X JAPAN

The Profile

X Japan is a Japanese heavy metal band formed in 1982, pioneers of the visual kei movement. The group built a reputation on speed/power ferocity and symphonic ballads, releasing key albums like Blue Blood, Jealousy, Art of Life, and Dahlia. They disbanded in 1997 and reunited in 2007; guitarist hide (Hideto Matsumoto) died in 1998.

Core figures include Yoshiki Hayashi (drums, piano, primary composer), Toshimitsu "Toshi" Deyama (vocals), Hideto "hide" Matsumoto (guitar), Pata (guitar), and Taiji Sawada (bass). The band helped define visual kei and is known for tracks such as Endless Rain, Kurenai, Rusty Nail, Tears, and Forever Love.

Four enthusiastic reviews celebrate X Japan’s metal legacy: Blue Blood as a cornerstone, the single-track epic Art of Life, and the mature, ballad-rich Dahlia. Reviewers praise ferocious speed/power attacks, symphonic grandeur, and the virtuosity of Yoshiki, hide, Pata, Taiji, and Toshi. Visual kei roots and lasting influence are highlighted alongside emotional ballads like Endless Rain and Tears.