Versailles, also known as Versailles -Philharmonic Quintet-, is a Japanese visual kei metal band formed in 2007 by vocalist Kamijo and guitarist Hizaki. The band's lineup consisted of Kamijo, Hizaki, guitarist Teru, bassist Jasmine You until his death in 2009, and later Masashi, along with drummer Yuki. Known for their rococo-style outfits and elaborate guitar work, Versailles quickly garnered attention both in Japan and overseas. They blended classical influences with heavy metal, creating a unique sub-genre sometimes referred to as "symphonic metal."

Versailles embarked on numerous tours in Japan and around the world, releasing a series of successful albums and singles that resonated with fans of the visual kei movement. Their musical work often revolves around themes of fantasy, romance, and the grandeur of the Rococo period, with intricate compositions and soaring melodies. Some of the band's most notable releases include "Philia," part of their album "Holy Grail," which showcased their ability to fuse melodrama with intense, powerful metal instrumentation. The band announced a hiatus in 2012 after the release of their self-titled album "Versailles," which was followed by a greatest hits collection titled "BEST ALBUM 2009-2012 Anthologie." They reunited in 2015 to commemorate their 9th anniversary and have actively participated in music events, signaling a continued presence in the visual kei scene.

Genres

J-metal

Japanese Power Metal

Visual Kei

Related Artists

the GazettE

Nightwish

B'z

Within Temptation

Epica

Jupiter

Sonata Arctica

Lacuna Coil

MIYAVI

Delain

Symphony X

After Forever

Latest Release

VOGUE

Versailles

Single - Released June 21, 2023