HYDE Brings Unrelenting Energy to Brooklyn Steel—A Thanksgiving Eve Masterclass

On the eve of Thanksgiving, legendary vocalist HYDE—best known as the frontman of Visual Kei pioneers L'Arc~en~Ciel and alternative rock project VAMPS—transformed Brooklyn Steel into a high-octane celebration of his solo catalog and fan favorites. After years away from New York, HYDE proved why he remains one of Japan's most magnetic live performers, commanding the stage with theatrical presence, multiple outfit changes, and genuine connection to his audience.

**The Show: Chaos and Spectacle**

HYDE opened with "Let It Out," delivered from an elevated podium that immediately established his command of the space. The energy never dipped throughout the two-hour set—from the relentless opening salvo of "After Light," "I Got 666," and "Defeat" to the cinematic moments like "The Abyss," bathed in cool blue lighting.

The setlist balanced deep cuts with anthems, including anime theme songs "Tokoshie" (Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc ending theme) and "MUGEN" (opening theme). The appearance of L'Arc~en~Ciel's "Honey" sent hands skyward as fans sang entire sections independently while HYDE cheered them on—a testament to both his vocal legacy and the crowd's devotion.

Standout moments included "Midnight Celebration II," an updated 2003 classic where HYDE emerged covered in fake blood, and "Glamorous Sky," the soaring ballad from the Nana film, performed intimately at the barrier with fans providing vocal support. The closer, VAMPS' "Sex Blood Rock N' Roll," sent everyone home electrified.

**More Than Music**

What elevated this show beyond a typical concert was HYDE's personality. He graciously accepted fan-made gifts—a banner, animal ear muffs, and a custom hat he wore through the entire encore—creating genuine moments of gratitude and humor. His banter about jet lag, the Thanksgiving parade, and mixing English and Japanese throughout demonstrated a showman who genuinely wanted connection, not just applause.

**For Western Fans**

If you've never experienced HYDE live, this report should be required reading. For longtime L'Arc~en~Ciel devotees or VAMPS fans, his solo work deserves your attention. His new album—promoted as "an invitation" to "HYDE INSIDE"—shows an artist still evolving after decades in the industry.

Brooklyn, HYDE promised to return. The question now: will you be ready?

Source: Live Report: HYDE in NYC – 11/27/24