Reita Death and Impact on the Visual Kei Scene

Reita, born Akira Suzuki on May 27, 1981, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, was a formidable presence in the realm of visual kei, a genre that blends rock music with elaborate visuals. As the bassist of The Gazette, one of the most influential bands of the genre’s second generation, Reita was not just a musician but an icon whose style and performance shaped the aesthetic and sound of visual kei. His work extended beyond music into fashion, with his own brand, Snaked Lows, contributing to the distinctive style associated with the movement. The news of Reita death shocked the music community, marking a significant moment in the history of visual kei.

Reita’s journey with The Gazette began in 2002, and he quickly became known for his aggressive playing style and unique stage persona, often characterized by a nose band that became his signature look. This mask was not merely a fashion statement but a symbol of his dedication to artistry, setting him apart in a genre known for its flamboyance.

On April 15, 2024, the music world was stunned by the news of Reita’s untimely death. His passing was announced by The Gazette on their official website, marking a significant loss not only for the band but for fans worldwide. The outpouring of grief from fellow musicians, fans, and collaborators reflected his deep impact on the music industry. Reita’s legacy is marked by his innovation in bass technique, his influence on the visual kei scene, and his commitment to expressing himself fully through his art, leaving an indelible mark that will inspire musicians and fans for generations to come.

Profile of Reita

Reita, born Akira Suzuki in the serene settings of Kanagawa Prefecture, came into the world on May 27, 1981. Raised in a modest household, he was the younger of two siblings, sharing a close bond with his older sister and their mother. The familial environment was humble, yet rich with affection and support, which played a crucial role in shaping his aspirations and character. Despite the financial constraints, his family’s encouragement became a cornerstone of his pursuit in music, a passion that would eventually define his career.

From an early age, Reita was surrounded by music, thanks to his grandmother’s influence, who often played traditional Japanese music at home. This early exposure not only deepened his appreciation for music but also embedded a sense of rhythm and melody that would later be evident in his bass playing. However, it was his relationship with Uruha, a childhood friend and future bandmate, that truly ignited his passion for rock music. The two met during their time in the school’s football club, where they discovered their mutual interest in music. This connection was pivotal, as Uruha introduced Reita to a broader spectrum of music, including the thriving rock scene of Japan and beyond.

Musical Beginnings

Reita’s musical journey took a more serious turn during his time in junior high when he and Uruha spent countless hours listening to CDs and attempting to play covers of their favorite songs. These sessions, often held in Uruha’s room, were informal yet instrumental in Reita’s decision to pursue music professionally. The joy and fulfillment he derived from these jam sessions solidified his dream of becoming a musician, a dream that was both ambitious and fraught with challenges given his family’s financial situation.

During his second year of high school, Reita initially picked up the guitar, inspired by the visceral performances of bands like Luna Sea, a prominent group that left a significant mark on the visual kei scene. His transition from guitar to electric guitar marked his first serious step towards becoming a musician. However, his journey was not without its frustrations. The guitar, with its demanding techniques and complexities, soon became a source of frustration for Reita. This led to a pivotal switch to bass during his third year of high school, a move inspired not just by necessity but by a newfound love for the rhythmic backbone of rock music.

The bass guitar resonated with Reita on a deeper level. Its robust and grounding sound provided a canvas for his creative expressions, and he quickly adapted his skills to master this instrument. His dedication was evident as he even joined a Luna Sea cover band, immersing himself fully in the role of a bassist. This period of intense practice and exploration was crucial, as it not only honed his technical skills but also helped him develop a unique style that would later become his trademark in The Gazette.

Reita’s early musical endeavors were not just limited to learning and playing music. He and Uruha also dabbled in forming bands, though these initial attempts were short-lived. Their first serious project together came with the formation of Karasu, a band that ultimately disbanded but served as an essential learning experience. Through these formative bands, Reita not only gained practical experience in music production and performance but also learned the intricacies of the music industry.

As Reita transitioned from a fan to a musician, his early life and musical beginnings painted a picture of a young man driven by passion and resilience. His journey from the familial bonds of Kanagawa to the stages of Tokyo showcases a path marked by relentless pursuit and profound musical evolution, setting the stage for his future successes with The Gazette.

