Japanese power metal quintet LOVEBITES have signed a worldwide deal with Napalm Records (excluding Asia) and released a music video for "The Castaway," the opening track from their upcoming fifth album "Outstanding Power," set for digital release with physical formats following on May 8. The song is described as "a speedy power metal hymn extraordinaire, featuring rousing vocals and shimmering guitar and bass solos" -- a fitting introduction to what promises to be the band's most ambitious and internationally distributed record yet.
Founded in 2016, LOVEBITES have rapidly risen to become one of the most exciting and technically proficient acts in the global power metal scene. Their blistering dual-guitar attack, courtesy of Midori and Miyako, delivers harmonized leads and blazing solos that recall the golden era of European power metal while maintaining a distinctly Japanese sense of precision and intensity. Vocalist Asami provides soaring, operatic melodies over a thunderous rhythm section anchored by bassist Fami and drummer Haruna, drawing favorable comparisons to titans like HELLOWEEN, STRATOVARIUS, and DRAGONFORCE.
The signing with Napalm Records represents a major step toward broadening LOVEBITES' international reach. While the band has enjoyed massive success in Japan -- where they regularly headline major venues and festivals -- and cultivated strong cult followings in Europe and North America through touring and festival appearances, the Napalm partnership will ensure significantly wider physical and digital distribution for "Outstanding Power" across Western markets.
Perhaps most significantly, LOVEBITES are gearing up for their long-anticipated debut at the legendary Nippon Budokan in Tokyo on March 29, 2026. The Budokan has hosted historic performances by everyone from THE BEATLES and BOB DYLAN to CHEAP TRICK and DREAM THEATER -- and for a Japanese musician, performing there represents the ultimate career milestone. LOVEBITES' appearance will cement their status as one of Japan's premier metal exports and a genuine force in the global power metal landscape.