Dir En Grey strode onto the Japanese rock scene balancing flashy androgynous style and thoroughbred power, like a flamboyantly costumed jockey riding an exquisite steed. As the group became heavier and heavier on recent records, longtime fans fretted over whether these chunky riffs would crush the stately beast below, condemning Dir En Grey to ride nu metal’s dead horse. Uroboros, the band’s just-released seventh album, reestablishes the group’s unique equestrian equilibrium, contrasting some of the most brutal riffs of its career with sultry grooves, whispery-smooth ballads and exotic atmospherics. Dir En Grey emphasized its noisier material over its quivering elegant fare when introducing itself to mainstream American audiences on 2006’s Family Values tour, but the quintet’s headlining gigs showcase its astonishing range. The best live acts can convert the uninitiated: Dir En Grey can also seduce, using romantic piano ambience and Kyo’s oddly suave vocals (think David Bowie’s “China Girl” delivery, but with Japanese lyrics.)

Wed., Dec. 3, 7 p.m., 2008