I must have watched about 40 reactions to Freedom but never seen anybody so eloquently describe the intangibles that make it specifically a Band-Maid performance, rather than simply a performance by a highly proficient band. Wonderful job Eric.
Best reaction ever to Freedom ... and I've seen dozens of them. Akane is a goddess! They've been bringing happiness to my life for well over three years now.
Steve beat me to it. I would call your takes more like "instruction" than reaction. I love these takes a lot, I am learning more about my fav band and enjoy listening that much more, grokking the music deeply.
Five of Japan's best female rockers have formed a new 'Supergroup'. World-class drum/bass combo, twin lead guitarists, true front person. No copyright issues. NEMOPHILA/"Raitei" {OG/MV} ua-cam.com/video/lh-dVLKP314/v-deo.html NEMOPHILA/"Fighter" {OG/Live} ua-cam.com/video/KMioZiACr4s/v-deo.html NEMOPHILA/"Whole Lotta Rosie" ua-cam.com/video/U8-UiNei9_U/v-deo.html
I have been a fan of Band-Maid for 3 1/2 years now. At first I was skeptical, but it was their live performance that won me over. I'm still amazed at them. Their live acoustic was phenomenal. I really love this song. Thank you for your very inciteful reaction.
I have always noticed Akane's wrists when she plays..They look boneless!..hehe...She flicks the sticks around like you said..like she's conducting. It looks effortless...which I know it's not...Alot of the time she isn't even looking where her hands are going... no need..she has that kit down pat!....It's beautiful to watch...She is now my fav drummer...Just love her style...All done with a beautiful smile!
I was talking to a drummer & i mentioned how Akane holds her left stick much further up than the right & he explained that everyone has a weaker hand so she can get much more power out of a hit by holding the stick that way :)
You hit the nail on the head. Band-Maid lives for playing WITH their Masters and Princesses. This song has been their "standard" for several years during their shows. This song is the embodiment of what Band-Maid stands for. Good, clean, hard rock that makes you happy and uplifts you. Warning! and Manners from the most recent album are the songs that embody what they are now but Freedom as a live song still represents WHO they are. They play at this level of joy for 2 hours straight. 22+ song setlists of melt your face joy and happiness brought to you by the 5 most badass little ladies in rock currently. And yeah, Akane is a badass on the kit. She's really tightened up her playing in the last few years and this solo and the album Unseen World really show it. I call MISA and Akane the Thunder Buddies as they bring the noise, every time and are the backbone of Band-Maid and provide so much of what is Band-Maid's unique sound. The happiest little drummer in rock currently I think who beats the drums like they owe her money. Her hand speed is incredible. Anywho... a bit of a long winded comment. Great reaction and once again, thanks for helping promote these wonderful ladies and Proselytizing the Power of the PO!
6:25 - "It's super rare that you see a band having that much fun on stage" That's how much these ladies love performing. At 2:53, you'll notice Kanami sits down right next to Miku and smiles & stares as Miku performs her vocals in an attempt to mess her up. And at 3:07, if you look closely, Misa and Saiki are making funny faces at Akane and are trying to mess up her drumming but Akane responds by sticking her tongue out and then making kissy faces. They're so talented and cohesive, they can't even trip each other up during live performances.
great reaction and analyses Freedom is BAND-MAIDS most played live song and you can see why, as they have so much fun with it. The chemistry of BAND-MAID is incredible. they love each other, they have no egos and they all have their time to shine. I'm 65 now and love this band as much as I loved the Beatles when i was very young. There is a new EP on the way and i expect a new video soonish so i'm very excited and know it's gonna rock. BAND-MAID have never let me down! From the same concert there are official live for "Play", "Choose Me" and "Wonderland" from a previous concert you can check out "Onset", "Real Existence" and "Cross" Looking forward to your upcoming reactions. thanks and cheers.
It's interesting that you mention the Beatles because I compare Band-Maid to them. They both have the capability to play different genres. You can't pigeon hole them into one sound..The difference is Band-Maid can have multiple genres in any given song.
Pure perfection, aren’t they? I mean, what can you fault? And those faces... their attitude... their music... their playing... their story... and their joy! Band-Maid is a world treasure! Thanks Eric, for bringing the world's best hard rock band to your viewers!