Career with The Gazette

The Gazette, formed in 2002, quickly became a pivotal presence in Japan’s visual kei music scene, with Reita as its stalwart bassist. The band’s early years were characterized by intense creativity and experimentation, allowing Reita to refine his musical and stage persona. His bass playing was not merely a background element but a powerful force that contributed significantly to the band’s dynamic sound.

Reita’s influence on The Gazette’s music was profound. He was instrumental in composing several key tracks that defined the band’s evolution. Albums like “Nil” (2006) and “Stacked Rubbish” (2007) feature tracks where Reita’s aggressive yet melodic bass lines are prominent, showcasing his ability to blend seamlessly with the band’s overall sound while still making his presence known. In “Beautiful Deformity” (2013) and “Dogma” (2015), his compositions helped push the band towards a darker, more complex sound, indicating his growth as a musician and composer.

Alongside his musical evolution, Reita’s stage persona became a hallmark of The Gazette’s performances. Known for his distinctive mask, initially a simple white nose band, he crafted an image that was both enigmatic and iconic. This mask underwent several transformations, mirroring the changes in the band’s music and aesthetics. By the “Project: Dark Age” tour in 2015, his mask had evolved into a more sophisticated black leather piece, which became integral to his identity as a performer. This evolution of his mask not only marked different eras of the band’s music but also symbolized his personal growth and adaptation.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Reita’s creative influence extended beyond music into the realm of fashion and instrument design, demonstrating his versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. In 2008, he founded Snaked Lows, a brand specializing in clothing and silver accessories. This venture was not just a business but a channel through which Reita expressed his fashion sensibilities, which were as unique and bold as his music. Snaked Lows quickly gained popularity, particularly among fans of the visual kei genre, for its edgy and distinctive designs, echoing the same innovative spirit Reita brought to his music.

In addition to his fashion brand, Reita’s partnership with ESP, a renowned manufacturer of electric guitars and basses, marked another significant phase in his career. Together, they produced signature bass guitars that were not only tailored to his specifications but also reflected his unique style and needs as a musician. Models like the ESP RF-01 and RF-01S became favorites among bass players, admired for their quality and the distinct sound they offered. This collaboration allowed Reita to influence the music industry technically and stylistically, as these bass guitars became sought after by both aspiring musicians and seasoned professionals.

Through these entrepreneurial ventures, Reita demonstrated a deep understanding of branding and market trends, establishing himself as a multi-faceted artist and businessperson. His ability to blend artistic expression with commercial insight is a testament to his diverse talents and his impact on both the music and fashion industries.

Reita’s career with The Gazette and his entrepreneurial activities highlight a legacy of innovation and influence. His contributions to music and fashion have not only enriched his band’s work but have also left a lasting imprint on the broader cultural landscape, underscoring his role as a true pioneer in the visual kei genre.

Musical Style and Influences

Reita’s musical style was characterized by a dynamic blend of aggression and precision, which became a signature aspect of The Gazette’s sound. His approach to the bass was both foundational and innovative, incorporating a range of techniques that demonstrated his versatility and deep understanding of rhythm and melody. Reita often used a combination of finger plucking and picking, allowing him to adapt to the varying intensities of the band’s songs. His use of the slap technique added a percussive element to his playing, enriching the texture of the music.

Reita’s choice of instruments and equipment played a crucial role in defining his sound. He had a strong preference for basses produced by ESP, a brand known for its quality and the ability to customize instruments to an artist’s specifications. His favorites, the ESP RF-01 and RF-01S models, were prized for their robust sound and durability. Reita’s setup was complemented by a selection of amplifiers and effects that enhanced his sound. He frequently used TWO NOTES Torpedo Studio and EBS ClassicLine 810 amplifiers, paired with Darkglass Electronics Microtubes 900 tops, which allowed him to achieve a rich, deep tone and the versatility needed for The Gazette’s diverse musical repertoire.

