HANABIE. cements their status as one of the most unapologetically authentic Harajuku-core bands, shaking up Tokyo's loud rock and metalcore scene with their EP HOT TOPIC.
True to the name of the record, the quartet has truly made a splash with this release as they establish themselves as one of this generation's most distinct musical idols. Being the perfect mix of heavy and humorous, HOT TOPIC captures the unmistakable voice of HANABIE.
The band shares more about the album, describing it as a vast soundscape that's built with each lyric, track, beat, and shredding guitar riff. Kicking off the album right, the opening track 'ICONIC' drenches fans in the electrifying energy the album presents as a whole. The music video accompanying the track visually captures the duality of the band with their hardcore metal side and sweet Harajuku-inspired style colliding as they perform the track in a cold white void that's meant to be the "brain's control centre." Decked out in fabulous outfits and stunning makeup looks, the video depicts the band's overall look and aesthetic.
The track 'Tokimeki about you' carries the same fire as 'ICONIC' as vocalist Yukina expresses her excitement to perform the track live, sharing, "I’d love it if everyone sang along and jumped around during the chorus—I can already picture the scene in my head! I can’t wait to perform these live at our shows." The pair of pre-album singles capture the present and past musical identity of HANABIE. 'GIRL’S TALK' captures who they are currently, while 'Spicy Queen' creates a mid-album throwback, transporting listeners to the early days of HANABIE., flawlessly embodying the youthful spirit that they radiate.
Infusing the signature of letting loose with a playful track, this EP features 'Theme of hanabienchan', which presents a fun and peppy twist acting as an amusing sonic pivot from the other four tracks. Bassist Hettsu shares more on the track, saying, "It is the theme song for HANABIE.’s unofficial character, "Hanabienchan". As our wild-card track that is in every EP or album, it finally makes its appearance here! There might just be a second installment if there is a good response...??".
North American fans can catch the band’s signature high-energy live show on their first headlining tour starting Friday, 13 March, with Nekrogoblikon and Enterprise Earth supporting. Click here and grab your tickets before they sell out!
With HOT TOPIC, HANABIE. cements their place as one of Tokyo’s most electrifying musical acts, blending heavy riffs, playful twists, and unmistakable personality. From exhilarating openers to fun, quirky tracks, the EP captures the band’s evolving sound and bold aesthetic. As they bring this energy to stages across North America for the first time, HANABIE. proves that their mix of power, charm, and creativity is a force fans won’t want to miss.
Like what you read? Show our writer some love!
-