In 1989 they were joined by lead guitarist and violinist Sugizo, drummer Shinya and vocalist Ryuichi, a lineup that has remained the same.

Due to their early use of make-up and costumes and their widespread popularity, Luna Sea are considered one of the most successful and influential bands in the visual kei movement.

Throughout the mid '90s they used significantly less make-up, and after a one-year break in 1998, came back with a more mainstream alternative rock style and toned down their on-stage attire.

In 2003, HMV Japan ranked Luna Sea at number 90 on their list of the 100 most important Japanese pop acts.

Luna Sea achieved their breakthrough success with a sold-out tour in 1991, which helped them get a contract with MCA Victor, and with the release of their second album Image (1992), which peaked at number 9 on the Oricon chart.