give everything on stage, everytime, everywhere, even in the middle of a heatwave in the middle of Germany with no airco (personal experience of course). I've seen tons of rock bands in my life, they're amongst the most genuine and generous rock bands I've seen.

[@hawkmoon4107]

On the release of "Unseen World", they give an interview and Kanami said: "I hope our music will bring some happiness to our Master and Princesses, even just a little". It was during a peak of the pandemic and they had to cancel what would have been a high peak in their carrer: a life performance in the Nippon Budokan (Yes, the same Budokan where Deep Purple recorded "Live in Japan" and Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin or Santana performed). And still, they worried about their fans. So, when you say you can't help but smile when watching their live performance, it's what they consider their greatest reward. And it's absolutly not a promotion move, it's sincere and demonstrated by actions, like a song released to cheer up fans around the world, "About us". These Ladies are simply amazing and that's why we love them.

[@PrymalChaos]

I really need to see them live some day.

[@quasar6514]

@@PrymalChaos they will be in CA on October 😊

[@knightofthefivemaids]

No other Band in the world that loves their fans more than Band Maid with 2 love letters to their fans About Us and Smile

[@perrinklumpp4664]

Miku (rhythm guitar/backing vocals) usually does the intro and patter, but Saiki did a very heartfelt intro for "About Us" that shows the spirit of this band. About Us would be a great one to listen to in order to hear a very different side of Band Maid. Welcome to the party and I look forward to seeing you enjoy their many other songs.

[@alxvdark]

@@quasar6514 woah woah woah where'd you hear that. I thought details about a US tour this year were TBD

[@russellpotter7294]

Remembering that these Ladies have been going for about eight years. The early years they had their songs written for them and sound more poppy. But not really a dud amongst them. As time goes on and they take over the writing and all contribute to the style and production of the songs they become slightly heavier. As a fan I can go over the top about how good they really are. However I have decided I don't go over the top enough. They are superb live and I can't remember enjoying music this much since the Sixties.

[@PrymalChaos]

Awesome!

[@welookhere]

Thank you for your comments on the band, your journey has just begun. In all my 60 years, there are only a few bands that have really hooked me but this one hooked me big time. I have picked up the bass again after 10 years absence, listening to Misa who switches effortlessly from using her pick in her solos to slapping - look out for her trapping the pick in her forefinger. So inspiring. Great example of her prowess is 'BAND-MAID / take me higher!! + play (Live) [read the description]' Kanami the lead guitarist is such a clever writer but uses restraint in her compositions to let each member shine. They don't do battle with each other but enhance each other’s role to generate a tight cohesive performance Check out her tapping live on the brilliant instrumental 'BAND-MAID / onset (Official Live Video)' Akane (drums) has been described as one of the most talented drummers around. No wonder Jimmy Page wanted to meet her - pictures elsewhere on the web. She shines on her solo playing 'BAND-MAID / FREEDOM (Official Live Video)' - her smile is infectious and a joy to see Miku (rhythm guitar) who was the founder of the band and writes most of the lyrics is a real character and integral part of the band. Saiki (vocals), was chosen for her lower range and is a vocal acrobat and boy, does she know how to work a crowd As Sniper2sword said, 'Not all heroes wear capes they wear maid outfits'

[@PrymalChaos]

Thanks for the individual breakdowns. Honestly I'm finding it interesting how many comments are from older musos becoming inspired to play again due to this band. That's really astonishing. It's great to see.

[@lonniekramlich6241]

What other rock band writes & then performs a love letter too their fans, its a song called, " About us, " from an online streaming concert they did, Feb of 2021, again for the fans......its just more reason too love them. 😎👌

[@threemonkeysk]

Energy wise these gals have bucket loads, you'd never know this is the last but one of a 2 hour 23 song show, oh and bass solo's, yeah BAND-MAID do those, a lot

[@PrymalChaos]

As they should.

[@JazzFatcho]

@@PrymalChaos And this is 22nd of 23 songs

[@charlest.velten6983]

Endless Story was the last song. Which they performed right after this.

[@greylocke100]

@@PrymalChaos If you keep watching the live performances, you will find out they are unlike many western bands that take pauses between songs to talk to the audience or just take their time. Band Maid is full bore non stop through most of their set. Their concerts are usually in excess of 20 songs and push 2+ hours. They are a couple small breaks known as MC time and Miku's Majic Spell Time, which if you ever see is the cutest thing, but these young ladies are about serving their audience/fans. Or as they say it, their "Masters and Princesses". You will also find, that the live performances differ from the album versions, either they have had parts added, or the instrumentation has been changed to enhance the song. A few songs have extended instrumental intros added to them which really ramps up the energy of the crowd. I would suggest for your next video, to watch the song that immediately preceded this one at that performance, which is "Play". It has an extended intro, and as you listen to the last notes of it, immediately switch back to watching this video. The ladies finish Play, and with the 1st tones of Kanami's guitar still ringing out, the ladies walk back to their pedal boards to reset them. And in just a few seconds, Domination starts. I timed it as best I could, and they took about 6 seconds between Play and Domination. And throughout their concerts, that is the pace they set for themselves. To serve as much music to their Masters and Princesses as possible.

[@lewissmith4123]

@@charlest.velten6983 I loved the fact they ended with endless story, it was a great way to end and of course the title says it all.

