I was big into Lovebites before you really made the turn, being more of a oldschool metalhead, and with bands like Iron Maiden being among my all time favorites. So I was gobsmacked when Miho announced her departure, though in retrospect, if you watched her demeanor in the last few live sets, you could see something was off. Not musically, which was tight as ever, but Miho seemed detached, emotionally, from her surroundings. Japanese bands are pretty tight lipped about their personals (respect!), but I always felt it was a combo of never quite getting over the loss of her father (Journey to the Other Side is in his memory), the amount of idle time the Pandemic left her with her doubts/depression, and possibly a split in direction for the sound of the band. Regardless that's speculation, and I wish nothing but the best for Miho with her current and future pursuits. I have been very happy with what Fami has brought to the band, in her technique, attitude and energy. She is insanely talented, and on the whole a more technical bass player than Miho (Miho herself focused on show and energy over straight technique by her own words). SO I am delighted to see that the first Metal Band I have truly fallen in love with since discovering Nightwish 16 years ago, not only didn't break up, but is rising, showing that in their own words they CAN build it again. My sole disappointment has been the manner in which so many fans have suddenly taken embracing Fami as an oppurtunity to shit on Miho. Even Alan on his Dicodec channel has tossed some shade, though I doubt it was intentional (just Alan's usual Monster imbued bull in a china shop approach to.. well... everything, lol). And I find that truly petty and sad. Miho is and was a great bass player, very much in the vein of Steve Harris, whom nobody would think to belittle the skills of. And when I hear folk say "Oh tapping, well Miho NEVER did that" (incorrect, she did in Holy Wars, and EXTENSIVELY in their cover of Eagles Fly Free), or "Oh, a bass intro, Miho never did that! (Again, wrong, Scream For Me has a very similar bass intro), it tells me that folk either really don't know the Lovebites discography well, or are just easily excited by flash. Neither of which allows for a fair appraisal of Miho's skill, or importance to the band (which literally would not exist without her). And none of that is to diminish Fami. Fami is the future. And her skill set will indeed bring a lot of great things to Lovebites going forward. But the entire Album is available on Lovebite's youtube playlists. And this may shock people? But aside from a handful of instances? She is playing the exact same role Miho did, and most people on a listen would never know it was two different bassists. But even as you mentioned, Fami had to learn new techniques herself, such as Miho's gallop. The real test will come down to endurance though. Because if you isolate most of Miho's basslines, they are every bit an exercise in sheer stamina that Haruna's double kicks are. And from what we've seen with Fami, she is just as desirous to be busy. I do hope she will be able to do it on a full tour schedule 2-3 hrs a night though, which is one helluva lot different than anything she has done yet. I expect some of that might be playing into the somewhat light announced touring schedule, to give her a chance to get into the swing. Just look at how much the US tour took out of poor Mincho after the 2 years off from the pandemic. Regardless, well done video, apologies for my rambling, currently fighting COVID and the attendant brain fog. But I very much look forward to what the rejuvenated, resurrected Lovebites has in store for us. And equally await to see what projects Miho lands upon in the future.
I always felt Miho's bass playing was a bit underappreciated: that absolute Rock-of-Gibraltar foundational playing, always in time, always in sync with the drums, is a hallmark of her bass idol Steve Harris, and it's not an easy thing to do over the course of a long set. No, Miho isn't (from anything I've heard her do) the technical player Fami is, but that doesn't mean she lacks chops. Technique is a bit relative. Hell, in Miyako's own words "Midori is faster and more technical than I am," but that doesn't mean Miyako isn't capable of very technical playing. Miho's got skills. That said, I'm very impressed with how Fami has integrated her style so far. I was already familiar with her from her TH-cam channel, and I'll admit I had reservations about how her complex, percussive style was going to work in the context of this band. It seemed it might fit better in a band like Gacharic Spin/Doll$Boxx, as it's not dissimilar to Koga. Turns out she seems to have understood from the get-go just how to make that style fit...when to emphasize it, and (more importantly) when NOT to. She recognizes when "Steve Harris mode" is called for, just like Miho did. That is the mark of a sophisticated musician, and a rare level of awareness in someone only 20 years old. When she _does_ amp up the shred factor, it works beautifully (her playing underneath the trade-off guitar solos in "Judgment Day" being an exquisite example). Lovebites made a great choice. Along with the Down Dope Squad cover project, Miho is playing a show next month as guest bassist for Moth in Lilac. I didn't realize she was even acquainted with Lisa13, but I have no doubt she'll nail the rattle-y metalcore bass sound that NaluchaRos brought to MiL.
@Eyeosphere00 love Miho she is the founder of this incredible band excellent bassist song writer and showman she will be missed in the band. I see Fami as bringing a different dimension to the group cause of her much younger age and will bring her followers on as well which is over 650,000 on You Tube.
Absolutely agree with everything you said, especially paragraph six. One thing I'd like to add is a big part of playing Metal is attitude and Miho had it in spades. You can't perform in front of a seasoned Metal crowd and fake it, it won't work.
@Eyeosphere00 no one is obligated to do assignments for you. I've only just met you, and haven't found anything of value offered by your responses or, in fact that disprove my point. So I'm sure the hell not taking homework assignments from you.
This was a great video wave well done and I ain’t going to lie there was a few spots in there that brought back the memories of when Miho and LOVEBITES made the announcement and it brought back the tears…but it’s nice to see them back at it and determined more than ever to do what they do best play heavy metal 🤘
Very good and impressing summary of that time of changes. Thank you so much for sharing these pieces of information and your knowledge with us. Your appreciation for Lovebites clearly comes through, and why should it not. They are an exceptional and outstanding, a unique, an incomparable band. A phenomenon. I am running out of descriptions. It still feels so unreal to me, that I got to know them (= heard of their existence) just 5 weeks ago, and that I already feel deeply connected with them and their purpose to shine a light in the Metal world. Often I think, "They are too good to be true." In my opinion, Fami fits in just perfectly. My she be one more diamond in the midst of the other four.
