Antiknock & Nabla9 Pre. THE HAND: NABLA9,  あたまに赤ちゃがいます,  HAYANIE, Theo JP, Central 2nd Sick, Bloom In The Crevasse, East Up Line
Shinjuku Antiknock, Tokyo, Japan
January 10th 2025

There is something to be said about some of the taiban’s (multi-band live shows) here in Japan. Starting in the early evening, stacking bands with shorter sets but just as much action- while you may not always be able to catch every single act- it is a night out that I recommend for everybody who visits Tokyo and wants to check out the local music scene. Call it a scene sample pack if you will.

Well the one I headed to at Shinjuku Antiknock on Friday the 10^th was a special one. Hosted by nu-metalcore band NABLA9, not only was it a collective of the different sounds the underground scene has to offer, but it was a farewell show for their vocalist Vasilii.

Before they hit the stage though, there was a plethora of acts to experience. Opening the show was East Up Line, giving us some classic metalcore to sink our teeth into. With three guitarists, you already know that this was going to be riffs upon riffs. Along with riffs, shredding solos and a dynamic rhythm section that will have you remembering why you fell in love with metalcore 20 years ago (well- that is the impact it had on me).

Up next, with the same master behind the kit, was one of my favourite underground Tokyo metalcore acts Bloom In The Crevasse. With a sound that dabbles in the Paledusk territory, but still keeps a more brutal sound, the energy of this band is unmatched. The general violence and chaos that their music inspires is infectious and has me constantly wondering why they are not supporting some of the biggest names in the scene. Their vocalist has an exceptional sound and knows exactly how to use his range at the right time. Remember their name as I predict if they can weather the storm of the trials and tribulations of playing the local circuit, they have all the talent to take them far.

Replacing the aggressive energy with one that was a little more fun, Central 2^nd Sick hit the stage and put a hell of a show. At first, I was not sure what to think. Their outfits had me thinking of that old school, bordering on oshare kei/fun J-rock that was my early foray into the Japanese scene, but after a few songs I found myself getting right into their vibe. There were still heavy breakdowns, it just was shrouded in melody and little dance moments. At the end of the day, everybody looked like they were having fun- the band and the crowd included.

Speaking of oshare, the band that was up next happens to be one of the most fashionable bands I’ve seen kicking around the Tokyo scene. With a boho chic style and soaring melodies, Kasumi stand out from the crowd. The bass grooves are undeniable and the frontman’s vocals exquisite. The man can seriously belt! Their drummer is also a machine while their guitarist is working overtime delivering some of the prettiest melodies and nastiest riffs. This band will have you hand over your heart in some moments and spin kicking seconds later.

If you want guitarists holding it down though, then the next band is one to have on your radar. No strangers to NOISE ‘N’ VISUALS, Theo JP guitar heavy style of metalcore is for all you prog inclined folk out there. If you like melodic riffs, prominent rhythm sections and dynamic vocals- then these guys are for you. This performance was one of the best of theirs I caught. I sometimes feel that this is one band that is wrestling with their potential, with all the skill but sometimes lacking in the confidence of their own music- but that is starting to change. Ownership of their music, tightness in their performance and a sense of trust between the members is becoming apparent. This is one band we are committed to watching rise up through the ranks.

Now, as mentioned at the top, sometimes it can be hard to catch every act so after a brief break (unfortunately missing the next two bands), it was time to catch our hosts of the night- NABLA9. With Vasilii leaving Japan and this being his last performance- there was no doubt that it was going to be an emotional affair. NABLA9 are one band that are building their reputation as a creative force in the scene. Tapping into that numetalcore style, they bring together a diverse range of influences and a musical maturity that makes them a delight to catch.

High energy from the jump, no time was wasted. They had the room moving straight away. Headbanging, jumping, hands in the air- the stage can barely contain them as members often find their way into the pit. After a few songs, departing frontman Vasilii addressed the crowd, leaving quite a few tears not just from him, but amongst the audience too. This only inspired an extra level of commitment in the pit, with the fans and friends giving him the send-off he deserved. Unfortunately, a chant for one more song was not honoured but once the band departed, an image was projected onto the screen. A teaser, determining the fate of the band- showing that this was not the end of NABLA9. The image, a photo of the band with a new vocalist disguised in a bunny suit- it stopped the chant in its tracks and left those gathered with more questions.

All in all, these events are quite common in Tokyo. It is not rare to find these kind of taiban’s being held at a local livehouse. You can catch four to eight acts for around ¥4000 (including a drink), especially around Shinjuku and Shibuya. After the show, the bands and those in attendance have a drink together, bond and talk- giving you a taste of what the local scene. Of course, if you can’t speak Japanese, it might be limiting but the vibe is always there.

So instead of trying to see what big bands are playing or international acts are in town, when you are in Japan, head down to the local live house. You may just find your new favourite band.