Anthem (band)
Japanese heavy metal band formed in early 1980s Tokyo.
Anthem is a Japanese heavy metal band formed in Tokyo in the early 1980s. They are considered one of the most successful and influential Japanese heavy metal bands, alongside Loudness and Earthshaker.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Tokyo, Japan
- Genre
- Heavy metal
- Years active
- 1981–1992, 2000–present
- Label
- Victor
- King
- Universal
- Nuclear Blast
- Current members
- Naoto Shibata
- Akio Shimizu
- Isamu Tamaru
- Yukio Morikawa
Facts from the source article.
History
Anthem was founded in Tokyo during 1980 as a quartet with singer Toshihito Maeda, guitarist Akifumi Koyanagi, bassist Naoto Shibata, and drummer Takamasa Ohuchi. Koyanagi left in late 1983 and was replaced by Hiroya Fukuda.
Their first studio release included songs like "Wild Anthem" and "Warning Action". The 1986 EP single "Xanadu" was the first known song used to promote a new video game, Nihon Falcom's Dragon Slayer II: Xanadu. The second album Tightrope (April 1986) featured a more melodic sound. Bound to Break, the last album with Sakamoto for nearly two decades, introduced producer Chris Tsangarides. Hunting Time followed in 1989, with the song "The Juggler" used as a promotional video. After No Smoke Without Fire was completed without Tsangarides, guitarist Fukuda left and was replaced by Hideaki Nakama, who also left after the tour.
Following auditions, Akio Shimizu joined on guitar. The band released Domestic Booty in 1992. With classic heavy metal out of fashion due to grunge and visual kei, Shibata ended the band. After a tour of Japanese cities, Anthem released Last Anthem: Live recorded at Nissin Power Station, their final show for nearly eight years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Anthem (band) from?
Anthem originated in Tokyo, Japan.
Which record labels has Anthem (band) released music on?
Anthem has released music on Victor, King, Universal and Nuclear Blast.
Who are the current members of Anthem (band)?
The current members of Anthem are listed as Naoto Shibata, Akio Shimizu, Isamu Tamaru and Yukio Morikawa.
More in Japanese Heavy Metal Musical Groups
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced