Tokyo proto-Doom and Heavy Rock wielders Hebi Katana present the third single taken from their new album “Imperfection,” to be released on July 25th via Ripple Music.
Watch new video “Praise The Shadows-陰翳礼賛” via the YouTube player below:
Listen to the single on all streaming services
Hebi KAtana‘s unique fusion of wabi-sabi philosophy (the traditional Japanese way of embracing transience and imperfection) and heavy sounds has established them as a true force to be reckoned with in the underground scene, and this fourth record will drive it home. Pulsating with raw intensity and channeling the essence of 70s heavy metal, the power trio interweaves doom metal heft, proto-hard rock fury and churning grooves while spreading their dark and reflective worldview.
Watch their latest videos “Dead Horse Requiem – 走馬灯” and “Bon Nou – 煩悩“
New album “Imperfection” out July 25th on Ripple Music (LP/CD/digital)
Formed in Tokyo in 2020, Hebi Katana released their self-titled debut album at the end of the same year. With their raw and authentic Doom and dark and mellow Heavy Rock sound, they quickly became a cornerstone of the Japanese scene amongst enthusiasts in overseas media, establishing their sound as “Tokyo Samurai Doom.” In 2022, they released their second album “Impermanence,” welcoming Yukito Okazaki of Eternal Elysium/Studio Zen fame as the producer.
Their 2023 album “III” was widely acclaimed in Japan and overseas and ranked #7 on the influential Doom Charts for December 2023. Progressive Rock Journal stated: “Hebi Katana manage to create their own Samurai Doom, confirming the good things heard in their previous works.” The band performed relentlessly in Tokyo and major cities in Japan, appeared at the Tokyo Doom Fest, and toured in Italy, France, and South America.
Their upcoming fourth full-length and Ripple Music debut, “Imperfection” — written and recorded in parallel with a tour with the same lineup as “III” — features lyrics inspired by Matsuo Basho and Tanizaki Junichiro‘s “wabi sabi” “beauty of imperfection” and “enso” based on the unique Japanese spirituality. This new album refines their signature doom and proto-hard rock sound, merging loud roaring riffs, swinging grooves and Nobu’s trademark stripped-down vocals. The trio’s chemistry shines as they balance brute force with intricate subtleties, creating a sound that feels both primal and meticulously crafted. “Imperfection” marks a new step for Hebi Katana. Every riff, groove, and vocal line reinforces their identity — a band unafraid to explore darkness while delivering pure, riff-driven power.
Lineup:
Laven / Bass, Vocals
Nobu / Guitars, Vocals
T.T. Goblin / Drums
Read our Review of their previous album “III” here: [Review] Hebi Katana – III