HOW TO ATTEND A VISUAL KEI CONCERT & BUY TICKETS? FINDING A GOTH LOLITA JROCK GROUP OF FRIENDS?
Dearest La Carmina,
I’m hoping to attend Dir en Grey’s concert in New York. Except…well…it will be my first actual concert! I’m very excited, yet I’m rather nervous, because my friends and relatives have told me horror stories of their experiences, which included violent pits in the audience, being stepped on by some crazy fangirl, and some blood-shedding fight on line even before the concert! Are these even true? Not to mention, I don’t know how to get good tickets to a concert, what to wear, how to prepare, and whether or not to come alone! And because you have done so many concert reviews, I’ve decided to turn to you, you oh-so-wonderful Victorian doll blogger, you. So… PLEASE HELP!
Sincerely, A VERY troubled Visual Kei freakazoid
It’s J-rock concert season, my North American friends: D’espairsRay, Dir en Grey, and X Japan are making the rounds. I encourage all of you to go — your scene needs your support. And I can guarantee you’ll be blown away by the performances; these are Visual Kei legends, after all. (PS: stay tuned to this blog for a Dir en Grey ticket giveaway…)
It’s funny: in Japan, the process of buying concert tickets and attending a Visual Kei show is (in most cases) completely different. There are the dreaded Lawson ticket machines, mandatory drink tickets and assigned “numbers” that determine the order for going inside (meaning there’s no benefit in arriving early). True to the Japan stereotype, the concerts always start on time. And people are nice; they’ll step aside to let you move closer to the stage.
In the States and Canada, it’s not quite the same. Since J-rockers rarely embark on world tours, North American fans will go to great lengths to see them up close. Some will drive or fly out for one or more shows. If the venue is general admission (unassigned seats), hardcore fans will line up — sometimes camping out for 2-3 days — and run to the stage as soon as the doors open.
But you don’t have do this to have an awesome time watching your favorite Visual shockers live. Since J-rock is a relatively small, niche scene in North America, the tickets often won’t sell out (so you can still buy them last minute). Check out the band’s website; the tour dates should link to Ticketmaster or some other site to purchase tickets. If no tickets remain, try Craigslist. When the venue is seated, try to buy tickets as soon as they’re released to get the best pick. If you’re prepared to pay big for a good one, search for a reputable ticket seller. The last resort is trying your luck with scalpers outside the concert, but I don’t recommend this since you could get ripped off.
Determine when the “doors open” and when the “show starts.” If the concert is seated, arrive any time before the start and locate your seat. (Although it’s fun to come early to see the tour merchandise and audience’s fashion.) General admission means everyone stands in a crowd before the stage, or seats are first-come-first-served. Ticket-holders line up outside, and when the “doors open” time arrives, they enter the venue in order. Since it’s your first concert and you’re not concerned about being right up against the stage, I’d suggest arriving an hour to 45 minutes before the “doors open.” (Be prepared for the weather, as you’ll usually be standing outside!) At most shows, even if you arrive right before it begins, you can still find a place to stand around the middle of the hall (which is just fine for seeing the performers).
The violent dancing and crowdsurfing typically happen at hardcore/punk concerts, not Jrock ones (so don’t be worried!). And the audience at these shows is not looking to pick a fight. Simply be respectful: don’t cut the line or try to squeeze in front of people who’ve waited outside all day. The potential for injury decreases the further away you are from center stage. Up there, you’ll certainly be jostled and squished, and a random arm gesture might hit you in the face. I personally am happy standing in the side-middle area, where I can still get an excellent view without getting roughed up. Bonus tips: wear comfortable but tall shoes, and stand behind people who are shorter than you. And bring earplugs, in case the bass boom is overwhelming.
As for preparations… a VK concert is a golden opportunity to dress up, so go for it! (But keep in mind that the venue will get hot, and your outfit can get smushed if you’re up front.) There’s no dress code: some people will wear tshirts and jeans; others will cosplay Mana-sama. If you dress vaguely Gothic or J-rock, you’ll feel right at home.
