(Photography by James Chen)
Japanese five-member idol group Phantom Siita has quickly emerged as a captivating force in the J-pop scene, challenging common assumptions about idol acts since their beginnings in late 2023. Chosen from over 4,000 applicants and produced by celebrated Japanese singer Ado, the group was created to be a clear contrast to the industry’s often “cute” image. Billing themselves as the “heretical ‘moth’” of idols, Phantom Siita weaves a distinctive “Shōwa-retro horror” concept into all parts of their artistry, from their custom black sailor school uniforms with a gradual blend of blood-red accents to their detailed stage presentations.
Their first world tour, “Moth to a Flame,” began remarkably soon after they formed, showing their immediate impact. Phantom Siita’s performance at House of Blues Anaheim skillfully blended compelling musical compositions with sharp, synchronized dance routines and eerily dramatic elements. They used twisted body movements, piercing screams, and intense facial expressions to powerfully boost their unsettling yet captivating style. This strong commitment to their unique theme shines through in their compelling vocal performances, which consistently capture the deep emotion found in their studio recordings, a clear sign of the rigorous training they received under Ado.
The group’s live performance cleverly mixes original songs with a carefully chosen set of covers, highlighting their range. Tracks like “Kimi to xxxx Shitai dake” explore dark, two-sided themes, while other originals such as “Hanabami,” “Devilish Girl,” “Otomodachi,” and “Zoku Zoku” further establish their distinct sound. As their relatively new collection of songs is not large in quantity, their performances skillfully include nostalgic city pop favorites and popular contemporary hits, broadening their appeal across various fan demographics. A particularly touching and high-energy moment often comes with their powerful version of Ado’s “Tot Musica,” the very song central to their audition, often serving as a big highlight.
Beyond their unified group efforts, Phantom Siita’s performance also featured individual segments where each member presents a solo performance, showcasing their unique artistic sensibilities. These moments allow Mona, Miu, Rinka, Hisui, and Moka to shine independently, selecting compositions that highlight their distinct vocal qualities and personal choreographic flair. Their choices span iconic Japanese pop classics like Seiko Matsuda’s “Aoi Sangoshou,” Meiko Nakahara’s “FANTASY,” and Yasuha’s “Fly-Day Chinatown,” alongside more contemporary hits such as Kenshi Yonezu’s “KICK BACK” and Hikaru Utada’s “One Last Kiss.” These diverse selections aim to broaden the musical experience for attendees, offering a deeper glimpse into each performer’s style and range as they continue to develop their craft and engage with varied audiences.
Phantom Siita’s ascent has been remarkably swift, highlighted by their debut solo concert at the iconic Nippon Budokan in Japan, marking a significant milestone in their burgeoning career. Their ambitious worldwide tour further demonstrates their impressive reach and compelling global appeal. With a distinct artistic vision and a powerful stage presence, this group continues to captivate new admirers, firmly establishing themselves as an exciting, innovative force.
