This Week in Visual Kei: Anniversary Blitz & Lost Gems — September 28, 2026
It’s been one of those weeks where Visual Kei felt like it was celebrating itself. Between milestone anniversaries, rediscovered classics, and fresh creative pushes, there’s been plenty to remind us why we’re so invested in this scene.
The biggest headline is undoubtedly MUCC’s 30th anniversary single “Love Letter,” marking three decades of the legends’ reign. That’s not just a release—that’s a legacy moment. Meanwhile, 浅葱 is throwing their own party with an elaborate 20th anniversary campaign featuring dual albums and a nationwide tour, proving that Visual Kei’s mid-tier veterans are in their prime. Even Shinjuku Loft, the venue that’s hosted countless VK shows, is getting its flowers with a 50th anniversary celebration lined up for 2026 featuring Kinnikudan and The Cro-Magnons.
On the new material front, we’ve got a genuinely diverse spread. DEZERT’s dropping their major 2nd album in October, and they’ve already shared a live video for “音楽” to build momentum. 黒蜜 explored darker territory with the “飼い猫” MV, examining love’s shadowy corners—very on-brand for visual kei’s aesthetic. shallm tapped into alternative rock sensibilities with their “Anti After School” concept EP and accompanying visuals, while four bands—The Benjamin, HELLBROTH, heidi., and LAY ABOUT WORLD—launched the intriguing “Reiwa Sofubi” movement with an autumn tour that sounds like required listening.
The resurfacing of Annie’s Black’s lost album ‘departure’ on streaming platforms felt like a gift from the gods for completionists and collectors. It’s the kind of archival moment that keeps the community digging.
And because we’re living in the age of cross-pollination, seek from Psycho le Cému hosted HIZAKI (of Versailles and Jupiter fame) on Fish Dance Hour Radio, while Ryuichi Kawamura brought SOPHIA’s Mitsuru Matsuoka onto his “Home” podcast—these collaborations remind us that Visual Kei’s elder statesmen are still actively building bridges between eras.
VKDJ also returned for the second volume of their Visual Rock streaming party, keeping the digital community engaged and connected.
It’s the kind of week that makes you grateful for the depth and vitality still flowing through this scene—whether you’re here for the legends’ anniversaries or the hungry newcomers pushing boundaries.
Watch for more fall tour announcements as October kicks into high gear.
This Week’s Posts