I usually meet up with friends before or at the show. But don’t worry about going alone — nobody’s judging or will even notice (it’s not like being seated at a table for one). Concerts are some of the best places to meet new friends who share your passions for J-rock music and fashion. So I encourage you to rise to the challenge and go! I promise it will be a night to remember.
Dear La Carmina,
I start college this fall and I’m hoping I can find a spooky posse on campus. Where did you collect all your friends anyways? They’re all so hardcore awesome! Anyways, how did you get into Lolita and viz-kei style and get to be a part of it? You get to host shows introducing the world to this awesome subculture, how did that happen?
-Sunny
Congrats on starting college — it’s an exciting time for making new friends. My “spooky pals” are wonderful, and they often appear in photos because they share my love of J-Goth culture, fashion and music (and that’s the focus of my blog). However, they’re only one devilish cross-section of my friend pool. You may not see their faces on this site, but some of my closest friends are from high school, elementary and even preschool. And they’re the ones I turn to for advice, since it’s easy to get caught up in your own scene and lifestyle. Never take for granted your friends who think Versailles is a palace rather than an epic band.
However, it is amazing to have a group of friends that live each day as if it’s Halloween. The typical advice is “go out and join activities and smile” — but honestly, I think the most important thing you can do is build something to show for yourself. It could be a cosplay blog, a Steampunk jewelry company, J-rock promotions… When others observe your passion and creative contribution, they’ll naturally want to say hi, exchange emails, meet up, collaborate. Perhaps you could start with your campus Japan Club, or organize outings to J-rock/Goth events. Put up flyers, make an announcement on stage. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, which leads to next answer…
I started this blog for fun, to express my love of Japan subcultures and style — and the whole thing snowballed to today. I have zero family connections to anyone in TV/media, and have never hired a publicist or promoter. Every TV hosting opportunity (NHK Japan, CNN International, Travel Channel, Canal Plus France) arose because a producer found my blog and sent me an email. The TV people looked at my writing work, press, bio, photos, videos etc, and that helped them decide if I was someone worth contacting.
My dear ones, do the best work you can — whether it’s writing, videos, art, music — and share it without qualms. Know and be proud of your abilities. The bottom line is, if I took the path of self-effacement, nobody would know what I could offer, and I wouldn’t have had these tremendous TV adventures in Tokyo.
Now let me ask the rest of you: what would you advise these two readers? Got tips for making it through your first rock concert, or ways to meet alternative-minded friends?
If you have a question for La Carmina, email me (gothiccarmina {at} gmail) and I’ll answer it in a blog post. You can read my previous responses to Reader Questions here. (All the above images are from the music store and magazine stand in Laforet Harajuku.)
PS: last chance to win Kanon Wakeshima autographed Gothic Lolita postcards! Spread the word and enter here.
Japanese Word of the Day: Tsutomeru = Industrious, diligent
Song of the Day: Edith Piaf – Non, Je ne regrette rien (Have you seen Inception yet? A magnificent film.)
SHARE & COMMENT
LA CARMINA
53 Comments
I agree with the answers you gave them.. As for my first j-rock concert I went there alone, but planned to meet a friend there.. I met alot of people in-line, under the concert and after.. When I left the concert we were a group of 15 people.. And they joined me at other concerts too, and the groups grew.. Whether you go there alone or not doesn’t matter, ‘cus you won’t be alone or lonely there no matter what you choose :)
What you wear or whatever isn’t a really big deal really. You may cosplay, dress really gothic, or just do as I did on my first concert.. Normal clothes rocked up with some cool accessories, nail-belt and so on.. There’s no rules.. Do it simple, or use your fantasy! Good luck on your first concerts! I promise, it will be a memorable day :)
Great advice about dressing up, and it’s so much fun to meet people in line. :)
By far the best advice you gave was right there in “the most important thing you can do is build something to show for yourself.” I studied film in college but didn’t really get half of what I could out of it because I didn’t have much to show for myself even after years in college, partially due to complacency and mostly due to shyness and self-doubt.
However, when picked up a DSLR and put myself outside, it changed my world and allowed me to be able to meet many more people than I would ever have otherwise. Short version: Throw yourself into your passion then throw yourself out there; Listen more than speak; and when you speak make sure you show that you’ve listened.
