-OZ- 21st Jan 2011 @ O2 Academy, Islington

Review by - Ed O’Malley

On a freezing cold January night a few hundred devoted fans made their way to the O2 academy, Islington. Each of them excited to see one of their favourite visual kei bands live for the first time. They were not to be disappointed! As the first notes of “Birthday” resonated throughout the venue; the band members came on stage in turn, each holding up lighters. An action mimicked by some members of the crowd. Despite the venue being far from filled to capacity, fans showed they were eager to give a warm welcome as they crowded close to the stage.

Their entrance made, the members of –OZ- were quick to set the tone for the evening; seamlessly blasting out the first track of the night: “Rotate”. The wild energy of Natsuki was clearly appreciated by the audience as they reciprocated with enthusiastic jumping, interspersed with bouts of frantic headbanging. Indeed, throughout the set, Natsuki proved his ability as a front man as well as a vocalist. At times holding the microphone to his heart, presumably to show his excitement; at others beckoning the crowd closer or jumping into the pit to meet them.

The band powered through an impressive and energetic set list that included high tempo tracks such as “Shangrila”, “Plant” and “BLAZE” which induced yet more headbanging from the fans as well as thunderous screaming. Fortunately the set was interspersed with some slower tracks such as “flood bead” and “Seventh Tier” which showcased some impressive guitar and bass work from Aki, Tama and Nao. Though the set was interrupted by a minor technical hitch; -OZ- took it in their stride with Natsuki playfully singing “Uh oh we’re in trouble” which was met with raucous singing from the fans as well as howls of laughter.

When the set came to an end it was obvious that the fans expected more. As the band left the stage, the crowd screamed for an encore and –OZ- were good enough to oblige. Natsuki returned to the stage with the words “We are very tired, but we play encore!” With which the band played a three track encore, beginning with “ATHENA” and followed by a powerful rendition of “Butterfly”. The final track of the night was, inevitably, fan favourite “Detox” which did not disappoint. With Zukki’s rapid drumming driving the crowd into a moshing frenzy during the verse and everyone singing along with Natsuki during the chorus.

Once the set was finished the band left the stage to strident applause. They returned to the floor a short while later for the, much anticipated, after show signing session. This was greatly appreciated by the fans, most of whom stayed behind to get something signed. –OZ- were kind enough to sign a great variety of items from old cardigans and hoodies to brand new CDs bought on the night. All told it was a very enjoyable night for the fans, many of whom I am sure, would look forward to a return visit with great excitement.