
Ten years is a long road for any metal band. It’s a path of relentless evolution, of refining one’s craft while staying true to a vision. For Tokyo-based melodic death metal band Alphoenix, their latest single, “Tokyo Lunar” is a declaration of their artistic growth, and a testament to a decade of unwavering passion. Released on January 29, 2025, this track embodies everything that has defined the band’s journey: ferocity, melody, and an undying connection to their cultural roots.
From their inception in 2015, Alphoenix has been more than just a disciple of the Nordic melodic death metal greats – they’ve been alchemists, fusing Scandinavian aggression with an unmistakable Japanese sensibility. Their influences are clear: In Flames, Dark Tranquillity, Soilwork – all bands that shaped the Gothenburg sound. But rather than replicating, Alphoenix has spent the last ten years building a bridge between Swedish melancholy and Tokyo’s electric energy.
And “Tokyo Lunar” might just be their boldest statement yet.
From the very first note, “Tokyo Lunar” hits like a surge of neon-lit chaos, a musical whirlwind that feels both nostalgic and futuristic. The riffs are sharper, the breakdowns heavier, and the melodies seep into the bones like an urban midnight skyline.
According to the band’s leader, the track is “our the heaviest track to date, fusing 90s Tokyo culture with a modern perspective, set during the dawn of melodic death metal. Celebrate the band’s 10th anniversary with us!“”
A major highlight of the track is the guest appearance by Xavier from Upon Stone, whose vocals intertwine seamlessly with those of Alphoenix‘s own Shimpei.