Hebi Katana

Hebi Katana is a Tokyo-based band that has carved out a unique niche in the doom metal scene by blending heavy, groovy riffs with traditional Japanese aesthetics like *wabi-sabi*—the appreciation of impermanence and imperfection. They self-describe their style as "Samurai Doom," merging 70s psychedelic rock vibes with modern doom metal intensity. Since forming in 2020, they've released several full-length albums including *Hebi Katana* (2020), *Impermanence-無常* (2022), and *III* (2023), all of which have been praised in both Japan and overseas underground circles. Their music is known for its intoxicating mix of dark, shadowy moods and dynamic, expansive sounds that invite repeated listening to fully grasp the layers.

The current lineup features Nobu on guitars and vocals, Laven on bass and vocals, and Goblin on drums and keyboards. Their recent fourth album, *Imperfection* (2025), released on American label Ripple Music, deepens their exploration of Japanese spiritual themes while continuing to deliver powerful, hypnotic doom rock. Their live shows have become a staple in the Japanese underground, and they are steadily gaining fans internationally as well.

Genres

Stoner Metal

Sludge Metal

Stoner Rock

Doom Metal

Experimental Rock

Psychedelic Rock

Progressive Rock

Hard Rock

Alternative Metal

Heavy Metal

Post-metal

Related Artists

MONO

Boris

Linkin Park

Deftones

Korn

Bring Me The Horizon

ONE OK ROCK

Ghost

TOOL

Godsmack

Arca

Stone Sour

Latest Release

Imperfection

Hebi Katana

Album - 7 Tracks - Released July 25, 2025