KUROYUME

major - active (1991 - )

KUROYUME is one of the most influential bands in the history of visual kei. Taking components from other styles, they defined what has gone on to become the “typical” visual kei sound. Their music encompasses a mixture of punk, pop-rock and, during the early years of their career, heavy metal. It also varies dramatically from release to release. The key points of their sound are Kiyoharu’s powerful vocals and signature vibrato and Hitoki’s driving bass lines. Because KUROYUME is a duo accompanied by support guitarists and drummers, the bass is more prominent in their music than in most mainstream rock bands, further separating them from the pack.

KUROYUME went on hiatus in 1999, but they returned in 2010 and have since released a plethora of new material.