[@geoffb5]

As a Maidiac non-musician who only discovered Band-Maid back after Thanksgiving 2021 I am going to be happy to see your reactions and comments. Finding them was the best Christmas present I've had in many years. They have brought the love of Rock back into my life.

[@PrymalChaos]

Thanks Geoff! I appreciate you watching.

[@waynen6765]

They've revived rock/ metal for me as well. Prior to this, the band Theocracy filled that void for me. Band-Maid had more well rounded talent aside from Matt Smith from Theocracy who is the savant behind everything they do

[@brunobryant4846]

Brother I was part of the Oz rock scene for many years including playing on the notorious 80's pub rock circuit, anyhow over the years music and the industry got to be mostly stale male corporate crap so I drifted away and nothing new really fired me up, then I tumbled onto Band Maid and fark my rock and roll soul ignition flame started to light up and as I went down the pigeon hole (that will make sense later on in your BM journey 😄) it was like getting king hit but loving it, I even started drumming again 😃 I'm 63 now, drumming like a hooligan in a bar fight and deeply indebted to these amazing musicians, enjoy your journey Sir, peace and love Po and now it's time for a beer and more Band Maid 👍🎤🎸🥁🎼🍻

[@PrymalChaos]

That's awesome. Whatever gets you back behind the tubs by friend!

[@brunobryant4846]

@@PrymalChaos absolutely 👍🥁🎼🍻

[@ralphboyer2538]

I think you nailed Bandmaid quite well - extraordinary talent, amazing songwriting, and perfect execution. All of that doesn't matter though if you don't enjoy watching them. You can't help but smile when you watch Bandmaid. They just make a person happy, and isn't that what music is supposed to do? If you see them in interviews, you'll see a group of cute, funny little girls who don't take themselves too seriously - just their music is taken seriously. One thing you won't see is a bunch of egos; that just isn't there at all. Kanami (the guitarist) writes and arranges most of their music and she intentionally gives herself short solos because she wants the others to shine - not herself. Right now my three favorite bands are Lovebites, Bandmaid, and Nemophila (in no particular order). My favorite band is the one I'm listening to at the time. These little women from Japan are putting most dudes to shame right now.

[@PrymalChaos]

They really do kick.some ass.

[@happyninja42]

One thing I really like about Band-Maid, at least the handful of songs I've heard, is they seem to give the bassist way more spotlight than you usually get in a band. I seem to recall one of their songs, kind of had a bassist solo? And she will sometimes toss in a little slap bass in the mix. Which I love 😆 I'm kind of partial to bass guitars, so I really enjoy that their bassist is quite good, and gets chances to shine in their songs.

[@PrymalChaos]

The world needs more people who appreciate bass players. They are the most underrated member of every band.

[@Aaronacer]

Usually get bored by the "after talk", but that was a great conversation. I think it has to do with a lot of what you are saying plus Japan puts a LOT into arts training for high schoolers. And yes, Band-Maid deserves all the accolades. But so do the other J-Rock/Metal bands too.

[@PrymalChaos]

Thanks Aaron!

[@elevown]

Band-maid sure do- and most of the others- but theres a few who are overrated compared to their skills and songs imo.

[@falconsooner]

Really enjoyed your reaction and analysis. I loved your "straight up rock and roll" comment. I grew up on 60s - 80s rock and it had a big fun element that seemed to be missing in more recent years. As others have mentioned...Daydreaming is a great rock ballad and widely considered one of their best ongs among the fandom.

[@michaelpalmer3717]

Saiki has the most lyrical and imperious right arm/hand in rock. She must be obeyed! Used up all the adjectives. This is the best band in the world.

[@Mythricia1988]

Haha, that's an observation I haven't seen mentioned before. But you are right!

[@ShikataGaNai100]

Oddly, Saiki is predominantly left-handed, but is actually ambidextrous. She [plays acoustic guitar right-handed as well.

[@mattdhorstman]

Can you believe that this was the 23rd of 24 songs in a 2hr set? Can't wait to see you really dive in. Copied suggestions from last video below: Since you are a musician, other musicians tend to love the instrumental "Onset" (official live on their channel). Manners is a straight forward Rock-n-roll banger (M/V on their channel) Blooming is a more pop-forward track that is a technical masterpiece (M/V on their channel) Daydreaming is a rock ballad that will make you have emotions, and frequently wins the polls for best overall song (M/V on their channel) Wonderland is a down tempo vocal showcase with some jazzy influence (Official Live on their channel) Sense is a frenetic anime theme song that highlights the most recent work from the band (M/V on their channel) I wouldn't go too far back at the beginning of your journey, you'll see lots of recommendations for Thrill, because that is the song that made them famous, but IMO it's boring compared to their work now. Good luck with the pigeon-hole. PO!!! 🕊🕊🕊

[@terrahawk1977]

Watch this live show its excellent. Watch rinne first song it slaps 👍👍

[@PrymalChaos]

I never would have guessed that this was late in the show. These guys are machines!

[@terrahawk1977]

@@PrymalChaos its excellent 👌

[@gt1man931]

These women are well versed in music theory and they know how to use it. You'll see. They don't play anything "radio straight", and with the simple minimum just to get by, they go the extra mile every time.

[@jay-stuff2673]

Band Maid: Don't You Tell Me (live) is a f**king stadium destroyer!!! My favorite in my opinion. Gotta watch it live brother!!

