Japanese Doom and Heavy Rock wielders Hebi Katana unleash their razor-sharp and Punk-laden second single “Bon Nou,” taken from their forthcoming new album “Imperfection” to be issued on July 25th via Ripple Music.
Let Hebi Katana crush you with new track “Bon Nou – 煩悩” via the YouTube player below:
Hebi Katana are purveyors of a one-of-a-kind fusion of wabi-sabi (Japanese traditional acceptance of transience and imperfection) and Heavy Doom sounds! Their 2023 album “III” was widely acclaimed in Japan and overseas and ranked #7 on the influential Doom Charts for December 2023. US magazine New Noise Magazine deemed the trio as “a deadly new force within the Japanese scene,” while Progressive Rock Journal praised the album, stating: “Hebi Katana manage to create their own Samurai Doom, confirming the good things heard in their previous works.” [Full Review]
Their upcoming fourth full-length “Imperfection” — written and recorded in parallel of 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 spiritual world. This new album refines their signature Doom and proto-Hard Rock sound, merging loud roaring riffs with beaming melodies. Pulsing with sheer intensity and channeling the spirit of the 70s, their dynamics interweave Doom Metal weight and Psychedelic expansiveness while staying true to their dark, shadowy and introspective worldview.
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 bold evolution for Hebi Katana. Every riff, groove, and vocal line reinforces their identity — a band unafraid to explore darkness while delivering pure, riff-driven power in their own right. Don’t wait to join the cult.
Watch their latest video for “Dead Horse Requiem – 走馬灯“
Hebi Katana “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 authentic Doom/Stoner sound 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. A year later, they issued their third album “III,” which was distributed in Japan, as well as in Germany, Poland and the UK. 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.
Lineup:
Laven / Bass, Vocals
Nobu / Guitars, Vocals
T.T. Goblin / Drums