Very well said. I think having a “purpose” – whether taking pictures or promoting a small business/website – grows confidence and forces you to talk to others. :)
First off, I’m jealous that you get to see Dir en Grey. I have to miss them since college starts and I will be about 11 hours away from the nearest venue.
I’ve been to tons of shows, and I’m the kind of person who is always trying to get up front. My advice would be that if you’re going to a show, make sure you stay hydrated. It may seem like something obvious that you should do, but I’ve been to many shows where it got crazier than I expected, and I ran out of water. My brother had to carry me through the entire crowd, punching people out of the way, because I was on the verge of passing out. And I’ve seen many people have to get lifted over the barrier by security because they were about to faint.
But you shouldn’t really have any problems like that if you’re not way up in the crowd and getting smushed. If you are, and it gets insane, definitely get out and get some air.
Very very very wise words. Hydration is KEY. Bringing your own bottle of water is great so you won’t lose your spot. And venues often charge a lot for even water, so it’s cheaper that way. ;)
In Denmark they always take away your own bottles! ><
I guess they're scared that you're bringing half a litre of vodka or something, but it's so annoying to get dehydrated and have to leave your spot.
In major North American concerts, the same thing happens (and often you get patted down and have to open your bags). <__<
If I could offer any advice to a first time concert goer: please please PLEASE don’t be discouraged by the rude people. Not everyone in line will be super friendly and nice, there will be the people who think they are holier than thou because they’ve been to ‘THIS MANY MORE SHOWS THAN YOU’, or who know more about the bands than you. I’m not saying its incredibly common, in fact you meet FAR MORE nice and wonderful people than you do the runts. But sadly you will run into them. Don’t let them get to you. Don’t let those people ruin your night of Jrock epicness. You will meet plenty of awesome people, see plenty of awesome sights, and experience something most people can only dream of. Don’t be afraid to talk to people who seem nice and welcoming. You never know who could end up being one of your best friends for years to come.And most importantly, remember you’re there for the music. Being up front is fantastic and one of the things about concerts that I adore, but if you’re not into being smushed and roughed up just take a couple steps back and enjoy the show. Often times there are raised areas just outside the pit that are still close and offer a fantastic view of the entire stage.
YES. Exactly. When people are rude, just walk away and don’t think about it — it’s the music that matters. :)
As a journeyman-type person of rock/punk/metal shows I can give only one real piece of advice-
Respect everyone, even if they don’t respect you. Be the better person.
Aside from that, less important things include; being in shape (it helps when the shoving starts), bring ear plugs always, travel light (only things you can comfortably carry in your pockets), and money goes in your sock (best way not to loose it).
As for meeting spooky friends, I basically agree with La Carmina, but there are a few shortcuts so to speak. If you are in a big city there are usually some sort of group or event(s) that already draw the people you want to meet (these places also are great for getting the word out on your band/blog/company/event/what have you).
Also remember that if you are looking for people who live everyday like Halloween you should probably live that way too (if you want to) because that will show them share interests (or at least garner some nice compliments on your clothes). I think every one of us creepy spooks is looking for more of our tribe so as long as you are positive and active (ie calling them, and not waiting for them to call you) it should work out just fine.
Great words of advice: be positive, active and SPOOKY!! :D
I agree with the answers you gave them.. As for my first j-rock concert I went there alone, but planned to meet a friend there.. I met alot of people in-line, under the concert and after.. When I left the concert we were a group of 15 people.. And they joined me at other concerts too, and the groups grew.. Whether you go there alone or not doesn't matter, 'cus you won't be alone or lonely there no matter what you choose :)
What you wear or whatever isn't a really big deal really. You may cosplay, dress really gothic, or just do as I did on my first concert.. Normal clothes rocked up with some cool accessories, nail-belt and so on.. There's no rules.. Do it simple, or use your fantasy! Good luck on your first concerts! I promise, it will be a memorable day :)
“When others observe your passion… they’ll naturally want to say hi…” Excellent advice
By far the best advice you gave was right there in “the most important thing you can do is build something to show for yourself.” I studied film in college but didn't really get half of what I could out of it because I didn't have much to show for myself even after years in college, partially due to complacency and mostly due to shyness and self-doubt.