One of my favorite Band Maid songs. Akane, demonstrating the perfect durum solo. A joy to listen and watch and not too long. This performance demonstrates why Band Maid have become so popular internationally. As you mentioned, they are there to appreciate the audience and put on a show. So different from many bands with the "We are gods and you the audience are here to worship us."
Nice reaction, you're one of my favorite reactors to Band Maid. I'm 70 and had quit listening to new rock but when I found Band Maid four or five years ago I got hooked back in. I've bought all their albums and a couple of live videos and very much enjoy them all. I don't know how familiar with all female Japanese bands there are but there are a number of really good ones. Band Maid will always be my favorite. If you want something to show the dichotomy of their approaches watch the dual live song video of MANNERS/BLACK HOLE. Old school vs. new school. You won't be disappointed.
Far from their most complex song, but it's a true showcase of their musicality, and how easy it comes to them. That transition between drum and guitarsolo is some of the smoothest i know. Can hardly be done more seamlessly. Next songs? I'm thinking about their powerballad "Daydreaming" and the fast but catchy "Blooming". The music videos are great!
That transition you mention is Genius, Genius, Genius. Just a perfect building slide into the solo. I would really love to hear the story of how that section came about. I mean Jeez, did they just stumble into that during a practice?? Or was it straight out of Kanami's mind? Or just a total group effort with bits from everyone? So, cool.
@@markmark6378 I'm not sure Kanami stumbles into anything, she is too much a perfectionist for that! They all contribute to the whole and Kanami puts on the polish, then Miku adds the lyrics. Saiki has the final say, and then BAM, magic! Band-Maid often add to songs in live performances, Freedom being one. While the album version is a great song, done live with the enhancements, it's just on another planet!
The thing with the transition is that Akane is still playing all those fills, licks, runs, rhythms, etc, from her solo right up until Kanami is up on the stand and hits the first note of the guitar solo proper. Then Akane drops back into the pocket. Truly sensational.
What I heard them mention is that this is their own "feel good" song. You can't help but smile and feel good inside when you listen. Akane's happy face when Kanami does her solo is priceless!
For a good reason. I 'm not sure on the particulars but i think they had a contract with a record company that was suffocating them with tampering with their creativity and if i got it right as soon they got out of it and changed company or conditions they wrote Freedom. Fully their way and vision with no tampering.of course is feel good for them.
Since you are learning the names, introductions: saiki (the ice queen), miku (small pigeon), kanami (the princess or mincho), MISA (the barefoot assassin), & akane (gorilla).
Thank god you were here to beautifully describe 'Freedom', and BAND-MAID's performance of it, so eloquently. All my smoother than Silly Putty brain could come up with was - "Gorilla lady bang sound box good." Excellent reaction as always. Cheers!
Thank you for seeing their infectious joy of performing live. Over and above their musical talent that has put Band-Maid in a special place in my heart. This is not a suggestion for a reaction, they have done two songs that might be viewed as "love letters" to their fans. One is available on their official channel named "About Us." The other was on their "Bubble" EP and is called "Smile." A beautiful acoustic version of "Smile" was included as a bonus track on their 2/11/21 Online Okyu-Ji on the DVD/bluRay. The "About Us" video also came from this concert.
Sir, you are a poet concerning your insights about Band-maid. And the girls deserve every drop of praise you give them. In Japan it's usual to ask a female artist what their charm point are, you, know, little quirks that make them lovable. In Band-maid their charm points are fused together. Into CHARM. One of a kind..
Like everyone else, I said Wow the first time I watched this clip, and 30 or 40 replays later I still say it - but today I am proclaiming Wow and bowing down to your eloquence, insightful reaction and spot on description of the happiest, and I believe, best tock band in the world right now 🙏👏
Great breakdown. Truly a once in a generation ensemble. Btw...saw BZ in concert in Nola. Awesome. Try to use your dj connections to get Bandmaid some radio airplay prior to their US tour.
Buckwheat Zydeco, now there's a name I haven't heard in a long while. Actually saw them for the first time some where around 1985, maybe 87 at Jones Beach, Long Island. The band was named after the founder/leader Stanley "Buckwheat" Dural Jr. They played, you guessed it, music called Zydeco, and it was a lot of fun to see and hear. So I see the reference, kudos.
