VAMPS

VAMPS is a Japanese rock unit formed by HYDE, the lead vocalist of L'Arc~en~Ciel, and K.A.Z, a guitarist known for work with Oblivion Dust, hide with Spread Beaver and Spin Aqua. The pair work together after HYDE’s third solo album FAITH, and in 2008 they turn HYDE’s solo project into a band, in part to give K.A.Z more credit for his contribution.

Formation and line-up

The project begins as a collaboration between HYDE and K.A.Z, who have worked together since 2006. In 2008, the name changes from HYDE’s solo project to VAMPS, and the act becomes a formal band. The verified location tag points to Austin, but the act itself is Japanese and based around HYDE and K.A.Z.

Releases and touring

The band’s first single, LOVE ADDICT, appears in 2008 and is notable for being written entirely in English; it reaches number two on the Oricon chart. It is followed by a nationwide three-month Zepp-exclusive tour featuring 46 shows. A live DVD documents those concerts in 2009.

Later in 2009, VAMPS releases the single I GOTTA KICK START NOW, which includes a cover of TROUBLE. Another single, EVANESCENT, is released with a cover of Life On Mars?, and the band’s debut album follows in 2009 during the tour period. Sweet Dreams arrives as the fourth single from that debut album in 2010.

In 2010, VAMPS receives the Billboard Japan Ranking International 2009 award. The band then releases the DVD Vamps Live 2009 U.S.A., followed by the single Devil Side, then Angel Trip. Its second album, BEAST, is released in 2010.

International activity

VAMPS’ first world tour takes place in 2010, with dates in Taiwan, the United States, Spain, France, China and Chile. Around the same period, the band releases videos for Piano Duet and Memories.

Musical style

The act is associated with Japanese rock and J-rock, with a catalogue that includes English-language material and cover versions alongside original songs.