Hubbry Logo
ColdrainColdrainMain
Open search
Coldrain
Community hub
Coldrain
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Coldrain
Coldrain
Coldrain
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Coldrain (stylized in all lowercase) are a Japanese rock band from Nagoya, Japan, who were formed in 2007. The band combines melodic singing with screams typical of the post-hardcore and metalcore genres.[1] Although the band is Japanese, all of their songs are written in English. Since its formation in 2007, the band retained the same lineup with no member changes. The lineup consists of lead vocalist Masato Hayakawa, guitarists Ryo Yokochi (Y.K.C.) and Kazuya Sugiyama (Sugi), bassist Ryo Shimizu (RxYxO) and drummer Katsuma Minatani. Hayakawa has a Japanese father and an American mother and speaks both Japanese and English fluently.[2][3]

Key Information

The band's first two albums, Final Destination (2009) and The Enemy Inside (2011), were both released exclusively in their home country of Japan. The group made their worldwide debut in 2014 with the reissue of The Revelation, which was previously released in 2013 under the label VAP, with the worldwide edition being released under Hopeless Records and Sony Music.

Coldrain later released Vena (2015), Fateless (2017) and The Side Effects (2019). Their seventh studio album Nonnegative was released on 6 July 2022. They are best known for their songs "Mayday", "Gone", "Coexist", "Paradise (Kill the Silence)", "Vengeance", "Die Tomorrow", "No Escape", "The Revelation", "Envy" and "Feed the Fire".

History

[edit]

2007–2008: Formation and major label debut

[edit]

After the disbanding of the bands Wheel of Life (RxYxO, Sugi and Y.K.C.) and AVER (Masato and Katsuma),[4] Coldrain was formed on 17 April 2007, in Nagoya with Masato Hayakawa on vocals, RxYxO (Ryo) on bass guitar, Katsuma on drums, and Y.K.C (Yokochi) and Sugi on guitars. The common musical interest of the members was one of the decisive factors in the formation of coldrain. Once, when AVER and Wheel of Life first co-debuted on stage, and AVER heard Sevendust's song played during Wheel of Life's rehearsal, an excited Katsuma asked RxYxO, "Don't tell me you're a fan of Sevendust as well!?"[5] Thereafter, each time they interacted, they wanted to form a new band together. RxYxO was originally doing vocals, but became a bassist because of coldrain.[5] The band gained their first followers from performing as a local band in their home-town while distributing demo discs after each performance.[citation needed]

About a year after coldrain formed, they signed a major contract with VAP,[6] and the band released their debut maxi single "Fiction" on 5 November 2008. They then set off for their first nationwide tour and played in 30 venues across Japan.[citation needed]

2009–2011: Final Destination and The Enemy Inside

[edit]
Main articles: Final Destination and The Enemy Inside

After the tour, the group released their next maxi single: 8AM. The limited edition included a DVD which featured the music video of the title song and three live videos: "Fiction", "Painting", and "Come Awake". "8AM" was also used as a theme song to the anime series Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger.[7] In 2009, saw their first performance at the Summer Sonic Festival 2009.[8] In October, they released their first album Final Destination[9] and embarked on another successful sold-out nationwide tour.

The band released their debut EP: Nothing Lasts Forever on 23 June 2010. One of the songs, "We're Not Alone", was used as an opening theme of the anime series Rainbow: Nisha Rokubō no Shichinin.[10] Another song, "Die Tomorrow", was used in the Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 soundtrack.[9] They also went on tour with several bands, including Mucc, Avengers in sci-fi and Totalfat.[11]

On 16 February 2011, Coldrain released their second album called The Enemy Inside, which keeps the melodic vocals and breakdown parts of the last songs. The song "The Maze" has Mah from band SiM singing in some parts. On 7 December of the same year, the band released their first DVD, Three Days of Adrenaline,[12] which was recorded in three cities: Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo. The DVD contains 19 tracks (all 10 songs from The Enemy Inside are included), 3 behind-the-scenes videos, exclusive performances, and the music videos of "To Be Alive" and "Rescue Me".[13]

2012–2013: The Revelation

[edit]
Main article: The Revelation
The band's logotype, used since 2013

On 20 April 2012, the band released a new song, "No Escape",[14] which was used in the official trailer for the video game Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City;[15][16] the song was on the band's new EP, Through Clarity, released on the following 4 July.[17] This is their first album recorded abroad in the US.[18] The EP was produced by David Bendeth,[6] famous for his collaborations with international artists like Paramore, All Time Low and A Day to Remember.[19]

On 1 August, it was announced that because drummer Katsuma was devoting himself to medical treatment for a chronic hereditary disease, he was temporarily withdrawing from the band. Katsuma's withdrawal period includes three people, ZAX (Pay Money to My Pain), Tatsu (Crossfaith), and YOUTH-K!!!(BPM13GROOVE), playing the role of support drummer.[20] During the summer, they finally returned to the stage at Summer Sonic Festival 2012.[21] On 4 November, at Hiroshima University of Economics, two bands held a live performance, Maximum the Hormone and Coldrain. At that point Katsuma returned to the band.[22][23]

