HANABIE. Bucchgiri Tokyo: Review

HANABIE., the genre-mashing Tokyo based metal-core quartet, is back with their ground-breaking EP, Bucchigiri Tokyo. Comprising of Yukina (vocals), Matsuri (guitar and clean vocals), Hettsu (bass and backing vocals), and Chika (drums and backing vocals), HANABIE. brings an electrifying fusion to the scene, blending metal-core, nu-metal, anime-inspired anthems, and electronic elements. Their sound is raw and packed with unrelenting energy.

Having earned a spot at this year's Download Festival, it's clear why - The new EP offers a thrilling ride, moving effortlessly between intense guttural growls and sweet, melodic vocals—what HANABIE. creates is nothing short of captivating CHAOS. Influenced by anime, vocaloids, and idol culture, their aesthetic adds an extra layer to their identity, giving them an unmissable vibrancy in the heavy metal scene.

The title track, Bucchigiri Tokyo, immediately hits you with a blend of fierce distorted guitar work, aggressive vocals, and bubbly, anime-like cleans. This track’s ability to switch from gritty growls to angelic cleans is, to me, the very essence of HANABIE. They keep you on your toes, constantly shifting gears while maintaining a stamina that pushes you forward whether you like it or not. With hard-hitting riffs and relentless drumming, the opening track offers a perfect snapshot of what HANABIE. is all about.

Next, Metamorphose showcases the band’s range, constantly refusing to let you settle into one sound. There's a thrash feel, thundering drums and an extremely contagious energy—it’s a track that will undoubtedly ignite the crowd. OTAKU Lovely Densetsu brings back the bands electronic elements and almost a sense of grandeur to the EP, with synths and soaring clean vocals that give the feeling of epic adventure. HANABIE.’s ability to seamlessly transition between absolute CARNAGE and gorgeous masterful melodies is on full display here.

GAMBLER takes things further, twisting and turning with demonic growls layered over hypnotic melodies, drawing you in with an mesmerizing eeriness. The growls are dark and menacing, while the melodies soar, shifting from rolling grooves to thunderous thrash—keeping you constantly engaged.

Ito Okashi My Type is another whirlwind of genres, starting with a pop-infused chorus and an element of rap that catapults into an almost power-metal feel before diving back into metal-core. The pace is relentless, the breakneck rhythm and constant genre-switching keeps the track exciting and unpredictable. You won’t be able to sit still while listening to this one— a perfect example of HANABIE.’s signature blend of kawaii chaos and pure power.

The closing track, Bonus Guilty Time, is a bold move from the band. Featuring Chika, the drummer, on vocals, it introduces more electronic elements than the rest of the EP, giving the track a fresh, vibrant feel. While it stands apart from the others, it’s a fearless step outside of the boundaries, adding yet another layer to the band's dynamic sound. It’s an unpredictable ending that perfectly encapsulates HANABIE.’s willingness to experiment.

Bucchigiri Tokyo is an EP like no other you’ll hear this year. HANABIE. isn’t just blending genres—they’re completely and utterly reimagining them. Their raw energy, experimental fun, and unapologetically heavy sound make this EP a must-hear.. Whether it’s the guttural growls, the squeaky clean vocals, or the unexpected shifts, every track is a surprise. Metal-core meets anime, the combination you didn't know you needed.

RELEASE DATE: 4.12.24

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Press Release: The Noise Cartel