I just wish there was an overhead camera for this performance because I would love to see how busy these girls really are moving around on stage, especially Kanami....she's never stops moving. MISA is my shining light here, not seen much but boy you know she's there. Akane does have wonder hand/wrist movement I read where she got this from her Tokyo School of Music training, it's all in the wrists. I think you'll really like Akane's drumming in "Daydreaming" .... Good Stuff Eric, always enjoy your takes....
Great reaction again. I think you spotted one of the intangibles of Band-Maid, that joy that they bring to their live performances, you can see and feel that they live to perform (even thought off-stage they are very shy). Glad I've lived long enough to witness the rebirth of rock and roll (I started listening to rock in the 50's).
I see no one has mentioned this, but this is the sixth song of a 23 song concert. And the Ladies maintain this energy level throughout the entire concert. I can imagine that once they are done they go back to their hotel, shower, eat get a rub down then pass out until the the next day.
I have had the pleasure of seeing Buckwheat Zydeco in Louisiana and you are 100% correct . They are a rowdy happy bunch . Band Maid has that same feel ,and that gets transferred to the listen either live or just enjoying a cd . Combative excellence may steal that . Great review of the wonderful band ty . 👍👍👍👍👍
I was fortunate to see them in London before COVID. It was an amazing show and well worth traveling across Europe to attend. They are truly at their best live. If you want to see what they are like in a small club (literally in a basement) search Bandmaid Hamburg Freedom. In addition to including great songs the video shows Kanami finding her Inner Hendrix/Santana while playing an extended impromptu solo.
You forgot the anchor of the band, Miku. She writes the lyrics, holds down the rhythm so Kanami can do her thing and sings backing vocals with Saiki. Miku also gives the band a break with, “Miku’s Magic Time.”
buckwheat zydeco. had not heard that named in a while . i have seen them and you are spot on they love what they do and it shows just like our girls in Band-Maid. which i will be seeing in October in San Diego CA.
Eric thanks for a thoughtful and informative reaction. To borrow from another reactor, a redhead, who mentioned that each one of Akane's fills, in this song, is different. Just as you probably noticed that Band-Maid will change the second section and not play the same thing they did in the first (section). Band-Maid is a remarkable group of musicians that also love performing and (for added spice) enjoy performing with each other. The result - is a Joy for them and us. I can't wait till October.
Appreciate your professional take on Band-Maid. You need to check out their other songs to appreciate the full range of their talent. Listen to their instrumental "Onset", and to "Manners", Blooming" and "Moratorium". And those are just the tips of the iceberg.
Your comment about their having with each other and with the audience was proven on their recent U. S. tour. There must be hundreds of fan cam videos on UA-cam that show them having a blast on stage.
Another excellent reaction. Keep up the great work. For next up recommendations: On UA-cam: Music Videos to see how they sound on the album as opposed to live - Blooming, Daydreaming(power ballad), Choose Me, Warning, Sense More lives - Onset(instrumental), Play, Wonderland, No God, About Us(ballad), Real Existence Off UA-cam (a lot of us in the community can help you with these): Puzzle (live), Puzzle (live acoustic), Don't you tell ME (live), Moratorium (live) Audio Only (Spotify etc): Corallium (my current #1 song), H-G-K, Giovanni, Unfair Game
On Moratorium I think he should do all 3 versions. Studio Coast, Zepp, and Summer Sonic 2019. I'd prefer the Summer Sonic version first, then Zepp, then Studio Coast. I think Mincho going off the reservation in her intro solo would surprise him greatly.
I concur! Puzzle is one of their best songs, and the acoustic performance can be considered the Holy Grail of Band-Maid's catalog. It's well worth checking out both versions if you can access them!
I saw them perform in I think Blueberry Hill on the Loop. There are or were two different bars bars/restaurants that do live music there. It's the one Chuck Berry owns/owned. And at first I was like What is this stuff? After the third song I really got into it and enjoyed myself because the band was like super happy to be there performing for us.
To me it almost feels like you have been invited to a party. Not you're going to a party, it's more like you've been invited by some of the coolest cats you know to come party with them.
BAND-MAID have to play clean because, any changes in solos aside, they will make it as close to the song on the album as possible. So anything that they can't do on stage themselves, Kanami puts into the backing tracks. So, once Akane has locked into that, there can be no deviation from it. That's why when the hard part on the drums comes the rest of the band will go up and make funny faces at her to try to make her laugh and screw up. Not a chance! Not in rehearsal and definitely not LIVE. They don't call her The Beast for nothing. She's a banana powered half gorilla half drum machine. Check out 'Real Existence' LIVE.
