When Tokyo’s underground metal scene first caught wind of HANABIE., few could have predicted how far the self-proclaimed “Harajuku-core” band would go. What started as a high school club activity in 2015 has since exploded into one of the most exciting acts in Japan’s heavy music sphere — and now, the world. Combining metalcore, hardcore, and idol pop with a lively dose of kawaii chaos, HANABIE. has created a sound that’s as brutal as it is brilliantly unhinged. And with their newest release, the hyper-charged anime theme Karu Garu Everyday!!, the quartet continues to prove no box can contain them.

HANABIE. began in 2015 when founding members Yukina, Matsuri, and Hettsu formed the band as part of a school activity. Inspired by Japanese idol aesthetics and Western metalcore, they created a new sub-genre they coined “Harajuku-core”, a mix of candy-coloured visuals and gut-punching breakdowns. Their fearless mix started attracting attention locally, but it wasn’t until the release of Pardon Me, I Have To Go Now that things went truly global. The single racked up over 9.4 million YouTube views and 5.1 million TikTok plays, and fans couldn’t get enough of Yukina’s sharp vocals, Matsuri’s shredding, Hettsu’s bass flair, and later, Chika’s explosive drumming.

The band’s major-label debut came in July 2023 via Epic Records Japan, and HANABIE. wasted no time going international. Within just six months, they completed an ambitious 45-show world tour across 17 countries, an almost unheard-of achievement for a newly signed Japanese act.

They didn’t stop there. In August 2024, HANABIE. made history as the first Japanese women to perform on the main stage at Lollapalooza Chicago.

Released via Sony Music, HANABIE.’s new single Karu Garu Everyday!! acts as the official theme song to the TV anime Araiguma Calcal-dan; and it’s every bit as chaotic and charming as you’d expect.

Listening to the track post-recording, I found the song to be a blend of cuteness, emotional vibes, and surrealness,” Yukina shared. “It made us all laugh with its perfect chaos. I hope it becomes a motivational anthem, giving everyone the energy to tackle each day! – YUKINA

European Tour 2025: The UK Gets Loud

Following their festival appearances and global tours, HANABIE. is heading back to Europe for a headline tour this fall, with a special focus on the UK and Ireland. Kicking off in Glasgow on October 31, the tour will hit six major cities, giving fans a chance to experience the full force of Harajuku-core live.

HANABIE. UK/IE TOUR DATES 2025:

• Oct 31 – QMU, Glasgow
• Nov 1 – Academy 2, Manchester
• Nov 2 – O2 Institute, Birmingham
• Nov 4 – The Academy, Dublin
• Nov 5 – Limelight, Belfast
• Nov 7 – Electric Brixton, London

🎫 Tickets are available now via HANABIE.’s official website.

If 2023 and 2024 were breakout years, 2025 is shaping up to be a coronation. With new music, anime tie-ins, historic live shows, and a growing global fanbase, HANABIE. is rewriting the rules of what a Japanese metal band can look and sound like.

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