Thanks for this Wave. I was one of those that LOVEBITES had grown to be my favorite band and really thought it was over. I was so happy that the band has regrouped and really enjoy the new lineup and album. Continue the good work. Peace
Add the fact that Fami already had a huge fan base. She has more subscribers than the band itself, who will almost certainly support the band because of her, and become new fans.
Fami was clearly the best choice. I watched the full documentary today and it shows even more why Fami was chosen. In the video, Fami also shares her background with heavy metal music, which erased the remaining doubs I had.
I still need to watch the full audition stuff, that's interesting to know about Fami's background, as on her own channel it was pretty much not a thing at all. I wasn't too worried, since Asami had no Metal background, but was curious... from what I saw on Fami's channel, it made me think or the story of Les Claypool trying out for Metallica and basically Metallic saying.. naw man.. you'd get bored .. you should do your own thing! So Fami feeling stifled was actually more a concern for me than her ability to blend in.
@@bishopsteiner7134 I agree. I have made the Claypool comparison many times. Not everyone "gets it", but I see you do. I don't think Fami will feel stifled, I'm pretty sure they will let her explore her creativity. It seems like they wanted someone like Fami. They could have picked Ichinose, but they went with Fami for a reason.
Fami Fami Fami! yes Wave I was one of those that deeply felt the loss of Miho (although they are not My favourite band) but was ready and willing to stick with them thru that hiatus, just knowing it would be ok and that they would find somebody to fill the spot that would best suit them as a group rather than JUST a Musician.
Thank you for a really impressive summary of 18 months of angst and two months of bliss. And two weeks today, I get to stand in front of Fami as she takes the stage to an audience for the very first time. Rest assured she will get a welcome she could only have dreamt of.
Wave, excellent video. Fami does have a sparkle to her, no doubt. Probably the worst thing Lovebites could have done was hire another Miho. Losing such a great part of your band requires out of the box thinking to find someone who can be different and had to the texture of the music. I love what I have heard so far from Fami in Lovebites.
@@ChadTheDragonLord I consider this. Without Miho, there is no Lovebites. Though she is not with the band any more she will never be a true ex-member. She will always be a member just an inactive member. From Miho's announcement on Aug 17, 2021, we know she is always going to wish the best for Lovebites and he friends. I bet she is as happy as anyone. I wish Miho the best with Down Dope Squad and her future.
That was really a great summary. I'm happy, that they've had a great bassist and band leader then, and they have a great bassist now, that fits perfectly into this group. My few doubts were soon blown away, and I feel, that they go through a very natural development. During the hiatus, they've gotten even better. That 4th album "Judgement Day" is insane, although it wasn't a very easy process!
Nice summary Wave. I'm blown away by how well Fami has integrated with the band so far. I think the first live gig will be her real test, given that her entire career to date has been playing to a camera and an online audience. Hopefully she will overcome any initial nerves and feed off the energy of the crowd. I wonder if they've thought of holding a preliminary shakedown show, appearing at a smaller venue under an assumed name? Some bigger bands have done this, including Nightwish when they were getting back on the road. Also a great thrill for the audience who are in the know. And it would give Fami the chance to acclimatise as it were to live performing, before the pressure of the first major public show.
Fami has played live, albeit to a small audience. In fact the drummer on that occasion was Hideki Aoyama, who's part of the Kami Band that backs Babymetal. She did the vocals as well on that song.
I think that is why they only scheduled two shows in March and waited until the Fall to schedule the full Japan tour. To give Fami a chance to settle in with the band.
Excellent summary! Having just finding out that FAMI has never played in front of a live audience before it is hard to imagine what that would be like? 20 years old joining arguably the best live metal band in the world today is mind blowing! Hope the members give her the support she might need. What an awesome experience for her!
@@CrYou575 Just reiterating actual quotes by her that she has never played in front of a concert audience before and is really excited about it. Well aware that she has played with those you mentioned. th-cam.com/video/Wy1r0jfw5R8/w-d-xo.html no concert audience
I had seen Lovebites live back in 2018, and twice last June. I have to say I have seen a much more exciting live band than I had in 2018, and I give most of the credits to Fami for that. I am not talking music, but stage attitude and relationship with the audience. It looks like Fami is giving energy and stage freedom to all the members, especially Asami and Midori who make an awesome stage trio with Fami. Fami is so happy to be there than she makes everybody happy, including of course the audience. Even Miyako is little less icequeen than she used to be. Well subtle differences, but she sometimes showed some emotion on stage when paying attention to it. :) Miho is a very talented and charming lady and she created the band from scratch, but as I read now and then she probably felt some guilt to have been overbusy with the band at the time her father passed away, and the shadow of that dead man sometimes seemed to float over the band on stage since 2018. That is now all gone with Fami's young optimism and energy.
Fami is a slapper, not proper fit for metal. She minimizes it, so that's good, but there should be 0. She's very good, more skilled, actually, as I've been subbed to her bass channel for a long time, but Miho was the better, proper, fit. Imagine a slap bassist in Iron Maiden, it would sound silly. As I said, Fami minimizes it, but it still comes out at times.
Another story about miho. Long ago, there were two elementary school girls who met in a chat room of a video game console. Because of the distance between Tokyo and Osaka, they aparted without ever meeting in person. Later, one became a popular video streamer and the other become a musician and dreamed of success. Around 2010, the musician realized that she was the friend of the chat partner through video streaming and hoped to eventually meet her in person. She was miho, who would later form LOVEBITES. Then, in April 2021, during a live tour in Osaka, miho made a surprise visit to a bar run by the streamer girl. Thrilled to see each other again after 20 years, they reminisced. The heartful story soon became a hot topic on SNS in Japan, and even made the Internet news. But… Unbeknownst to anyone at the time, miho would announce to leave the band four months later. The Osaka concert was the last time miho performed as a member of LOVEBITES.
