Smelling The Coffee With SUMMER From KITSUNEVI

Heavy metal music is alive and well in Japan.
For a country more recognised for being conservative and polite
when it comes to social interactions, the amount of talented,
unrecognised and socially unacceptable bands doing the rounds is
almost unfathomable.
Over six previous visits to Japan with different touring bands I
have witnessed everything from jazz to metal to rock to acoustic,
but if there is one common denominator it is the universal wealth
of talent that seems to be dripping from the corners of every live
house you visit. A quick tally comes to around 120 live Japanese
bands I have seen and/or played with over the years, and I would be
lying if I said at least 110 of them were worthy of paying to see
again.
One of those bands is Osaka metal maniacs kitsunevi, who I had the
pleasure of meeting at a recent trip to Gattaca Live House. This
band had everything. The wow factor, a shredding
guitarist/vocalist, a drummer who hits harder and faster than Sonic
The Hedgehog, and a bass player with dreadlocks down to her legs
with a finger-picking/slap style of funk metal that can only be
compared to the great Fieldy from KORN.
As much as I hate labels, if I had to describe kitsunevi's sound it
would be a cross between Bullet For My Valentine, Trivium, and
Primus, but even that wouldn't be doing this trio justice. After
already releasing two cracking EP's since forming only last year
and putting serious miles in on the touring circuit, one gets the
feeling that kitsunevi are destined for bigger things. And
soon.
HEAVY caught up with Summer (drums) to find out more.
We engaged in a detailed discussion around the band's music,
upcoming tours, and potential collaborations. Summer shared the
band's formation story and the inspiration behind their name, which
is rooted in an ancient Japanese tale. The conversation highlighted
their commitment to regular practice sessions in Osaka, aiming to
refine their unique sound and performance style. We also explored
kitsunevi's individual musical influences and how these contribute
to their cohesive group dynamic, emphasizing the importance of
friendship in their creative process.
The chat further delved into kitsunami's recent EP releases, Embers
Will Rise and Smell the Coffee, with Summer detailing the themes
and musical elements of each project. He expressed excitement about
their upcoming shows in Tokyo and Taiwan, as well as the
possibility of touring Australia next year. We discussed the
vibrant music culture in Japan and the collaborative opportunities
it presents for both local and international bands. As the
interview concluded, Summer recommended three songs for new
listeners to get to know the band, and more.


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