Buckwheat performed with Lyle Lovett at the Library of Congress in honor of Paul Simon here ua-cam.com/video/g7yTxphVtfA/v-deo.html - obviously the whole concert is fantastic. I especially love Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes at 01:15:10 by Paul Simon and the african choir.
Hello Sir,...!!!! Nice reaction👍. Next,can you react and analyze "God allow me please to play music"from VOB(Voice Of Baceprot)please. Female metal rock band from indonesia. Thank you🙏
Eric, your reaction here has got me thinking. There is only one BAND-MAID song that I'm not completely sold on (The Dragon Cries) and I've not been able to explain exactly why I'm not keen on it. They didn't write it, but it isn't that, they didn't write Freedom (for example either). It isn't the style, it is broadly similar to Manners - which I love. It isn't the music video, which isn't a 'feelgood' video, as 99 times out of 100 I'm not watching the video when I hear the song. My best explanation was the 'feel' of the song just doesn't feel like BAND-MAID to me, and you've got me wondering if that 'feel' that I couldn't exactly describe (but which I know it when I hear BAND-MAID songs), is that inbuilt happiness the majority of their songs exude, and which can be actually seen here in Freedom. I know listening to BAND-MAID has helped me get through the whole state of the world since I discovered them in April 2020 and I think you may just have put into words why they have managed to do that. They make music that 'feel's joyous and that quality in their songs is infectious in a good way (in all bar that 1 'negative' song). For me, there is no band comes close to projecting that same level of joy in their music and performance and I'm so glad I found them.
There is a story where a bishop hears of three holy men living on an little island, but found out they were praying in a crazy way. So he went to them, scolded them and gave them a "correct" prayer. He took the boat back and suddenly he sees the three men running over the water towards him, shouting they forgot the new prayer and if he could please repeat it one more time. This is how I feel about this whole Tony Visconti and "The dragon cries" adventure. Don't mess with perfection.
"Smile when you speak" That is the basic sales tip when speaking to a customer / potential customer over the phone. Young memories of cold calling or even with a referral lead; I actually hated it.
I like their playing I think don't like there singing and it doesn't have anything to do with language I've heard foreign singers that was beautiful I don't find anything special about her not bad just not special sorry everyone just me God bless
![[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to BAND-MAID ft. "Blooming" (Official Music Video)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/UEgEpr5ahKA/mqdefault.jpg)
![[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to BAND-MAID ft. "Blooming" (Official Music Video)](/img/tr.png)
![[REACTION!!] Old Rock Radio DJ REACTS to BAND-MAID ft. "Dice" & "Different" (LIVE)](/img/n.gif)
Kanami’s guitar after drumsolo sound like ”I’m in heaven” Love it 🔥❤️🤘🇫🇮
Happiest band in the World!
I must have watched about 40 reactions to Freedom but never seen anybody so eloquently describe the intangibles that make it specifically a Band-Maid performance, rather than simply a performance by a highly proficient band. Wonderful job Eric.
Gold standard honestly!
Best reaction ever to Freedom ... and I've seen dozens of them. Akane is a goddess! They've been bringing happiness to my life for well over three years now.
Thanks Eric!
Steve beat me to it. I would call your takes more like "instruction" than reaction. I love these takes a lot, I am learning more about my fav band and enjoy listening that much more, grokking the music deeply.
That transition from the drumsolo to the guitarsolo is worldclass!
Five of Japan's best female rockers have formed a new 'Supergroup'. World-class drum/bass combo, twin lead guitarists, true front person. No copyright issues.
NEMOPHILA/"Raitei" {OG/MV} ua-cam.com/video/lh-dVLKP314/v-deo.html
NEMOPHILA/"Fighter" {OG/Live} ua-cam.com/video/KMioZiACr4s/v-deo.html
NEMOPHILA/"Whole Lotta Rosie" ua-cam.com/video/U8-UiNei9_U/v-deo.html
"Combative elegance" - What an amazing turn of phrase to describe Akane! 😀
I have been a fan of Band-Maid for 3 1/2 years now. At first I was skeptical, but it was their live performance that won me over. I'm still amazed at them. Their live acoustic was phenomenal. I really love this song. Thank you for your very inciteful reaction.
