Formerly known as GYZE, Japanese “samurai metal” band RYUJIN has been reborn, signing a worldwide contract with Napalm Records, one of the world’s biggest metal labels. Not only that, but Matthew Kiichi Heafy of the American metal band Trivium has signed on as their manager, producer, and mentor. Heafy, who is Japanese American, will produce RYUJIN’s fifth studio album.
RYUJIN, a four-piece metal band from Hokkaido, offers a unique blend of shredding guitars, ripping vocals, and traditional Japanese elements. Frontman Ryoji Shinomoto not only provides lead guitar and vocals, but also plays the traditional shamisen, erhu, and dragon flute.
Ryoji Shinomoto says:
We have a very grateful announcement on behalf of RYUJIN (ex-GYZE):
Like a Phoenix from the ashes⊠GYZE has become RYUJIN!
Matthew Kiichi Heafy from Trivium is our manager, producer, and mentor.
We are proud to have just signed a worldwide deal with the amazing Napalm Records.
We are ready to make this band a worldwide-known act and to bring happiness and excitement to everyone around the globe.The name RYUJIN comes from the Japanese Dragon God King with the same name. In Japanese lore, Ryujin freely moves heaven and earth, moves the clouds, blows the wind, and makes it rain. The Dragon God King also controls the flow of weather, ocean currents, and geothermal heat.
We canât wait for you to hear the music weâve been working on.
Trivium frontman and RYUJIN manager Matthew Kiichi Heafy adds:
It is my incredible honor to announce that I am officially working with the newly reincarnated form of GYZE, RYUJIN, for management, production, and mentoring. Ryujin is the Japanese king of the dragons and the namesake of this for the band is nothing but appropriate.
Ryoji is one of the most talented human beings Iâve ever had the privilege of knowing. Whether it’s his monstrous screaming, powerful singing, other-worldly guitar playing, or his masterful songwriting, he is a musical force of nature.
This album is going to be mind-blowing.
We can’t wait to see what RYUJIN has in store for us!
From left to right: Drummer Shuji, bassist Aruta, guitarist and vocalist Ryoji, and guitarist Shinkai