On 30 November, coldrain announced they would be in the studio from December to February to record their third studio album with David Bendeth.[24][25] On 2 March 2013, they performed at Megaport Music Festival in Kaohsiung for 5,000 people, along with many other artists such as Grizzly Bear, Cyndi Wang, Boris, Head Phones President, SiM, LTK Commune, Guntzepaula and Chochukmo.[26][27] Shortly afterward, on 17 April, they released their third full-length album, The Revelation.[28][29] On 5 May, the band held the opening date of The Revelation Tour in Chiba, Japan, at the same location where they performed during Ozzfest on 12 May.[30]

2014: Worldwide debut

[edit]
coldrain performing at L'Olympia on February 5, 2014

In December 2013, Coldrain signed a record deal with Raw Power Management, a British company with many international bands to its name, including Bullet for My Valentine, Bring Me the Horizon, Of Mice & Men and Crossfaith. This allowed the group to go on a European tour with Bullet for My Valentine and Chiodos between February and March.[31] Subsequent headline dates were also announced for the United Kingdom, along with the European release of the EP Through Clarity on 27 January, with free download of the song "Inside of Me" if the EP was preordered.[31]

On 21 February, they announced release of the DVD The Score 2007–2013.[32] On 18 January they recorded a live show called "One Man Show Evolve" for their second DVD, Evolve,[33] which was released on 30 April of the same year.[34] The album was also available on Blu-ray Disc, for the first time for the group.[35] During the same period came the news that coldrain would be performing at Rock am Ring, Rock im Park and Download Festival 2014[36] in June 2014.

On 9 April, the announcement came that coldrain had signed a contract with the American-based label Hopeless Records for a new edition of their third studio album, The Revelation, which would be released worldwide (except Asia, New Zealand, and Australia) for the first time.[37] On the same day Hopeless released the eponymous single, "The Revelation".[37]

coldrain performing at Rock am Ring, 2014
coldrain performing at Rock im Park, 2014

At the announcement of the international release of The Revelation, the singer Masato Hayakawa wrote:

"It's hard to put in words how excited and proud we are that The Revelation will be released Worldwide. The dream we've had ever since we started playing music is finally coming true. I can't wait for everyone to hear the songs, learn the words and sing them with us live. We are grateful for the many fans in our homeland that have supported us in becoming the band we are today. Without them this would have been impossible. This step will be the biggest in our careers and we couldn't be more ready."[38]

The international edition of the album was subsequently released on 23 June in Europe, and 24 June in North America.[38] On 18 June they also released their third EP, Until the End in Japan.[39][40] The EP contains 6 new tracks, 5 of which were also included in the international edition of The Revelation, which was released by Hopeless Records in June 2014 in Europe and North America. The band also announced the album's release in Australia, scheduled for 8 August of the same year (by Sony Music Australia[41][42]), along with the news that the band would perform at Soundwave Festival 2015.[42]

2015–2016: Vena

[edit]
Main article: Vena

On 27 June 2015, they performed at the Lunatic Fest (hosted by Luna Sea) at Makuhari Messe, alongside 9mm Parabellum Bullet, Dead End, Tokyo Yankees, Siam Shade, Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas, Dir En Grey, X Japan and Luna Sea.[43] On 28 August, the band released the song "Words of the Youth" from Vena,[44] another lead-single "Gone" was later released on 16 September, both from their upcoming fourth studio album, which was eventually released worldwide on 23 October 2015, which was released only two days prior, on 21 October, in Japan.[45][46]

The record was promoted by a worldwide headlining tour "MAY EUROPEAN TOUR" with Wage War, The Charm the Fury and Counting Days in May 2016.[47][48][49] The tour would start in Paris, France on 9 May and finished in Reading, England on 27 May. The tour would also feature a spot for the Japanese rockers at Slam Dunk Festival on 29, 30 May and 31.[50][51]

Early in the morning of 20 March 2016, coldrain was involved in a bus crash while traveling from their recent stop in Texas to the next scheduled concert (support of "Silverstein 2016 USA Tour") in Oklahoma.[52][53] They reported that no one was hurt, but they had to cancel their show in Tulsa as they had no means of transport to get there.[54] In the summer, coldrain embarked on a tour across the United States (playing at Monster Energy South Stage) as a part of Vans Warped Tour.[54][55][56]

On 17 August, Coldrain released their third maxi-single Vena II worldwide, with new songs "Born to Bleed" and "Undertow" and new acoustic versions of "Gone" and "The Story". The limited edition included a bonus DVD which featuring "VENA JAPAN TOUR 2016" held at Zepp Tokyo on 15 January 2016.[57]