We will see if she fits the band, the judgement on her is still open, we have to see her live performances and on the next album what influence she has on the band, and will she write songs for LoveBites?
Miho left Lovebites for the same reason that Fami was searching to join Lovebites - trying to decide what it meant to be musicians and trying to decide what to do next. The stars aligned for the two.
No. She's a slapper, not proper fit for metal. She minimizes it, so that's good, but there should be 0. She's very good, more skilled, actually, as I've been subbed to her bass channel for a long time, but Miho was the better, proper, fit.
Miho is beautiful and cute, smart and rocker, Fami is funy, smiler and smart too. I prefer to Miho, ut is just my personal like. Both of them are fantastic.
Hey Wave, what about watching or even reacting to "Bocchi the rock"? I saw a few thumbnails for it in your video (Kessoku band). It's such a great, wholesome and funny show, taking place in the japanese indie music scene.
Judgment Day studio record is stunning. But the incredible thing is Judgment Day live, where they made an already emotional and complex song even more difficult.
The fact is that Miho was obsessed with heavy music and it was she who, one might say, created this image of Lovebites by instilling this core of metal in everyone. Fami came to the group “not from metal,” as they say now, and this is clearly visible from her, including from her appearance on stage. We'll see what happens next.
Fami is super awesome. I admire her talent, especially since she is so young. She is super solid as a bass player, plus she is really cute. I like watching her perform live because she's almost always smiling and seeming to enjoy performing.
The irony with Fami is that she almost quit music before finding the opportunity to audition for Lovebites. And it seems to go unmentioned that Rosana:miho was designated as the band leader. Of course, Miyako easily transitions into that role for the band. Although I think Lovebites made the right choice with Fami, the other bassist Aya would have been a good choice as well.
Although I don't quite agree,but thanks for the video! Soon people who "think of themselves as "real fans" of LOVEBITES will come running. They will praise Fami and claim that Miho was not suitable for LOVEBITES. So I'll write a little for the "real fans".🤗 To understand why Miho left, you need to know what happened to her. But most of those who call themselves "real fans of LOVEBITES" do not care about Miho.I have talked a lot with those who consider themselves real "fans" in the last 3 months and I am 100% sure of this. If suddenly someone else leaves the band (Haruna, Midori, Miyako or Asami), they will also start writing everywhere that it was a weak musician (Haruna, Midori, Miyako or Asami). And that the drummer, guitarist, vocalist, etc., who came to replace him, more technical, more experienced, better sounds and so on ..... blah - blah - blah.... Miho left for personal reasons. And it has nothing to do with her skills as a musician. Has she exhausted herself? NO !!! For those who are able to think, I advise you to read Miho's tweet dated August 15, 2021. She left after 2 days, 17 августа 2021 года. You can also read the Twitter post of August 15, 2019 and draw parallels between these two tweets. If your brains are capable of thinking, then maybe you will understand something. Although I highly doubt it...... Now about the claims of "real fans" that Miho is a "weak bassist". And Fami is better. Does this mean that Fami is better than Steve Harrison? Because Miho's game is a lot like Steve Harrison's. If you follow the logic of "real fans", Steve is "weak" against the background of Fami. Oк. If you highlight (make Miho's bass louder) in songs with Miho, as did with Fami's bass in MV "Judgement Day", you will see that Miho's bass sounds great and fits the sound of LOVEBITES. Miho was appreciated in the band. Including for her skills as a bass player. That is why the staff, management, other members of the band HAD A HUGE NUMBER OF MEETINGS. They tried to keep Miho. A huge number of meetings is not one, not two, not ten meetings. It's much more. Why "stupid people" (including Haruna, Midori, Asami, Miyako) ask Miho not to leave the group? Why persuade Miho when there are a huge number of high-class bass players in Japan? LOVEBITES didn't need other bassists ! They needed Miho, BASS MIHO ! If someone disagrees and thinks that Miho is "a weak link" (and other nonsense), then be consistent: forget the previous almost 50 songs with Miho and throw all CDs and DVDs with Miho into the trash cans! I am not a member of the Wolf Pack. And I do not want to become a member of a Pack.
6 days ago Miho commented in a euphemistic way why she left LB. It seems that there is a difference in the way of thinking about metal rock between Miho and the people involved, including the other members. It's sad to blame Miho. If Miho form a new band and plays great, do you keep blaming her? Let's support Miho and Fami. I pray that both Fami and Miho will be evaluated more as bassists.
@Eyeosphere00 I think people who hate Fami just like Miho's metal rock bassist. However, I think that Fami will gradually get along with other members and become a good band.
Love the video. I have to be honest, I was a little bit disappointed when you said they sometimes dress the part of self-centered divas (which yes, you admitted that they are not divas). I have never felt like, or interpreted the way they dress as diva like. Because heavey metal and power metal are so male dominated, I see the way they dress as an expression of the reality that not only are they women in a male dominsted space, but they are truly beautiful feminine women who are able to blow other bands off the stage. I love the juxtaposition that comes from playing power metal, and being very feminine in their appearance. It's the one reason I am so glad they didn't insult their fans by hiring a male bassist. I honestly think it would heve destroyed the band.
Not a Miho/Fami thing but I'm not impressed with new album.....seems like Miyako got her speed bassist and took off. If they come close to Houston some day it would be the only band I would go see....I am still highly impressed by all of them.
All songs on 'Judgement Day' were written & recorded before Fami was chosen. Miyako wrote & played the bass parts & Fami re-recorded them afterward, as written by Miyako, after many hours with Miyako in her home-studio. Apparently Miyako "took off" before she knew of Fami or her skills, & half of music is from 'support composer' Mao. All lyrics are by Asami who also contributes music, as well as Midori ("We Are The Resurrection"). On their March & Sept. 2023 tours, mostly songs from the "Miho era", Fami plays the bass-lines written by Miho with only a few barely noticeable exceptions. Nothing faster than what Miho played.
