L'Arc-en-Ciel Members, Gear & Sound
Japanese rock band
Members
Select a L'Arc-en-Ciel band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
L'Arc-en-Ciel is a prominent Japanese rock band known for its dynamic blend of rock, pop, and alternative influences. Formed in 1991 in Osaka, the group consists of Hyde (vocals, occasionally guitar), Ken (guitar), Tetsuya (bass, backing vocals), and Yukihiro (drums). Initially emerging from the visual kei scene, L'Arc-en-Ciel has evolved over the decades, incorporating elements of progressive rock, hard rock, and J-pop into their music. They are celebrated for their eclectic sound and have a significant impact on both the Japanese and global music scenes.
How to Sound Like L'Arc-en-Ciel
L'Arc-en-Ciel's sound is marked by vivid, melodic guitar lines and a polished yet powerful production style. Their music often features rich, overdriven tones that Ken achieves through his use of Fender Ken Stratocasters, complemented by effects like the Analog Man King of Tone Overdrive. The band’s vibe is both dynamic and emotionally resonant, with Tetsuya's bass providing a groovy and driving foundation using gear like the Ampeg SVT "Black Line". Hyde's vocals add a layer of dramatic intensity, often soaring above the instrumental mix, a hallmark of their expansive and engaging sound. To emulate L'Arc-en-Ciel's style, musicians should focus on creating a balance between melodic clarity and textural depth, using a combination of modulation and delay effects to maintain their signature lush and layered sound.
Discography
DUNE
1993
Tierra
1994
heavenly
1995
True
1996
HEART
1998
ark
1999
ray
1999
REAL
2000
ectomorphed works
2000
SMILE
2004
AWAKE
2005
KISS
2007
QUADRINITY〜MEMBER'S BEST SELECTIONS〜
2010
TWENITY 1991-1996
2011
TWENITY 1997-1999
2011
TWENITY 2000-2010
2011
BUTTERFLY
2012
BUTTERFLY（Deluxe Edition）
2012
25th L'Anniversary LIVE
2018
Get the L'Arc-en-Ciel Sound
Want to sound like L'Arc-en-Ciel? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