[@PrymalChaos]

Cool!

[@jay-stuff2673]

@@PrymalChaos forgot to subscribe with notifications. just did it! lol 😂

[@karih1362]

Aftershock Festival October 6-9, 2022 Discovery Park Sacramento, CA.Band-Maid and NEMOPHILA !!

[@PrymalChaos]

Nice!

[@dennisthemenace671]

When they gather around the Drummer (Akane) they are making faces at her , trying to mess her up but it never works , MISA !!! MISA !!! MISA !!! the Barefoot Bass Assassin .

[@PrymalChaos]

I swear, I wanna be in the band! Although I am 6'1 and 264lbs. Not sure If fit the aesthetic.

[@busser649]

@@PrymalChaos Herman Li of Dragon Force did a live Twich interview with Miku & Kanami where he jammed with them both and auditioned to join the band in full maid costume, so there's always a chance. It's on Dragon Force's channel & is quite hilarious, definitely give it a watch or possibly react to it?

[@nikytamayo]

@@PrymalChaos If Ladybeard is any indication, as long as you're feeling it, anyone can do the maid costume!

[@PrymalChaos]

@@nikytamayo haha. I could probably do a Ladybeard tribute show.

[@PrymalChaos]

@@busser649 ok. That was pretty awesome.

[@MrSmith-hd8od]

I'm an old dude who grew up listening to Cheap Trick live in Budokan and Kiss, and the crowds sounded pretty vocal and loud back then (1978-79-ish era) so that's all I can offer up. Great reaction! :)

[@PrymalChaos]

Interesting! Everything I knew was a lie!!! 😁

[@lurkmerchant]

@@PrymalChaos Not everything is a lie. I think it was true up to the mid 70s. Even towards the late 70s. The video recording is still strictly prohibited even at outdoor venues. Whether the crowds get loud or not also depends on the type of music.

[@stevehall5128]

That's a great point about how reading the subtitles can mess with one's perception of the actual vocal cadence! I never thought about that before, but now I think you're right. It doesn't just redirect one's focus, but pretty much adds another voice in one's head that doesn't sync with the actual vocals. I think most fans would say to just turn off the subtitles the first viewing or two of a song anyway just because there's so much going on musically that you don't want yet another element until you're at leas partially familiar with it. Maybe at some point they'll also add Romaji subtitles that would actually scan with the vocals and let non-Japanese-speakers learn the syllables actually being sung.

[@cactustactics]

I just wanna say though, I think their subtitles are ~really~ good - they read and flow really well, and the translator's made the effort to write something lyrical, instead of trying to be "technically accurate" or matching line-for-line when the English phrasing should put things in a different order. You can read them and it feels like a great song, that's important!

[@stevehall5128]

@@cactustactics Agreed!

[@jaynagerber7474]

@@cactustactics From what I understand, Miku works directly with the translator(s) (for the official translations, anyways...which are the ones attached to their official MV's and lives posted on their page) to make sure they capture the essence of what she has written. Just another example of how awesome our spokes-pigeon is!

[@cactustactics]

@@jaynagerber7474 aww that's awesome. My limited Japanese is nowhere enough to get the meaning of the original most of the time, and whenever I've looked at other people's translations, they tend to be more about a "literal" translation (where it often doesn't read very well, but all the pieces of meaning are in there). And I noticed the official ones sometimes phrase things very differently, with a slightly different meaning, so it's cool to know Miku's part of that! It's just something you have to do to translate a song and still keep it poetic, that's languages for ya!

[@jaynagerber7474]

@@cactustactics Yep! I think it's easy to tell which ones she's involved in or not (after you get more exposed to them, anyways) as I find that the official translated lyrics are still in sync with the flow of the song (which is VERY difficult for translations from a language like Japanese into English)!

[@danw6048]

As I did in my comment to your Warning reaction, I am going to sing the praises of Kanami Tono. Warning is a Kanami song. Domination is also a Kanami song. I have seen recommendations for Daydreaming, a ballad written by Kanami. I, like others, recommend the combo video for Manners and Black Hole, both written by Kanami. Their most recent video is of the acoustic version of Catharsis, and, of course, both the original version and the acoustic version are from the mind of Kanami. She also wrote Sense, the theme to an anime TV show called Platinum End. After the song was completed, the producers of the show said they wanted a classical opening to be played by an orchestra. Kanami immediately started listening to classical music and wrote the intro which was played by an orchestra. Every single song on the last two albums were written by Kanami, and the most recent, Unseen World, will be considered a classic. In my over 5 decades of listening to rock/metal, I can't think of many songwriters with that much diversity in styles.

[@ranger_a6953]

The audience is the sixth member of Band-Maid. They participate at the right time, are always spot on, stop when required and are politely quiet in between, no hooting, no hollering, no whistling. Classic Japanese audience. I would love to go to a show there.

[@PrymalChaos]

It's different but it sounds fun!