You said it towards the end. Lovebites has never been my favorite band to watch live. Never seemed happy, not engaged with each other.. family mart seems to be the smile in the band. (inside joke) .
No matter how much I listen to her playing, I can't believe that FAMI is a good bassist. But I want her to do her best. I think it's better not to be too focused on technique and listen to more metal songs. If you do that, FAMI will definitely be able to make this band even greater.
It seems to me like Lovebites is just another Japanese "corporate" band. Miho didn't feel right with that so she left. Just an opinion. Don't get me wrong - I like them a lot (I wouldn't be here in the comments section if I didn't), but I just don't think they're a "real" band.
[2024 edit] You wrote, "Lovebites is just another Japanese "corporate" band." A "corporate" band does not write their own music, lyrics, solos, arrangements, etc. LOVEBITES does. Not a corporation. The corporation (Victor) provides technical & promotion support of the creative, artistic & performance efforts, NOT who is in the band, what or how they play, NOT what they sing or how they sing it. " I just don't think they're a "real" band." Your words. Get in a band & you will acknowledge the reality of what a "real" band is. IF band members choose each other, write music & lyrics, arrange songs, your own parts in them, etc. you are in a "real" band. If a corporation tells you WHO is in the band, WHAT to play, HOW to play it, WHAT to sing, HOW to sing it, WHO sings it, then you are in a "corporate" band. A corporate production. dreg👁
@@thrashingpanic I "know" what you wrote, nothing more about you. I rewrote my reply today. I agree that nothing I write/say will bring understanding to you of what real bands think is a real band. I'm glad you enjoy LOVEBITES and hope you continue to support them whatever your opinion. My rewrite is more for any others who take time to read it...
As competent as Miho is, she wasn't on the level of the rest of the band. Fami is worlds above on an entirely different level. The bass lines she's laying down are so much more complicated and heavy than anything they had before.
I don't mean this as an insult, but that's a truly ignorant statement. Miho was an integral part Destrose and LoveBites, two bands with not only great musician, but also extremely skilled songwriters. I guarantee you have to be a lot more than competent to keep up with a songwriter like Saki. The same goes for being on the same level in a band she co-founded. Musicians like Miyako and Madori are too talented to waste their time joining random bands and they joined partly because of Miho's reputation as a great musician. I think you're confusing technical ability with talent. This is no knock on Fami, because I love her playing, but being a solo technical wizard means nothing when it comes to being the bass player in a band. The bassist's most important job is tying in the drums with guitar and if you can't do that it doesn't matter how complicated your runs are. That level of synchronicity is not easy to find, especially with the complicated music LoveBites writes. Miho did it brilliantly, and contrary to what you think, she also added elite bass playing. I have no doubt Fami will be a great addition to Lovebites, but that shouldn't take away or water down the contributions of Miho. LoveBites WAS great with Miho and WILL continue to be great with Fami.
The main reason for the selection was probably Fami.'s 650,000 SNS subscribers. There is no doubt that technically she is inferior to MIHO. However, without Fami., the restart of lovebites would not have been as smooth.
![[EngSubs] #LOVEBITES Midori & Miyako talk about the Europe Tour | TVK ROCK CITY Jul. 13th 2019](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/BQMNiavJbNo/mqdefault.jpg)
Follow my MAIN channel for more on LOVEBITES! youtube.com/@wavepotter?si=K2s8jv_x-cODPkr4
I was big into Lovebites before you really made the turn, being more of a oldschool metalhead, and with bands like Iron Maiden being among my all time favorites. So I was gobsmacked when Miho announced her departure, though in retrospect, if you watched her demeanor in the last few live sets, you could see something was off. Not musically, which was tight as ever, but Miho seemed detached, emotionally, from her surroundings.
Japanese bands are pretty tight lipped about their personals (respect!), but I always felt it was a combo of never quite getting over the loss of her father (Journey to the Other Side is in his memory), the amount of idle time the Pandemic left her with her doubts/depression, and possibly a split in direction for the sound of the band. Regardless that's speculation, and I wish nothing but the best for Miho with her current and future pursuits.
I have been very happy with what Fami has brought to the band, in her technique, attitude and energy. She is insanely talented, and on the whole a more technical bass player than Miho (Miho herself focused on show and energy over straight technique by her own words). SO I am delighted to see that the first Metal Band I have truly fallen in love with since discovering Nightwish 16 years ago, not only didn't break up, but is rising, showing that in their own words they CAN build it again.
My sole disappointment has been the manner in which so many fans have suddenly taken embracing Fami as an oppurtunity to shit on Miho. Even Alan on his Dicodec channel has tossed some shade, though I doubt it was intentional (just Alan's usual Monster imbued bull in a china shop approach to.. well... everything, lol). And I find that truly petty and sad. Miho is and was a great bass player, very much in the vein of Steve Harris, whom nobody would think to belittle the skills of.
And when I hear folk say "Oh tapping, well Miho NEVER did that" (incorrect, she did in Holy Wars, and EXTENSIVELY in their cover of Eagles Fly Free), or "Oh, a bass intro, Miho never did that! (Again, wrong, Scream For Me has a very similar bass intro), it tells me that folk either really don't know the Lovebites discography well, or are just easily excited by flash. Neither of which allows for a fair appraisal of Miho's skill, or importance to the band (which literally would not exist without her).
And none of that is to diminish Fami. Fami is the future. And her skill set will indeed bring a lot of great things to Lovebites going forward. But the entire Album is available on Lovebite's youtube playlists. And this may shock people? But aside from a handful of instances? She is playing the exact same role Miho did, and most people on a listen would never know it was two different bassists.
But even as you mentioned, Fami had to learn new techniques herself, such as Miho's gallop. The real test will come down to endurance though. Because if you isolate most of Miho's basslines, they are every bit an exercise in sheer stamina that Haruna's double kicks are. And from what we've seen with Fami, she is just as desirous to be busy. I do hope she will be able to do it on a full tour schedule 2-3 hrs a night though, which is one helluva lot different than anything she has done yet. I expect some of that might be playing into the somewhat light announced touring schedule, to give her a chance to get into the swing. Just look at how much the US tour took out of poor Mincho after the 2 years off from the pandemic.
