Imagine standing in a bustling concert hall, anticipation thick in the air. The lights dim. An explosive drum crash jolts the crowd to life! Let this backdrop evoke the electrifying aura NEMOPHILA captures in their new five-song EP, 五臓 -GOZO-.
Rising again from the Japanese rock scene, this all-female powerhouse of heavy metal has made waves worldwide since its 2019 debut. Now, they kick off the new year with an adrenaline-charged burst of attitude.
From the first primal scream to the final note, this EP crackles with electricity! The opener, KAIKASENGEN [開花宣言], strikes with the force of a samurai’s blade. Lead singer mayu’s fierce growl electrifies the air, while relentless beats, infectious grooves, and searing guitar solos keep the adrenaline surging. Yet, halftime breaks slow the pace to build tension, then snap back to power up the tempo.
Moreover, longtime fans will instantly recognize NEMOPHILA’s hallmark style. For sure, rock musicians everywhere appreciate the band’s remarkable musical craftsmanship. Such as when dual-guitar harmonies showcase their technical prowess. As on many of the tracks, they interlace intricate riffs, punchy bass, and complex drumming. Notably, Tamu Murata on drums forges this banger into an adrenalized anthem.
The second song, VS EGO:, surges with snapping bass and dazzling chords. Here, bassist Haraguchi-san iniates an anthem to uplift your self-esteem. The unrelenting sonic barrage boosts your mood, rushing you through an energizing two-minute ride. Let them take you on a sonic rollercoaster with melodic highs and groovy lows.
Maintaining momentum, Oblivious delivers dynamic, high-flying riffs. Guitarist Hazuki channels her love of pro wrestling in a tune fit for a ring entrance. Picture a masked luchador revving up the crowd and pumping up the arena. Finally, the song, like a triumphant grappler, slams with a power suplex for a three-count win!
In contrast to the high-voltage of the previous tracks, namas shifts gears as mayu delivers a ground-and-pound approach. This track presses the audio offensive but weaves gentle bridges reminiscent of Beautiful Days. Finally, PUMP IT UP! closes the EP, bookending its heavyweight tracks with an anthemic finish. All in all, NEMOPHILA brings pure intensity, adorable enthusiasm, and joy to every track.
Experience The Goods Now
Stream the 五臓 -GOZO- EP now or purchase it online. Two editions ship worldwide: a standard five-track CD and a limited edition version. The limited edition includes a Blu-ray of NEMOPHILA’s live event, HORIZON TENSEI JIGOKU ONDOJU -JIGOKU FESU- [地平天成獄音道中 -地獄フェス-], featuring ten live songs performed at Kawasaki CLUB CITTA on September 21, 2025.
(Artwork by kokubozu)
By the way, if you are worried about language barriers, don’t worry. NEMOPHILA’s lyrics blend Japanese and English for a punchy, distinctive flavor. No translation is needed as the melodies, riffs, and production deliver a feast of audio delights for every listener.
On a personal note: one of NEMOPHILA’s songs was a big factor in the creation of Asia Amped Beat. Find out which one it is in my launch letter, Music Mission Begins Again, Letter From the Editor.
About NEMOPHILA
A Japanese all-female band formed in Tokyo in 2019. They blend hard rock and heavy metal, calling it “heavier than Hell” music, with a fun aesthetic. Aggressive riffs contrast with gentle charm, winning over listeners around the world. The members are mayu (vocals), Hazuki (guitar), Haraguchi-san (bass), and Tamu Murata (drums).
The band gained international attention through energetic YouTube videos. Their albums include REVIVE (2021), Seize the Fate (2022), EVOLVE (2024), and Apple of my eye (2025). They are known for high-intensity performances and a positive approach to heavy music.
