This is kind of what I was talking about in the JADE thread. Just because they're notorious for making fans wait for EVERYTHING doesn't mean it's a wise business practice. I agree 100% that it wouldn't take a lot of effort at all to keep fans a LITTLE in the loop, just to know they're still alive. I agree, the websites should be updated occasionally. They just played 10 concerts and practically none of the material, including all of the new X Japan songs, is available yet. If Jade is finished, it should be released. Wasn't a full version leaked a few months back? It can't be taking THAT long to finish.
Sure, getting what we're getting nowadays is better than nothing at all, like before they reunited. All I'm saying is, look at how mainstream bands handle their marketing today. X should realize that just because their music is different that ignoring the basics of advertising and marketing in a North American music industry full of artists that not only practice these basics, but also try to top one another in the process, is going to hurt their fanbase. The loyal fans like us will stick it out in the long run, but the people on the fence will get bored and forget.
I'm not trying to look like a know-it-all, and believe me, I've been a huge X fan since just after they disbanded. I know my X history and I'm familiar with the concept of waiting for them. I waited 3 years for their New York show after the first one was canceled. But still, they need to realize that keeping your fanbase waiting is only going to turn off the fickle masses of possible fans. Let's be realistic here: Their goal for a world tour isn't only to appease the long-time fans all over the world, but it's most likely to gain more recognition and in turn, sell more albums. While Yoshiki is brilliant at what he does, I'm pretty baffled by his business practices.
Again, this is coming from a long-time fan, and I'm absolutely thrilled they're active and to have seen them live last month, but frankly, the overall attitude of "Whelp, X isn't following through again. That's X Japan for you" from the fans is the exact reason they get away with it. If you say you're going to do a certain thing on a certain day, show a little integrity and follow through with it. Unforeseen circumstances are going to happen, especially with all of the difficulties surrounding them in general, but come on. Talk to your fans if you can't deliver what you promised to deliver. Let us know what's up. Common courtesy, no?