Regardless, well done video, apologies for my rambling, currently fighting COVID and the attendant brain fog. But I very much look forward to what the rejuvenated, resurrected Lovebites has in store for us.
And equally await to see what projects Miho lands upon in the future.
I always felt Miho's bass playing was a bit underappreciated: that absolute Rock-of-Gibraltar foundational playing, always in time, always in sync with the drums, is a hallmark of her bass idol Steve Harris, and it's not an easy thing to do over the course of a long set. No, Miho isn't (from anything I've heard her do) the technical player Fami is, but that doesn't mean she lacks chops. Technique is a bit relative. Hell, in Miyako's own words "Midori is faster and more technical than I am," but that doesn't mean Miyako isn't capable of very technical playing. Miho's got skills.
That said, I'm very impressed with how Fami has integrated her style so far. I was already familiar with her from her TH-cam channel, and I'll admit I had reservations about how her complex, percussive style was going to work in the context of this band. It seemed it might fit better in a band like Gacharic Spin/Doll$Boxx, as it's not dissimilar to Koga. Turns out she seems to have understood from the get-go just how to make that style fit...when to emphasize it, and (more importantly) when NOT to. She recognizes when "Steve Harris mode" is called for, just like Miho did. That is the mark of a sophisticated musician, and a rare level of awareness in someone only 20 years old. When she _does_ amp up the shred factor, it works beautifully (her playing underneath the trade-off guitar solos in "Judgment Day" being an exquisite example). Lovebites made a great choice.
Along with the Down Dope Squad cover project, Miho is playing a show next month as guest bassist for Moth in Lilac. I didn't realize she was even acquainted with Lisa13, but I have no doubt she'll nail the rattle-y metalcore bass sound that NaluchaRos brought to MiL.
Thank you for the well-balanced, sensible, and fair comment on past- as well as present- Lovebites. I'm really impressed and educated!!
@Eyeosphere00 love Miho she is the founder of this incredible band excellent bassist song writer and showman she will be missed in the band. I see Fami as bringing a different dimension to the group cause of her much younger age and will bring her followers on as well which is over 650,000 on You Tube.
Absolutely agree with everything you said, especially paragraph six. One thing I'd like to add is a big part of playing Metal is attitude and Miho had it in spades. You can't perform in front of a seasoned Metal crowd and fake it, it won't work.
@Eyeosphere00 no one is obligated to do assignments for you. I've only just met you, and haven't found anything of value offered by your responses or, in fact that disprove my point. So I'm sure the hell not taking homework assignments from you.
This was a great video wave well done and I ain’t going to lie there was a few spots in there that brought back the memories of when Miho and LOVEBITES made the announcement and it brought back the tears…but it’s nice to see them back at it and determined more than ever to do what they do best play heavy metal 🤘
Very good and impressing summary of that time of changes. Thank you so much for sharing these pieces of information and your knowledge with us.
Your appreciation for Lovebites clearly comes through, and why should it not. They are an exceptional and outstanding, a unique, an incomparable band. A phenomenon. I am running out of descriptions.
It still feels so unreal to me, that I got to know them (= heard of their existence) just 5 weeks ago, and that I already feel deeply connected with them and their purpose to shine a light in the Metal world. Often I think, "They are too good to be true." In my opinion, Fami fits in just perfectly. My she be one more diamond in the midst of the other four.
Thanks for this Wave. I was one of those that LOVEBITES had grown to be my favorite band and really thought it was over. I was so happy that the band has regrouped and really enjoy the new lineup and album. Continue the good work. Peace
Thank you! I’m looking forward to seeing what they do in the future!
Add the fact that Fami already had a huge fan base. She has more subscribers than the band itself, who will almost certainly support the band because of her, and become new fans.
Fami was clearly the best choice. I watched the full documentary today and it shows even more why Fami was chosen. In the video, Fami also shares her background with heavy metal music, which erased the remaining doubs I had.
I still need to watch the full audition stuff, that's interesting to know about Fami's background, as on her own channel it was pretty much not a thing at all. I wasn't too worried, since Asami had no Metal background, but was curious... from what I saw on Fami's channel, it made me think or the story of Les Claypool trying out for Metallica and basically Metallic saying.. naw man.. you'd get bored .. you should do your own thing! So Fami feeling stifled was actually more a concern for me than her ability to blend in.
@@bishopsteiner7134 I agree. I have made the Claypool comparison many times. Not everyone "gets it", but I see you do. I don't think Fami will feel stifled, I'm pretty sure they will let her explore her creativity. It seems like they wanted someone like Fami. They could have picked Ichinose, but they went with Fami for a reason.
This was great Wave! I always look forward to your docs because they're informative and entertaining! Love this one!
I'm glad you like them! Thank you!
Fami Fami Fami! yes Wave I was one of those that deeply felt the loss of Miho (although they are not My favourite band) but was ready and willing to stick with them thru that hiatus, just knowing it would be ok and that they would find somebody to fill the spot that would best suit them as a group rather than JUST a Musician.
Thank you for a really impressive summary of 18 months of angst and two months of bliss. And two weeks today, I get to stand in front of Fami as she takes the stage to an audience for the very first time. Rest assured she will get a welcome she could only have dreamt of.
That's so awesome! Have a blast at the show and thank you for the kind words!
@@wavepotterwellness oh, and I fly there from the U.K. making a holiday of it…🙂🇯🇵
Wave, excellent video. Fami does have a sparkle to her, no doubt.
Probably the worst thing Lovebites could have done was hire another Miho. Losing such a great part of your band requires out of the box thinking to find someone who can be different and had to the texture of the music.
I love what I have heard so far from Fami in Lovebites.
Yes, Fami has a bubbly personality. Miho is much more reserved. They needed someone completely different to move forward and not dwell on the past.
