I’ve always been fascinated by the wonderful culture of Japan, and when its possible to support its events and talented artists I make sure to be on point here on “The Chronicles” and of course over on PiercingMetal.com when that site is appropriate for the happening. Earlier today I received some press about an experience that sure does sound like a proper good time. Read on down below.

The Press Release:
It was announced today that Japan 2019 presents Japan Night, a one-night only special concert event on May 12 in New York City featuring four of the most successful Japanese artists in two concerts (MISIA, Puffy AmiYumi, HYDE and WagakkiBand) will highlight a special collaboration between WagakkiBand, who combine Japanese traditional instruments in their modern rock ensemble, and Sisyu, who is known for incorporating Japanese calligraphy into other art forms. This calligraphy often symbolizes the Japanese soul of “Zen,” and has been known to challenge conventions and push boundaries.

WagakkiBand just performed live at Izumo Taisha, one of the most sacred shrines in Japan, and Sisyu’s work was recently featured in the popular Japanese televison series, “Ryoma-den” (based on the life of the famous samurai, Ryoma Sakamoto, who led the revolution to open Japan to the modern world).

Watch her performance HERE, inspired by Reiwa, the name of the new era in Japan, set to start when Crown Prince Naruhito ascends to the throne on May 1:

Each Japan Night concert features two Japanese music superstars: MISIA, winner of best vocal performance for the 60th annual Japan Record Awards with special guest Puffy AmiYumi, featured in the Cartoon Network show Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi, will perform at Sony Hall (235 W. 46th Street) at 9pm.

HYDE, who is also known as a lead singer of L’Arc-en-Ciel, a pioneer of Japanese rock and WagakkiBand, a viral video sensation who combines traditional Japanese instruments with modern rock, will perform at PlayStation Theater (1515 Broadway) at 6pm. These concerts will be full-scale productions that allow New York audiences to see top Japanese artists in an intimate setting.
• HYDE & WagakkiBand at the PlayStation Theater (1515 Broadway) with a special performance with WagakkiBand and Sisyu. Door 5pm/show 6pm. Tickets are priced from $35-40 (with VIP seating available) at AXS www.axs.com
• MISIA with special guest Puffy AmiYumi at Sony Hall (235 W. 46th Street). Door 8pm/show 9pm. Tickets are priced from $40-45 at Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.com

About Japan 2019:
Following on the successful festival of Japonismes 2018 in France, Japan 2019 aims to broaden understanding of and interest in Japanese culture in the United States. We invite you to explore the world of Japanese arts and culture through the festival events, taking place between March and December 2019. For more information, please visit: https://www.jpf.go.jp/e/about/area/japan2019/

About The Japan Foundation:
The Japan Foundation, established in 1972, is Japan’s only institution dedicated to carrying out comprehensive international cultural exchange programs throughout the world. Its mission is to promote international cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Japan and other countries. The Foundation maintains its headquarters in Tokyo and operates through a network of 25 overseas offices in 24 countries worldwide. The Japan Foundation is represented by two offices in the United States-one in New York and the other in Los Angeles. For more information, please visit: https://www.jpf.go.jp/ and https://www.jfny.org/

Organized by The Japan Foundation
Produced by: Disk Garage, Gorgeous Entertainment, Cool Japan Music
Sponsored by Kinoshita Group

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Piercing Ken Thoughts: I have to say that this sure does sound interesting and while I’d like to attend both of the concerts listed above, I am not sure I can actually do that. Let’s see what happens because Hyde would be something for the PiercingMetal side of the fence while the other would fit better over here on “The Chronicles”. Luckily I am a Gemini so used to doing two things at the same time almost constantly LOL. What about you readers? Does this cultural music experience pique your interest? Chime in down below to let me know what you think and by the way, Brooklyn now has its own Japan Village which is a whole bunch of markets and restaurants. I’ve linked to their Yelp! right HERE for those who want to go there early and then head over to Manhattan for some exciting live music. It’s a quick train ride from one to the other for sure. See you next time.

Official Website: http://www.JapanNight.org