VISUAL KEI

refers to a movement among Japanese musicians,^[1][2] that is characterized by the use of eccentric, sometimes flamboyant looks. This usually involves striking make-up, unusual hair styles and elaborate costumes, often, but not always, coupled with androgynous aesthetics.^[3][4]
These looks have enjoyed popularity among independent underground projects, as well as artists achieving mainstream success, with influences from Western phenomena, such as glam, goth and cyberpunk.^4[5] The music performed encompasses a large variety of genres, i.e. pop, heavy metal and electronica.¹ Magazines published regularly in Japan with visual kei coverage are ''Arena 37°C'', ''Fool's Mate'' and ''Shoxx''. Noted bands who at least at some point sported a visual kei theme include Dir en grey,² Luna Sea^[6] and Malice Mizer.^[7]
Popularity and awareness of such groups outside of Japan is sparse, but has seen an increase in recent years. While the successful X Japan launched an attempt to enter the international market as early as 1992,ContentsSee alsoReferences

See also

★ Gothic Lolita

★ Zoku

★ List of visual kei artists

References

1.
International Music Feed feature "J Rock"

2.
All Music Guide biography of Dir en grey

3.
"The Pop Life: End of a Life, End of an Era"

4.
"Kabuki Rock "

5. Dir en grey feature interview

6.
Luna Sea at Yahoo Music

7.
Malice Mizer at Yahoo Music