However, when picked up a DSLR and put myself outside, it changed my world and allowed me to be able to meet many more people than I would ever have otherwise. Short version: Throw yourself into your passion then throw yourself out there; Listen more than speak; and when you speak make sure you show that you've listened.
First off, I'm jealous that you get to see Dir en Grey. I have to miss them since college starts and I will be about 11 hours away from the nearest venue.
I've been to tons of shows, and I'm the kind of person who is always trying to get up front. My advice would be that if you're going to a show, make sure you stay hydrated. It may seem like something obvious that you should do, but I've been to many shows where it got crazier than I expected, and I ran out of water. My brother had to carry me through the entire crowd, punching people out of the way, because I was on the verge of passing out. And I've seen many people have to get lifted over the barrier by security because they were about to faint.
But you shouldn't really have any problems like that if you're not way up in the crowd and getting smushed. If you are, and it gets insane, definitely get out and get some air.
If I could offer any advice to a first time concert goer: please please PLEASE don't be discouraged by the rude people. Not everyone in line will be super friendly and nice, there will be the people who think they are holier than thou because they've been to 'THIS MANY MORE SHOWS THAN YOU', or who know more about the bands than you. I'm not saying its incredibly common, in fact you meet FAR MORE nice and wonderful people than you do the runts. But sadly you will run into them. Don't let them get to you. Don't let those people ruin your night of Jrock epicness. You will meet plenty of awesome people, see plenty of awesome sights, and experience something most people can only dream of. Don't be afraid to talk to people who seem nice and welcoming. You never know who could end up being one of your best friends for years to come.
And most importantly, remember you're there for the music. Being up front is fantastic and one of the things about concerts that I adore, but if you're not into being smushed and roughed up just take a couple steps back and enjoy the show. Often times there are raised areas just outside the pit that are still close and offer a fantastic view of the entire stage.
Great advice about dressing up, and it's so much fun to meet people in line. :)
Very very very wise words. Hydration is KEY. Bringing your own bottle of water is great so you won't lose your spot. And venues often charge a lot for even water, so it's cheaper that way. ;)
YES. Exactly. When people are rude, just walk away and don't think about it — it's the music that matters. :)
Very well said. I think having a “purpose” – whether taking pictures or promoting a small business/website – grows confidence and forces you to talk to others. :)
As a journeyman-type person of rock/punk/metal shows I can give only one real piece of advice-
Respect everyone, even if they don't respect you. Be the better person.
Aside from that, less important things include; being in shape (it helps when the shoving starts), bring ear plugs always, travel light (only things you can comfortably carry in your pockets), and money goes in your sock (best way not to loose it).
As for meeting spooky friends, I basically agree with La Carmina, but there are a few shortcuts so to speak. If you are in a big city there are usually some sort of group or event(s) that already draw the people you want to meet (these places also are great for getting the word out on your band/blog/company/event/what have you).
Also remember that if you are looking for people who live everyday like Halloween you should probably live that way too (if you want to) because that will show them share interests (or at least garner some nice compliments on your clothes). I think every one of us creepy spooks is looking for more of our tribe so as long as you are positive and active (ie calling them, and not waiting for them to call you) it should work out just fine.
I’m not into the J-rock scene at all, but well into the goth, punk, ska, deathrock etc scenes. Absolutely agree with your advice, La C – just turn up to gigs & clubs and you will meet likeminded people (like ours in Tokyo, eh?)
I’m still grappling with your other good advice: “if I took the path of self-effacement, nobody would know what I could offer”. Naturally self-effacing, I’m struggling to get out there, promote etc ..but am slowly learning! You really are a great example of how a little promotion/hustling can take you to great places!
