NOCTURNAL BLOODLUST JAPAN

HRH Mag’s Arta Gailuma brings us a glimpse of the formidable metal scene in Japan.

On a rainy spring evening a long queue was building up in front of Spotify O-West, located in Shibuya- western part of Tokyo known as a centre for youth fashion and culture. They were all there to see Nocturnal Bloodlust (aka Nokubura), a household name in Japan’s heavy metal scene, on the last date of “The Impulse” tour.

Born in 2009 in Tokyo the metalcore/ deathcore band is known for being super energetic, loud and playing aggressive riffs mixed with amazing melodies. Tonight, was not an exception to that. Large part of the setlist was, of course, coming from the latest album “Argos” (out on 04.05.2022) which was band’s first full length release in almost eight years and also the first with the new line-up.

Over the years Nokubura have transformed from being very visual into musically complex and are shifting with ease between genres. Not a new concept to Nocturnal Bloodlust’s compositions - the use of intro tracks is a great way to build up anticipation. The evening started with the intro track “The Devastated World” transforming into the first full composition of the album - “Red Soil”.

Lead singer Hiro in full frontman style was enthralling the crowd with his impressive set of lungs while guitarist Valtz performing some impressive acrobatics; bassist Masa and guitarist Yu-taro spinning and jumping while thrashing the guitar and Natsu hiding behind the drum kit was a real powerhouse. Hiro and Masa were chatting to fans in between the songs and the encouragement for crowd participation did not fall on deaf ears.

It has been a while since I have seen the entirety of the venue fist pumping and the whole front row of fans gripping tightly the metal railing of the barrier and headbanging in full power. Emotions run high and great atmosphere was in the air!

The main part of the set finished with Venom - a brutal piece perfect for a moshpit, coming from 2013’s “Omega”EP, but everyone already knew there will be more to come. And after awhole 10 minutes of fans screaming “Encor-e, Encor-e” the night continued with four tracks after which to everyone’s delight band came back on stage one more time and the show finished with V.I.P and A Day To Remember. A great night from start to the end!

Words and Photos by Arta Gailuma