July 2026 Feature Release - The Guardians Edition

So just like that we find that a new month is upon us which of course means that we’ll be nominating a brand new monthly feature release for each clan. This essentially means that we’re asking you to rate, review & discuss our chosen features for no other reason than because we enjoy the process & banter. We’re really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on our chosen releases so don’t be shy.

This month's feature release for The Guardians, nominated by me (Shadowdoom9 (Andi)), is the 2017 debut album by Japanese power metal heroines Lovebites, Awakening from Abyss. Lovebites is perhaps the most influential Japanese all-female metal band in the past decade besides Babymetal, and I felt up to adding that group to discussion. Their 2017 debut and the already-featured 2018 EP Battle Against Damnation are the best place to start to take a bite of their majestic sound.

https://metal.academy/releases/12273

I've done my review, here's its summary:

The 2010s saw the rise of the modern Japanese all-female rock/metal scene, with bands like Aldious, Band-Maid, and of course, Babymetal. And then comes Lovebites, a unique band putting a new twist to the world of Japanese power metal. In many songs, the rhythm section is in perfect execution via drummer Haruna and bassist Miho, both formerly of Destrose. The guitar duo Midori and Mi-ya perform intense guitarwork. And of course, the gorgeous wide-ranged vocal dynamics of Asami. Now if there's someone for me to thank for getting me interested in Lovebites, it would be Beyond the Black with their song "Can You Hear Me?" featuring Asami. Her vocals made me up for her band before I've even seen what they look like. And that's good since people seem to think they're a J-pop band before even hearing their actual music. Those kick-A rippin' riffs and melodies should not be missed out on. So go ahead, give them a try!

5/5

Recommended tracks: "Shadowmaker", "Scream for Me", "The Apocalypse", "Don't Bite the Dust", "Edge of the World", "Bravehearted"

For fans of: Aldious, Galneryus, Stratovarius