On February 8 in New York City, the Palladium Times Square was transformed into a hauntingly beautiful stage for Phantom Siita and their highly anticipated “Moth to a Flame Tour.” The Japanese idol group, known for their unique retro-horror concept and produced by the renowned Utaite Ado, delivered a performance that was equal parts mesmerizing and unsettling, living up to their reputation as the “moths” of the idol world.
From the moment the lights dimmed, the atmosphere was electric. The stage design was a perfect blend of eerie and elegant, with flickering lanterns, vintage film reels, and a backdrop that evoked a crumbling, gothic theater. The five members—Mona, Miu, Rinka, Hisui, and Moka—emerged from the shadows, their costumes a mix of Victorian ruffles, traditional Japanese school uniforms with a modern edge, embodying the group’s signature blend of beauty and terror.
The concert opened with “Kimi to ×××× Shitai dake,” a high-energy track that immediately set the tone for the night. The members’ harmonies were ethereal, their choreography sharp and precise, yet with an undercurrent of something darker. The girls' commanding stage presence, delicate yet powerful vocals, magnetic energy, and dynamic dance moves created a perfect synergy that captivated the audience.
The setlist was a masterful mix of original tracks and iconic covers, each performed with Phantom Siita’s unique twist. “Devilish Girl” and “Hanabami” showcased the group’s ability to blend haunting melodies with infectious beats, while “Conflicting” brought a raw, emotional intensity that left the audience spellbound. The group paid homage to their musical influences with stunning covers, including “Suki Suki Daisuki” (Jun Togawa), and “Aoi Sangoshou” (Seiko Matsuda)
A standout moment came with their performance of “KICK BACK” (Kenshi Yonezu), which had the entire venue pulsating with energy. The group’s rendition of “One Last Kiss” (Hikaru Utada) was a hauntingly beautiful tribute. The crowd erupted during “HANAGATAMI,” an original track that perfectly encapsulated the group’s eerie yet captivating charm.
The encore began with “Tot Musica” (Ado cover), a powerful and theatrical performance that highlighted the group’s connection to their producer. This was followed by “Moonlight Densetsu” (Dali cover), a dreamy and ethereal rendition that felt like a love letter to the idol genre. The final song, “Zoku Zoku,” was a high-energy explosion of sound and movement, leaving the audience breathless and craving more.
Phantom Siita’s “Moth to a Flame Tour” was more than just a concert—it was an immersive experience that blurred the lines between beauty and horror, nostalgia and innovation. For those in the audience, it was clear that Phantom Siita is not just a group of idols; they are a phenomenon, a heretical yet irresistible force in the idol world. As the lights came up and fans spilled out into the New York night, one thing was certain: Phantom Siita had left an indelible mark on their hearts, like a moth drawn to a flame.
All Photography by Thomas Ma
Edited by Ciera R.