2017–2018: Fateless

[edit]
Main article: Fateless

On 26 July 2017, Coldrain announced a new album to be called Fateless,[58] it was released on 11 October 2017, worldwide.[59][deprecated source] The limited edition of the album features a live CD with coldrain's 10-year anniversary performances in their hometown Nagoya.[60][61] One of the songs, "Feed the Fire", was used as an opening theme of the anime series King's Game The Animation.[62][63]

The band's official tour, FATELESS JAPAN TOUR 2017, began on 29 October 2017. The tour spanned approximately the following two months and 15 venues across Japan,[58] ending with a concert on 6 February 2018, at the Nippon Budokan.[64][65] Their performance at Nippon Budokan was recorded by their one of their previous music video director's Inni Vision. The performance was later distributed on DVD and Blu-Ray on 26 September the same year.[66]

Coldrain performing in Bristol in 2018, alongside Crown the Empire

On 25 May 2018, it was announced that Coldrain would be an opening act alongside Volumes on Crown the Empire's European headline tour. The tour would span across the entire continent of Europe. It would start off at Brighton, United Kingdom on 18 September, and culminate in Amsterdam, Netherlands on 15 October 2018.[67][68]

On 29 September 2018, a sequel to the popular video game Mobile Suit Gundam: Extreme Vs. was announced, with the release date slated for 30 October 2018.[69] Alongside this, coldrain announced a new song titled "Revolution" which was to be the main theme for the game, released on 12 December.[70] A music video for the song was released on 25 January 2019. Just a few days later, on 30 January, Masato Hayakawa announced that he was returning to the studio with the rest of the band to record a new album to be released later on in the year.[71]

2019–2021: The Side Effects

[edit]
Main article: The Side Effects

On 31 March 2019, Coldrain announced a new One Man Tour, which would be the subsequent headline show for the newly titled album called The Side Effects. The September tour would include 11 shows at 10 venues across Japan.[72]

Coldrain live at Rock am Ring in 2019

Coldrain went on a European tour in June 2019 to promote their upcoming record by playing the first single "Revolution" at all their shows, including major festivals such as Rock am Ring and Rock im Park,[73][74] finishing off at the highly acclaimed Download Festival where they played on the Dogtooth Stage.[75]

On 16 May 2019, a teaser for The Side Effects was released on all social media accounts which used the song "Coexist" which was eventually released in its entirety as a single on 4 July alongside a music video to complement its release which stacked up more than 345K+ views in just 3 weeks, which made it the fastest-growing music video they ever had at the time of release.[76][77][78] On the same day, the release date was also announced and slated for release on 28 August 2019. The first album to not be released in October, since the release of The Revelation back in 2013 and 2014 internationally. The limited-edition included a documentary on the process of making the album along with some merchandise.[79]

Coldrain performing live at Download Festival in 2019

To continue hyping the release of the forthcoming album, they released music videos for "January 1st" and "The Side Effects", on 8 and 27 August respectively; the songs came out to huge success.[80][81] Hayakawa had specifically asked for "January 1st" to get a music video because it was deeply personal to him, a ballad for the band which typically wouldn't become a single for an album produced by the band.[82] The latter being the title track was used to commemorate the release of The Side Effects. Another song called "Mayday", featuring Ryo Kinoshita from Crystal Lake, was also used as the opening theme for the anime Fire Force.[83] This would also get a music video on 2 November, coinciding with the debut of the song as Fire Force's intro theme, also being the last single released by the band in the 2010s.[84]

In the same month, Coldrain would later announce that their own annually hosted concert "BLAREDOWN BARRIERS" would be turned into a festival and renamed to "Blare Fest". Blare Fest would take place at Port Messe in Nagoya. The 2020 edition of the newly formed festival would announce bands such as One Ok Rock, We Came as Romans, Fever 333, The Word Alive, Volumes, Crossfaith and Crystal Lake, as well as many more, who would all play on two separate days with Coldrain headlining both days on 1 and 2 February.[85]

The band would release two new music videos for The Side Effects: "See You" on 17 January 2020, and "Speak" on 21 March 2020.[86][87]

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Coldrain was forced to cancel or postpone many gigs. As a result, they released all three of their live DVDs on YouTube for free for a limited amount of time to help entertain their fans during lockdown, including Three Days of Adrenaline, Evolve and 20180206 Live at Budokan, along with the music video for "Speak".[88] A notable gig that got cancelled was their highly anticipated performance at the Yokohama Arena in Yokohama, which was scheduled for 18 October 2020, that was later cancelled on 4 September.[89][90]

In regards to the performance at the Yokohama Arena, a venue of a capacity of 17,000, frontman Masato Hayakawa issued a statement:

"Blarefest back in February, which hosted and announced the international acts.