Right on! ^^
I think the old cliche is true – life’s too short to worry about what others think. Richard Branson, Martha Stewart and others — they fought all the way to get where they are. Just do what you have to do, if you really want to make things happen. :)
Great words of advice: be positive, active and SPOOKY!! :D
I'm not into the J-rock scene at all, but well into the goth, punk, ska, deathrock etc scenes. Absolutely agree with your advice, La C – just turn up to gigs & clubs and you will meet likeminded people (like ours in Tokyo, eh?)
I'm still grappling with your other good advice: “if I took the path of self-effacement, nobody would know what I could offer”. Naturally self-effacing, I'm struggling to get out there, promote etc ..but am slowly learning! You really are a great example of how a little promotion/hustling can take you to great places!
My friends over here like J-Rock but they like K-pop more. I woudn’t consider them spooky. I want a spooky little circle ya~ D: J-Rockers, goths, etc. I welcome all~
I generally come off as polite but distant to others because most people generally don’t approve of my appearance or my… *ahem* otakuism. xD This will definitely help when I move back up to NYC and I’ll be more in touch with my surroundings~♡
Hehe. All spooky types welcome! :)
that s so true thankyu
My friends over here like J-Rock but they like K-pop more. I woudn't consider them spooky. I want a spooky little circle ya~ D: J-Rockers, goths, etc. I welcome all~
I generally come off as polite but distant to others because most people generally don't approve of my appearance or my… *ahem* otakuism. xD This will definitely help when I move back up to NYC and I'll be more in touch with my surroundings~♡
that s so true thankyu
super awesome, thank you!!!
OH! at my first VK concert I already brought some friends that weren’t even into the music, but first we started playing anime charades and some other people joined in.. and then my friends loudly sang random japanese songs, and some people came over to talk to us.. but that was all in line waiting to get in..
Right on! ^^
I think the old cliche is true – life's too short to worry about what others think. Richard Branson, Martha Stewart and others — they fought all the way to get where they are. Just do what you have to do, if you really want to make things happen. :)
Hehe. All spooky types welcome! :)
super awesome, thank you!!!
OH! at my first VK concert I already brought some friends that weren't even into the music, but first we started playing anime charades and some other people joined in.. and then my friends loudly sang random japanese songs, and some people came over to talk to us.. but that was all in line waiting to get in..
In Denmark they always take away your own bottles! ><
I guess they're scared that you're bringing half a litre of vodka or something, but it's so annoying to get dehydrated and have to leave your spot.
In major North American concerts, the same thing happens (and often you get patted down and have to open your bags). <__<
I’ve been going to concerts for nearly 20 years. Some of the big tips I’d add are:
-Pack light
-Leave the camera at home
-Be smart by thinking ahead
-Pack light: If your favorite super awesome cute purse matches your outfit perfectly – leave it at home. You don’t want to deal with a purse at a show because they get in the way, are cumbersome, and are just one more thing to worry about. If you have a tiny purse with a small strap that fits securely up under your arm, then use that only if you don’t have deep pockets. If you don’t use any purse, make sure to have secure, zippered pockets, or another way to secure your belongings other than a shallow pocket. Only bring in money, your I.D., and two keys – car & house. This will cover any possible scenario – you have a house key in case something happens to your car (break in, dead battery, stolen, jammed locks, etc..) and have to get a ride home. Don’t bring in the automatic door lock clicker thing because those can be unreliable, just use the actual key. I take a keyring and use it to fasten the keys to a sturdy piece of clothing (girls, loop it around a bra strap – it wont pull off, fall off, drop off, it’ll be hidden, and you’ll KNOW if it comes undone) – belt loops aren’t a sure bet because you’d be surprised how little it takes for one to rip off. Someone likely wont come up to you and rip a key off your belt and run away, but if the crowd is rough, a belt loop could get caught on someone’s jewelry as they fall over or any number of other possibilities. Just plan ahead.
If you simply just simply have to use a purse, don’t use a backpack because someone could easily get into it while standing behind and you’d never know, plus they get in the way of other people which some consider rude and they might not be very nice if they think you are being inconsiderate. Also, keep all purse zippers closed and facing forward. Meaning, the end that opens up should not be behind you, because again it would be too easy for someone to get into.