_(BAND-MAID: Girls Just Want to Have Fun)_
And man, they do have fun.🙂
I have always noticed Akane's wrists when she plays..They look boneless!..hehe...She flicks the sticks around like you said..like she's conducting. It looks effortless...which I know it's not...Alot of the time she isn't even looking where her hands are going... no need..she has that kit down pat!....It's beautiful to watch...She is now my fav drummer...Just love her style...All done with a beautiful smile!
I was talking to a drummer & i mentioned how Akane holds her left stick much further up than the right & he explained that everyone has a weaker hand so she can get much more power out of a hit by holding the stick that way :)
AKANE!!! The world's happiest drummer.
And the world's best drummer. She is a goddess!
Band-Maid exudes FUN. Band-Maid exudes brilliance. Band-Maid exudes synergy. Band-Maid exudes energy. BAND-MAID exudes Awesomeness. Peace. 7.82
thank you bro for the resctions
You hit the nail on the head. Band-Maid lives for playing WITH their Masters and Princesses. This song has been their "standard" for several years during their shows. This song is the embodiment of what Band-Maid stands for. Good, clean, hard rock that makes you happy and uplifts you. Warning! and Manners from the most recent album are the songs that embody what they are now but Freedom as a live song still represents WHO they are. They play at this level of joy for 2 hours straight. 22+ song setlists of melt your face joy and happiness brought to you by the 5 most badass little ladies in rock currently.
And yeah, Akane is a badass on the kit. She's really tightened up her playing in the last few years and this solo and the album Unseen World really show it. I call MISA and Akane the Thunder Buddies as they bring the noise, every time and are the backbone of Band-Maid and provide so much of what is Band-Maid's unique sound. The happiest little drummer in rock currently I think who beats the drums like they owe her money. Her hand speed is incredible.
Anywho... a bit of a long winded comment. Great reaction and once again, thanks for helping promote these wonderful ladies and Proselytizing the Power of the PO!
Well put Cembor
Happiest hard rock right now and definitely the happiest drum solo in history!
6:25 - "It's super rare that you see a band having that much fun on stage"
That's how much these ladies love performing. At 2:53, you'll notice Kanami sits down right next to Miku and smiles & stares as Miku performs her vocals in an attempt to mess her up. And at 3:07, if you look closely, Misa and Saiki are making funny faces at Akane and are trying to mess up her drumming but Akane responds by sticking her tongue out and then making kissy faces. They're so talented and cohesive, they can't even trip each other up during live performances.
Kanami was actually blocking the lyrics monitor because Miku screwed them up in a previous show. She was trying to get her mess up again.
great reaction and analyses Freedom is BAND-MAIDS most played live song and you can see why, as they have so much fun with it. The chemistry of BAND-MAID is incredible. they love each other, they have no egos and they all have their time to shine.
I'm 65 now and love this band as much as I loved the Beatles when i was very young.
There is a new EP on the way and i expect a new video soonish so i'm very excited and know it's gonna rock. BAND-MAID have never let me down!
From the same concert there are official live for "Play", "Choose Me" and "Wonderland"
from a previous concert you can check out "Onset", "Real Existence" and "Cross"
Looking forward to your upcoming reactions. thanks and cheers.
It's interesting that you mention the Beatles because I compare Band-Maid to them. They both have the capability to play different genres. You can't pigeon hole them into one sound..The difference is Band-Maid can have multiple genres in any given song.
If you are ever having a bad day, listen to the live version of Freedom, and you will be smiling in no time.
Pure perfection, aren’t they? I mean, what can you fault? And those faces... their attitude... their music... their playing... their story... and their joy! Band-Maid is a world treasure! Thanks Eric, for bringing the world's best hard rock band to your viewers!
How Can You not simply not just simply love this Band!
One of my favorite Band Maid songs. Akane, demonstrating the perfect durum solo. A joy to listen and watch and not too long. This performance demonstrates why Band Maid have become so popular internationally. As you mentioned, they are there to appreciate the audience and put on a show. So different from many bands with the "We are gods and you the audience are here to worship us."
This song always makes me smile even if i was not in good mood when i started to listen to it. Great reaction :)
Nice reaction, you're one of my favorite reactors to Band Maid. I'm 70 and had quit listening to new rock but when I found Band Maid four or five years ago I got hooked back in. I've bought all their albums and a couple of live videos and very much enjoy them all.