In June, I had no choice but to announce the postponement of the tour in a hope that self-exclusion would begin and converge. We'll be able to make it to the rocks by October, can't we?! I was thinking that it's all the same that I was expecting. However, the reality is that we can't get together as the first member after we put together Coldrain, the time when we can't play live blows, we can't perform even if we want to perform, we can't see any breakthroughs, and it's time to make this announcement. Now that various forms have been explored and the number of festivals and artists holding festivals and artists has increased by reducing the number of people, it may appear that it is possible to hold them somehow. But the final conclusion is that by the standards of Coldrain, we still can't see the "new shape" and we still have to endure it as a live band. However, I don't feel like I can see Coldrain live when social distancing comes in to think about how many people can be packed into the arena by attacking the last minute, and sticking to how close I can get to the audience. I was troubled. But there is no hesitation. Because the situation is a situation, we have to use the word cancellation instead of postponing it, but what we can promise now is that we will definitely do it someday. Without the risk or anxiety caused by the corona, let's endure it until it is in a state where we can help each other like that time, go on a rampage, scream from the bottom of our stomachs, and go home. Let's make a happy live performance as much as you can endure.

Until then, I pray for everyone's health and dream of being able to welcome Coldrain's Yokohama Arena performance in perfect condition. I'm not going to waste 10/18, and I'm trying to take on challenges that I've never done as a band that I can't see everyone live.

I'm just enduring it now, I'm not going to die! Regards from now on!"[90]

Furthermore, it was simultaneously announced on the same day that the band would announce a new live video album Live & Backstage at Blare Fest. 2020 that would slated for release on 28 October 2020.[91] It would feature their full performance on both days, as well as backstage footage of the band. To promote it, they released live performances of "Revolution" and "Final Destination" at Blarefest on the band's official YouTube channel.[92][93]

The band would hold live events in the new year again amidst COVID-19 cases drastically dropping in Japan. They would go on a nationwide tour of Japan for their "Setlist Election" in which fans would vote for which songs will be performed on each day. Day 1 would be a selection of songs released from 2008–2013, while day 2 would be a selection of songs from 2014–2019. An official music video for "F.T.T.T" from Fateless would be recorded on the tour and published on YouTube on 4 June 2021.[94]

2021–2024: Nonnegative and Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded)

[edit]
Main article: Nonnegative
Wordmark of Coldrain, as used on their official website

On 6 August 2021, Coldrain revealed on their official Twitter account that they would be making an official announcement the following day to build up hype and speculation towards a new release by the band.[95] The following day on 7 August, the band officially announced that they would be releasing a brand new single, titled "Paradise (Kill the Silence)" for the first time in two years on 17 September 2021, as well as a one-man tour announcement called "Paradise" in support of the single's release taking place during October and November 2021, with ticket sales already being allocated for the tour taking place in 12 different venues across Japan.[96][97] An exclusive of "Paradise (Kill the Silence)" was unveiled to the world for the first time as a debut live performance on the second edition of "Coldrain TV" on 16 September 2021.[98] Mere hours later at midnight JST, the single was released and the music video for "Paradise (Kill the Silence)" was premiered on YouTube.[99][100]

On 2 January 2022, the band announced that they had joined TikTok.[101] On 28 January, the band released an official live music video of "Paradise (Kill the Silence)" onto YouTube from their final ever live performance played at the Usen Studio Coast in Tokyo, Japan on 16 November 2021. They released it in commemoration of the venue during its closure.[102]

On 29 January, the band announced to their fans on Line that they were in the US recording their full-length seventh studio album. Bassist Ryo Shimizu, later confirmed the news on Instagram on 31 January that they were indeed recording the follow-up to The Side Effects.[103] However, they recorded the album in the studio without guitarist Kazuya Sugiyama who chose to record his parts of the album remotely in Japan due to recently having his first child.[104] On 10 February, it was announced that the band had been selected for the opening theme for the new Netflix original anime Bastard!!, that would be slated to release in June 2022 on the platform.[105][106] The band documented the process of the recording of the new album and published it under the title "7th Full Album Recording Diaries" onto YouTube over the course of the next couple of months. The first part was published on 11 February while the fourth and final part was released on 15 April. The series was directed by Masahiro Yamada.[107][108] During this time, the band released official live videos of songs from their Three Elements concert from "Coldrain TV" onto their YouTube channel. They would first release the video for "Revolution" and continued to publish "After Dark", "Vena/F.T.T.T", "Rescue Me", "Mayday" featuring Ryo Kinoshita of Crystal Lake, "Carry On", "Gone" and "The Revelation" to then conclude with "January 1st" on 13 April 2022.[109] Longtime producer for the band, Michael Baskette revealed on 20 March 2022, that the production for the album had concluded and that the band had flown back to Japan a couple of days prior after the recording process had been completed.[110]

On 16 April, they held their fifteenth-anniversary live stream for their fans on YouTube which is where they formally revealed their seventh studio album Nonnegative for the first time. It was released on 6 July 2022, via Warner Music Japan. The previously released single "Paradise (Kill the Silence)" was revealed alongside a lineup of ten new original songs and a cover of No Doubt's "Don't Speak" to be included on the album.[111] After the stream concluded and the clocks hit 00:00JST on 17 April in Japan, the band released the second single "Calling" from the album alongside a music video to commemorate their fifteen years together as a band.[112][113]

