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MUCC's talented vocalist Tatsuro is taking his solo project on the road this fall with the announcement of a brand-new live house tour. The "Live House Tour [Shinjingan]" (真人間) will kick off in September 2026, marking an exciting next chapter for the musician following his successful "Villains Chapter 2" tour. The announcement came on April 26th during the final show of his previous tour at Asakusa Fleur Theatre in Tokyo, where a packed audience received the exciting news firsthand. This new venture promises to explore fresh creative directions, with the tour title "Shinjingan" (literally "true human") hinting at a distinct artistic vision. For those unfamiliar, Tatsuro is the creative force behind MUCC, one of Japan's most influential alternative rock acts known for their experimental sound and theatrical live performances. His solo work showcases a different dimension of his artistry, allowing him to explore musical territories ...

PARAMENA is making their mark with a bold debut: a five-track digital EP titled *APEIRON EP*, dropping April 29, 2026. This is your first official taste of a band that blends djent-influenced heaviness with theatrical Japanese rock sensibilities. The lineup reads like a who's-who of the underground scene. Vocalist yu-to commands the mic alongside three guitarists—zima (formerly of SIERRA), Saya, and MASAToooN!—creating a wall of intricate riffing. Bassist Futa brings experience from Nigella, while drummer Shunya splits time between Altar of Dementia, BLØØM IN THE CREVASSE, and INKLXSHA. This is a supergroup assembled from Japan's experimental rock underground. The *APEIRON EP* tracklist showcases their range: 1. MORPHΩGENESIS 2. KAGUTSUCHI.dat 3. Hyperlapse 4. Dreamkiller 5. Sugar (System Of A Down cover) They've already dropped official content to build anticipation. An *Hyperlapse* lyric video is live on YouTube, and a teaser for the full EP gives us our fir...

A fresh supergroup is making waves in the Japanese rock underground. OLD CIRCUS—a newly formed collective of seasoned musicians from the Visual Kei and experimental rock scenes—will unleash their debut digital EP *Life is* this August. The lineup reads like a who's-who of cult favorites. Vocalist Izumi Takahiro brings experience from Sibilebashir and Roman Kyuko, while guitarist TøRU previously played with the electronic-tinged SEX-ANDROID, also a Roman Kyuko alumnus. Bassist Ogawa Manjirō rounds out the core from his work with Minus Jin-Say Orchestra, and drummer Aile—currently active in MAMONO—completes the rhythm section. This is a band built on chemistry and experience. The six-track EP showcases an intriguing range: "Tokyo" opens the journey, followed by "Monochrome Movie" and the provocatively titled "Idiots Everywhere." Mid-EP, "On a Starry Night" promises atmospheric storytelling, before the slightly defensive "I Don'...

Dir En Grey have launched their 2026 tour cycle in characteristically enigmatic fashion, debuting new material from their 12th studio album *Mortal Downer* at an exclusive fan-club-only show at Club Citta' on April 15th. The performance marked the opening night of ＜TOUR26 Downer Absolutely No One＞ and offered early glimpses into the album's unsettling sonic and visual world—one that has already sparked unusually polarized reactions across social media since the record's April 8th release. **About Dir En Grey:** One of Japan's most influential visual rock acts, Dir En Grey have spent two decades crafting a signature sound that blends extreme metal, alternative rock, and avant-garde experimentation with theatrical aesthetics and conceptual depth. Vocalist Kyo and guitarist Toshio lead the band through constantly evolving artistic territories. The album itself has generated fascinatingly contradictory responses: some listeners call it "heavy," others ...

After years away, the theatrical rock outfit **CUCKOO** is making a triumphant return to mark their 16th anniversary. The band has announced a live performance scheduled for **June 28th**, bringing back one of Japan's most intriguing experimental rock projects. CUCKOO unites three powerhouse musicians from the underground and Visual Kei scenes. Vocalist **Sharaku Kobayashi** (小林写楽) brings his signature dramatic delivery, drawing from his work with METRONOME, FLOPPY, HECTOR, and AINORI TECHNOS. Guitarist **Ao Sakurai** (桜井青) contributes his distinctive sound from cali≠gari and LAB. THE BASEMENT, where he's honed a sharp, angular approach to rock composition. Behind the kit sits **Sasabuchi Hiroshi** (ササブチヒロシ), whose extensive resume includes stints with Plastic Tree, UROBOROS, Velvet Blue, and Tokyo Shoegazer—a pedigree that guarantees technical precision and creative depth. The combination of these three artists creates something special: CUCKOO sits at the intersection...

