On February 19th, the Japanese band
Saucy Dog delivered an intense and moving performance at Zepp Haneda, captivating a large audience eager for this much-anticipated event. Blending nostalgic ballads with poignant rock anthems, the evening
was marked by an electrifying atmosphere and a palpable connection between the musicians and their fans.
From the very first notes of
Along the Long Journey, the audience was immediately immersed in the band's melodic and introspective universe. Under dimmed lighting,
Shinya Ishihara’s heartfelt vocals resonated with an emotional
power that remained unwavering throughout the night. The trio followed up with
Kemuri, a more melancholic track where the guitar took on a haunting tone, supported by a deep bass that filled the venue.
Suzume no
Akubi continued in this bittersweet vein, with delicate arpeggios building into a powerful crescendo that completely captivated the crowd in an atmosphere both soft and heartrending.
After a warm first MC where the band thanked the audience,
Saucy Dog reignited the set with
Cinderella Boy, one of their most popular songs. As soon as the first chords rang out, a wave of excitement swept through the venue, with fans singing
the iconic chorus in unison.
The concert then took a more energetic turn with
Kusege, driven by sharp percussion and incisive guitar riffs, followed by
Bakamitai., where
Shinya’s voice became more fragile, delivering a poignant tale of regret
and lost love.
The performance reached a peak of intensity with
Kaminiari
ni Utarete, as the drums pounded out a frenetic rhythm, contrasting with the almost screamed delivery of the chorus.
Yumemiru
Superman, an optimistic pop-rock tune that had the crowd bouncing along, brought a more uplifting touch.
Ima wo
Ikirunoda., a true anthem to life, closed this segment with force, the audience chanting the lyrics together in a moment of pure unity.
After a more intimate second MC, where the band members engaged with fans and expressed their gratitude for the support they received,
Saucy Dog chose to soften the mood with
Oyasumi. Under dimmed lights, the gentle chords
and
Shinya’s sincere delivery wrapped the venue in an almost tangible emotion. Finally,
Yasashisa ni
Afureta Sekaide brought the concert to a serene and heartfelt conclusion. The last notes lingered in the air before being met with a roaring ovation.
The audience was so captivated by the band's stage presence that this concert could have easily lasted even
longer. It highlighted
Saucy Dog’s undeniable talent and their ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. It feels safe to say that their music, a blend of rock, pop, and deeply moving ballads, holds a universal appeal that
could resonate with an international audience. Their energy on stage, charisma and authenticity are also assets that could open doors to global stages. The singer’s powerful and nuanced voice carried the lyrics with palpable intensity, while the musicians
demonstrated impressive instrumental mastery. Their chemistry was also undeniable, creating an electric atmosphere that transported the audience.
Saucy Dog is definitely a band to keep an eye on—and, more importantly, to see live! This performance at Zepp Haneda confirmed their status as a major act in the Japanese music scene. With such an exceptional show, an enthusiastic
audience and incredible potential, their future looks bright.
Set list
1. Along the long journey
2. Kemuri
3. Suzume no Akubi
-MC-
4. Cinderella Boy
5. Kusege
6. Bakamitai.
7. Kaminiari ni Utarete
8. Yumemiru Superman
9. Ima wo Ikirunoda.
-MC-
10. Oyasumi
11. Yasahisa ni Afureta Sekaide