On 4 June, the band were revealed to have provided a preview for one of the new songs from the album, "From Today", for the TV advert promoting the Aquos X LED 30.[114] A couple of days later on 6 June, the band previewed the new single "Before I Go" as a part of the promotional campaign for the Sapporo Breweries product, Sapporo Beer Gold Star.[115] They then fully released the song with an accompanying music video on 8 June.[116][117] On 15 June, another song from the album, "Bloody Power Fame", was previewed in the new trailer as the opening theme for the Netflix anime, Bastard!![118][119] The song was later released as a single on 30 June alongside the release of the anime.[120][121] On 6 July, the band released the fifth single, "Cut Me", alongside an accompanying music video concurrently with the album's release.[122]

Coldrain performing live in Paris, France on their headline European Tour in 2024

On 5 September, the band appeared and performed at "Treasure9x4". During the performance, they announced the second edition of Blare Fest that was scheduled to take place on 4 & 5 February 2023.[123] They later announced bands such as Hoobastank, Wargasm, Don Broco, Crystal Lake and SiM would be performing at the event as well as many others.[124] On 15 January 2023, it was announced that the band would be supporting Papa Roach and The Used on their co-headline "Cut My Heart Into Pieces" Australian tour in April 2023, starting in Perth, Australia on 21 April and ending on 30 April in Brisbane, with that being the only show that the band would unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts.[125][126][127] On 2 February, the band announced their fifth live video album, 15x(5+U) Live at Yokohama Arena, initially scheduled to be released on 19 April 2023. It was however later postponed due to the band being unable to require the licensing rights to include "Don't Speak" in the release, the edit in content caused the album to be delayed to 17 May.[128] A live music video for "Calling" recorded at the arena was released alongside the initial announcement.[129]

On 30 May, it was announced that Bastard! would be renewed for a second season that would start airing on 31 July 2023. Alongside this announcement, it was revealed that the band would retain their status as the opening theme with a new song titled "New Dawn" that was made available as a single on 2 August.[130][131]

In January 2024, it was reported that the band would be releasing a new unspecified song as the opening theme for Adult Swim's anime Ninja Kamui.[132][133] "Vengeance" was released as a single accompanied by a music video on 11 February 2024, concurrent with the release of Ninja Kamui.[134] The band initially released it alongside the fifteenth anniversary recording of Final Destination as an exclusive CD at the band's homecoming performance in Nagoya on 10 February, where they debuted "Vengeance" live for the first time.[135] Due to high fan demand, the fifteenth anniversary re-recording of Final Destination titled Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded) was released digitally on 26 May 2024.[136][137] On 14 November 2024, the band announced that their homecoming live performance at Nippon Gaishi Hall in Nagoya will be released as their sixth live album.[138]

2025–present: Optimize

[edit]
Main article: Optimize

On 18 March 2025, the band formally announced that they had signed a global contract with German based label Century Media Records.[139] Alongside the announcement, a new single "Incomplete" was revealed and was released on 20 March, being the band's first release on the new label.[140][141] On 27 March, the band released the music video for "Incomplete" and simultaneously announced dates in Germany for August 2025, including festival appearances at Summer Breeze, Open Flair, and Reload.[142] On 4 April, the band announced a fullscale European headline tour, starting in Manchester, England on 22 November, that culminates in Frankfurt, Germany on 13 December.[143][144]

On 11 July 2025, the band announced their fifth extended play Optimize, that would be released in autumn of the same year.[145] Concurrently, the band announced a One Man Tour across Japan to promote the release.[146] On 6 August, the band released "Chasing Shadows" as the second single from Optimize.[147][148] On 9 September, the band officially announced the release date for Optimize, slated as a five-track EP scheduled to be released on 24 October.[149][150] Simultaneously, the band announced two additional Asian dates in Taipei, Taiwan, and Hong Kong scheduled to take place at the beginning of November 2025.[151] On 26 September, the band released the EP's third single "Free Fall" accompanied by the announcement of the first line-up of Blare Fest 2026, featuring bands such as SiM, Maximum the Hormone, Hanabie, House of Protection and Memphis May Fire.[152][153][154] On 21 October, the band were announced to open for German electronicore band Electric Callboy on their Australian Arena Tour in September 2026 across five dates alongside American metalcore band Ice Nine Kills.[155]

Artistry

[edit]

The band's musical style has been described as post-hardcore,[156][1][157] metalcore,[157][158][159] alternative metal,[160][161] alternative rock,[157][162][163][164][161] punk rock,[165][166] screamo,[158][161] hard rock,[167][168][169][170] nu metal,[171][172][173] and electronic rock.[174]