I don't know how familiar with all female Japanese bands there are but there are a number of really good ones. Band Maid will always be my favorite. If you want something to show the dichotomy of their approaches watch the dual live song video of MANNERS/BLACK HOLE. Old school vs. new school. You won't be disappointed.
Far from their most complex song, but it's a true showcase of their musicality, and how easy it comes to them.
That transition between drum and guitarsolo is some of the smoothest i know.
Can hardly be done more seamlessly.
Next songs? I'm thinking about their powerballad "Daydreaming" and the fast but catchy "Blooming". The music videos are great!
Both of those or either would be great!
That transition you mention is Genius, Genius, Genius. Just a perfect building slide into the solo. I would really love to hear the story of how that section came about. I mean Jeez, did they just stumble into that during a practice?? Or was it straight out of Kanami's mind? Or just a total group effort with bits from everyone? So, cool.
@@markmark6378 I'm not sure Kanami stumbles into anything, she is too much a perfectionist for that! They all contribute to the whole and Kanami puts on the polish, then Miku adds the lyrics. Saiki has the final say, and then BAM, magic! Band-Maid often add to songs in live performances, Freedom being one. While the album version is a great song, done live with the enhancements, it's just on another planet!
The thing with the transition is that Akane is still playing all those fills, licks, runs, rhythms, etc, from her solo right up until Kanami is up on the stand and hits the first note of the guitar solo proper. Then Akane drops back into the pocket. Truly sensational.
I concur! Blooming and Daydreaming MVs! I was just about to write a comment suggesting the very same songs.
What I heard them mention is that this is their own "feel good" song. You can't help but smile and feel good inside when you listen. Akane's happy face when Kanami does her solo is priceless!
For a good reason. I 'm not sure on the particulars but i think they had a contract with a record company that was suffocating them with tampering with their creativity and if i got it right as soon they got out of it and changed company or conditions they wrote Freedom. Fully their way and vision with no tampering.of course is feel good for them.
😁😁😁😁🔥🔥🔥🔥smiles and fire! Akane killing again!!!
"...that she can maintain that thickness through the ONSETS..." Ironic statement as "Onset" is an instrumental... lol. Nice reaction.
Since you are learning the names, introductions: saiki (the ice queen), miku (small pigeon), kanami (the princess or mincho), MISA (the barefoot assassin), & akane (gorilla).
And now onto REAL EXISTENCE (Official Live Video).................
Thank god you were here to beautifully describe 'Freedom', and BAND-MAID's performance of it, so eloquently.
All my smoother than Silly Putty brain could come up with was - "Gorilla lady bang sound box good."
Excellent reaction as always. Cheers!
Band Maid and Babymetal are the most high energy groups that I have seen. And both sound great while doing it.
Thank you for seeing their infectious joy of performing live. Over and above their musical talent that has put Band-Maid in a special place in my heart. This is not a suggestion for a reaction, they have done two songs that might be viewed as "love letters" to their fans. One is available on their official channel named "About Us." The other was on their "Bubble" EP and is called "Smile." A beautiful acoustic version of "Smile" was included as a bonus track on their 2/11/21 Online Okyu-Ji on the DVD/bluRay. The "About Us" video also came from this concert.
Sir, you are a poet concerning your insights about Band-maid. And the girls deserve every drop of praise you give them. In Japan it's usual to ask a female artist what their charm point are, you, know, little quirks that make them lovable. In Band-maid their charm points are fused together. Into CHARM. One of a kind..
Like everyone else, I said Wow the first time I watched this clip, and 30 or 40 replays later I still say it - but today I am proclaiming Wow and bowing down to your eloquence, insightful reaction and spot on description of the happiest, and I believe, best tock band in the world right now 🙏👏
That is with all their live songs I don't find anyone that seems to love their work as much as this group. Akane on drums has always got a big smile
The two note bass lines from Misa, during the drop towards the end are so simple but so majestic- shear genius.
Misa is just an unbelievable bass player.
Great breakdown. Truly a once in a generation ensemble. Btw...saw BZ in concert in Nola. Awesome. Try to use your dj connections to get Bandmaid some radio airplay prior to their US tour.
Always enjoy your eloquent description of a BM song. Thank you!