Leave the camera at home – Some venues do not allow cameras of any kind inside. Sometimes this is a request of the band or the management, and sometimes it’s just a club rule. Regardless, never go by what their website says because it could change according to requests of each show. You don’t want to take your awesome new digicam only to have it confiscated at the door. Sometimes people don’t get them back. Just go and enjoy with your eyes instead of through the LCD screen of an obnoxious digital camera. Better to not be able to take pics at that show than to never be able to take pics again with the camera. They could say you have to put it in the car, but that’s a problem if you didn’t drive, and even if you did, you shouldn’t leave valuables like that in the car anyway. Which leads me to my next point.
-Be smart by thinking ahead. All of these tips from both La Carmina and myself and everyone else can be summed up as “think ahead” – don’t leave valuables visible in the car so that someone won’t be tempted to break into it. Don’t leave yourself vulnerable to pickpocketing or theft by just being smart and guarding your possess and being aware of your surroundings. Don’t wear chains, spikes, studs, or anything else that could potentially hurt someone because if the club doesn’t make you take it off before going in, it still actually could hurt someone if the crowd shifts quickly or you find yourself in the middle of the group. Don’t get yourself locked out of your car or house, but also don’t get weighed down with a huge bag that will take up too much space in an already-small standing room.
One last comment regarding going alone or with friends. I personally LOVE to go to a show by myself for 3 very good reasons: I can go where I want to (bar, floor, backstage if you have that access, outside, bathroom, balcony, lobby, front rail, back of the room, etc..), talk to who I want, and leave when I want. Plus you won’t be embarrassed by friends who get drunk or crazy and do something stupid like get kicked out and now you have to go too because they were your ride or you are their ride. It’s far better to meet up with friends there or make new friends than to carpool together.
Plan to pay for parking, and try to have as many small bills ($1’s & $5’s) as possible. Unless you know what the parking is like, you might find yourself in one of those lots where you put money into a little slot, in which case you will want small bills. Don’t want to put a $20 in when it will only cost you $3. But if you just pay an attendant, well I’m sure they’ll appreciate the small bills anyway.
Don’t stress out, there is a lot to think about, but it’s all just common sense things to avoid future problems. The more things you prepare for and consider, the easier your experience will be. :-)
TOP QUALITY response! You really know your stuff – thank you for all the advice! I think you summed it up perfectly – think ahead and use common sense. I’ll be going to some concerts this weekend, and it’s always good to keep in mind.
I've been going to concerts for nearly 20 years. Some of the big tips I'd add are:
-Pack light
-Leave the camera at home
-Be smart by thinking ahead
-Pack light: If your favorite super awesome cute purse matches your outfit perfectly – leave it at home. You don't want to deal with a purse at a show because they get in the way, are cumbersome, and are just one more thing to worry about. If you have a tiny purse with a small strap that fits securely up under your arm, then use that only if you don't have deep pockets. If you don't use any purse, make sure to have secure, zippered pockets, or another way to secure your belongings other than a shallow pocket. Only bring in money, your I.D., and two keys – car & house. This will cover any possible scenario – you have a house key in case something happens to your car (break in, dead battery, stolen, jammed locks, etc..) and have to get a ride home. Don't bring in the automatic door lock clicker thing because those can be unreliable, just use the actual key. I take a keyring and use it to fasten the keys to a sturdy piece of clothing (girls, loop it around a bra strap – it wont pull off, fall off, drop off, it'll be hidden, and you'll KNOW if it comes undone) – belt loops aren't a sure bet because you'd be surprised how little it takes for one to rip off. Someone likely wont come up to you and rip a key off your belt and run away, but if the crowd is rough, a belt loop could get caught on someone's jewelry as they fall over or any number of other possibilities. Just plan ahead.
If you simply just simply have to use a purse, don't use a backpack because someone could easily get into it while standing behind and you'd never know, plus they get in the way of other people which some consider rude and they might not be very nice if they think you are being inconsiderate. Also, keep all purse zippers closed and facing forward. Meaning, the end that opens up should not be behind you, because again it would be too easy for someone to get into.