Early in its career the band played songs that sounded like alternative rock and especially post-hardcore,[1][175] accompanied by guitar pieces reminiscent of classic metalcore[158] and thrash metal riffs. By their third album, The Revelation, coldrain's music came to be defined as a mix of post-hardcore and metalcore.[175] According to other critics, certain influences instead recall genres like pop punk and screamo,[158] and the band has been likened to groups like My Chemical Romance, Pay Money to My Pain,[1] Asking Alexandria, Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows, Bullet for My Valentine[158] and A Day to Remember. Masato Hayakawa has stated Linkin Park and Incubus to have been his biggest influences to start recording music.[176] RxYxO named J, Rikiji, Tim Commerford, Vinnie Hornsby and Sam Rivers as his favorite bassists.[177] When Y.K.C, the main composer in the band, was asked about songwriting, he said, "It is essential not to forget 'why a song is cool', the song itself needs to have holding power, and only then is there meaning. That's what I try not to forget when composing."[178]

Band members

[edit]

Since forming in 2007, Coldrain have retained a constant line-up.

  • Masato David Hayakawa (マサト, Masato) – lead vocals
  • Ryo Yokochi (ヨコチ, Y.K.C.) – lead guitar, programming, piano, keyboards
  • Kazuya Sugiyama (スギ, Sugi) – rhythm guitar, baritone guitar, backing vocals
  • Ryo Shimizu (リョウ, RxYxO) – bass guitar, backing vocals
  • Katsuma Minatani (カツマ, Katsuma) – drums, percussion
  • Masato
    Masato
  • Y.K.C.
    Y.K.C.
  • Katsuma
    Katsuma
  • RxYxO
    RxYxO
  • Sugi
    Sugi

Discography

[edit]
Coldrain discography
Coldrain performing in Tokyo in 2017
Studio albums7
EPs4
Demo albums2
Live albums6
Singles38
Music videos40
Re-recorded albums1
Maxi singles3

Albums

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
List of studio albums, with selected chart positions and sales figures
Title Album details Peak chart positions Sales
JPN
Oricon
[179] 		JPN
Billboard 		AUS
Hit.
[180] 		UK
Indie
Break
[181]
Final Destination
  • Released: 28 October 2009
  • Label: VAP
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 88 73[182] — —
The Enemy Inside
  • Released: 16 February 2011
  • Label: VAP
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 21 22[183] — —
The Revelation
  • Released: 17 April 2013
  • Label: VAP, Hopeless, Sony
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 7 7[184] 4 —
Vena
  • Released: 21 October 2015
  • Label: VAP, Hopeless
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 9 10[185] — 15
Fateless 8 8[187] — —
The Side Effects
  • Released: 28 August 2019
  • Label: Warner Music Japan
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 10 8[189] — —
Nonnegative
  • Released: 6 July 2022
  • Label: Warner Music Japan
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 15 11[191] — —
"—" denotes items which did not chart.
Re-recordings
[edit]
List of re-recorded studio albums, with selected chart positions
Title Album details Peak chart positions
JPN
Down.
[193]
Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded) 74
"—" denotes items which did not chart.

Live albums

[edit]
List of live albums, with selected chart positions
Title Album details Peak positions
JPN
BD
[194] 		JPN
DVD
[195]
Three Days of Adrenaline
  • Released: 7 December 2011
  • Label: VAP
  • Format: DVD
 — 31
Evolve
  • Released: 30 April 2014
  • Label: VAP
  • Formats: BD, DVD
 13 12
20180206 Live at Budokan 24 9
Live & Backstage at Blare Fest. 2020
  • Released: 28 October 2020
  • Label: Warner Music Japan
  • Formats: BD, DVD
 20 6
15x(5+U) Live at Yokohama Arena
  • Released: 17 May 2023
  • Label: Warner Music Japan
  • Formats: BD, DVD, digital download
 16 11
Homecoming Live at Nippon Gaishi Hall
  • Released: 31 January 2025[196]
  • Label: Warner Music Japan
  • Formats: BD, DVD, LP
 — —

Demo albums

[edit]
List of demo albums, with selected details
Title Album details
1st
  • Released: 2007[197]
  • Label: Self-released
  • Format: CD
Coldrain
  • Released: 11 January 2008[198]
  • Label: Gil Soundworks
  • Format: CD

Extended plays

[edit]
List of extended plays, with selected chart positions
Title EP details Peak chart positions
JPN
Oricon
[179] 		JPN
Billboard
Nothing Lasts Forever
  • Released: 23 June 2010
  • Label: VAP
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 63 49[199]
Through Clarity
  • Released: 4 July 2012
  • Label: VAP
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 14 13[200]
Until the End
  • Released: 18 June 2014
  • Label: VAP
  • Formats: CD, digital download
 17 15[201]
Paradise (Kill the Silence) — 14
Optimize — —
"—" denotes items which did not chart.

Singles

[edit]

Maxi-singles

[edit]
List of maxi-singles, with selected chart positions
Title Year Peak positions Album
JPN
Oricon
[202]
"Fiction" 2008 181 Final Destination
"8AM" 2009 111
"Vena II" 2016 21 Non-album single
"—" denotes items which did not chart.

