X JAPAN announce
Madison Square Garden, and
their business card for the tour... A greatest hits album featuring a live version of WITHOUT YOU.
Ok, not exactly what fans were hoping for. But think of this as a means to an end. The band had to release something, or we'd never see another tour, that's the feeling I get. This is probably just out of contractual obligation, and it kinda makes sense to officially launch some of your back catalogue so new comers can get a taste, whether they be media reps or youtubers.
The album art looks a little rushed. Having the logo like a brand front and centre without the globe maybe better for marketing the band.
Make no mistake, while the songs are remastered, probably not under YOSHIKI's supervision...these are not the English versions.
Without You will serve as the bait to get fans who own all the other songs to double dip. I'm betting it's also sold as an ALBUM ONLY track on iTunes to make sure ppl don't just buy one song.
Also one more dose of reality... That recording is highly likely the
2009 version on the bands youtube.
But for a band who most non Japanese fans found through the internet, it's a nice opportunity to pay them back for not deleting the thousands of hours we get for free.
Ok the goods news...now that the idea of a best album is out the way, we can move on to the FULL ORIGINAL ALBUM.
You'll notice Tears isn't on the best of..you can bet it'll be on that original album, in English. It's the strongest and least sonically dated ballad they have.
Scarlet Love Song sounds new, but I'm betting they've moved on and not recorded it in English.
Going back to WITHOUT YOU, I'm glad Yoshiki has been playing it on his classical tour. The story and the drama are part of why so many ppl around the world can connect with this band.
Therefore, it's an important part of introducing new comers to the X JAPAN legend.
What to expect from MSG?
- Something crazier than that hologram? I THINK SO!
- a new song? CHECK!
- announcements ? A full world Tour!!!!
- tributes to hide and taiji?
Really your guess is as good as mine:)
Let's enjoy what we have, and remember that it was only a few years ago that the idea of seeing the members sharing the same stage seemed impossible.
Peace-