Leave the camera at home – Some venues do not allow cameras of any kind inside. Sometimes this is a request of the band or the management, and sometimes it's just a club rule. Regardless, never go by what their website says because it could change according to requests of each show. You don't want to take your awesome new digicam only to have it confiscated at the door. Sometimes people don't get them back. Just go and enjoy with your eyes instead of through the LCD screen of an obnoxious digital camera. Better to not be able to take pics at that show than to never be able to take pics again with the camera. They could say you have to put it in the car, but that's a problem if you didn't drive, and even if you did, you shouldn't leave valuables like that in the car anyway. Which leads me to my next point.
-Be smart by thinking ahead. All of these tips from both La Carmina and myself and everyone else can be summed up as “think ahead” – don't leave valuables visible in the car so that someone won't be tempted to break into it. Don't leave yourself vulnerable to pickpocketing or theft by just being smart and guarding your possess and being aware of your surroundings. Don't wear chains, spikes, studs, or anything else that could potentially hurt someone because if the club doesn't make you take it off before going in, it still actually could hurt someone if the crowd shifts quickly or you find yourself in the middle of the group. Don't get yourself locked out of your car or house, but also don't get weighed down with a huge bag that will take up too much space in an already-small standing room.
One last comment regarding going alone or with friends. I personally LOVE to go to a show by myself for 3 very good reasons: I can go where I want to (bar, floor, backstage if you have that access, outside, bathroom, balcony, lobby, front rail, back of the room, etc..), talk to who I want, and leave when I want. Plus you won't be embarrassed by friends who get drunk or crazy and do something stupid like get kicked out and now you have to go too because they were your ride or you are their ride. It's far better to meet up with friends there or make new friends than to carpool together.
Plan to pay for parking, and try to have as many small bills ($1's & $5's) as possible. Unless you know what the parking is like, you might find yourself in one of those lots where you put money into a little slot, in which case you will want small bills. Don't want to put a $20 in when it will only cost you $3. But if you just pay an attendant, well I'm sure they'll appreciate the small bills anyway.
Don't stress out, there is a lot to think about, but it's all just common sense things to avoid future problems. The more things you prepare for and consider, the easier your experience will be. :-)
TOP QUALITY response! You really know your stuff – thank you for all the advice! I think you summed it up perfectly – think ahead and use common sense. I'll be going to some concerts this weekend, and it's always good to keep in mind.
Okay, so I have a horror story about the last Dir en Grey gig in New York…. It was the last night of their three-night tour there.
I got REALLY sick about halfway through the show – as in, I was going to throw up. I was NOT sick in any way before the show – I think I got food poisoning or something, I don’t know.
I tried to signal to get out of the pit, as I was only four “rows” away from the barrier.
But the fangirls near the front apparently thought I was trying to get in front of them and started elbowing me/pushing me away.
So… *gross warning* I threw up in my mouth, but tried to be VERY FUCKING NICE by swallowing it. UGGGGHHHH.
But still, no one would let me out or help signal the security on the other side of the barrier – no one could hear me calling for help over the music and screaming girls.
I threw up again. This time on someone’s back… No one noticed.
Somehow, I managed to make it to the end of the show, and I only didn’t collapse because I was trapped in the sea of girls.
Finally, I got out, was escorted to the side, and promptly threw up again.
The only good thing that came of this was that Kaoru came out to sign people’s things and he asked if I was okay (in Japanese). He was the ONLY person who seemed to care.
At the end, I could hardly stand up, but security told me I had to leave because they were closing the venue.
WORST CONCERT OF MY LIFE.
So I don’t know. If I had gone with a friend, maybe I would have been okay. Maybe if I hadn’t let myself get trapped with the INSANE fangirls in the front, I might have been okay.
But sure as hell, no one helped me.
I’ve gone to many, many concerts with no problems whatsoever… I’ve never met such mental fans that were so inconsiderate of BASIC PIT RULES. Death metal fans are so much nicer.
I’m just warning you, Dir en Grey shows are crazy. Please be careful.
Mein gott! What a disaster story. Are you feeling ok now?