Digital singles

[edit]
Title Year Album
"Final Destination" 2009 Final Destination
"Die Tomorrow" 2010 Nothing Lasts Forever
"To Be Alive" 2011 The Enemy Inside
"Rescue Me"
"No Escape" 2012 Through Clarity
"Six Feet Under"
"Inside of Me"
"The Revelation" 2013 The Revelation
"The War Is On"
"Behind the Curtain" 2014
"Aware and Awake" Until the End
The Revelation (International)
"You Lie"
"Evolve" 2015
"Time Bomb" The Revelation
"Words of the Youth" Vena
"Gone"
"Wrong" 2016
"The Story"
"Fire in the Sky"
"Envy" 2017 Fateless
"Feed the Fire"
"R.I.P."
"Revolution" 2018 The Side Effects
"Coexist" 2019
"January 1st"
"The Side Effects"
"Mayday"
"See You" 2020
"Speak"
"Paradise (Kill the Silence)" 2021 Nonnegative
"Calling" 2022
"Before I Go"
"Bloody Power Fame"
"Cut Me"
"New Dawn" 2023 Non-album single
"Vengeance" 2024 Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded)
"Incomplete" 2025 Optimize
"Chasing Shadows"
"Free Fall"

Covers

[edit]
Year Song Original artist Released on
2010 "Stuck" Stacie Orrico Nothing Lasts Forever
2017 "Uninvited" Alanis Morissette Fateless
2022 "Don't Speak" No Doubt Nonnegative

Compilation appearances

[edit]
Year Song Album
2009 "8AM" Hajime no Ippo New Challenger Ending Theme
2010 "We're Not Alone" Rainbow: Nisha Rokubō no Shichinin Main Theme
"Die Tomorrow" Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 Soundtrack[203]
2011 "Chandler" V.A. :Fuck The Borderline -A Tribute to Kuroyume-[204]
2012 "No Escape" Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City Japanese Official Trailer[205]
"Six Feet Under" Vans Compilation Loud Session!!!! Vans x Bands 2
2015 "Evolve" Shinjuku Swan Inspired Tracks
2016 "Wrong" Vans Warped Tour 2016 Compilation Album
2017 "Feed the Fire" King's Game The Animation Opening Theme
2018 "Revolution" Mobile Suit Gundam: Extreme Vs 2 Main Theme
2019 "Mayday"
(featuring Ryo Kinoshita of Crystal Lake) 		Fire Force Opening Theme
"Coexist" 100 Greatest 2019 Songs (Best Songs of the Year)[206]
"Elevator" ROTTENGRAFFTY "Mouse Trap" Tribute Album[207]
2020 "Coexist" 100 Greatest Metal[208]
2022 "From Today" Aquos Xled 30 Japanese TV Advert[209]
"Before I Go" Sapporo Beer Gold Star Promotional Campaign[210]
"Bloody Power Fame" Bastard!! Season 1 Opening Theme[211]
2023 "Paradise (Kill the Silence)" New Balance MET24 "METropolitan 24 Hour Survival Game" TV Advert[212]
"Help Me Help You" New Emperor of Minami Opening Theme[213]
"New Dawn" Bastard!! Season 2 Opening Theme
2024 "Vengeance" Ninja Kamui Opening Theme

Collaborations

[edit]
Year Song Album Album artist
2011 "Demise and Kiss"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		The Dream, the Space Crossfaith
2013 "Dead Dust"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		(For)Lorn Before My Life Fails
"Resurrection"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa, and Hazuki of Lynch) 		Gene Pay Money to My Pain
2016 "Free the Monster"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa, and Kenta Koie of Crossfaith) 		Free the Monster AA=
"Free the Monster_#5ver."
(featuring Masato Hayakawa, and Kenta Koie of Crossfaith) 		#5
"Free the Monster (Live)"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa, and Kenta Koie of Crossfaith) 		Live No. 5 at Liquidroom 20160611
2017 "Skyfall"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa, MAH of SiM, and Koie of Crossfaith) 		Non-album single One Ok Rock
"Bumps in the Night"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Samurai Sessions Vol. 2 Miyavi
2018 "Take Me Higher"
(featuring Katsuma Minatani) 		Face Duran[214]
"Faint"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Ex Machina Crossfaith
"The Circle"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Non-album singles Crystal Lake
2020 "Endless Night"
(featuring Katsuma Minatani) 		Dreamcatcher[215]
"Chemical Heart"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Music Wardrobe Five New Old[216]
2021 "Damage Control"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		A Conversation With Evil Annalynn[217]
"Revive"
(featuring Katsuma Minatani) 		Kaleido Garden Duran[218]
2023 "Rumble"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Palehell Paledusk[219]
2024 "Dunk"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Non-album singles The Oral Cigarettes[220]
"All We Have"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Nothing's Carved in Stone[221]
"Supernatural"
(featuring Masato Hayakawa) 		Noisemaker[222]
2025 "Kingsblood"
(featuring Kazuya Sugiyama) 		The Beginning After the End Opening Theme Kala[223][224]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Space Shower Music Awards
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2020 Coldrain Best Punk/Loud Rock Artist[225] Nominated
2021 Triple Axe Best Punk/Loud Rock Artist[226] Won

