Japanese Rockers The GazettE Launching World Tour in Los Angeles

One of the leading visual rock bands from Japan, The GazettE, is kicking off their four-continent world tour on April 30 at The Wiltern in Los Angeles. The tour is in support of the band’s ninth album, conveniently titled Ninth.

The GazettE are considered to be part of the second generation of visual rock (called visual-kei in Japan) bands. The movement was started in the late 80s by X Japan and other famous acts include L’Arc-en-Ciel, Glay, Luna Sea and Dir en grey. The genre emphasizes outlandish, often historically-related costumes, and fast, heavy metal-esque music. Visual rock has attracted fans of Japanese animation (anime) due to its wild outfits and arresting visuals.

The GazettE debuted in 2002 and their last seven full length albums have all placed in the top ten of the country’s Oricon charts. The new long player, to be released on June 13, tells stories from the band’s entire career.

The 16 dates announced for the 2019 world tour include stops in North and South America, Europe and Asia. The band plans to wrap things up with a post-tour show at Yokohama Arena on September 23.

will drop a new digital single called “Pray” on May 13, which will be featured as the theme song in the Japan version of the upcoming movie “Godzilla: King of the Monsters.”” image=”9289571″]

Vocalist and band leader Ruki told Billboard he’s looking forward to playing in different parts of the world. “There are, of course, differences in the environment and sound between shows in Japan and other countries, but I think in recent years there is no difference in a greater sense. Each show has its own atmosphere, generates different amounts of excitement, and feels great.”

Ruki added, “I wonder how our latest album, Ninth, will sound to foreign fans. I hope they’ll find it even more exciting than before. And, in addition I hope our new fans who are seeing us live for the first time will to want to come again.”

The GazettE will play Dallas on May 4 and New York on May 6. More details can be found here.