[@garylai363]

Domination was a great choice to get a sense of their live personalities. It's one of the ones where they can have the most fun. The solo breakdowns in the middle of the song was an added treat just for the concert version, a gift for the fans. Hopefully at some point you'll also check out Freedom, which is very similar to this but also a lot of fun. I think you're getting what makes this band tick for a lot of people. They satisfy on many different levels. The way their songs use and rely on the bass to be very busy and interesting isn't common, and the entire rhythm section of drums and bass are there not just for a solid foundation, but to drive a lot of the feel of the songs. The 3 core instrumentalists (guitar, bass, drums) have more musical background than the rhythm guitar/backup vocals, who did not pick up a guitar until after the band was formed, which is commendable in itself. Looking forward to what you check out next,.. Daydreaming perhaps?

[@PrymalChaos]

Yeah. That's the plan I think. Take things down a notch and see what's what.

[@garylai363]

@@PrymalChaos then after go in the opposite direction and check out some of their more metal/progressive songs :D

[@kjw1886]

You hit the nail on the head, that's just straight up Rock n Roll. And all the female bands from Japan makes sense, the Runaways were a huge hit there back in the late 70s.

[@realdocloco]

... and many japanese female bands were created right after the Runaways concerts in Japan - they've had a HUGE influence.

[@freewheeler2go]

Their tool-kit is larger than any master mechanic's!

[@noahtomato3515]

Yes, Band-Maid are fun! If the laid back song you mention is Manners, I would suggest the MV rather than the live version (the latter was an online concert and lacked the fun factor you see here). Manners is slow and a bit bluesy as opposed to Domination which is fast and a bit bluesy. I think Wonderland (live) gives more of an idea of what else they can do. There are also more ‘progressive’ tracks on the album Unseen World (particularly Giovanni and Black Hole) which you may want to check out sometime. Thanks again for taking the time to investigate this band.

[@Scoutzknives]

I second Wonderland, love that song.

[@hammerhiem75]

Daydreaming, Gion Cho, Wonderland and Endless Story are good choices for laid back Band Maid. For Alternative styles, Afterlife(Pop Punk), Choose me (Classic Rock) and Blooming (Speed Metal) are a good idea of Range.

[@noahtomato3515]

@@hammerhiem75 all good choices although I’m not sure Blooming is speed metal.

[@hammerhiem75]

@@noahtomato3515 Not sure what else to call it, poor Akane had to be topped up with rocket fuel to keep up the rhythm. I would also add teh acoustic versions of Catharsis and if you can find it Puzzle.

[@pitamaid]

I was there. LINE CUBE SHIBUYA (capacity 2000 people) 2days This video is from the second day. World Domination Tour Last Day, February 14, 2020

[@PrymalChaos]

Jealous!

[@himbo754]

Domination is a great choice. It is pure Band-Maid -- bass solo, guitar solo, drum solo, audience participation, catchy ear-worm, vocalist engaging with audience, the rhythm guitarist getting some airtime. It's got everything. The drummer really likes Maximum the Hormone, by the way. Some others from the same concert are "Play" and "Freedom" -- both great ... of course.

[@PrymalChaos]

Yeah. It's a fantastic song as an introduction to the band!

[@majpanik]

For me it's Thrill, choose me & the songs they do under the "Band Maiko" name are my personal favourites.

[@foxgod4466]

Simply and absolutely amazing! The best way to start my day! No more words! Good react again man! See you in the next! 🤟🏻🦊🇯🇵🔥🔥🔥

[@drogonr9318]

Thx for the excellent reaction and commentary. Always fun to learn things from real musicians. This song is incredibly creative instrumentally, but it's hard to hear it in this particular mix (wonderful performance, but the sound is not so good, esp the guitarwork). The band released an instrumental video of this song that I encourage you to track down and listen to (or just listen to the studio version) - esp if you're interested in the guitarwork, as I think the song really showcases the creativity and complexity of their compositions and the guitarwork is stellar. Moratorium and Puzzle live from their Studio Coast show (2-ish years earlier than this show) are well worth listening with an excellent mix if you're intent on hearing live pre-Covid stuff that is mixed well. There are just so many songs to recommend when it comes to this band, it's insane. If you're interested in something softer by them, I'd recommend Awkward (pref live from Studio Coast), or Daydreaming (studio version and live versions are all great). If you want something metallish, then Sense or Rinne; something bluesy, then The Dragon Cries or Manners. I'd also recommend Corallium (no vid) from their most recent release a few months ago: it's a song that falls squarely in the unique Band-Maid genre.

[@rakjr6]

I have heard the same thing about Japanese audiences and it is not true. It might have been at one time but not anymore. It is considered impolite to sing along with the singer so bands have a call and response section like in this song. It is kind of like their sport fans who are rabid but their cheering is more organized and choreographed . But the Japanese have mosh pits and an extreme punk scene. Lookup the band Hanatarash and "noise" music.

[@nomennescio4604]

"Rock is freedom" - Kanami Tono. 🙂

[@k-popplayinklown5473]

…………………………………. Akane! Try Daydreaming

[@stphn177]

To see the dynamic range of this band, try puzzle live and then the acoustic live. They put the time into a song, with so much going on. Which means you can repeat listen to a song and find these little Easter eggs buried in the mix.

[@josemanuelperez2853]

Yes, they always looks like they are always having a lot of fun. But you know?... this is also part of the japanese way of "doing things" For japanese artists, the public in a concert are people who pay to see something fun, and their work is not only sing, also make "a little more" for those people who not only buy your records, but also pay to see them live. Band Maid do special versions of their songs for live concerts. And this is "the normal way" of doing things in Japan. Does not matter if you have a bad day, a stomach pain, bad sleep... anything. You have a work to do and you do it. I remember a live concert of "Scandal", a really good japanese band. Summer, August, near 40 celsius degrees. The main singer Haruna had a heat stroke in the middle of a song, and the main guitar and bass go to help them and sing together to "cover" for him. Almost no one knows who happens after some time after the concert. Sadly a lot of people thinks that being a musician is an easy work and don´t think of long hours on roads, hear, cold...

