(Photography by James Chen)
Hitsujibungaku, a Japanese alternative rock trio, performed for a packed venue at the House of Blues San Diego on April 10th. With their ability to create uplifting and hopeful anthems by blending post-rock with intense sonic elements, the band’s song “Burning” had just won an award at the MTV Music Awards Japan in March. Now, their West Coast tour of the United States begins with its first stop in San Diego. Guitar player vocalist Moeka Shiotsuka and bass player Yurika Kasai are accompanied by drummer Yuna (former member of the recently-disbanded CHAI) who has been providing support for the band’s recent live performances, including a show in Honolulu back in December. Since the Honolulu show’s announcement in September, fans have impatiently speculated whether the band would journey just a bit further to perform in the continental U.S., and now Hitsujibungaku are here.
Taking the stage, the trio immediately launched into their set with “Countdown,” establishing an energetic atmosphere to open up the performance. The band prioritized musical momentum over dialogue, letting their assured and commanding live presence shine through. Tracks like “Eien no Blue” and “GO!!!” delivered striking impact, while more delicate songs such as “Yokan” and “Koe” allowed frontwoman Moeka Shiotsuka’s deeply emotive vocals to fill the venue. Hitsujibungaku’s sound is characterized by contemporary instrumentation and intricate chord progressions, with razor-sharp guitar work and explosive drums that truly come alive in a live setting. The Shiotsuka and Kasai forge a dynamic rapport and harmonization, contributing to a performance that leaves the audience in a state of utter enchantment.
The band is also known for venturing into harsher sonic territories, incorporating elements of grunge and shoegaze into their music. This includes the use of sludgy guitar tones and dissonant soundscapes that frequently contrast with the more melodic passages in their songs. These influences are particularly prominent in tracks like “Burning” and “Addiction,” demonstrating the band’s willingness to explore diverse sounds and add complexity to their musical landscape.
The night concluded with “Inori,” a slow-burn finish that grew in intensity with each closing beat. The drums and notes gradually slowed as the band headbanged to each drawn-out hit. From here, the trio will journey north along the West Coast, before returning to Japan to head straight into festival appearances at ARABAKI ROCK FEST, JAPAN JAM, VIVA LA ROCK, and more before venturing onward for their Asia Tour later in the year.
