D'espairsRay
An exploration of the influential visual kei band's journey through industrial metal and beyond.
Discover D'espairsRay 👇 Explore Music 🎶Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮
About D'espairsRay
Origins and Style
D'espairsRay was a prominent Japanese visual kei heavy metal band, active from 1999 to 2011, with a brief reunion in 2014. Their sound blended elements of industrial metal, nu metal, alternative metal, and gothic metal, characterized by powerful riffs, electronic influences, and intense vocal performances.
Musical Identity
The band was known for its dynamic musical range, often featuring a dark, atmospheric, and sometimes aggressive sound. Their visual presentation was a key component, aligning with the aesthetics of the visual kei movement, which emphasizes elaborate costumes, makeup, and stage presence.
Global Reach
Beyond their success in Japan, D'espairsRay cultivated a significant international following. They toured extensively in Europe and North America, releasing domestic versions of their albums in these territories and performing at major festivals like Wacken Open Air.
Band History
Formation and Early Years (1999-2001)
Formed on September 9, 1999, by Hizumi, Karyu, Zero, and Tsukasa, D'espairsRay quickly established themselves in the visual kei scene. They released several demotapes and their first maxi-single, "Kumo," in 2000, which sold out rapidly. Their debut EP, Terrors (2001), further solidified their growing popularity and marked their move beyond the local underground.
Ascending Success (2002-2004)
The band continued to release successful EPs like Sexual Beast (2002) and Born (2004), often selling out and requiring re-pressings. Their single "Maverick" (2003) charted on the Oricon charts. This period also saw their first international performances in Berlin and Paris, hinting at their future global appeal.
International Expansion and Coll:set (2005)
In 2005, D'espairsRay released their first full-length album, Coll:set, and embarked on tours in Europe and the United States. They participated in coupling tours with bands like Kagerou, expanding their reach and fanbase across continents.
Mirror and Global Recognition (2006-2008)
The release of their second album, Mirror (2007), garnered significant attention, charting at #36 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart. Their participation in the Taste of Chaos tour in 2008 and performances at major events like the hide memorial summit showcased their growing international prominence.
Hiatus and Disbandment (2010-2011)
Following their "Human-Clad Monsters World Tour" in 2010, the band announced an indefinite hiatus due to vocalist Hizumi's rare throat condition. Despite hopes for recovery, his health did not improve sufficiently, leading to the official announcement of D'espairsRay's disbandment on June 15, 2011.
Post-Band Activities and Reunions
After the disbandment, members pursued various projects: Hizumi formed NUL, Karyu joined Angelo and later formed H.U.G, while Zero and Tsukasa formed The Micro Head 4N's. D'espairsRay reunited for a one-night performance in 2014 and has announced further reunion shows for 2025 and 2026, including a potential for new music.
Band Members
Hizumi
Lead vocals
Karyu
Guitar, programming, backing vocals
Zero
Bass, backing vocals
Tsukasa
Drums, percussion, programming
Discography
Studio Albums
- Coll:set (2005)
- Mirror (2007)
- Redeemer (2009)
- Monsters (2010)
EPs
- Terrors (2001)
- Sexual Beast (2002)
- Born (2004)
Compilations & Singles
- Compilations: Immortal (2009), [Antique] (2011)
- Notable Singles: "Maverick" (2003), "Garnet" (2003), "Love Is Dead" (2010)
Video Releases
- Murder Day Live (2005)
- Liquidize: Live Tour '06 (2006)
- Spiral Staircase #15 (2007)
- Human-clad Monsters: Final (2011)
External Links
Official & Resources
- Official Website (opens in new tab)
- Wikimedia Commons Media (opens in new tab)
- MusicBrainz Artist Page (opens in new tab)
- VIAF Authority Record (opens in new tab)
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "D Espairsray" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- www.oricon.co.jp D'espairs Ray Oricon CD Album Rankings Retrieved February 20, 2011
- www.oricon.co.jp D'espairs Ray Oricon CD Single Rankings Retrieved February 20, 2011
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional music industry advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding music history, artist management, or licensing. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.