[Review] Electrifying Debut: My First Story Delivers High-Octane J-Rock Show in Singapore

Japanese rock band My First Story made their Singapore debut last night at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands and what a debut it was. From the opening riff to the final chorus, the Tokyo-based band delivered a performance that was nothing short of electric, firing up a crowd that came ready to sing, scream, and rock out.

As an anime-loving parent attending with my son, Asher, the night was extra special. We were first drawn in by My First Story’s involvement in the hit anime series, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, having performed the latest season’s opening and ending themes.

Stepping into the theatre, the atmosphere was already buzzing when we stepped in, slightly late by around five minutes. Enthusiastic fans were already on their feet, dancing, shouting lyrics, and waving in perfect synchrony.

Formed in 2011, My First Story has steadily climbed the ranks of Japan’s rock scene, with appearances at major music festivals like Summer Sonic, Rock in Japan, and Punkspring. They have shared the stage with global acts like Fall Out Boy and All Time Low, but this was their first time headlining in Singapore.

The band’s frontman, Hiroki Moriuchi (better known as Hiro), was no stranger to local fans, having made an appearance at Anime Festival Asia in 2024. This time, however, he was back with his full band, including Sho on guitar, Nob on bass, and Kid’z on drums, all ready to deliver a full-force J-rock experience. Fun Fact, Hiro is also the younger brother of Taka from the internationally renowned band One Ok Rock, and talent clearly runs in the family.

The setlist spanned fan favourites and newer releases, but it was the high-energy renditions of their most popular hit songs like “I’m a Mess” and a surprisingly soulful rock ballads like “Confession”, complete with a sappy music video, that left us a lasting impression. I am definitely adding these two tracks on my Spotify playlists!

Overall, even as first-timers to a J-rock concert, both Asher and I were completely swept up in the energy.

For My First Story, this Singapore debut marks another milestone in their growing international reach and we hope to see them return soon for another concert.