To truly experience Kenshi Yonezu live, we’ve, so far, only had the chance to watch his filmed concert Fantasy. Let’s dive into a unique cinema session.
Available on the collector’s edition of Lost Corner on DVD and Blu-ray, this concert was filmed on 2 July 2023, in Yokohama, capturing the final show of Kenshi Yonezu‘s Japanese tour. This recorded performance is now widely accessible, for those lucky enough to grab a copy. And to connect with the real experience, the concert was also screened in cinemas worldwide, including in Los Angeles, London and Paris on 24 September.
With Fantasy, Kenshi Yonezu seems to be made of two distinct yet connected sides that flow seamlessly between one another. First, there’s his electrifying, vibrant pop-rock side—full of energy and colour, producing some of the biggest bangers. Then, there’s his orchestral, emotional, tender side, as intricate and delicate as bits of lace of classical music. The way these two elements merge, organically, shows deep contrast as the essence of his performance.
Campanella and Stray Sheep—both from his previous album Stray Sheep—demonstrate well this duality. These are followed by Kanden, an explosively colourful bop that introduces the dancers accompanying the Japanese star on stage. In the small cinema, the atmosphere is vibrating, alive with a shared quiet energy. This sense of collective immersion, though subdued from the real thing, didn’t take away from the intensity of the experience.
Speaking of immersion, the direction by Daisuke Shimada is nothing short of breathtaking. Some images become unforgettable. The LED screens behind and above the band get sliced in precise shapes, revealing bursts of colour, stars, diamonds, and entire worlds that expand each song’s atmosphere. For tracks like Machi, the intimacy is unreal and unmatched. The performance moves from the decadent and sensual Décolleté to the incomparable tenderness of Yasashii Hito, Lemon, and M87. Kenshi Yonezu seems to transmit entire universes from him to the visuals surrounding him. Pop or orchestral, all of it feels organic.
ELECTRIC EMOTION
The energy ramps up with LOSER, bringing back the electric vibe in full force. This segment of the concert is both deeply satisfying and slightly frustrating—perfectly filmed and thrilling, but leaving you longing to be there, shouting along with the crowd. Following this are Nighthawks and the outstanding Himawari. Then comes Go Go Yuureisen before the much-anticipated KICK BACK, complete with dancers and a transformative stage. As the massive screen parts and reveals a multi-level metal structure used by the performers, the surprise is immense. The sound is explosive and meets all my expectations.
The transition into Moongazing, a much softer, dreamier track, is just as fluid. Thanks to Yonezu’s voice and Shimada’s direction, this shift feels entirely natural. Tied in with Final Fantasy 16, it is followed by the equally delicate Uchiage Hanabi and Haiiro To Ao, leading into the nostalgic Kaiju No March—a track that awakens the sound of the ’80s and ’90s. Yonezu closes the main set with the emotional Uma To Shika.
A MASTERCLASS IN STAGING
For Fantasy‘s the encore, Kenshi Yonezu evokes the fantastical world of Studio Ghibli, particularly The Boy and the Heron. With Spinning Globe as the theme, the stage transforms into a magical forest and lake, enveloping the audience in emotion. This touching moment is followed by a full-on party, as Pop Song, Flamingo, and Shunrai ignite the stage with vibrant pinks, warm yellows, deep blues, and a ton of attitude. Kenshi Yonezu wraps up the night romantically with the stunning LADY.
Throughout the performance, the presentation is flawless. Smoke effects, lighting, and intricate visuals are fascinating and create some intimate moments. On all tracks, whether they’re slower, softer or epic. The dancers add tremendous value, forming striking and poignant images with their impeccable technique. On Fantasy, Kenshi Yonezu is supported by a team that elevates his abilities to the fullest. If you get the chance to watch this film, don’t miss it—it’s sublime. But the takeaway from this immersive cinematic experience is clear: it leaves you craving the real thing.
Fortunately, Kenshi Yonezu will be performing live in London and Paris for the first time in 2025. Are we going? Absolutely!
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