BAND-MAID'S Freedom = Happy Pills in Musical Form!! If watching that performance doesn't make you smile, seek help! 🤘😁🤘
Buckwheat Zydeco, now there's a name I haven't heard in a long while. Actually saw them for the first time some where around 1985, maybe 87 at Jones Beach, Long Island. The band was named after the founder/leader Stanley "Buckwheat" Dural Jr. They played, you guessed it, music called Zydeco, and it was a lot of fun to see and hear. So I see the reference, kudos.
Amazing band, simply the BEST !
Great analysis...spread the Gospel of BAND-MAID
"My way! My way! My way!" - Miku Kobato
happiest band ever
I just wish there was an overhead camera for this performance because I would love to see how busy these girls really are moving around on stage, especially Kanami....she's never stops moving.
MISA is my shining light here, not seen much but boy you know she's there. Akane does have wonder hand/wrist movement I read where she got this from her Tokyo School of Music training, it's all in the wrists. I think you'll really like Akane's drumming in "Daydreaming" .... Good Stuff Eric, always enjoy your takes....
Great reaction again. I think you spotted one of the intangibles of Band-Maid, that joy that they bring to their live performances, you can see and feel that they live to perform (even thought off-stage they are very shy). Glad I've lived long enough to witness the rebirth of rock and roll (I started listening to rock in the 50's).
I see no one has mentioned this, but this is the sixth song of a 23 song concert. And the Ladies maintain this energy level throughout the entire concert. I can imagine that once they are done they go back to their hotel, shower, eat get a rub down then pass out until the the next day.
Love your reactions. My suggestion for next Band-Maid would be Warning (MV rather than live). Incredible song/video.
I have had the pleasure of seeing Buckwheat Zydeco in Louisiana and you are 100% correct . They are a rowdy happy bunch . Band Maid has that same feel ,and that gets transferred to the listen either live or just enjoying a cd .
Combative excellence may steal that .
Great review of the wonderful band ty .
👍👍👍👍👍
Nice shoutout to buckwheat & great analysis. Best rock band on the planet.
DING DING DING!!!!! You Nailed it!! They are Master Class.... Love the BZ Ref :)
I was fortunate to see them in London before COVID. It was an amazing show and well worth traveling across Europe to attend. They are truly at their best live. If you want to see what they are like in a small club (literally in a basement) search Bandmaid Hamburg Freedom. In addition to including great songs the video shows Kanami finding her Inner Hendrix/Santana while playing an extended impromptu solo.
Wow, my introduction to this band. They are wonderful!!
You forgot the anchor of the band, Miku. She writes the lyrics, holds down the rhythm so Kanami can do her thing and sings backing vocals with Saiki. Miku also gives the band a break with, “Miku’s Magic Time.”
And really a Buckwheat Zydeco reference? I'm 71 so I got it love me some cajun food/music and yes pure joy.
Seeing them in Chicago in November! Couldn't be more excited, so many songs I hope they play!
Thank you for reacting to Band-Maid.
One of the better reactors around. Thanks Eric :-)
buckwheat zydeco. had not heard that named in a while . i have seen them and you are spot on they love what they do and it shows just like our girls in Band-Maid. which i will be seeing in October in San Diego CA.
What this performance features that few others have is MISA smiling 😄
Eric thanks for a thoughtful and informative reaction. To borrow from another reactor, a redhead, who mentioned that each one of Akane's fills, in this song, is different. Just as you probably noticed that Band-Maid will change the second section and not play the same thing they did in the first (section). Band-Maid is a remarkable group of musicians that also love performing and (for added spice) enjoy performing with each other. The result - is a Joy for them and us. I can't wait till October.
Appreciate your professional take on Band-Maid. You need to check out their other songs to appreciate the full range of their talent. Listen to their instrumental "Onset", and to "Manners", Blooming" and "Moratorium". And those are just the tips of the iceberg.
Your comment about their having with each other and with the audience was proven on their recent U. S. tour. There must be hundreds of fan cam videos on UA-cam that show them having a blast on stage.