[@PrymalChaos]

That's interesting insight into the culture. Thank you!

[@Mass-produced]

Love this band. They are coming to America here this year and I couldn't be more excited

[@haggaisimon7748]

The songwriting is by far the best around. All solos are to the point, they always fit the song. All members of the band are very talented, but Akane and Kanami are true geniuses.

[@JohnGioffredi-gi7zd]

“That’s just straight up rock and roll. I’M IN! Amen, Brother! I share your reaction!

[@JuanSan66]

Great job sir. You have talent to drive a conversation theme. Good points about the energy on the stage, their commanding presence and the fun. Always the fun. They are now like a sisterhood more like a band, closer friends that work hard to reach their goals. All of that it´s we can watch in their performances. Subbed!, I like your style telling what you see and feel.

[@PrymalChaos]

Thanks Juan! I appreciate that!

[@jonathanlane2579]

This was the 1st video dropped from this concert. The Blu-Ray is spectacular - visually and audio(ly). As great as earlier official live videos are, this one really shows how Band-Maid manages to get better and better, looser and looser at an amazing rate. I think this particular video has won them a boatload of new fans and a boatload of respect, too.

[@jeremydawkins8814]

Hearing DOMINATION for the first time🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥. Hearing DOMINATION for the hundredth time🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.

[@GaryHolloway-810]

And never stopped listening to it.👍

[@madsstavang]

Great reaction! Since you want some diversity in the song suggestions, here are some starters: Catharsis Acoustic Live - Well, it's acoustic :D Daydreaming - A ballad Manners / Black Hole Live - A double feature video. First is very, very groovy. 2nd is very, very frantic. Great contrast in styles Thrill - Their first MV. Simple but groovy song Awkward - An atypical Band-Maid song. Not really comparable with anything else they have made. Choose Me - Perhaps their catchiest tune?

[@PaulEngineer]

Nailed the list Mads.

[@madsstavang]

@@PaulEngineer I tried hard to not fall into the temptation to just run a list of all my favorites. Honorary mention: Giovanni, since it is their most progressive song

[@Mythricia1988]

If you're throwing in Thrill, I think Alone MV is a mandatory add-on too. From their first MV "hit", to their first fully self-written song & MV, which just happens to be an absolutely killer too! Makes a great contrast point.

[@madsstavang]

@@Mythricia1988 yes, I agree. Alone is another big milestone in their career.

[@cyberpotato63]

You might want to try the live acoustic version of Catharsis before it gets taken down. It's on a time limit and will be removed from the Band-Maid website sometime in March if I remember right.

[@alxvdark]

Maybe not, the online show is going down in March (and will hopefully be released as a DVD) but the video on their channel may just stay there.

[@kalebdaark100]

@@alxvdark From the description to the Catharsis video: カタルシス "Catharsis" Official Acoustic Live Video Limited Time Release Video　期間限定公開

[@Puyax01]

Band-Maid ONSET(instrumental) next

[@cats-eyes]

As you say, the Japanese audience is certainly quiet. It may be for consideration for those who want to listen to songs and performances. The Japanese hate annoying others very much, and choose to suppress themselves. However, it is also true that recently, it has changed to a direction that everyone enjoys. Also, your reaction is great this time as well. I want to see more, so I will introduce some songs. ”Blooming, Dice, Onset, Rinne, Manners, Daydreaming, Catharsis acoustic ver.”

[@PrymalChaos]

Probably Daydreaming next.

[@cats-eyes]

@@PrymalChaos Wow, I'm happy! Thank you so much. Incidentally, Daydreaming is a power ballad.

[@Ash081284]

@@PrymalChaos Daydreaming is probably my most fave from them, which is hard to say since ALL of their songs are my favorites! haha first check out the MV version and then live version, since they both have different vibes in the intros, although I prefer the MV version since Miku-po's voice (the 2nd vocalist) is more prominent than in the live version ^_^

[@phaeron]

You put a lot of thought into what you see and hear and know how to express that. I like that, and it's always nice to hear. Thanks for that! Musically, I certainly know the big names that are always mentioned, what others have grown up with. But born in the 80s, I have actually only begun to consciously listen to music in the 90s. So I lack the feeling for it, how it must have been at that time. Of course, I had my favorite bands and artists that I listened to until my ears bled, but none of them had anywhere near the magnetic effect on me that this band does. So I think what I feel when I hear these ladies' music and see them in videos like this one compares very well to what people felt for Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, etc. back in the day. I see here in the comments very many recommendations to songs which there are unfortunately no videos (anymore) on YT. There are some real gems among them that I would like to make available to you. If there is interest, please write to me by mail via my account. :) _____________________ 【 _Our rock never dies ever. Forever!_ 】- from BAND-MAID 'Manners' 🕊️

[@PrymalChaos]

I may take you up on that offer! Thank you for the awesome compliment, and for filling me in on the details!