@@ChadTheDragonLord I consider this. Without Miho, there is no Lovebites. Though she is not with the band any more she will never be a true ex-member. She will always be a member just an inactive member.
From Miho's announcement on Aug 17, 2021, we know she is always going to wish the best for Lovebites and he friends. I bet she is as happy as anyone.
I wish Miho the best with Down Dope Squad and her future.
Well said! Thank you Chuck.
@@wavepotterwellness Thanks Wave.
That was really a great summary. I'm happy, that they've had a great bassist and band leader then, and they have a great bassist now, that fits perfectly into this group. My few doubts were soon blown away, and I feel, that they go through a very natural development. During the hiatus, they've gotten even better. That 4th album "Judgement Day" is insane, although it wasn't a very easy process!
great video. thank you wave.
Thank you for watching!
very nice summary sir. thank you.
THAT'S A GREAT VIDEO , WAVE ! YOU NAILED THE WHOLE PROCESS AND HOW THEY FOUND , FAMI !
It will be hard to see videos without Miho, but Fami seems to be a very good fit into the band. There is no doubt that she is extremely talented.
Nice synopsis on the whole scenario. Good info, especially for newer fans, who were not in the wolfpack when this whole thing started.
Wave, another killer mini documentary. Arigatogozaimasu!
Thank you Jonathan! I really appreciate that!
Nice summary Wave. I'm blown away by how well Fami has integrated with the band so far.
I think the first live gig will be her real test, given that her entire career to date has been playing to a camera and an online audience. Hopefully she will overcome any initial nerves and feed off the energy of the crowd.
I wonder if they've thought of holding a preliminary shakedown show, appearing at a smaller venue under an assumed name? Some bigger bands have done this, including Nightwish when they were getting back on the road. Also a great thrill for the audience who are in the know. And it would give Fami the chance to acclimatise as it were to live performing, before the pressure of the first major public show.
Fami has played live, albeit to a small audience. In fact the drummer on that occasion was Hideki Aoyama, who's part of the Kami Band that backs Babymetal. She did the vocals as well on that song.
I think that is why they only scheduled two shows in March and waited until the Fall to schedule the full Japan tour. To give Fami a chance to settle in with the band.
Excellent summary!
Having just finding out that FAMI has never played in front of a live audience before it is hard to imagine what that would be like? 20 years old joining arguably the best live metal band in the world today is mind blowing! Hope the members give her the support she might need.
What an awesome experience for her!
She has though. In 2021 she played with Hideki Aoyama of Babymetal on drums.
@@CrYou575 Just reiterating actual quotes by her that she has never played in front of a concert audience before and is really excited about it. Well aware that she has played with those you mentioned.
th-cam.com/video/Wy1r0jfw5R8/w-d-xo.html
no concert audience
Awesome video, Wave! Thanks for this!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!
Sad memory, time for re-plan(hiatus)+ composing but they move on. Even stronger now..salute to Lovebites
Even the guitars are crying in this song. LOVEBITES is an incredible emotion.
I had seen Lovebites live back in 2018, and twice last June. I have to say I have seen a much more exciting live band than I had in 2018, and I give most of the credits to Fami for that. I am not talking music, but stage attitude and relationship with the audience. It looks like Fami is giving energy and stage freedom to all the members, especially Asami and Midori who make an awesome stage trio with Fami. Fami is so happy to be there than she makes everybody happy, including of course the audience. Even Miyako is little less icequeen than she used to be. Well subtle differences, but she sometimes showed some emotion on stage when paying attention to it. :) Miho is a very talented and charming lady and she created the band from scratch, but as I read now and then she probably felt some guilt to have been overbusy with the band at the time her father passed away, and the shadow of that dead man sometimes seemed to float over the band on stage since 2018. That is now all gone with Fami's young optimism and energy.
Great documentary!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks Juan!
As a metal band bass player, I like Miho's playing style. In MIHO's performance, you can hear the sound flow of the entire band in sync.
I noticed when Fami is playing the same style as Miho in the auditions, Fami still plays it better. I guess it’s not important though.
Fami is a slapper, not proper fit for metal. She minimizes it, so that's good, but there should be 0. She's very good, more skilled, actually, as I've been subbed to her bass channel for a long time, but Miho was the better, proper, fit. Imagine a slap bassist in Iron Maiden, it would sound silly. As I said, Fami minimizes it, but it still comes out at times.
Well Done Wave. 🤘
Another story about miho.
Long ago, there were two elementary school girls who met in a chat room of a video game console.
Because of the distance between Tokyo and Osaka, they aparted without ever meeting in person.
Later, one became a popular video streamer and the other become a musician and dreamed of success.
Around 2010, the musician realized that she was the friend of the chat partner through video streaming and hoped to eventually meet her in person.
She was miho, who would later form LOVEBITES.
Then, in April 2021, during a live tour in Osaka, miho made a surprise visit to a bar run by the streamer girl.
Thrilled to see each other again after 20 years, they reminisced.
The heartful story soon became a hot topic on SNS in Japan, and even made the Internet news.
But…
Unbeknownst to anyone at the time, miho would announce to leave the band four months later.
The Osaka concert was the last time miho performed as a member of LOVEBITES.
"Two elementary school students who met at Dreamcast's, miraculously reunited after 20 years!"
th-cam.com/video/PEKrCnUCihg/w-d-xo.html
she did nail it live you ought to update this to include the recent releases of the videos done live at Heavens Gate
We will see if she fits the band, the judgement on her is still open, we have to see her live performances and on the next album what influence she has on the band, and will she write songs for LoveBites?
Fami is great because she is always smiling.
the opposito to miho she always seem that was upset XD
Miho left Lovebites for the same reason that Fami was searching to join Lovebites - trying to decide what it meant to be musicians and trying to decide what to do next. The stars aligned for the two.
Or maybe destinies aligned?
Fami has taken Lovebites to the next level with her base playing.
