[Concert Review] YOASOBI, ATARASHII GAKKO!, and Ado Deliver an Unforgettable Night in Los Angeles
A Historic Night for J-Pop in the U.S.
The energy inside the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles was electrifying—fans couldn't believe they were witnessing three of Japan’s biggest artists performing back-to-back on the same stage. From the moment the lights dimmed for YOASOBI’s opening set to Ado’s final, powerful note, the crowd was in a constant state of exhilaration.
While the transitions between sets felt a bit long due to the different stage setups required for each artist, the anticipation only added to the excitement. The lineup progression—from YOASOBI’s emotionally rich melodies to ATARASHII GAKKO!’s chaotic precision, culminating in Ado’s intense, theatrical performance—was well-structured, with each act offering something distinct.
YOASOBI: A Cinematic Experience
From the moment YOASOBI took the stage, it was clear this was going to be a visually stunning performance. Their set featured a massive screen displaying synchronized visuals, elevating each song into an almost cinematic experience.
The crowd erupted when "Idol" began, waving their lightsticks in unison, creating a dazzling sea of colors. It was easily the most anticipated moment of their set, reinforcing why the song has become a global phenomenon.
Vocally, YOASOBI was flawless. Ikura’s voice was as crisp and controlled as a studio recording, seamlessly blending with Ayase’s intricate production. Her stage presence was radiant—she moved around the stage, danced with the band members, and shared lighthearted moments with Ayase, making the set feel personal and engaging.
Another standout moment was "Tabun," where the entire venue lit up with phone flashlights, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. The moment was serene, offering a beautiful contrast to their high-energy tracks. "Monster"and "Yoru ni Kakeru" were also highlights, with the crowd enthusiastically singing along.
Visually, their outfits were stunning—a matching cream-white ensemble that exuded a sleek, modern aesthetic. The lighting team deserves major credit for their work, as the entire set felt like a meticulously crafted visual experience.
ATARASHII GAKKO!: A Riot of Energy and Fun
If YOASOBI’s set was cinematic, ATARASHII GAKKO! was pure, controlled chaos. Their performance began in the most unexpected way—emerging from the crowd with flags in hand, marching onto the stage like they were leading a rebellion.
From the first note of "Change," it was clear that the group’s blend of precision and unpredictability would make this set unforgettable. Suzuka’s powerhouse vocals and the group’s signature mix of hard-hitting choreography and exaggerated facial expressions made every second of their set a spectacle.
The audience interaction was next-level—Suzuka walked into the crowd mid-performance, and instead of people swarming her with phones, the fans simply enjoyed the moment, completely engrossed in the performance. It was a rare and refreshing concert experience.
A major highlight was "OTONABLUE," their viral hit that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Their dance break introductions during this song were particularly fun, allowing each member to showcase their unique personalities.
Unlike the other artists, ATARASHII GAKKO! relied purely on their stage presence rather than elaborate visuals. Yet, they didn’t need anything more—their energy was infectious, their vocals remained strong despite the demanding choreography, and their chemistry was unmatched. Their final song, "One Heart," was a brand-new performance, and while unfamiliar to the crowd, it still left everyone wanting more.
Their set felt like a mini-festival within a festival, proving that a group doesn’t need elaborate production to create an unforgettable live experience.
Ado: A Force of Nature
By the time Ado’s set was about to begin, the atmosphere took on a more mysterious tone. The venue staff announced that no photos or videos were allowed, instantly making the moment feel even more exclusive.
At 9:53 PM, the blue box appeared, signaling Ado’s entrance. As soon as she launched into "Show," it became clear why her live performances are so highly regarded. Her voice didn’t just fill the room—it shook it.
Ado’s performance was a masterclass in vocal power and theatrical presence. Songs like "Usseewa" and "New Genesis" had an almost hypnotic grip on the audience. Without any distractions from phone screens, everyone was fully immersed in her commanding presence and the stunning visuals on the screen behind her.
The most striking part of her performance was how her voice carried so much physical intensity—every note felt intentional, raw, and emotionally charged. The set design also enhanced this feeling, with her signature "cage" stage setup creating a sense of isolation and intensity that fit her music perfectly.
Even without direct fan interaction, Ado’s performance felt intimate yet overwhelming in the best way possible. It was a fitting end to a night filled with genre-defining performances.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for J-Pop in the U.S.
This concert was more than just a showcase of Japanese talent—it was a statement. The production quality was on par with major global tours, setting a new standard for J-Pop concerts in the U.S.
Each artist brought something completely unique to the stage:
YOASOBI delivered a seamless, visually breathtaking experience.
ATARASHII GAKKO! turned the venue into a full-blown party, proving that personality and stage presence can be just as powerful as massive production.
Ado closed the night with an overwhelming display of raw vocal talent and theatrical storytelling.
If this concert is a sign of what’s to come, the future of J-Pop in the U.S. is looking brighter than ever. Japanese artists are no longer just entering the international stage—they’re owning it.
