Split Tour 2024 April 21

Split Tour 2024 Sunday, April 21 at CLUB UPSET

My idea of a night on the town is losing hearing in one or both ears while on my way to the emergency room because I hit the wrong guy, who had the indecency to block my view of the band. 

I bathe in Jpunk and any LOUD music. You won't find me digging shoegaze, club music, electronica, or heavy synth vocals–unless a date is involved.

So, those who know me will be surprised to see me in the crowd this Sunday, April 21, as the SPLIT 2024 tour descends on the tiny (well, 250-person tiny) Club Upset tucked away down the narrow streets of Ikeshita in Nag's East End.

The bill for this gig comprises three acts that seem to have only one thing in common—THEY HAVE ALMOST NOTHING IN COMMON!

I am a regular at this live spot and often go just to soak up the overtly unimpressed vibe of the door staff. And there is one thing I know for sure—this place is always ready to spring a surprise because they definitely aren't in it for the money.

So when I saw the bill for Sundday's gig, I was puzzled.  

First, we have the definitively J Pop but NOT Heavenstamp. This act is followed by Japanese-Spanish-Philipino guitarist DURAN, the dude you wanted to be when you first started playing guitar... then, inexplicably, an alternate universe descends in the form of the Czech band Eden in Leden.

Take my money!

Hevenstamp

Hevenstamp is an enigmatic duo that is frankly derivative—but in a good way. They have picked the locks of guitar rock, post-punk, shoegaze, and even the dark corners of club music, creating a captivating and enigmatic sound that has led to collaborations with Bloc Party's guitarist Russell Lissack and the remix of their work by Animal Collective.

This is not just some other JBand with a YouTube playlist.

http://heavenstamp.net/

DURAN

Duran is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and sonic powerhouse. Born in Japan, raised in the Philippines, and fueled by a blend of Spanish-Filipino and Japanese heritage.

From piano prodigy at three to guitar virtuoso at fourteen, Duran's musical journey is a testament to raw talent and relentless passion.

But here's the thing - you can't pin this guy down. His versatility freaks you out. Come for fuzz-laden riffs, and stay for the soul-stirring vocals.

https://duranguitar.com/

Eden in Leden

Czech mates Pavel Raboch and David Havas forged a partnership out of desperation to break free from the confines of their local big-beat scene. They crafted their sonic landscape by experimenting with synths, vocals, and unconventional instrumentation. 

With the addition of drummer David Bursa and bass synth player Anastasia Vrublevská, the band's sound evolved into a dynamic fusion of raw energy and ethereal melodies.

Their live performances blur the line between reality and imagination, electrifying shoe steppers with unapologetic authenticity.

https://www.edeninleden.com/en/

The Details

Venue: CLUB UPSET

Website

Open: 18:30 / Start: 19:00

Tickets: 

Advance: ¥4,000 (Students ¥2,000)
Door: ¥4,500 (Students ¥2,500)

MAP

Pro Tip:

Plan to set out early. While it's just a minute from the station, it is difficult to find if it's your first time. Plus, it's on the 5th floor, and you have to walk up. Don't be the idiot who shows up last.

The Buzz:

CLUB UPSET is a popular live spot for a reason. The sound system is truly impressive.