Another excellent reaction. Keep up the great work. For next up recommendations:
On UA-cam:
Music Videos to see how they sound on the album as opposed to live - Blooming, Daydreaming(power ballad), Choose Me, Warning, Sense
More lives - Onset(instrumental), Play, Wonderland, No God, About Us(ballad), Real Existence
Off UA-cam (a lot of us in the community can help you with these):
Puzzle (live), Puzzle (live acoustic), Don't you tell ME (live), Moratorium (live)
Audio Only (Spotify etc):
Corallium (my current #1 song), H-G-K, Giovanni, Unfair Game
On Moratorium I think he should do all 3 versions. Studio Coast, Zepp, and Summer Sonic 2019. I'd prefer the Summer Sonic version first, then Zepp, then Studio Coast. I think Mincho going off the reservation in her intro solo would surprise him greatly.
I concur! Puzzle is one of their best songs, and the acoustic performance can be considered the Holy Grail of Band-Maid's catalog. It's well worth checking out both versions if you can access them!
I saw Buckwheat Zydeco perform many years ago. Their show was lots of fun.
I saw them perform in I think Blueberry Hill on the Loop. There are or were two different bars bars/restaurants that do live music there. It's the one Chuck Berry owns/owned. And at first I was like What is this stuff? After the third song I really got into it and enjoyed myself because the band was like super happy to be there performing for us.
Freakin loved your input on this.
Buckwheat Zydeco! Love it!
To me it almost feels like you have been invited to a party. Not you're going to a party, it's more like you've been invited by some of the coolest cats you know to come party with them.
BAND-MAID have to play clean because, any changes in solos aside, they will make it as close to the song on the album as possible. So anything that they can't do on stage themselves, Kanami puts into the backing tracks. So, once Akane has locked into that, there can be no deviation from it. That's why when the hard part on the drums comes the rest of the band will go up and make funny faces at her to try to make her laugh and screw up. Not a chance! Not in rehearsal and definitely not LIVE. They don't call her The Beast for nothing. She's a banana powered half gorilla half drum machine. Check out 'Real Existence' LIVE.
Buckwheat performed with Lyle Lovett at the Library of Congress in honor of Paul Simon here ua-cam.com/video/g7yTxphVtfA/v-deo.html - obviously the whole concert is fantastic. I especially love Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes at 01:15:10 by Paul Simon and the african choir.
I can't believe I forgot to mention the Loves Me Like A Rock rendition with Stevie near the end. So awesome.
Hello Sir,...!!!! Nice reaction👍.
Next,can you react and analyze "God allow me please to play music"from VOB(Voice Of Baceprot)please.
Female metal rock band from indonesia.
Thank you🙏
🤘
Would love to see your thoughts on Spiritbox & their live session of "Blessed Be"
Eric, your reaction here has got me thinking. There is only one BAND-MAID song that I'm not completely sold on (The Dragon Cries) and I've not been able to explain exactly why I'm not keen on it. They didn't write it, but it isn't that, they didn't write Freedom (for example either). It isn't the style, it is broadly similar to Manners - which I love. It isn't the music video, which isn't a 'feelgood' video, as 99 times out of 100 I'm not watching the video when I hear the song. My best explanation was the 'feel' of the song just doesn't feel like BAND-MAID to me, and you've got me wondering if that 'feel' that I couldn't exactly describe (but which I know it when I hear BAND-MAID songs), is that inbuilt happiness the majority of their songs exude, and which can be actually seen here in Freedom. I know listening to BAND-MAID has helped me get through the whole state of the world since I discovered them in April 2020 and I think you may just have put into words why they have managed to do that. They make music that 'feel's joyous and that quality in their songs is infectious in a good way (in all bar that 1 'negative' song). For me, there is no band comes close to projecting that same level of joy in their music and performance and I'm so glad I found them.
There is a story where a bishop hears of three holy men living on an little island, but found out they were praying in a crazy way. So he went to them, scolded them and gave them a "correct" prayer. He took the boat back and suddenly he sees the three men running over the water towards him, shouting they forgot the new prayer and if he could please repeat it one more time.
This is how I feel about this whole Tony Visconti and "The dragon cries" adventure. Don't mess with perfection.
Do you think if they recorded something in English before the U.S. tour it would help them introduce themselves to the U.S. audience? Maybe a cover?
"Smile when you speak"
That is the basic sales tip when speaking to a customer / potential customer over the phone. Young memories of cold calling or even with a referral lead; I actually hated it.
I like their playing I think don't like there singing and it doesn't have anything to do with language I've heard foreign singers that was beautiful I don't find anything special about her not bad just not special sorry everyone just me God bless