[@crabuki1273]

Vaguely proggy versus and catchy choruses: the BAND-MAID way.

[@markmathewssgbcpenaltyboxs6389]

Love this song! I love their live vs MV better. Thank you for reacting to this video.

[@Mythricia1988]

I would really recommend turning off, or trying to ignore subtitles the first time through. Unless you speak Japanese, the lyrics are hard to grasp on the first time through, and often distract from the actual music - don't get me wrong, they write *great* lyrics, and I mean that - but I think for a first listen of any of their songs, letting Saiki and Miku's voices act as instruments is the way to go. Beautiful instruments they are.

[@PrymalChaos]

Yeah that's what I figured. I can learn the meaning later, let me just enjoy the sound!

[@elevown]

@@PrymalChaos 100% agree- i've seen reactors have lyrics on and all they comment on the whole song is the lyrics- and then at the end talk about what they thought the lyrics meant.. Not a thing about the music! We want reactors to hear all the cool things every musician is doing - that just isnt possible if you are focused on reading! But Mythricia is right- Miku writes great lyrics too- so you SHOULD check them out at some later point after a few listens! (Or another way is find the lyrics online and read them before hand). Otherwise, keep subs off or try to ignore them on first listens- this goes for any foreign band.

[@gordowg1wg145]

I think one of the big reasons I like so much non-english language music is because I can listen to the lyrics as just another instrument without having the distraction of what they're supposed to be saying. Heck, sometimes the song can be beautiful sonically, but crap lyrically, even when an english language song.

[@zer0tzer0]

Bass solos that go into guitar solos are a BAND-MAID trademark. If you want to see Akane play an actual drum solo check out 'Freedom' LIVE from this same concert. The Music Video for 'Domination' explains a lot of what the song is about. Basically they plan to dominate the world with there 'services', which is what they call a show. You have lots of stuff to choose from. But not as much as before. However, if you're not adverse to visiting a Chinese website, Bilibili has most of the stuff that was removed from KZbin ahead of a DVD release, including the full Zepp Tokyo LIVE concert.

[@PrymalChaos]

Oh cool! Thanks for the tip!

[@HyperArcadeSystems]

Welcome to the Dark side! You mentioned acoustic. It would be Puzzle (Which is hard to find... you'll need our help. Or their brand new one, Catharsis, which is also amazing)

[@lurkmerchant]

If you want something totally different, try "manners", "matchless gum", "anemone" "mirage" "Wonderland" "giovanni" "Sayonakidori" "corallium" There are heaps of heavier bangers that we absolutely love, but we also love their diverse yet distinctive sound.

[@michaelmusson3593]

Fume Z agree with your suggestions especially " matchless gum" such an interesting song

[@robert-gillesmartineau1208]

Greetings from Shizuoka again, Mate! Superb reaction, but many fans have already said that! Since I value your original approach, may I suggest (but I might have done so in my previous comments!): Blooming and Daydreaming video versions for some great solos by Kanami! Play live with a brutal bass intro by Misa! Turn me on live for plenty of groove! I will limit myself to that and prepare a new bottle of Japanese sake for your next reaction! Best regards and all that, Robert-Gilles (also known as Bilbo under a dormant volcano)

[@PrymalChaos]

Daydreaming will probably be next!

[@robert-gillesmartineau1208]

@@PrymalChaos Cheers, mate!😁 For once the studio version is arguably better than the live one!😁

[@SagaciousTwo]

The biggest difference between this performance and "Warning" was the crowd. In this song they move all over the stage and interact with each other having fun. Warning was performed without a crowd because of Covid. They still had fun but it was very tame.

[@RahimRahmat]

A little recommendation now that you've seen them live - look for the Acoustic Live version of "Carthasis" and react to it while it's still on KZbin. Band-Maid have already stated that it's up for a limited time period only (as a promotion for their online Acoustic concert that was released on Christmas). Incidentally, you can still get tickets to the Christmas concert, which that video came out of, on the Band-Maid website or from Zaiko. Tickets are really not that expensive. It expires on the 25th March, so you still have a month to watch it, if you're interested of course.

[@PrymalChaos]

Oh nice! Thanks for the tip!

[@rodneyconnah9394]

Just found your page mate, great reactions, and totally agree with your comment about the subs throwing the whole meter of the song for those watching. Gaffer tape on the screen will fix that :) ... these kids make an old muso like me very happy ! (PS they recently did an amazing ppv acoustic set, great to watch)

[@PrymalChaos]

Shhh! we don't want the normies knowing about gaffer tape.. the price is already too high!!

[@thissailorja]

Band Maid is the conclusion of my musical heart so far. It DOES NOT get any better for me. 5 young ladies from Japan ae the best Rock Band on the planet!

[@_JimS]

"Any direction you take will take you on a different journey"....BAM!!! ...........you just nailed Band-Maid. Check out the studio version of this tune in your spare time, it's much cleaner but doesn't have the little jam in the middle, Akane's kick drum and Kanami's guitar really stands out. My suggested reactions are two music videos (official) "Manners" and "Blooming". Manners is a great straight ass rock/blues/funk tune and Blooming is just a masterpiece of rock with every member hitting on all eight cylinders....the harmonies are angelic. First time here, cool react...thanks, keep 'em coming.

