The Japanese Metal Spotlight Part 4: Crowley

If you would like to join Japanese Metal Forum, please visit https://japanesemetalforum.com [BAND DESCRIPTION, BIO & SONGS FEATURED BELOW] Arguably the most important metal act to ever come out of Nagoya, Crowley are one of the few Japanese acts from the 80s that achieved a degree of hype outside of Japan, being featured in multiple metal magazines across Europe and North America. They were also pioneers in that they were one of the very first bands in Japan to use an occult theme and image in both their music and performances. Following the release of their first demo in 1984, the band was showcased by local record label and concert hall Electric Lady Land (the venue is still around today!) alongside other talented up-and-coming bands from the Nagoya area on a popular split called "From Electric Lady Land '84". From this point forward the band's career was set in motion, starting with the release of their first EP, The Scream of Death, in 1985, and their debut album Whisper of the Evil only one year later. By this point Crowley were receiving tour offers from overseas promoters. Sadly though, the band's rise to teetering on the brink of potential international success came to an end as quickly as it began, and disagreement within and over the direction of the band eventually drove them apart, with multiple key members quitting in 1986. They closed out their initial run in 1989, after releasing their final demo tape in 1987. In 2014, Crowley rose from the ashes with unfinished business, bringing together three of their classic members, along with new bassist Shunji Miyoshi. They've already released a brand new album as well as a single in their short time back together, and the prospect of them continuing to build on their legacy is exciting to say the least. Note: This series typically covers lesser known bands, most of whom disbanded many years ago, however Crowley are back so we highly encourage you to purchase their new works. My only intention with this is to introduce you to this great and underappreciated band from Japanese metal's old days. The 5 songs used in this sampler are: 1. (0:00) Don't Be in a Hurry (from From Electric Lady Land '84) 2. (5:21) Fairy Tricks (from Crowley) 3. (9:34) Midnight Dream (from The Scream of Death) 4. (14:05) Stalker (from Whisper of the Evil) 5. (18:38) Floating Man (from Whisper of the Evil)