Various Artists - Visual Kei DVD Magazine Vol. 2

After their impressive first volume, we wondered if Maru Music would be able to live up to the expectations for the next one. We needn't have worried though: they've done it again with volume 2, exposing some heretofore uncovered jewels while also bringing you exclusive footage from bands you already know. Though the 8 bands are all visual, they differ in concept, style and sound, so there should be something for everyone. And of particular interest to An Cafe fans, this volume is hosted by vocalist Miku - and Biju the visual kei cat with personal space issues.

The bands covered are Hime Ichigo, chariots, SMILE, SuG, SaTaN, Mix Speaker's, Inc., Mana's Not Dead and Moi dix Mois. Along with member introductions, where the band members describe their roles in the band, personal goals or positive aspects, extra footage also includes Maru Music interviews that address the bands' future plans or goals, concepts, and origins. And of course, there are questions specific to each band, and some of the entirely silly variety. So if you're curious about Riku's relationship with KISAKI, what hell is really like, why Mana doesn't talk and if he will design an outfit for Biju, this volume's got all the answers.

The DVD also includes Part 2 of Japanese Visual Kei History, some essential points about Japanese culture provided by SMILE band members in a sushi restaurant, explanations of words specific to the visual kei scene, recommended visual kei hot spots in Japan and some info on An Cafe. The ending also includes some extra footage of all the bands.

Maru Music was able to produce another high quality volume (with minimal subtitle slip-ups) in a timely manner and presented the information in an entertaining way. Are there things on this DVD that are not on the bands' releases? Yes, like the introductions where the members say their good points, the interviews for Maru Music, extra footage and so on. The live clips give you an idea of what each band's music and style is like, so you may become a fan of an artist previously unknown to you just by seeing those. The booklet that comes with the DVD will start you off with band information - how and when they formed, what their concept is, special characteristics and more. So for serious visual kei fans, it's certainly worth the purchase.