The experimental Visual Kei project .cute!! is undergoing a major rebrand, officially changing their name to **おしゃぶり。(Oshaburi.)** as of May 5, 2026. The announcement came with a striking new MV spot, signalling a fresh creative direction for the outfit. For those unfamiliar with the group, .cute!! formed as a demo project featuring a powerhouse lineup of experienced musicians from the underground scene. The band brings together vocalist **ちゃんりか (Chanrika)**, formerly of Lynoas, with guitarist **ゼノ (Zeno)**, who has played in BLiND OWL, ANSEEK, and 鯖 (SABA). Completing the rhythm section are bassist **莉櫻 (Rio)** and dual drummers **冥 (Mei)**, fresh from ヤレナイ (YARENAI), and **ヒッチコック (HITCHCOCK)**. The name change to Oshaburi. marks a deliberate evolution rather than a dissolution—the band's social channels already reflect the update, with their official Twitter (@cute_0fficial) announcing the transition as "5/5始動" (launching May 5th). This suggests they're not just ...

M.E.S.S is gearing up to drop fresh material this spring, and Visual Kei fans should mark their calendars. The band has announced a new digital single titled "残響遊戯" (Zankyo Yuugi)—which translates to "Reverberating Game"—set for release on April 29, 2026. For those unfamiliar with M.E.S.S, the band represents the theatrical, genre-bending spirit that keeps the Visual Kei underground thriving. With their signature blend of elaborate aesthetics and heavy instrumentation, they've built a loyal following among fans who crave both visual spectacle and sonic intensity. The announcement came via the JRock One forum community, where a teaser image and YouTube preview were shared. While details remain sparse at this stage—no track listing or additional information has been revealed yet—the release date falls on a Wednesday, which aligns with typical Japanese music industry scheduling for digital drops. "Zankyo Yuugi" follows M.E.S.S's previous output an...

Ariabl'eyeS are bringing the gothic theatrics with a stunning new full-length album arriving this spring. *惨美なるブラッディドール* (Pitiful Beautiful Bloody Doll) hits shelves on April 26, 2026, and it's packed with the symphonic darkness the band has become known for. If you're unfamiliar with Ariabl'eyeS, they're a Japanese symphonic metal outfit with strong Visual Kei aesthetics—think elaborate costumes, theatrical presentation, and ornate musical arrangements that blend classical elements with heavy rock. They've built a dedicated following in the Western Visual Kei community for their cinematic approach to the genre, creating immersive sonic narratives that feel like stepping into a gothic fever dream. **The Tracklist:** The album opens with "Prelude –Bloody Doll–" before launching into "Danse Macabre," immediately setting a darkly elegant tone. Standout tracks include "螺旋の玻璃" (Spiral Glass), "狂想のイヴ" (Mad Eve), the tit...

In a surprising crossover between Visual Kei and corporate Japan, legendary darkwave act **Kuroyume** has partnered with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation's digital banking service "Olive" for a limited-time collaboration campaign launching April 10, 2026. The partnership celebrates Kuroyume's remarkable comeback — the band reunited after a decade hiatus and has since tackled a nationwide tour, major festival appearances, and new digital initiatives. Now in their 50s, vocalist Kiyoharu and bassist Hitoki continue pushing creative boundaries, making them the perfect ambassadors for Olive's mission to introduce digital-first banking to their generation. **Campaign Details & Rewards** Running through June 12, 2026, fans who open a new Olive account (or switch their existing account) and maintain a minimum balance of ¥20,000 will receive exclusive limited-edition collaboration t-shirts. Full details and eligibility requirements are available on the offi...

