Is Esprit D'Air visual kei?

"Is Esprit D'Air visual kei?"

It's a question I've been asked many times over the years, and for a long time, I've denied it.

I think part of the reason is that I was never particularly influenced by the "neo visual kei" movement or the newer generations of bands that emerged in the 2000s. Perhaps that's why I never really felt like I belonged to the scene.

However, growing up, I was heavily influenced by bands such as LUNA SEA, L'Arc-en-Ciel, X Japan, BUCK-TICK and DEAD END, many of whom were pioneers of, or closely associated with, the visual kei movement.

Those bands had a huge influence on my songwriting, guitar playing and approach to music.

Within Esprit D'Air, I've generally been the only member wearing makeup and embracing the more theatrical side of things. We've never really adopted the elaborate visual aesthetic that many people associate with visual kei.

But visual kei has never been just about makeup or extravagant costumes. It's a movement that encompasses many different musical styles and approaches to artistic expression.

So, is Esprit D'Air visual kei?

In some ways, absolutely. Our musical roots are deeply connected to the movement, and I wouldn't want to deny those influences.

At the same time, I've never consciously set out to make Esprit D'Air a visual kei band. I've never liked putting our music into a box. I've always believed that we have more to offer by putting the music first, rather than trying to fit into a particular genre, scene or image.

But to set the record straight...

And I am going to finally say it.

Yes, Esprit D'Air is a visual kei band, but that's not the only thing we are.

Kai / Esprit D'Air