L'Arc-en-Ciel

Japan Est. 1991

"Their music pulsates with a tension between soaring melodies and intricate rhythms, drawing listeners into a dense sonic landscape that feels alive with movement."

Start here

Begin with L'Arc-en-Ciel…

Butterfly

2012

Play this

Career Arc

L'Arc-en-Ciel's discography from 1992 to 2016

1992 2004 2016

Floods of Tears (1992) Dune (1993) Tierra (1994) Blurry Eyes (1994) Heavenly (1995) Natsu no Yuu-utsu (1995) Vivid Colors (1995) and She Said (1995) True (1996) Lies and Truth (1996) Flower (1996) Kaze ni Kienaide (1996) Niji (1997) Heart (1998) Forbidden Lover (1998) Snow Drop (1998) Honey (1998) Shinshoku (1998) Kasou (1998) Dive to Blue (1998)

L'Arc-en-Ciel stands as a pivotal force in the evolution of J-rock, reshaping how music intersects with visual culture and fandom in Japan.

L'Arc-en-Ciel stands as a pivotal force in the evolution of J-rock, reshaping how music intersects with visual culture and fandom in Japan. Their influence extends beyond mere sounds; they have galvanized a community of listeners who embrace not just the music, but the elaborate storytelling and aesthetic that accompanies it, leading to a dedicated following that spans generations and borders. The band’s sonic approach is characterized by a fluid melding of alternative rock elements that often shift between the introspective and the anthemic. They utilize layered guitar textures, dynamic shifts in tempo, and atmospheric synths to create soundscapes that evoke both vulnerability and empowerment. This innovative use of contrasting musical dynamics keeps listeners engaged and fosters a deep emotional connection to their work. Lyrically, L'Arc-en-Ciel often navigates themes of longing, identity, and existential reflection. Their songwriting balances poignant storytelling with impressionistic imagery, inviting listeners to reflect on both personal experiences and broader societal issues. The tone can range from earnest sincerity to playful irony, creating a tapestry of emotions that resonates on multiple levels.

Full discography

L'Arc-en-Ciel's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

74 releases • 26 albums • 1992–2016

Type:

Albums ()

Butterfly

2012

Twenity 2000–2010

2011

Twenity 1997-1999

2011

Quadrinity: Member's Best Selections

2010

Kiss

2007

FIVE LIVE ARCHIVES

2007

Awake

2005

Smile

2004

The Best of L'Arc-en-Ciel 1994–1998

2003

The Best of L'Arc-en-Ciel C/W

2003

Real

2000

Ray

1999

Ark

1999

Ark 15th Anniversary Expanded Edition

1999

Heart

1998

True

1996

Heavenly

1995

Tierra

1994

Dune

1993

Twenity

2011

25th L'Anniversary Live

L'Aive Blu-ray BOX -Limited Edition-

World's Best Selection

Over The L'Arc-en-Ciel

L'Arc〜en〜Ciel LIVE 2015 L'ArCASINO

L'Arc〜en〜Ciel LIVE 2018 L'ArChristmas

Singles ()

Don't be Afraid

2016

Wings Flap

2015

Chase

2011

X X X

2011

Good Luck My Way

2011

I Love Rock'n Roll

2010

Bless

2010

Nexus 4/Shine

2008

Drink It Down (L'Arc-en-Ciel song)

2008

Hurry Xmas

2007

Daybreak's Bell

2007

My Heart Draws a Dream

2007

Seventh Heaven

2007

The Fourth Avenue Cafe

2006

Link

2005

Jojoushi

2005

New World

2005

Killing Me

2005

Jiyuu e no Shoutai

2004

Hitomi no Juunin

2004

Ready Steady Go

2004

Spirit Dreams Inside

2001

Stay Away

2000

Neo Universe/Finale

2000

Love Flies

1999

Driver's High

1999

Pieces

1999

Heaven's Drive

1999

Forbidden Lover

1998

Snow Drop

1998

Honey

1998

Shinshoku

1998

Kasou

1998

Dive to Blue

1998

Winter Fall

1998

Niji

1997

Lies and Truth

1996

Flower

1996

Kaze ni Kienaide

1996

Natsu no Yuu-utsu

1995

Vivid Colors

1995

and She Said

1995

Blurry Eyes

1994

Floods of Tears

1992

Compilations ()

Twenity 1991-1996

2011

The Best of L'Arc-en-Ciel 1998–2000

2003

Clicked Singles Best 13

2001

Remix Albums ()

Ectomorphed Works

2000

No releases match the current filters.

Like L'Arc-en-Ciel? Try these next

Similar artists with their own starting points

Timeline

How their sound evolved over time

Ark 15th Anniversary... (1999)

Real (2000)

The Best of L'Arc-en... (2003)

The Best of L'Arc-en... (2003)

Smile (2004)

Awake (2005)

Kiss (2007)

FIVE LIVE ARCHIVES (2007)

Quadrinity: Member's... (2010)

Twenity 2000–2010 (2011)

Twenity 1997-1999 (2011)

Twenity (2011)

Butterfly (2012)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does L'Arc-en-Ciel sound like?

Their music pulsates with a tension between soaring melodies and intricate rhythms, drawing listeners into a dense sonic landscape that feels alive with movement. Rooted in alternative rock and indie rock. Start with Heart.

What is the best L'Arc-en-Ciel album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Heart" (1998). It's the most representative of what makes L'Arc-en-Ciel worth hearing.

Who is L'Arc-en-Ciel for?

If you're into alternative rock and indie rock, L'Arc-en-Ciel is worth your time. Their music pulsates with a tension between soaring melodies and intricate rhythms, drawing listeners into a dense sonic landscape that feels alive with movement.

How many albums does L'Arc-en-Ciel have?

L'Arc-en-Ciel has 74 releases in their discography, including 26 albums.

Apple Music Deezer Spotify Youtube Website Facebook Instagram Twitter Wikipedia