Reformed in June 2016, Esprit D’Air is a DIY and self-signed rock and metal band consisting of Kai on vocals and guitar, Ellis on bass and Daishi on drums.
Esprit D’Air is an award-winning Japanese rock and metal band that defies conventions with their powerful blend of heavy riffs, melodic interludes, and cutting-edge electronic elements. Reformed in 2016, the London-based band, led by vocalist and guitarist Kai (current guitarist of The Sisters Of Mercy), operates independently under their DIY ethos, handling every aspect of their music from production to tour bookings and promotions through their own label, Starstorm Records.
Esprit D’Air’s debut album, Constellations (2017), was a defining moment in their career, earning widespread critical acclaim and setting the stage for their success. The album not only solidified the band’s reputation but also earned Esprit D’Air the “Best Metal Album” award at the Independent Music Awards in 2018, judged by a panel featuring Amy Lee from Evanescence, Slayer, and Sepultura, an accolade that celebrated their artistry and self-sufficient approach.
Check out Esprit D’air music video ‘『津波』’ below.
Their critically acclaimed sophomore album, Oceans (2022), showcased Esprit D’Air’s genre-fluid sound, blending progressive metal, djent, and power metal with digital synths, which includes fan-favorites Leviathan (as featured on BBC Radio, Loudwire, and Kerrang! Radio), and viral track Tsunami. The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Ben Christo (The Sisters Of Mercy) and Ryo Kinoshita (ex-Crystal Lake), earning a perfect 10/10 rating from Powerplay Magazine. It debuted at #8 on the UK Rock and Metal Albums Chart and #5 on the UK Album Downloads Chart, further cementing the band’s place in the music scene.
Listen to huge hit ‘Leviathan’.
Notable for their vibrant live performances, Esprit D’Air has headlined major venues across Europe and beyond, including sold-out shows in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Poland, France, Hungary, Spain, and beyond. Their charismatic stage presence and electrifying energy have made their live performances a must-see for fans worldwide.
2024 saw the release of Seasons, a collection of reworked tracks, new compositions, and powerful covers—entering #13 in the Official Album Downloads Chart. The album includes a cover of Iron Maiden’s iconic The Trooper, featuring the legendary Tim “Ripper” Owens, ex-vocalist of Judas Priest. The inclusion of such a high-profile collaboration highlights the band’s versatility and ability to pay homage to classic metal while bringing their unique flavor to the genre.
Check out Esprit D’air music video ‘The Trooper’ (feat. Tim “Ripper” Owens & Ben Christo) below.
Esprit D’Air’s commitment to independence fuels their creativity and connection with their audience. With sold-out tours spanning internationally, they continue to push boundaries, proving that true artistry thrives beyond the constraints of major labels.
Seasons & Aeons Tour 2025:
22.03.2025: Bristol, GB, Marble Factory
23.03.2025: Manchester, GB, Academy 2
24.03.2025: Newcastle upon Tyne, GB, Riverside
25.03.2025: Glasgow, GB, The Garage
26.03.2025: London, GB, Electric Ballroom
15.04.2025: Antwerp, BE, Kavka Zappa
16.04.2025: Cologne, DE, Essigfabrik
17.04.2025: Hamburg, DE, Knust
18.04.2025: Eindhoven, NL, Effenaar
20.04.2025: Berlin, DE, Columbia Theater
21.04.2025: Prague, CZ, Rock Café
22.04.2025: Kraków, PL, Klub Studio
23.04.2025: Budapest, HU, Barba Negra
24.04.2025: Milan, IT, Legend Club
27.04.2025: Madrid, ES, Mon Madrid
28.04.2025: Barcelona, ES, Razzmatazz 2
Let’s see what Kai has to say about Vocalzone!
“Performing night after night can take a toll, especially with the range and intensity Esprit D’Air songs require. Vocalzone keeps me in top form while also being vegan and sugar-free, which makes it even better.”
Follow Esprit D’Air on Bandsintown to see where they are performing next!