It is a big year for one of the most exciting bands in the Japanese rock scene.
ACME is officially hitting their 9th anniversary in 2026! If you have been following the Visual Kei scene for a while, you know that reaching nine years is a huge deal. It shows a band has the talent and the grit to stay relevant in a fast-moving industry.
To celebrate this milestone, the band is launching a massive new project called "STARSTRUCK." This includes a brand-new single and a nationwide tour that is going to be unlike anything they have done before. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer looking for your next musical obsession, there has never been a better time to dive into the world of ACME.
The New Anthem: "STARSTRUCK"
On May 13, 2026, ACME will release their highly anticipated single, "STARSTRUCK." This track is the first major release of the year for the band. From the early teasers, it sounds like a perfect blend of their heavy rock roots and the catchy, melodic hooks that fans love.
The title "STARSTRUCK" fits the band perfectly. In the world of Visual Kei, aesthetics are just as important as the music. ACME has always been known for their bold fashion and high-energy stage presence. They truly are the "stars" of the modern J-rock era. The new single is expected to push their sound even further, incorporating the technical skills of guitarist SHOGO and the powerful, versatile vocals of CHISA.
If you are looking to expand your collection of Japanese rock, this single is a must-have. We always recommend checking out hidden gems in the Japanese music scene to see how ACME fits into the wider landscape of 2026.
The 9th Anniversary Live Tour 2026 -STARSTRUCK-
The music is only half the story. To really experience ACME, you have to see them live. Their 9th Anniversary Live Tour 2026 -STARSTRUCK- officially kicks off on May 16, just days after the single drops. This tour is a victory lap across Japan, hitting some of the most iconic venues and cities.
Tour Stops and Highlights
The band has carefully chosen cities that have supported them throughout their nine-year journey. Here is where you can catch them:
- Shimokitazawa (Tokyo): The tour starts in the heart of Tokyo’s indie music scene. Shimokitazawa is known for its narrow streets and intimate venues. It is the perfect place for a high-energy kickoff.
- Osaka & Nagoya: No Japanese tour is complete without these two powerhouses. Fans in Osaka are known for being some of the loudest, and Nagoya has a dedicated rock community that always shows up for Visual Kei bands.
- Okinawa (with As Alliance): This is a special stop! ACME is heading south to Okinawa to perform alongside As Alliance. This collaboration is sure to bring a unique vibe to the tour, mixing ACME’s polished sound with the local energy of the islands.
- Fukuoka: Heading over to Kyushu, the band will bring the "STARSTRUCK" era to their fans in the west.
- Shibuya (The Grand Final): The tour will wrap up with a massive final show in Shibuya. This is where the band will likely pull out all the stops, with special effects and a setlist that spans their entire nine-year career.
A Movement for the Youth: The "Student-Free" Campaign
One of the most exciting things about this tour is the "Student-Free" campaign. ACME has always been a band that wants to connect with the next generation of fans. Let’s face it: concert tickets and merchandise can be expensive, especially for students.
By offering a "Student-Free" option for this tour, ACME is making their music accessible to younger listeners who might not have had the chance to see them otherwise. This campaign is a brilliant move to keep the Visual Kei scene healthy and growing. It shows that the band cares more about the community and the music than just ticket sales. If you are a student in Japan this May, you have no excuse to miss this!
Meet the Members
For those who are just joining the fandom, let’s take a look at the four talented individuals who make up ACME.
- CHISA (Vocals): Formerly of the band DIV, CHISA is the face of ACME. His voice can go from sweet melodies to intense screams in a heartbeat. He is a master of commanding the crowd and making every person in the room feel like they are part of the show.
- SHOGO (Guitar): Also a former member of DIV, SHOGO is a guitar wizard. His riffs are the backbone of the ACME sound. He balances technical shredding with emotional solos that stick in your head for days.
- RIKITO (Bass): Every great rock band needs a solid foundation, and RIKITO provides just that. His bass lines add a heavy, groovy layer to the music that makes it impossible to stand still.
- HAL (Drums): Coming from the band ARTEMA, HAL is a powerhouse behind the kit. His drumming is fast, precise, and full of energy. He also plays piano, adding a touch of elegance to the band’s more melodic tracks.
Together, these four have built a legacy that has lasted nearly a decade. Their chemistry on stage is undeniable, and it is a big reason why they are still going strong in 2026.
Why This Matters for Japanese Music Fans
ACME represents a bridge between the classic Visual Kei style and the modern rock sound. They aren't afraid to experiment, but they never lose sight of what makes J-rock special. In an era where many bands come and go within a year or two, ACME’s 9th anniversary is a testament to their quality.
If you enjoy tracking the history of bands, you might want to look at how other icons have evolved. For example, check out our piece on the evolution of BEYOOOOONDS or the legacy of Morning Musume. Seeing how these artists navigate the industry gives you a deeper appreciation for the work ACME is doing today.
Building Your Collection
For fans outside of Japan, getting your hands on physical copies of "STARSTRUCK" or official tour merch can be a challenge. However, physical media is still a huge part of the Japanese music culture. Owning a CD isn't just about the music; it's about the artwork, the lyrics booklets, and supporting the artist directly.
We recommend using trusted services to import your Japanese music. This ensures you get authentic products while helping the band climb the Oricon charts. For more tips on finding rare physical releases, our collector’s guide is a great resource.
Final Thoughts
The "STARSTRUCK" era is more than just a new single and a tour. It is a celebration of nine years of hard work, creativity, and fan support. ACME is a band that continues to evolve, and they show no signs of slowing down. Whether you are heading to the Shibuya final or listening to the new single on repeat at home, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of ACME.
Stay tuned to I Love Japanese Music for more updates on ACME and all your favorite J-rock artists!
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