A country known for producing some of the most extreme, experimental or just downright bizarre acts in metal, Japan has never really tended to show much interest in its more traditional or western influenced styles. A small but dedicated power metal scene certainly exists, yet remains arguably further underground than the likes of grindcore, noise, and hardcore punk.

Although hardly stagnant, it has to be said that many of Japan’s current crop of power metal bands have been plying their trade for well over ten years and with very little recognition outside of their own country’s borders. But then there’s always that one. That one act who, in virtually no time at all, manages to break free of any musical or geographical constraints and take flight into skies beyond their own. Since releasing their full-length debut in 2017, that band has been Lovebites.

Three years after their last studio outing, the Tokyo-based five-piece return reinvigorated and with an adjusted line-up for their fourth full-length release, Judgement Day (JPU / Victor). The ride begins with ‘We Are the Resurrection’, which after its anthemic Queen-style intro quickly becomes the first of many fast-paced bruisers. ‘Judgement Day’ follows with neoclassical flourishes and some astonishing guitar work from Midori and Miyako while even down to its title, ‘The Spirit Lives On’ sounds like prime Dragonforce, Asami’s piercing vocals reaching glass-shattering heights.

‘Wicked Witch’ is five and a half minutes of hook-laden galloping power metal glory which wears its influences proudly on its sleeve, as do the likes of ‘Lost in the Garden’ and the furious speedbastard ‘Victim of Time’. Having replaced Miho last year, new four-stringer Fami gets her turn in the spotlight, the twenty year old’s bass guitar sounding like classic Lemmy on the intro to the aggressive ‘Stand and Deliver (Shoot ‘em Down)’ before ‘My Orion’ slows things down a little, this particular melodic monster sounding like something from the world of Beast In Black or Battle Beast.

The simple but effective ‘Dissonance’ seems to be in a race with itself to finish, drummer Haruna in danger of double-kicking herself over the edge of a cliff before lisper’s nightmare ‘Soldier Stands Solitarily’ ends the record on a rousing high with fingers flying in every direction and even more glass shattering vocals.

Confident, powerful, and a danger to neck muscles everywhere, Judgement Day doesn’t skimp on the riffs or the melodies, many choruses instantly lodging themselves inside your brain forever. No ballads, no filler, just balls to the wall metal from the land of the rising sun.

Buy the album here:

https://jpurecords.com/products/lovebites-judgement-day

8 / 10

GARY ALCOCK