Interview with KAMIJO: From European tour highlights to the epic sound of ‘VIOLET DAWN’

KAMIJO has long been a prominent figure in the visual kei scene, known for his commanding stage presence and elaborate storytelling, blending symphonic metal with elements of high fantasy. From his early days with LAREINE to his impactful time with Versailles, he has made a lasting mark in the music world. Now, over a decade into his solo career, he continues to explore new creative horizons.

With the vampire enigma fresh off his first European tour in six years, which ended with a triumphant finale in London, KAMIJO has just wrapped up touring Japan in celebration of his 11th anniversary as a solo artist. His latest mini-album, ‘VIOLET DAWN’, released on July 31st, reflects the theme of “EPIC INTENSE”.

Prior to the recent news of his move to Los Angeles in 2025, we spoke with KAMIJO in this exclusive interview, where he opens up about his recent projects, his process behind crafting powerful new music, and his plans for the future. With a career spanning nearly three decades, KAMIJO’s artistic vision remains as sharp as ever, blending drama, emotion, and a deep connection with his fans.

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EBW: Your recent tour final in London received tremendous praise. How was it to return after six years?

KAMIJO: I was very happy that so many fans were waiting for me. I’d love to go back and sing there again soon.

EBW: Your stage presence has been described as commanding and theatrical. How do you prepare yourself mentally before a performance?

KAMIJO: This is my natural state. Before going on stage, I focus solely on clearing my mind of any distractions. Becoming empty and immersing myself in the world of the music—this is the most important thing.

EBW: ‘The Anthem’ tour spanned several European cities. What were some memorable moments or challenges from this tour?

KAMIJO: Just three minutes before the first show in Paris, USHI, the drummer, got stuck in the bathroom. The lock broke (laughs) and the owner of the venue came in and kicked the door down to rescue USHI, and the show went on without a hitch.

EBW: Your connection with your fans is especially evident during meet-and-greets. What is the most fulfilling aspect of interacting with your audience?

KAMIJO: Receiving the feelings of my fans brings me great happiness. Honestly, I’d love to give each and every one of them a hug.

EBW: Playful and romantic songs like ‘Mademoiselle’, heartfelt ballads like ‘Avec Toi’, and heavy metal epics like ‘Habsburg’ all showcase different aspects of your musical style. How do you balance energetic songs with slow ballads in your setlist?

KAMIJO: I don’t consciously try to balance them. By writing songs honestly and staying true to myself, the result naturally becomes the balance that defines KAMIJO.

EBW: Having toured extensively in Europe, if you could choose any venue for a dream performance, what would it be?

KAMIJO: It would be the Palace of Versailles.

EBW: Of course!

RELATED: KAMIJO live in London: Vampires descend on the capital

EBW: With a career spanning 29 years, and 11 years as a solo artist, you just released your new mini-album ‘VIOLET DAWN’. The theme of this album is “EPIC INTENSE”. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this theme?

KAMIJO: I’ve always pursued an epic sound, but now I find myself seeking something heavier. I feel that treating band sound and orchestration on an equal footing is the key to approaching something like EPIC INTENSE.

EBW: How does the new mini-album differ from your experiences with LAREINE, Versailles, and your previous solo work?

KAMIJO: If I were to use a game analogy, it feels like starting over while keeping all the experience points. It’s like I’m a level 99 hero fighting small monsters. Isn’t that the best?

EBW: The limited edition of ‘VIOLET DAWN’ includes your voice acting debut. How does it feel to step into a new form of storytelling outside of music?

KAMIJO: Expanding my means of expression feels like acquiring a new weapon. However, having witnessed professional voice actors up close, I am also acutely aware of my own inexperience.

EBW: Your albums often feature rich storytelling and thematic depth. What role does storytelling play in your music, and how do you develop these concepts?

KAMIJO: By making the story the main focus of the music, new melodies naturally emerge. Once the concept of the story takes on a life of its own, it begins to develop on its own, so the process of setting up the story is extremely important.

EBW: Can you tell us about your creative process when composing? Are there any rituals or habits you follow to gain inspiration for your compositions?

KAMIJO: I often watch movies and dramas. Additionally, it’s essential to be in a mental state where I can be true to my feelings.

EBW: ‘Nosferatu’ and ‘Vampire Rock Star’ are fan favorites. Can you share the story behind the creation of these songs?

KAMIJO: These are representative songs for me as well. ‘Nosferatu’ was created through a serious engagement with aestheticism. ‘Vampire Rock Star’ started with the shout “Vampire Rock Star” itself, which I then built the song around.

EBW: As someone who incorporates theatricality into your music, are there any artists or works of art that have influenced your stage persona?

KAMIJO: There aren’t any specific influences, but by immersing myself in the music, this style has naturally developed.

EBW: Your aesthetics evoke the image of character Lestat de Lioncourt from Anne Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles. Are there any other vampire stories that resonate with you?

KAMIJO: The story of my own life, which continuously revives itself.

RELATED: KAMIJO unleashes “EPIC INTENSE” mini-album ‘VIOLET DAWN’

EBW: Looking back on your 11 years as a solo artist, what achievements are you most proud of in your career so far?

KAMIJO: My solo career is the culmination of my entire musical life, including my band days. I am very proud of each of my band activities, but I can confidently say that my live style, which incorporates collaborations with orchestras and voice actors, is uniquely my own!

EBW: How do you think your music will evolve in the future? Are there any new themes or concepts you wish to explore?

KAMIJO: Moving forward, I plan to create music that focuses more on messages related to my own life. There are many experiences, such as my encounters with Louis XVII and the time spent with fans, that deserve to be incorporated into my artistic work.

EBW: Your appearance at last year’s NHK New Year’s event ‘Kōhaku Uta Gassen’ was a significant moment. How did it feel to represent visual kei alongside other Japanese rock legends?

KAMIJO: I was very moved. One day, I will make sure to stand on that stage by my own strength.

EBW: What message or emotions do you want your music to convey to listeners in Japan and around the world?

KAMIJO: I want to convey that there are many entry points to a beautiful world. My music contains gateways to that beautiful world throughout. Moving forward, I want to create a musical world that can exist distinctly from the real world.

EBW: Thanks so much for your time! Lastly, do you have a message for your fans?

KAMIJO: Thank you always for your support. And thank you for the wonderful questions. Those who believe in the power of music will find the doors to a beautiful world opened for them.

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