X Japan Under Way

X Japan finally started its first American tour Sept. 25 at the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles in front of about 2,300 fans.

The band had to change its usual set list after representatives of the group’s late guitarist, Hide, informed the group that day that they were not to use Hide’s image during the show. In Japan, the band usually incorporated images of Hide, as well as his guitar parts, into their live act.

The band played 14 songs, including some new tunes.

The tour continues on to six more cities before winding up in New York Oct. 10.

In the meantime, the band has signed to William Morris Endeavor agency and promotion for their first original album in 14 years started Oct. 1.