Saying goodbye to Japan: Roppongi Rocks
Treat, the Swedish melodic hard rock band, recently bid farewell to Japan with a stellar performance at Club Citta in Kawasaki. The band, which was a prominent player in the Swedish melodic hard rock scene in the ‘80s alongside Europe and 220 Volt, was founded in Stockholm in the early ‘80s by guitarist Anders “Gary” Wikström and lead vocalist Robert Ernlund. Their debut album, “Scratch and Bite,” released in 1985, helped them gain recognition, leading them to play at prestigious events such as the Monsters of Rock festival in Germany and open for bands like Queen and W.A.S.P. After releasing five studio albums, Treat disbanded in 1993.
In 2006, the band reunited and released their comeback album “Coup de Grace” in 2010. Since then, Treat has been actively releasing music and touring. Their most recent album, “The Wild Card,” dropped in 2025, showcasing their ongoing commitment to their craft. The current lineup features original members Anders and Robert, along with drummer Jamie Borger, keyboardist Patrick Appelgren, and bassist Nalle Påhlsson. This solid lineup delivers a powerful performance that captivates audiences without flashy gimmicks. Anders’ guitar solo during the show was a testament to his skill, with a focus on restraint and melody over speed and complexity.
The band’s setlist for the Kawasaki show spanned their entire career, offering a mix of fan favorites and new tunes. Classics like “Changes,” “Papertiger,” “We Own the Night,” and “Conspiracy” shared the stage with tracks from their latest album like “1985” and “One Minute to Breathe.” Treat first toured Japan in 1990 and revisited in 2015, 2017, and 2018, with their recent tour dubbed “Farewell Japan Tour 2026 – Out with a Bang.” While the tour’s name hinted at a final goodbye, the band’s musical prowess and stage presence suggest that this farewell may not be permanent.
The evening ended on a high note with “World of Promises” from their 1987 album “Dreamhunter,” leaving fans wondering if this truly is goodbye. Treat’s timeless sound and exceptional live performances make a strong case for continued success in the future. Stay tuned for more updates and future performances from this iconic Swedish rock band.