I’m sorry to hear the people around you weren’t more aware and considerate… That’s so sweet of Kaoru though! :)
Okay, so I have a horror story about the last Dir en Grey gig in New York…. It was the last night of their three-night tour there.
I got REALLY sick about halfway through the show – as in, I was going to throw up. I was NOT sick in any way before the show – I think I got food poisoning or something, I don't know.
I tried to signal to get out of the pit, as I was only four “rows” away from the barrier.
But the fangirls near the front apparently thought I was trying to get in front of them and started elbowing me/pushing me away.
So… *gross warning* I threw up in my mouth, but tried to be VERY FUCKING NICE by swallowing it. UGGGGHHHH.
But still, no one would let me out or help signal the security on the other side of the barrier – no one could hear me calling for help over the music and screaming girls.
I threw up again. This time on someone's back… No one noticed.
Somehow, I managed to make it to the end of the show, and I only didn't collapse because I was trapped in the sea of girls.
Finally, I got out, was escorted to the side, and promptly threw up again.
The only good thing that came of this was that Kaoru came out to sign people's things and he asked if I was okay (in Japanese). He was the ONLY person who seemed to care.
At the end, I could hardly stand up, but security told me I had to leave because they were closing the venue.
WORST CONCERT OF MY LIFE.
So I don't know. If I had gone with a friend, maybe I would have been okay. Maybe if I hadn't let myself get trapped with the INSANE fangirls in the front, I might have been okay.
But sure as hell, no one helped me.
I've gone to many, many concerts with no problems whatsoever… I've never met such mental fans that were so inconsiderate of BASIC PIT RULES. Death metal fans are so much nicer.
I'm just warning you, Dir en Grey shows are crazy. Please be careful.
Mein gott! What a disaster story. Are you feeling ok now?
I'm sorry to hear the people around you weren't more aware and considerate… That's so sweet of Kaoru though! :)
My advice:
When going to a concert – talk to people in line bofore the concert! It could be as easy as “Long line, huh?” or sharing snacks! Soon you’ll be sharing concert experiences and talking about interrests. Rememer: Your’e there for the SAME REASON! That’s why I like these events – it’s easy to make friends because you already know you share some of the same interrests! And once you get to know them, you might look after each other inside, and talk about how awesome the show was afterwards! I met a lot of nice poeple this way ^-^
I also support the “neat little purse securely under your arm” advice very VERY much! I really ruined some concert experiences by carrying bag that got in the way, bounced too much when dancing to the music, or I worried too much about it ripping and spilling my belongings everywhere…
And if you want to gather a goth army, you should express yourself and your interrests through your fashion, music or anything else! But rememer that you shouldn’t just wait for people to talk to you – you should contact them too! Maybe they even were hesitant to talk to you first because they were intimidated by your awesomeness? :D
Fantastic advice. Goth army! <3 I'm all about going up to people and talking to them… if I freak them out, who cares! :)
My advice:
When going to a concert – talk to people in line bofore the concert! It could be as easy as “Long line, huh?” or sharing snacks! Soon you'll be sharing concert experiences and talking about interrests. Rememer: Your'e there for the SAME REASON! That's why I like these events – it's easy to make friends because you already know you share some of the same interrests! And once you get to know them, you might look after each other inside, and talk about how awesome the show was afterwards! I met a lot of nice poeple this way ^-^
I also support the “neat little purse securely under your arm” advice very VERY much! I really ruined some concert experiences by carrying bag that got in the way, bounced too much when dancing to the music, or I worried too much about it ripping and spilling my belongings everywhere…
And if you want to gather a goth army, you should express yourself and your interrests through your fashion, music or anything else! But rememer that you shouldn't just wait for people to talk to you – you should contact them too! Maybe they even were hesitant to talk to you first because they were intimidated by your awesomeness? :D
Fantastic advice. Goth army! <3 I'm all about going up to people and talking to them… if I freak them out, who cares! :)
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I really need a help! I already got plane ticket to Japan , because I will attend undercode production bands concerts. My gf already contact the person who buy tickets for people don’t love in Japan . But that person never reply , don’t know why. So if anybody knows another way to get tickets for a visual tickets, please help !