No. She's a slapper, not proper fit for metal. She minimizes it, so that's good, but there should be 0. She's very good, more skilled, actually, as I've been subbed to her bass channel for a long time, but Miho was the better, proper, fit.
Fami took Lovebites to the next level as a band
Miho is beautiful and cute, smart and rocker, Fami is funy, smiler and smart too. I prefer to Miho, ut is just my personal like. Both of them are fantastic.
Miho created best Lovebites' songs: Hammer of Wrath, Apocalypse, Break the Wall, MDO and others
Hey Wave, what about watching or even reacting to "Bocchi the rock"?
I saw a few thumbnails for it in your video (Kessoku band). It's such a great, wholesome and funny show, taking place in the japanese indie music scene.
Judgment Day studio record is stunning. But the incredible thing is Judgment Day live, where they made an already emotional and complex song even more difficult.
Fami is the perfect choice... She will bring them to the next level..!! ❤👍
🥺🥺🥺
well said bro.
The fact is that Miho was obsessed with heavy music and it was she who, one might say, created this image of Lovebites by instilling this core of metal in everyone. Fami came to the group “not from metal,” as they say now, and this is clearly visible from her, including from her appearance on stage. We'll see what happens next.
Fami is super awesome. I admire her talent, especially since she is so young. She is super solid as a bass player, plus she is really cute. I like watching her perform live because she's almost always smiling and seeming to enjoy performing.
Good video
🙏🐺❣
I voted for Aya from the start, but FAMI is the perfect musican for LOVEBITES! But Aya would have done a great work too.
Yeah, Aya seems like she would have fit Lovebites as well.
Fami
The irony with Fami is that she almost quit music before finding the opportunity to audition for Lovebites.
And it seems to go unmentioned that Rosana:miho was designated as the band leader. Of course, Miyako easily transitions into that role for the band.
Although I think Lovebites made the right choice with Fami, the other bassist Aya would have been a good choice as well.
Asami seems to have taken over the leader role, IMO.
A lot of us wanted Ichinose. But we are all happy with Fami. Yes, Aya is great too, no doubt.
...how popular miho now?
Although I don't quite agree,but thanks for the video!
Soon people who "think of themselves as "real fans" of LOVEBITES will come running. They will praise Fami and claim that Miho was not suitable for LOVEBITES. So I'll write a little for the "real fans".🤗
To understand why Miho left, you need to know what happened to her. But most of those who call themselves "real fans of LOVEBITES" do not care about Miho.I have talked a lot with those who consider themselves real "fans" in the last 3 months and I am 100% sure of this. If suddenly someone else leaves the band (Haruna, Midori, Miyako or Asami), they will also start writing everywhere that it was a weak musician (Haruna, Midori, Miyako or Asami). And that the drummer, guitarist, vocalist, etc., who came to replace him, more technical, more experienced, better sounds and so on ..... blah - blah - blah....
Miho left for personal reasons. And it has nothing to do with her skills as a musician. Has she exhausted herself? NO !!! For those who are able to think, I advise you to read Miho's tweet dated August 15, 2021. She left after 2 days, 17 августа 2021 года. You can also read the Twitter post of August 15, 2019 and draw parallels between these two tweets. If your brains are capable of thinking, then maybe you will understand something. Although I highly doubt it......
Now about the claims of "real fans" that Miho is a "weak bassist". And Fami is better. Does this mean that Fami is better than Steve Harrison? Because Miho's game is a lot like Steve Harrison's. If you follow the logic of "real fans", Steve is "weak" against the background of Fami. Oк.
If you highlight (make Miho's bass louder) in songs with Miho, as did with Fami's bass in MV "Judgement Day", you will see that Miho's bass sounds great and fits the sound of LOVEBITES. Miho was appreciated in the band. Including for her skills as a bass player. That is why the staff, management, other members of the band HAD A HUGE NUMBER OF MEETINGS. They tried to keep Miho. A huge number of meetings is not one, not two, not ten meetings. It's much more. Why "stupid people" (including Haruna, Midori, Asami, Miyako) ask Miho not to leave the group? Why persuade Miho when there are a huge number of high-class bass players in Japan?
LOVEBITES didn't need other bassists ! They needed Miho, BASS MIHO !
If someone disagrees and thinks that Miho is "a weak link" (and other nonsense), then be consistent: forget the previous almost 50 songs with Miho and throw all CDs and DVDs with Miho into the trash cans!
I am not a member of the Wolf Pack. And I do not want to become a member of a Pack.
@Eyeosphere00 fami is better tho
Miho is a great bass player. Fami is an elite bass player. That does not make Miho "weak". Miho admitted herself that she isn''t an elite bassist.
No one ever said that Miho was not suitable for Lovebites. Where did you get that from?
6 days ago Miho commented in a euphemistic way why she left LB.
It seems that there is a difference in the way of thinking about metal rock between Miho and the people involved, including the other members.
It's sad to blame Miho. If Miho form a new band and plays great, do you keep blaming her?
Let's support Miho and Fami.
I pray that both Fami and Miho will be evaluated more as bassists.
@@junkgroovejunk where's the link?
🇺🇸🤠❤️⚡Miho🌸
6 days ago Miho commented in a euphemistic way why she left LB.
I pray that both Fami and Miho will be evaluated more as bassists.
link?
@@lianshadowmaker7834
th-cam.com/video/rwE6jmdUKDI/w-d-xo.html&lc=Ugwtnv8q5JBVeqX-5k54AaABAg.9mMLP9GVZm79mY4goOIBNy
@@lianshadowmaker7834 I think it's this th-cam.com/video/rwE6jmdUKDI/w-d-xo.html&feature=shares
@Eyeosphere00 I think people who hate Fami just like Miho's metal rock bassist. However, I think that Fami will gradually get along with other members and become a good band.