Kikeimeruhen (畸形メるへん) has strengthened its lineup with an exciting addition: drummer Dr. キスト (KIST) officially joined the band on March 22, 2026. The timing couldn't be better, as the group has already unveiled two striking digital singles that showcase the band's darkly theatrical sound. "呪いのA子" (Curse of A-ko) and "妄想ピエロ" (Delusional Pierrot) dropped on February 9 and February 20, 2026 respectively, giving fans a taste of what's to come from the refreshed lineup. Both tracks are now available on streaming and digital music platforms. **Meet Kikeimeruhen:** The band brings together some compelling talent within Japan's underground rock scene: - **Vocals:** Tatsuya (たつや) — formerly of pyCHEDELICA and Stockholm, bringing experienced vocal prowess to the project - **Guitar:** Masakiyo (マサキヨ) - **Bass:** Gazeru (ガゼル) - **Drums:** KIST (キスト) — the newest member fueling the rhythm section Tatsuya's background in previous projects hints at Kik...

Japanese rock outfit INHALE is gearing up to drop their highly anticipated second full-length album, *BLUE MOMENT*, on April 22, 2026. The 12-track record marks a significant chapter in the band's evolution since their debut, and early single "The Awakening" already hints at the sonic depth fans can expect. For those unfamiliar with INHALE, the band has been carving out a niche in Japan's rock underground with their theatrical approach to songwriting and dynamic instrumental prowess. *BLUE MOMENT* appears to continue that trajectory, blending introspective themes with driving arrangements across tracks like "Trick Or Truth," "Satya," and the album's epic closer "Resurrection." The full tracklist reveals a concept-adjacent narrative arc—opening with "The Awakening" and closing with "Resurrection," sandwiching 10 tracks that explore themes of rebirth, struggle, and transcendence. Standout titles like "The End...

My Lonely Vacation is ready to unveil their first full-length album, and it's shaping up to be a compelling addition to the Japanese rock landscape. The 10-track record *BEAUTIFY* drops physically on April 29, 2026, with a digital release arriving three weeks earlier on April 7. The band brings together an impressive lineup with deep roots in the Japanese rock underground. Vocalist Takahiro and drummer Rino both come from the disbanded group JILL-PRINCE, while guitarist Lise also spent time in JILL-PRINCE before collaborating with the unit Chicktak. Rounding out the quartet is guitarist Naki, completing a four-piece configuration built on chemistry and shared musical vision. The album's tracklist reveals an ambitious sonic palette: opening with "Specialess" and flowing through standout cuts like "Toxic" (the lead single with an accompanying music video), "Labyrinth," "Middle Mermaid," "Valentine Kill," and the closing tr...

ねぐせ。 has solved the mystery that's been puzzling their fanbase all week: the band will hold their very first free live performance on April 16th at an undisclosed location in Shibuya, starting at 5 PM. For the past several days, the band's official social media accounts have been posting cryptic messages and coded imagery, sparking wild speculation among listeners about what was coming. Today's announcement answers those burning questions—sort of. While the date and general area are confirmed, the exact venue details remain under wraps, and fans will need to keep monitoring official channels for the location reveal. ねぐせ。 has been building momentum steadily throughout early 2026. Just ahead of this free live, they're dropping new single "青春バイブレーション" (Seishun Vibration) on April 8th—an upbeat, spring-ready anthem that frontman りょたち (vocals, guitar) debuted at the band's recent festival appearance. The track perfectly captures the energy of new beginn...

Cloudy are ramping up their momentum with the announcement of their second full-length album and an ambitious nationwide tour spanning August through November 2026. **できるだけ感動の方へ** (Dekiru Dake Kandō no Hō e) drops August 5, 2026 on the Cloudy label at ¥2,500. This marks the first CD release with the band's current lineup and arrives nearly two years after their debut album. The project compiles previously released digital singles, including "無責任な肯定を" (Musekinin na Kōtei wo), which won the RO JACK audition tournament last year, plus three consecutive monthly releases from early 2026: "サミダレ," "孤軍奮闘歌," and "捧ぐ." The **2nd Album 'Dekiru Dake Kandō no Hō e' Release Tour** kicks off August 15 with a battle-of-the-bands show at Chiba LOOK, sweeping across eight additional regional venues through September. The tour then pivots to a one-man show circuit beginning October 1 at Tokyo's Shibuya WWW X—an added date after the November ...