[@ChuckJansenII]

I get a vibe of early Aerosmith in Domination's lead guitar work by Tono Kanami. Does anyone else get that? Best live crowds are in South America and Mexico. Live recordings made in Japan. Deep Purple Made in Japan (1972) Rainbow On Stage (Mixed from Germany and Japan 1977) Scorpions Tokyo Tapes (1978) Cheap Trick At Budokan (1978) Judas Priest Unleashed in the East (Tokyo 1979)

[@mrwolfe67]

They have bass solos in Dice and Play and Onset and a bunch of other songs I can't remember. Also a killer drum solo in one of their most pop songs - Freedom (live). This is the best rock and roll band playing right now. They have all the ingredients.

[@PrymalChaos]

Awesome.

[@loreadan9838]

An instumental piece: onset Drum solo: freedom Bass intro and bass driven:play They throw in lines in english in most of the songs. Only one song complete in english: Dragonfly

[@matta5498]

Watch one Band-Maid song and you want to watch another. Watch two Band-Maid songs and you want to watch them all.

[@ichichu]

You should do Manners and Black Hole live performance as that will give you both ends of the spectrum per se regarding laidback and fast.

[@PrymalChaos]

Thanks for the tip!

[@PrymalChaos]

Thanks for the tip!

[@etoineschrdlu9382]

The evolution of the maid costumes is a story unto itself, as the rhythm guitar/2nd vocal concocted the Band-Maid concept while working at a maid café. It thought the maid costumes a bit odd at first, but came to realize it's all part of their Brand, which is now instantly recognizable, just like Kiss' Make-up or Gwar's monster costumes. An interesting side story: Band-Maid was to play at a KnotFest in early 2020 and, of course, the gig was cancelled, as were all their gigs. To make up for the missed gig they did an online concert that had a short intro cover of Slipknot's 'Duality'. Considering that Slipknot has 3 percussionist, Akane Hirose did an awesome job on drums.

[@1947dd]

A little thought for you, this was the 22nd song out of a 23 song set, and they still brought that kind of energy. Enjoyed!

[@PrymalChaos]

That is wild!

[@doobiejones9388]

My favorite Band on the Planet! Not saying they're the best rock and roll band in the world. I am saying that they're as good at what they do as any one ever!! Deserved to be mentioned with the all time great bands!! Great Reaction Brother! PO! That's a Madiac thing!😊😎✌🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@CommanderCronus]

Band Maid are constantly experimenting with different sounds but regardless when you hear their music it's always recognizable as distinctively Band Maid. Nobody in the world makes rock music quite like them.

[@lurkmerchant]

They throw in something a bit "off", "weird" that for us are very unique and interesting that make us very happy. Once you get that, there's no way out!

[@jasonnord785]

For variety and to explore their range I would check out: the music videos for Rinne and Daydreaming, and then live videos of About Us and No God. If you want to fall in love with the bass player, check out the music video for Dice.

[@PrymalChaos]

Just did Daydreaming. I'll post in the next few days. Cracker of a song!

[@jasonnord785]

@@PrymalChaos Thanks! Enjoyed the reaction and continue to suggest the others on this list for their variety.

[@TheJerm]

Another great reaction! Glad I subscribed. This is gonna be a great ride. I'm guessing "Catharsis" from their recent online acoustic "serving" is next. It definitely will give you a glimpse into their tool kit. It's a great laid-back take on what is actually a banger of a track on the album "Conqueror". Beuatiful video too. These ladies not only are extremey talented and fun, they have bucket-loads of class. Thanks man! 🕊

[@PrymalChaos]

There's so much material. Can't wait to get into some.

[@tombworld9012]

There was a video a while back that had Band-Maid playing in front of an assembly hall of young students. They did the same thing you mentioned where they didn't do anything during the song but afterward they clapped and cheered. It was explained in the comments that it was a rule for that assembly and we shouldn't interpret it that the kids didn't like the music or that they wouldn't do things differently if the rule wasn't there.

[@PrymalChaos]

Yeah it makes sense.

[@TomClark-Futoura]

After Kanami finishes her last blazing solo, Saiki sings, "Our pulses race together." Indeed! Band-Maid. Domination. Nuff said!

[@Running-withscissors]

Really pro level breakdown and review. Seriously enjoyed your take on the video and the band. Banger of a song ;) P.S. They are coming to the USA this year. People are stoked haha Just hoping they get proper venues as we seen here at Line Cube.

[@PrymalChaos]

I am seriously considering flying over for aftershock festival. There are 16 bands on the bill that I have reacted to and at least another 10 that are must see!

[@ThouDailyBlab]

Bass solo into a lead solo - welcome to Band Maid lol. If you love that you will love tracks like Onset (live) and other live stuff (you may have to hunt around on Google for it) from their Studio Coast and Zepp Tokyo shows. Been listening to rock music - love heavy rock (not metal) - for last 40 years and there is no-one near MISA on bass. It's just her and fresh air afterwards. Akane on drums is in rarefied air as well. As you dig into their folklore (search Music Gold Rush Band Maid) you will begin to see who they are and why the lass with the red flower is held in such high regard by fans. As you go through their music you'll realise that there is no other band like them. They are unique in their era.

[@TexasVeteranPatriot]

BAND-MAID / "Catharsis" Acoustic Ver. (Official Live Video) kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmcmWdnnMaBpZI

[@Prober61]

You will find many times where Kanami (lead guitarist) throws little curve balls to keep you on you toes. Welcome to Band-Maid. They will make you smile.

