...It still feels like a bizzare dream. Seeing the man in all his glory, on stage and off...
We came at about 9, so we had to wait 4 hours for the actual event. But it was more than worth it. Juno Reactor gave a brillint performance. They certainly are unique, with all the costumes and horn-instruments, and their show was powerful and enthralling. I wish I could tell more about the band, but the truth is 90% of the time I had my eyes locked on him. Standing there illuminated by the light he looked like some deity, a creature from another world. His attire and make-up and his graceful movemets... He totally stole the spotlight from the creepy singer lady. At first his guitar was hardly heard, it was only by the middle of the concert that I could truly appreciate his skill. The infamous 'Pistolero' with a distinctive guitar riff made the audience go crazy. And when he started dancing along to the music I couldn't help but follow. 'God is God', another hit, also left a deep impression. Actually, I didn't even expect him to participate in all the tracks. I thought he'd be standing somewhere in the corner with his head down. But he gave it his all. Like a true artist that he is. And the violin... I wasn't hoping to hear it, but when he played it the whole crowd was effectively sent to a trance.
Now I suppose that I can understand why the man came to be called 'The Walking Porn'. Even though I think it does not do him honour. There was nothing vulgar about his acts, more like raw sensuality and grace. Especially considering that he wasn't expecting to recieve that much attention... Still, he looked so elegant is his black attire and make-up, which he kept fixing after nearly every track using a small mirror placed neatly on stage.
We failed in our guess as to on what side of the stage he'll be playing, but it didn't matter much. I could see him clearly from where I was standing and slowly we started to move closer, to the left side where he was. Towards the end of the concert we ended up in one heap, all 11 of us. Somehow shouting and cheering together isn't embarrasing. We were pretty noticable, I guess, because in the end he definately noticed us. And the most amazing thing is, when he did, he began reacting - waving and sending kisses... I can't blame the man, he performed in Tokyo Dome, in front of some 55 thousand people, so he is used to having an audience. To see him looking at us, smiling that beautiful smile of his, pouting and doing all those fluid movements so familiar, so characteristic of... no, not even him, of all J-Rockers, basically. I swear, they must be of a different race... Being able to actually interact with him on stage felt fantastic.
I bet he wasn't expecting to see his fans here in the first place, but I hope it was a good surprise. Now I've never been a big fan of him, he wouldn't even make it in the top 10 (not that I have it). Maybe it's good in a way, at least I was quite composed and didn't lose my grip. It proved much useful later, when after having waited for about half an hour in the cold near the back entrance we were greeted with his presence. For that we have to thank that Janco guy, who set up the whole thing. He was in a great mood too, after all that night his child was born)
So there he was - a Man-legend, looking all slender and almost frail. I have to say I was a bit surprised at how casual he was. Not that I had any expectations, but... a person of his status can't be even blamed for that. No trace of superior attitude or arrogance as one may expect. Just friendliness and warmth. I didn't really get to talk to him or even hear him much as I wasn't in line for autographs, but it's all right. I got much more that I could wish for. I got to see this wonderful man, on stage and off, hear his passionate music...
He's the embodiment of sensuality and grace. Androgyny at its finest. He doesn't look 20, but years only add to his beauty, like a good wine, with years becoming only finer. I am filled with deep respect and admiration for him as an artist and as a person. He is so gorgeous.)
There's a little side-effect to it all though. It leaves you craving for more. But there's also something more - a hope, a promise. A realization... that your dreams may be closer than you may think))