Formed in 2011 as Gyze, “Samurai Metal” band RYUJIN deftly deliver heavy metal from Japan to the international masses with their self-titled Napalm Records debut, RYUJIN, out January 12, 2024! Blending both Japanese and English lyricism and featuring production and several guest features by Matthew Kiichi Heafy (Trivium), the band’s high speed riffs and breakneck guitar descents pair with traditional Japanese elements, delivering a sound influenced by everything from ancient orchestral Gagaku to even modern anime themes.
After releasing four highly acclaimed albums and appearing at major festivals worldwide, RYUJIN have developed their own identity, expressed with accents of tasteful traditional Japanese instrumentation (i.e. Shamisen, Dragon Flute, Erhu, Taiko), and lead guitar god Ryoji Shinomoto’s incredible shredding technique and ripping vocals!
Today, the band launches their new album announcement alongside a brand new single, entitled “Raijin & Fujin”, accompanied by a high-energy music video. The track is an epic power metal storm featuring guest vocal contributions from Matthew Kiichi Heafy, shifting into a swirling tornado of rattling double bass and catapulting solos!
RYUJIN mastermind Ryoji Shinomoto says about the album and new single:
“This is the first album of the evolution from Gyze to RYUJIN! We want everyone to enjoy Samurai Metal from the Far East! Produced by Matthew, it opens new doors for us and we are honored to release it on the legendary Napalm Records!”
Featured guest Matthew Kiichi Heafy adds:
“RYUJIN delivers music unlike anyone else on the planet. It was their original sound that initially grasped my attention and left me needing to have more and more of what they do. I am humbled and honored to have been able to contribute to this upcoming masterpiece… this opus!
This is the album the world needs.”
Watch the music video for “Raijin & Fujin” Here:
RYUJIN illustrates an exotic sonic experience that will transport music lovers to a world of fantastic adventure and technical extravagance!
RYUJIN track listing:
1. Hajimari
2. Gekokujo
3. Dragon, Fly Free
4. Raijin & Fujin
5. The Rainbow Song
6. Kunnecup
7. Scream of the Dragon
8. Gekirin
9. Saigo No Hoshi
10. Ryujin
11. Guren No Yumiya
12. Saigo No Hoshi (feat. Matthew K. Heafy) (Single Edit)