[@nanakakitano9724]

Band Maid are fantastic, glad you've been checking out live videos because it really shows what they can do. I'd recommend some more songs from them but I see you have 166 comments on this so I'd probably just be repeating suggestions from others. However, I will suggest another band that you might want to check out if you haven't already. They are called Gacharic Spin and they've been around since 2009. They're good friends with Band Maid and Nemophila and have gigged with them both before (especially Nemophila, Nemophila's drummer has also filled in for them at a few gigs over the years when they've been short a drummer for various reasons). They're more focused on the Japanese market than the Western market as Band Maid and Nemophila are however, so they're slightly less accessible to Western listeners. They're well worth discovering if you want to dig a little deeper though. If you're interested here's a few links that might be good starting points: MindSet: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h56vYYlsa5yEsKs Ultra funky, and that middle section... MindSet (Live): kzbin.info/www/bejne/ooKpc6qupKqho8k I Wish I: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4OZf6WolNSgoKc This song is hard to describe, it's a real journey though

[@edwardallen4051]

For me subtitles are not required, Saiki is a stunning vocalist and I don't care that I don't understand much of what she is singing. She conveys the message and emotion of a song by her vocal delivery (and obviously because of the brilliant song writing and arrangements of Kanami), heck there are songs that make my eyes water like Daydreaming and the acoustic versions of Puzzle and Anemone to name a few.

[@PrymalChaos]

Yeah that's kinda where I'm at. I know you miss out on some nuance, but I can pick up on that later.

[@larryhoopingarner6445]

I might add that Maximum the Hormone drummer(woman) inspired Akane(drummer)to drum showing her could play with a otherwise male band,happy that Akane is in Band-Maid

[@joeking6763]

Each reviewer has a different take on who BAND MAID has the sound of. I think it depends a lot on the song you are listening to and what your band\song experience is. Example: My take on DAYDREEMING is that it has a U2 sound to it. Other bands that are mentioned Paramore, Rise Against, Guns n Roses, Buckethead, Pantera, and many more. Great review looking to more on BAND MAID.

[@PrymalChaos]

I guess the easiest way to understand a new band is to try to draw comparisons with artists you know and then dissecting the difference. I feel like I do that fairly often in my reactions mostly because it might illustrate more simply what I am hearing without me having to articulate it in words.

[@brewswillis9783]

I'm in too brother, Freedom next? Cheers!

[@jaycon505]

If you like tone down and ballad type check Daydreaming. But as what we maidiacs(fans) check anything. You'll be surprise of the diversity of this band can do. If you want hard check Rinne mv.

[@PrymalChaos]

Yeah I'll probably do that.

[@785boats]

That was a great reaction. Another great reaction, as others have suggested, would be the 'Manners/Black Hole' live 2 for 1 video. Shows a great range of their talents & styles. One of the really impressive parts of the band , to me anyway, is Kanami's musical mind. As you hear more of them you will see how she twists music and structure in some brilliant directions. Even within the songs themselves.

[@henry6782]

I think Onset next?? I love Misa… her switch from pick to slap n pop in base is so smooth and cool🤍

[@PrymalChaos]

As you wish!

[@jenssweden3621]

Best band in the world 🎎🤘🎎🤘

[@larryhoopingarner6445]

Love your analysis,another suggestion would be Catharsis acoustic and the rock version a 2fer

[@dhrh0591]

in my opinion saiki is the true definition of a stage commander, with Miku backing her up she doesnt need to bounce around the stage like some teeny bopper pop princess, she stands in one place and takes command

[@paulread4886]

Being a drummer , you might really enjoy their song, live of course, FREEDOM with a drum solo.

[@PrymalChaos]

Ohhhh I'm am NOT a drummer. I clumsily embarrass myself on that digital kit in the background. I do however appreciate amazing drum work. 😆🤘

[@paulpetersen879]

Rock, pop, punk, metal, thrash, sludge....and sometimes they put all that in one song! Blooming, Freedom live, Onset live, the water gets deeper from here.

[@jamie.norris]

THE GAP AT WORK

[@curtisrrobles7885]

💯% correct 🤙🏼

[@scottdinuzzo6560]

They refer to the maid outfits as their fighting clothes so I don't think they're going anywhere anytime soon.

[@PrymalChaos]

Haha. Nice.

[@bubbletea3456]

All I can say is that you might wanna watch all their live clips first :)

[@akskazama8465]

@ 6:21 the girls (from left to right: Misa, Miku, Kanami) are making faces to Akane (drummer) to make her lose her cool.

[@PrymalChaos]

Good luck with that. She's a machine! 😁

[@stephenkalisz6495]

as you've already heard , most of the crowd control was because of covid resrictions. about all they could do was clap with minimal shouting, most of the seating was , social distancing. but these ladies still played their best

[@me262talon2]

Thanks Prymal!

[@PrymalChaos]

Any time!

[@the-dark-room]

For a bit of a different sound maybe try some of their BAND MAIKO stuff, with them adding traditional Japanese instruments to the mix along with their normal gear(Secret Maiko Lips or Gion-Cho). That was an April fools release, they seem to do this most years and put out a little something unusual on that day. Also check out Brave New World Revisited by Bridear, I'd love to hear your take on that. 👍