MUCC

Mucc is heavy metal band formed in 1997 in Ibaraki, Japan. They are known for their theatrical visual style – referred to as visual kei – which incorporates make up, flamboyant costumes, and elaborate hairstyles. Founded by guitarist Miya, lead vocalist Tatsurou, drummer Sotochi, and bassist Hiro, the group originally played cover versions before releasing a series of demo tapes – No!?, Aika, and Tsubasa wo Kudasai – in 1997 and 1998. Bassist Hiro left the band was replaced by Yukke in time for their first tour in 1999. In June 2000, Mucc issued their first official release, the Antique EP. Mucc’s debut album, Tsūzetsu, was released in 2001 and was followed by their 2002 sophomore album Hōmura Uta. With a large and growing following, the group signed with Universal Music and released Zekū in 2003. Several more albums for Universal followed including Kuchiki no Tō (2004), Hōyoku (2005), and 6 (2006). Their early career was focused on Japan but by 2005, the group had their eye on international success and played high profile shows in Europe and the US. After several more albums for Universal, the group returned to the indie world with the release of their 10th album, Karma (2010). The group then re-entered the major label world by signing with Sony and releasing the album Shangri-La in 2012. That same year, they released a compilation CD, Aishū no Antique, which combined their first two EPs. Celebrating their 20^th Anniversary in 2017, Mucc released the album Myakuhaku and held special celebratory live performances. In 2021, their longtime drummer Sotochi left the group and Mucc continued as a trio. In June 2022, they released their 16^th studio album, Shinsekai. Over the course of their career, 11 of their studio albums landed in the Top 20 on the Japanese Albums chart and two of them – Aku (2020) and Shinsekai – made it to the Top 10. Mucc has also released nine compilations, several live albums, and over 40 singles.