Last Wednesday, The Depot in Salt Lake City erupted with a surge of energy as Japanese Harajuku-core trailblazers Hanabie and Tasmanian trap metal powerhouse Kim Dracula delivered a night of genre-defying performances that left fans mesmerized and speechless.

​

Both artists have built growing cult followings through social media and electric live shows—and their talents were on full display as they tore through Salt Lake City with unmatched charisma and creativity.

​

Hanabie opened the night with their trademark Harajuku-Core sound, a blend of metalcore, nu-metal, hip-hop, and J-pop flair, all infused with the vibrant aesthetic of Tokyo’s Harajuku district. The band’s contrasting image—playfully colorful on the surface, fiercely aggressive in sound—set the tone for a set that was as energetic as it was unexpected.

​

Despite their playful attire and upbeat stage presence, Hanabie showed they could scream, shred, and stomp with the best of them. Their performance ignited the crowd into a frenzy of moshing, headbanging, and crowd-surfing. The emotional energy was palpable, as the band’s passion fueled a room that pulsed with life.

​

Kim Dracula took the stage next with a theatrical performance that defied traditional genre boundaries. Known for their dramatic flair and unpredictable shows, Kim delivered a set that kept the audience guessing. One moment was pure metal chaos, the next—a saxophone solo turned the vibe on its head.

​

Unlike Hanabie’s relentless assault, Kim Dracula’s performance was a rollercoaster of moods and surprises. The ever-shifting tone kept the audience on their toes, each track unfolding like a dramatic act in a rock opera of their own design.

​

For fans at The Depot, the show was more than just a concert—it was an experience. Seeing two of the most innovative and rising acts in such an intimate setting was a rare treat and a glimpse into the future of heavy music.

​

With Hanabie and Kim Dracula continuing to gather momentum, it’s only a matter of time before they’re playing much larger stages. For those lucky enough to be in attendance, this was a night to remember.