Influential figures in the music world heavily shaped Reita’s musical style. He cited J from Luna Sea, Sid Vicious from the Sex Pistols, Fieldy from Korn, Flea from Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Nikki Sixx from Mötley Crüe as major influences. Each of these artists brought something unique to their music that resonated with Reita, whether it was J’s melodic sensibilities, Sid Vicious’s raw energy, Fieldy’s rhythmic innovations, Flea’s funk-infused techniques, or Nikki Sixx’s charismatic stage presence. These influences are evident in how Reita balanced technical skill with showmanship, ensuring that his performances were not only sonically compelling but visually engaging as well.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Outside the high-energy world of visual kei rock, Reita led a life marked by interests that both grounded him and fueled his on-stage dynamism. One of his most notable hobbies was boxing, a sport he pursued with the same passion and dedication he brought to his music. Boxing provided Reita with a physical outlet for the stresses of life as a touring musician and enhanced his physical fitness, which was essential for his dynamic performances. The discipline and stamina required in boxing mirrored the demands of live shows, helping him maintain his energy levels throughout The Gazette’s often intense and physically demanding concerts.

The mental discipline Reita developed through boxing also influenced his approach to music. The focus and precision required in the sport translated into a meticulous attention to detail in his musical arrangements and performances. This discipline was apparent in how Reita managed to maintain a consistent performance quality, despite the complex and fast-paced nature of many of The Gazette’s songs.

Reita’s engagement with his hobbies and personal interests contributed significantly to his holistic development as an artist. They not only provided him with necessary breaks from his musical career but also enriched his life, allowing him to return to his artistic endeavors with renewed vigor and fresh perspectives. This balance between his personal and professional life was key to his sustained success and well-being, highlighting the importance of maintaining a well-rounded life even in the face of demanding career challenges.

Through his profound musical influences and a disciplined personal life, Reita crafted a legacy that is both inspiring and instructive. His commitment to excellence in every aspect of his life offers a blueprint for aspiring musicians on how to integrate personal passions with professional endeavors, creating a fulfilling and impactful career.

Death and Legacy

On April 15, 2024, the music world was struck by the untimely passing of Reita, the esteemed bassist of The Gazette. His death was solemnly announced on the band’s official website, plunging fans and fellow artists into mourning. Reita’s influence in the music industry, particularly within the visual kei genre, was profound, and his absence was felt deeply across the globe. Tributes poured in from all corners, ranging from personal anecdotes shared by peers to heartfelt homages from fans who had been touched by his music and persona. Notable figures in the music industry, including members of prominent bands and artists who had collaborated with The Gazette, expressed their sorrow and respect, highlighting his role as an innovator and a key figure in the genre’s evolution.

In Japan, his impact was marked by spontaneous memorials at concert venues where The Gazette often performed. Internationally, fans organized gatherings and tribute concerts, further attesting to his wide-reaching influence. Social media platforms were flooded with messages and artworks, illustrating the deep emotional connection that Reita had forged with his audience. His unique style, musical prowess, and the authenticity he brought to his performances made him a beloved figure, and his death marked the end of an era for many.

Reita’s legacy within The Gazette and the broader visual kei movement is indelible. He was not only a foundational member of one of the genre’s most influential bands but also a visionary who helped redefine what visual kei could be. His musical innovations—characterized by a distinctive blend of aggressive bass lines and melodic undercurrents—helped propel The Gazette to international fame. Beyond his music, Reita’s visual contributions, particularly his iconic mask and stage presence, became symbolic of the genre’s capacity for theatricality and expression.

Moreover, Reita’s entrepreneurial spirit, evident in his fashion brand and collaborations with instrument manufacturers, demonstrated his understanding of the interconnectedness of music, fashion, and identity in visual kei. This holistic approach to artistry not only set new standards in the genre but also inspired countless younger artists to view their musical careers through a broader lens.

Reita’s enduring impact on his fans and fellow musicians is a testament to his talent and vision. His dedication to his craft and his ability to continuously innovate within the constraints of a genre as stylized as visual kei speaks volumes about his artistic integrity and commitment. Reita not only pushed the boundaries of his musical expression but also remained true to his roots, constantly acknowledging and honoring the influences that shaped him.

For future musicians, Reita’s career offers valuable lessons in passion, innovation, and resilience. His journey underscores the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision while also embracing change and new possibilities. Reita demonstrated that with dedication and hard work, it is possible to leave a lasting legacy that transcends cultural and geographic boundaries.

Reita’s story is one of triumph and tragedy, a reminder of the fleeting nature of life but also of the enduring power of music. His contributions to The Gazette and the visual kei movement will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans alike, ensuring that his spirit will live on in the music he loved so dearly and the community he helped build.