(2025.11.08) LUNATIC FEST 2025 LUNA SEA 真矢 (Shinya) Surprise Appearance

LUNATIC FEST 2025 Writeup (in progress)

LUNA SEA’s drummer Shinya (Yamada) made a “surprise” appearance at LUNATIC FEST 2025 after deciding to sit out from performing due to the discovery of a brain tumor several months ago.  He decided to turn over the drumming duties to a long trusted friend; his former student and drum technician, Jun-ji (Sakuma) who was the drummer for SIAM SHADE (and has been support drummer for many different acts).

Doctors originally informed him that he might require the use of crutches for 3 months while undergoing chemotherapy (which began in September 2025), but he has been able to stand and walk unassisted after just the first month (back in early September, he still attended a festival in his hometown albeit in a wheelchair, and required assistance to stand for a short time to perform the opening ceremony/make a short speech).  Part of me believes this rapid recovery is due to the inherent stamina required to even play the drums the way he does.

He made this appearance on day 1 of the festival (walking on stage, giving a short speech of thanks/gratitude, and announcing the bands Xmas concert where he hopes to be able to play the drums at least in a limited capacity), and did the same on day 2 (though it didn’t have the same surprising/emotional effect).  It was incredibly inspirational to have been able to experience this moment in person.

NOTE: excuse the raw audio vocal quality; it’s basically minimally processed soundboard where you can hear how rough the vocals are (can still hear how Ryuichi’s singing voice still hasn’t recovered after past vocal chord surgeries).  Will be interesting to hear the broadcast version in December and the future Bluray DVD release once the audio goes through its usual post-production processing.