Nobushige Takahashi is gearing up to deliver his third solo single, and it's shaping up to be a star-studded affair. "Deus benedicat" drops on May 27, 2026, featuring an impressive lineup of guest musicians that speaks volumes about Takahashi's standing in the Japanese underground rock scene. For those unfamiliar with Takahashi, he's a respected figure in Japan's experimental and theatrical rock circles, known for his distinctive vocal presence and willingness to collaborate across genre boundaries. This new single reinforces that reputation by assembling musicians from some genuinely interesting projects. The title track, "Deus benedicat" (Latin for "God bless"), features an all-star ensemble: guitarists 心 (Kokoro) from 天燐 (Tenrin) and こーじ隊長 (Koji-taichou), bassist トゥーサ (Toussa), keyboardist JUNCO, drummer 拓郎 (formerly of Valhalla), and backing vocals from 山口 "AZU" 安澄 (Azumi Yamaguchi). That's a serious amount of musicians...

GOTCHAROCKA is gearing up to deliver fresh material with a striking double A-side single dropping this May. The Tokyo-based rock outfit will unleash "0 MINUS 0 / Wicked Div.1 - 極悪一課 -" on **May 2, 2026**, bringing two contrasting sonic directions on one release. For those unfamiliar with GOTCHAROCKA, the band has built a reputation for heavy, theatrical rock that sits at the intersection of industrial and alternative metal—featuring layered guitar work, dynamic vocal delivery, and a visual presentation that commands attention on stage. They've developed a dedicated following among fans who appreciate rock music with genuine edge and complexity. **Release Details:** The single will be packaged as a limited CD (containing both tracks) bundled with a **44-page photobook**, priced at **6,000 yen** (approximately $40 USD). Importantly, this is a **live-limited and web-shop exclusive** release, meaning copies will only be available at their live shows and through their offi...

YONA YONA WEEKENDERS are kicking off their 10th anniversary year in style with the release of "Tokio Dungeon," a groove-laden new single that showcases the band's evolution while honoring their signature sound. The track arrives today across all digital platforms, accompanied by a striking lyric video that captures the band's dynamic visual aesthetic. Built around a jungle-influenced beat, "Tokio Dungeon" channels the chaotic energy of urban life—breathing in the discord and sensory overload of the city itself. It's a departure that still feels distinctly YONA YONA WEEKENDERS: thoughtfully crafted "good music for chewing on," as the band describes their philosophy, but with a fresh edge that marks a new chapter. For those unfamiliar with the Tokyo outfit, YONA YONA WEEKENDERS have carved out a distinctive niche in the Japanese rock underground since their formation, blending theatrical presentation with alternative rock sensibilities. T...

Re:name have marked a major milestone by releasing their new album *1626* on their 10th anniversary, March 25th—and they're already announcing an expanded nationwide tour to match the momentum. The album's title encapsulates the band's journey: formed when the members were just 16 years old, they've now spent a full decade together with the same lineup—a remarkable feat in today's music landscape. *1626* arrives as both a retrospective and a statement of intent, featuring eight tracks that showcase the band's evolution while maintaining the melodic rock foundation that's defined their decade-long run. Leading the charge is "one room," which arrives with a music video that brings drummer Yamaken's songwriting vision to life in unexpected ways. Yamaken penned both the song's lyrics *and* a short story of the same name that inspired the video. He also wrote the script, while director Miwakana took the helm behind the camera. First pres...

the FUZZ is gearing up to deliver fresh sonic chaos with their upcoming album *生命の唄* (Song of Life), hitting shelves on **June 5, 2026**. For those unfamiliar with the Tokyo-based outfit, the FUZZ have carved out a reputation as fearless sonic experimentalists within the Japanese underground rock scene. Their approach blends visceral guitar work with unpredictable song structures and an aesthetic that refuses easy categorization—hallmarks that have earned them a devoted cult following among Western fans seeking something genuinely uncompromising. The new record spans 10 tracks that showcase the band's trademark eclecticism. The tracklist reads like a curated descent into controlled mayhem: opener "Trigger" sets the tone before shifting into the quirky "アルマジロ" (Armadillo), followed by the atmospheric "宵待月" (Twilight Moon). Mid-album cuts like "Masochistycznych Pobudzenia" and "那由他の奇蹟" (Miracle of Nayuta) hint at the experimental t...