This Week in Visual Kei: Album Drops & Anniversary Moments — July 13, 2026
It’s been a week of celebration in Visual Kei, with established acts marking major milestones while fresh faces continue carving their own paths. From decades-spanning anniversaries to intimate band broadcasts, there’s been plenty to sink your teeth into.
The release front has been particularly strong. SID dropped their first-ever fan-voted best album this week after an incredible 24-year run, cementing their legacy while giving longtime supporters a hand in shaping the narrative. It’s the kind of milestone that reminds you just how deep the Visual Kei catalog runs. Meanwhile, 山内総一郎 (Yamaucih, formerly of Katsutoshi) unveiled his solo debut album ‘A’ with the single “Beautiful Notes”—a solid statement from a respected musician stepping into uncharted territory. Over in Nagoya, Mazari made waves by releasing their first artist book, complete with four cover variants because apparently one wasn’t enough.
On the live and event front, things have been buzzing. 花少年バディーズ hosted their “Hanakaku” festival with an impressive lineup including Metronome, DOG inThePWO, and Ensoku. That’s the kind of grassroots collaboration that keeps the scene thriving. 黒蜜 threw their own special “黒蜜の日” event in Tokyo, and with an emerging band label tag attached, it signals another promising act bubbling up through the ranks. Ricky just locked in a Harezaの日 festival slot for August 2nd alongside RIDER CHIPS—mark your calendars if you’re chasing summer festival season.
The nostalgia hits kept coming too. T.M.Revolution made a triumphant return to THE FIRST TAKE for their 30th anniversary special, proving that longevity in this scene deserves its moment in the spotlight. And in bittersweet news, CHAQLA. hosted what appears to be their final studio broadcast, with members cooking gyoza and sharing secrets—a touching send-off for fans.
Looking ahead, vistlip have already started announcing their 2026 live schedule in anticipation of hitting their 20th anniversary. That’s the kind of forward momentum that keeps the scene feeling alive and engaged.
It’s been a week that balances legacy with emergence, introspection with celebration—peak Visual Kei energy, honestly.
Next week: watch for more anniversary announcements and whether any surprise collaborations bubble up from the festival circuit.
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