[Concert Review] SPYAIR at Anime Expo Chibi – A Triumphant Return to U.S. Stages
Even before SPYAIR took the stage at Anime Expo Chibi in Ontario, the air around the venue was electric. Fans had been waiting all afternoon, some camped by the barricades for hours after the sumo exhibition ended. Cosplayers in every direction, Japanese rock echoing through the halls — it was clear that this wasn’t just another anime convention performance. It was a long-awaited reunion.
A Crowd That Waited (and Stayed)
We arrived around 10:30 AM, parked across the street, and joined the growing line of fans buzzing with anticipation. By 6 PM, the outdoor stage area was already packed as two opening acts, Blue Moon Sanitizer and Black Crystal, delivered anime-inspired covers that set the tone for the night. By 8 PM, the barricade crowd had doubled, a sea of glow sticks and banners waving high for SPYAIR.
When the band stepped out for their sound check, cheers erupted instantly. They casually ran through Imagination — just a sound check — but even the security guards were impressed. One turned to us and said, “They’re really good live,” not realizing that wasn’t even the show yet.
The Return of SPYAIR
At 8:15 PM sharp, the lights dimmed, smoke filled the stage, and the opening riff of Genjou Destruction kicked off the night. From that moment on, it was pure adrenaline. Vocalist Yosuke, who officially joined the band in 2023, proved he’s fully found his place among longtime members UZ (guitar), Momiken (bass), and Kenta (drums).
Yosuke’s powerful delivery and warm charisma bridged the crowd immediately, switching between Japanese and English with gratitude and energy. “We love anime,” he said, “and anime connects all of us — fans and SPYAIR together.”
The band ripped through a 13-song set that perfectly balanced their iconic anime hits with newer material.
The Setlist
Genjou Destruction
I’m a Believer
Wadachi
One Day
Last Moment
AO
Sakuramitsutsuki
RE-BIRTH
Chase the Shine
RAGE OF DUST
Samurai Heart (Some Like It Hot!!)
Orange
Encore: Imagination
Highlights from the Night
When Sakuramitsutsuki (from Gintama) started, the entire crowd jumped in sync, shouting lyrics word for word. It felt like a finale mid-set. RAGE OF DUST brought thunderous energy, while Orange — featured in the Haikyuu!! movie — had everyone swaying and singing along, even those new to the band.
But the encore, Imagination, was something else. The live arrangement was looser, more playful, with Yosuke interacting with fans, encouraging them to shout every chorus. It was the perfect closer for a crowd that had waited years for this moment.
A Personal Touch
Two fans from San Francisco brought a handmade SPYAIR banner that quickly became part of the night’s story. During the show’s end, UZ and Yosuke noticed it, picked it up, and later took it backstage for photos — proof of just how connected SPYAIR remains to their fanbase. When they reappeared to thank the audience one last time, drummer Kenta tossed his sticks into the crowd, and UZ handed his guitar pick to the banner’s creator.
As the night wound down, we happened to walk near the band as they exited the venue. “Thank you, please come back again!” we shouted. Yosuke turned, smiled, and replied in English: “Next year!”
If that promise holds true, SPYAIR’s next U.S. appearance will be one fans won’t dare miss.