Love the video. I have to be honest, I was a little bit disappointed when you said they sometimes dress the part of self-centered divas (which yes, you admitted that they are not divas). I have never felt like, or interpreted the way they dress as diva like. Because heavey metal and power metal are so male dominated, I see the way they dress as an expression of the reality that not only are they women in a male dominsted space, but they are truly beautiful feminine women who are able to blow other bands off the stage. I love the juxtaposition that comes from playing power metal, and being very feminine in their appearance. It's the one reason I am so glad they didn't insult their fans by hiring a male bassist. I honestly think it would heve destroyed the band.
She's awesome! Just like the whole band!
Not a Miho/Fami thing but I'm not impressed with new album.....seems like Miyako got her speed bassist and took off. If they come close to Houston some day it would be the only band I would go see....I am still highly impressed by all of them.
All songs on 'Judgement Day' were written & recorded before Fami was chosen. Miyako wrote & played the bass parts & Fami re-recorded them afterward, as written by Miyako, after many hours with Miyako in her home-studio.
Apparently Miyako "took off" before she knew of Fami or her skills, & half of music is from 'support composer' Mao.
All lyrics are by Asami who also contributes music, as well as Midori ("We Are The Resurrection").
On their March & Sept. 2023 tours, mostly songs from the "Miho era", Fami plays the bass-lines written by Miho with only a few barely noticeable exceptions. Nothing faster than what Miho played.
You said it towards the end. Lovebites has never been my favorite band to watch live. Never seemed happy, not engaged with each other.. family mart seems to be the smile in the band. (inside joke) .
They could not have made a better choice.
No matter how much I listen to her playing, I can't believe that FAMI is a good bassist. But I want her to do her best.
I think it's better not to be too focused on technique and listen to more metal songs. If you do that, FAMI will definitely be able to make this band even greater.
Video about nothing. Miho is out, Fami is in.
It is done as historical fact,..months ago. Fami fits, end of story.
I kinda agree. I don't think videos like this are needed as they only produce conflicts as shown in the comments.
I think it's the people who produce the conflicts. Not my video. See above.
@@wavepotterwellness Fair. Also it's extremely well-researched and well-done.
@@cepho8349 thank you! I’m hoping it’ll help anyone who watches appreciate the band and Fami on a personal level.
Gotta say, Miho's provocative sexiness is something that Fami hasn't showed yet.
They should have got Rio, from Mary’s Blood
Nope. Rio didn't want the gig anyway. As far as I know, she never applied.
Nah, Fami is the perfect choice.
Me here, weill never knew LoveBites if not because Fami,
and i m interested in Fami because of Davie 😆
It seems to me like Lovebites is just another Japanese "corporate" band. Miho didn't feel right with that so she left. Just an opinion. Don't get me wrong - I like them a lot (I wouldn't be here in the comments section if I didn't), but I just don't think they're a "real" band.
[2024 edit]
You wrote, "Lovebites is just another Japanese "corporate" band."
A "corporate" band does not write their own music, lyrics, solos, arrangements, etc.
LOVEBITES does. Not a corporation.
The corporation (Victor) provides technical & promotion support of the creative, artistic & performance efforts,
NOT who is in the band, what or how they play, NOT what they sing or how they sing it.
" I just don't think they're a "real" band." Your words.
Get in a band & you will acknowledge the reality of what a "real" band is.
IF band members choose each other, write music & lyrics, arrange songs, your own parts in them, etc.
you are in a "real" band.
If a corporation tells you WHO is in the band, WHAT to play, HOW to play it, WHAT to sing, HOW to sing it, WHO sings it,
then you are in a "corporate" band. A corporate production.
dreg👁
@@dregeyeI believe you know very well what I meant. If I'm wrong and you don't know, then no amount of explaining will help you understand.
@@thrashingpanic I "know" what you wrote, nothing more about you. I rewrote my reply today.
I agree that nothing I write/say will bring understanding to you of what real bands think is a real band.
I'm glad you enjoy LOVEBITES and hope you continue to support them whatever your opinion.
My rewrite is more for any others who take time to read it...
As competent as Miho is, she wasn't on the level of the rest of the band. Fami is worlds above on an entirely different level. The bass lines she's laying down are so much more complicated and heavy than anything they had before.
I don't mean this as an insult, but that's a truly ignorant statement. Miho was an integral part Destrose and LoveBites, two bands with not only great musician, but also extremely skilled songwriters. I guarantee you have to be a lot more than competent to keep up with a songwriter like Saki. The same goes for being on the same level in a band she co-founded. Musicians like Miyako and Madori are too talented to waste their time joining random bands and they joined partly because of Miho's reputation as a great musician. I think you're confusing technical ability with talent. This is no knock on Fami, because I love her playing, but being a solo technical wizard means nothing when it comes to being the bass player in a band. The bassist's most important job is tying in the drums with guitar and if you can't do that it doesn't matter how complicated your runs are. That level of synchronicity is not easy to find, especially with the complicated music LoveBites writes. Miho did it brilliantly, and contrary to what you think, she also added elite bass playing. I have no doubt Fami will be a great addition to Lovebites, but that shouldn't take away or water down the contributions of Miho. LoveBites WAS great with Miho and WILL continue to be great with Fami.
Hypurr......Lol
@@Phoenix-ci7ix th-cam.com/video/FByCwZEJ_Ho/w-d-xo.htmlsi=M_GKwwo9AeB1BkAr
The main reason for the selection was probably Fami.'s 650,000 SNS subscribers.
There is no doubt that technically she is inferior to MIHO.
However, without Fami., the restart of lovebites would not have been as smooth.
You can find out more about their new album in an online interview article.
Gekirock Interview Lovebites
Miwho?
Fami adds so much that they did not have, a big net gain for the band. Miho walking away turned out great for them.
Totally unnecessary! Lovebites was great with Miho and is great now with Fami.
Time will tell. But loyal wolfpack will never forget Miho. We will always support her too.
I can only say this. Lovebites wouldn't exist without Miho.
Dude, show some respect.
@@junoi7457 This. She along with Haruna are the founders of Lovebites after their departure from Destrose.