Their impressive show at the legendary Budokan in Tokyo just behind them, Japanese power metal quintet LOVEBITES are ready for the worldwide physical release of their new album, Outstanding Power, with a new video for "Reaper's Lullaby." The song ventures into rougher territory: Not only do LOVEBITES harshen their sound to be reminiscent of thrash metal, but they also add gang shouts to enhance the stirring character. Delightfully fast, "Reaper's Lullaby" repeats its lyrics to burn in their meaning, giving the words significant weight and turning the song into another standout showing LOVEBITES' versatile skills. The accompanying album, Outstanding Power, is out now, via Napalm Records !
LOVEBITES about "Reaper's Lullaby":
"While our music is fundamentally rooted in power metal, we embrace a wide range of musical styles. Among them, 'Reaper’s Lullaby' can be described as a fast and brutal track at 240 BPM, featuring tremolo riffs that convey a cold, chilling atmosphere and distill one of the most aggressive facets of LOVEBITES' musical identity. The music video also stays true to the song's image, depicting us performing within a circle formed by candles, resulting in a dark visual presentation that differs from previous LOVEBITES music videos. We invite you to fully experience the dark side of LOVEBITES."
Outstanding Power dashes forward with galloping riffs and sweeping pathos in its opening song, "The Castaway," a speedy power metal hymn extraordinaire, featuring rousing vocals and shimmering guitar and bass solos. Encouraging "Silence The Void" ties in with catchy verses, while "Forbidden Thirst" channels the inner turmoil in its lyrics into heroic storytelling through music, crowned again with impressive solos by guitarists Miyako and Midori. In mature "Blazing Halo", their dual guitars take the form of AC/DC-esque structures, gifting a classical sense to LOVEBITES' high-energy approach. "Dream Of King" starts off as a stripped-down, mid-tempo anthem, letting vocalist Asami shine, before crescendoing into an emotional firework—an easy album highlight! Following, LOVEBITES channel some classic genre imagery by dedicating "Phoenix Rises Again" to the mighty mythical creature with regenerative powers, a symbol to outlast and overcome struggles. "Out Of Control" is a true rock hymn, perfectly matching its successor "Wheels On Fire" in its heavy metal vibe. A suspenseful riff builds up tension for "The Eve Of Change," reminding listeners to raise their voices and stand up for themselves—this is the call! With "Reaper's Lullaby," the Japanese five-piece ventures into rougher territory, adding gang shouts to a thrash-reminiscent sound. Delightfully fast, repeating the lyrics burns in their meaning, giving the words significant weight and turning the song into another standout showing LOVEBITES' versatile skills. Instantly contrasting comes the power ballad "Eternally," layering Asami's gentle vocals with tender keys before making room for her ardent vibrato and sweeping instrumentals, before Outstanding Power finds its finale with ever so heartfelt "One Will Remain."
LOVEBITES ARE:
Asami — Vocals
Midori — Guitars
Miyako — Guitars & Keyboards
Fami — Bass
Haruna — Drums