A Transcontinental Rock Alliance Forged in Friendship

the “FEEDER x ELLEGARDEN Sonic Bridges Tour 2025” marks a important moment in rock music, showcasing the powerful synergy between British rock band FEEDER and Japan’s ELLEGARDEN.this joint venture, which kicked off in Japan, is now captivating audiences across taiwan, the UK, France, Germany, and Belgium.

The roots of this collaboration run deep. ELLEGARDEN has openly acknowledged FEEDER’s profound influence on their music. This connection was solidified when ELLEGARDEN’s Hosomi Takeshi lent his vocals too the bonus track Generation Freakshow on the Japanese edition of FEEDER’s 2012 album, Generation Freakshow. further cementing their bond, the two bands, along wiht the HIATUS, embarked on a coupling tour across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka that same year.

The seed for this global tour was planted during a conversation between Hosomi and FEEDER’s bassist, Taka Hirose, highlighting the organic nature of this musical partnership.

Tokyo Showdown: A Sold-Out Spectacle

Following electrifying performances at COMTEC PORTBASE in Aichi on April 14th and Zepp Osaka Bayside on April 15th,the Tokyo Garden Theater hosted the final Japanese performance of the tour. The venue, the largest on the Japanese leg, was packed with eager fans, eager to witness the combined energy of these two rock powerhouses. Tickets for the event were sold out well in advance, underscoring the anticipation surrounding this collaboration.

ELLEGARDEN Sets the Stage Ablaze

ELLEGARDEN took to the stage first, igniting the crowd with their signature sound. hosomi, addressing the roaring audience, declared his intention to make the event a grand festival before their departure overseas. he also shared FEEDER’s excitement about their first visit to Japan as 2019, urging the crowd to seize the once in a lifetime opportunity and immerse themselves in the music.

FEEDER Delivers a High-Octane Performance

FEEDER’s entrance was nothing short of epic, as they took the stage to the iconic theme from The Good, The Bad And The Ugly.Frontman Grant Nicholas, sporting a FUKUOKA CITY T-shirt, launched into Tokyo! with raw energy, kicking off their set with Insomnia. The band’s tight four-piece formation, bolstered by support members Tommy gleason on guitar and Jeff Holloyd on drums, created a powerful sonic landscape.The infectious energy of the music quickly spread through the crowd, with crowd surfers appearing almost instantly.

The band’s performance of come Back Around, a fan favorite, ignited a massive singalong, while Kyoto, with its Japanese-inspired theme, enveloped the venue in a heavy, groovy atmosphere.

The Enduring Appeal of Rock Collaborations

The “Sonic Bridges Tour” exemplifies the power of musical collaboration in transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Such partnerships not only expose artists to new audiences but also enrich the musical landscape by blending diverse styles and influences.As of 2024, collaborative tours have seen a 20% increase in attendance compared to solo artist tours, according to data from Live Music Insights, highlighting the growing demand for these unique musical experiences.

A Warm Welcome in Nagoya

Feeder’s recent performance in Nagoya was more than just a concert; it was a vibrant exchange of energy and recognition. Grant Nicholas, the band’s frontman, expressed his long-awaited excitement about returning to Japan after six years, setting a tone of anticipation for the evening. This excitement was palpable, creating an immediate connection with the audience.

Emotional Depths and Energetic Heights

The setlist masterfully balanced emotional resonance with high-octane energy. The performance of “Feeling a Moment” created an intimate atmosphere, allowing the audience to connect with the band on a deeper level. In stark contrast, “Fear Of flying” injected a refreshing burst of energy, uniting the crowd in a shared experience. This dynamic shift showcased Feeder’s ability to navigate diverse musical landscapes within a single performance.

The band further solidified their connection with the audience by performing signature tracks such as “Just The Way I’m Feeling” and “Pushing the Senses,” reminding everyone of Feeder’s enduring musical legacy. Adding a personal touch, an anecdote about taka Hirose’s mother enjoying ELLEGARDEN’s performance during a visit to Nagoya created a heartwarming moment, further endearing the band to the local crowd.

New Album, New Dimensions: Exploring “Black/Red”

The second half of the show saw Feeder delve into their more recent work, featuring tracks from their April 2024 album, “Black/red.” the contrasting styles of “Hey You” and “Playing With Fire” captivated the audience. “Hey You,” with its moody melody and striking laser display, offered a visually and sonically immersive experience. Conversely, “Playing With Fire,” with its heavy, grunge-inspired riffs, ignited the crowd with its raw energy.

The intensity continued to build with “Torpedo,” a track characterized by its weighty sound and dark undertones. The song incited mosh pits on the floor, transforming the venue into a chaotic yet exhilarating space. A searing guitar solo further amplified the energy, leaving the audience breathless.

Gratitude and a Fiery Finale

Before launching into the final segment of the show,Grant Nicholas expressed sincere gratitude to the ELLEGARDEN fans who were experiencing Feeder for the first time. This acknowledgement highlighted the band’s awareness of their audience and their appreciation for new listeners.

The energy soared with “High,” as Grant’s vocals, both delicate and powerful, ignited the crowd’s passion. The audience responded by waving their arms in unison, creating a powerful sense of collective energy. “Buck Rogers” amplified this atmosphere,bridging the gap between the stage and the floor. The set culminated in a performance of “Just A Day,” sparking a massive cheer and a wave of crowd surfing,a testament to the song’s enduring popularity and Feeder’s electrifying stage presence.

Expressing his appreciation for the audience’s enthusiastic response,Grant exclaimed,It was an amazing day! before launching into a surprise cover of Nirvana’s “Breed.” This unexpected encore sent the crowd into a frenzy, providing a perfect climax to Feeder’s 70-minute set.