Historically, Metallica, Slayer, Megadeath, and Anthrax are considered The Big Four of Thrash to help reference their status as the most notable, fundamental, and impactful of the genre. Similarly, we have elected four acts as The Big Four of Japanese Metal Pioneers to applaud the groups that are the most noteworthy of innovating new styles and sounds in the Japanese metal scene.
Envy
Formed in 1992
Based in Tokyo
Most recent full-length: The Fallen Crimson (2020) via Temporary Residence Ltd.
While the term “screamo” is often bastardized and misused by those outside-the-know, Envy‘s emotional and screamy music throughout much of their career actually aptly fits the aforementioned subgenre. Nowadays, the six-piece’s raw hardcore sound has bloomed into a unique, metallic post-rock identity, aesthetically more in common with Deafheaven.
Their latest release, The Fallen Crimson, boasts superb atmospheric dynamics, from the assertive opener “Statement of Freedom” or devastating “A Faint New World” to the blissful comedown of “Rhythm” and “A Step in the Morning Glow.” Overall, Envy is an iconic and underrated reckoning force in the Japanese metal scene, that very well likely subconsciously inspired today’s more ambient and tonally diverse heavy acts.
Dir En Grey
Formed in 1997
Based in Osaka
Most recent full-length: Phalaris (2022) via Free-Will, Sony Music Japan
If you had an open mind and your finger on the pulse of eccentric metal back in the early 2000’s, it’s very likely that you stumbled upon this distinct project. Their alt-prog-death nü-goth style is seductive for fans of Korn, The Cure, Igorrr, or even Sleep Token. You may find yourself facing mosh pits, ballads, and sad dance-offs at their live shows.
Although their international notoriety may have peaked in the past, Dir En Grey is still thriving strong and exploring modern paths in their more recent records: The Insulated World, Phalaris, or this year’s The Devil in Me 3-track release.
Maximum the Hormone
Formed in 1997
Based in Hachiōji
Most recent full-length: Yoshū Fukushū (2013) via VAP
I had a buddy in college who was absolutely obsessed with Maximum the Hormone, and honestly, I don’t blame him. Their energy, sense of humor, and left-field heaviness is incomparable, as if System of a Down was on uppers in hypnosis therapy.
Deserving global acclaim, it’s clear that the band’s experimental fusion of nü-metal, Japanese rock, and mathcore is exactly what the modern metal climate deserves. Their latest singles have been absolutely killer, however we’d sell our left kidney for a new full record.
Babymetal
Formed in 1997
Based in Tokyo
Most recent full-length: The Other One (2023) via Amuse Inc., Cooking Vinyl America, Toy’s Factory
Genuinely, there hasn’t been as an influential Japanese musical force to impact the West as strong as Babymetal. Their fanbase are fanatical, and rightfully so, with deep lore, broad genre-fusion, and collaborations with the likes of Rage Against the Machine, B’z, Dragonforce, Polyphia, Sabaton, Arch Enemy, Electric Callboy, and F. Hero.
The current trio consists of Su-metal, Moametal, and Momometal backed by the Kami Band, breaking down the barriors between J-pop and heavy metal. It may take some adjusting considering the vast contrast between the heaviness of metal and the whimsical heights of J-pop, but the blend that this group has conjured across their decade-long successful career is wholeheartedly beyond fun.