Concert tours

[edit]

Headlining

[edit]

Supporting

[edit]

Music videos

[edit]

Official videos

[edit]
List of music videos, showing director(s) and year released
Title Year Director(s)[227] Type Album Ref.
"Fiction" 2008 Suzuki Daisin Narrative Final Destination [1]
"8AM" 2009 Performance [2]
"Final Destination" [3]
"Die Tomorrow" 2010 Nothing Lasts Forever [4]
"To Be Alive" 2011 Maxilla Narrative The Enemy Inside [5]
"Rescue Me" [6]
"No Escape" 2012 Video Log Through Clarity [7]
"Six Feet Under" Performance [8]
"Inside of Me" Live Performance [9]
"The Revelation" 2013 Narrative The Revelation [10]
"The War Is On" Inni Vision Performance [11]
"Behind the Curtain" 2014 Live Performance [12]
"Aware and Awake" Performance Until the End [13]
"You Lie" Stuart Burchall Narrative [14]
"Evolve" 2015 Inni Vision Live Performance [15]
"Time Bomb" The Revelation [16]
"Gone" Maxilla Narrative Vena [17]
"Wrong" 2016 Inni Vision Performance [18]
"The Story" Live Performance [19]
"Fire in the Sky" [20]
"Born to Bleed" Narrative Vena II [21]
"Envy" 2017 Maxilla Performance Fateless [22]
"R.I.P." Narrative [23]
"Revolution" 2019 Koh Yamada Performance The Side Effects [24]
"Coexist" Takuya Oyama Narrative [25]
"January 1st" Koh Yamada Performance [26]
"The Side Effects" Inni Vision [27]
"Mayday"
(featuring Ryo Kinoshita of Crystal Lake) 		Live Performance [28]
"See You" 2020 Dajo Eberlei [29]
"Speak" Takuya Oyama [30]
"F.T.T.T" 2021 Koh Yamada Fateless [31]
"Paradise (Kill the Silence)" Inni Vision Performance Nonnegative [32]
"Calling" 2022 Koh Yamada [33]
"Before I Go" Inni Vision [34]
"Cut Me" [35]
"New Dawn" 2023 Koh Yamada Non-album single [36]
"Vengeance" 2024 Takasuke Kato Narrative Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded) [37]
"Incomplete" 2025 Margt Performance Optimize [38]
"Chasing Shadows" Masaki Watanabe [39]
"Free Fall" Seidai Takekoshi [40]

Live videos

[edit]
List of live music videos, showing director(s) and year released
Title Year Director Album Ref.
"Adrenaline" 2011 Maxilla The Enemy Inside [41]
"Feed the Fire" 2018 Inni Vision Fateless [42]
"Bury Me" [43]
"Runaway" Vena [44]
"Revolution" 2020 Jiei Mogi The Side Effects [45]
"Final Destination" Final Destination [46]
"Paradise (Kill the Silence)" 2022 Inni Vision Nonnegative [47]
"Calling" 2023 [48]
"Before I Go" [49]
"Vengeance" 2025 — Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded) [50]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Coldrain

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
coldrain (stylized in all lowercase) is a band formed in in 2007, known for their and style that blends melodic singing with screamed vocals. The band consists of vocalist , guitarists Ryo Yokochi (Y.K.C.) and Kazuya Sugiyama (Sugi), bassist Ryo Shimizu (RxYxO), and drummer Katsuma Minatani. Since their debut, coldrain has released seven studio albums, starting with Final Destination in 2009 and most recently Nonnegative in 2022, along with numerous singles such as "VENGEANCE" in 2024 and "Chasing Shadows" in 2025, and the EP Optimize in 2025. They have achieved international recognition through extensive touring, collaborations, and contributions to soundtracks, including the theme song "8AM" for an anime series.

History

2007–2008: Formation and major label debut

Coldrain was formed on April 17, 2007, in , , , by vocalist , guitarists Ryo "Y.K.C." Yokochi and Kazuya "Sugi" Sugiyama, bassist Ryo "RxYxO" Shimizu, and drummer Katsuma Minatani. The group originated from the dissolution of two local bands, Wheel of Life—featuring Shimizu, Sugiyama, and Yokochi—and AVER, which included Hayakawa and Minatani—allowing the members to unite and pursue a heavier sound influenced by and . From the outset, the band emphasized English-language lyrics to appeal to a broader audience, reflecting Hayakawa's half-American background and the members' shared passion for Western rock acts. In their early independent phase, coldrain released a self-produced demo titled 1st in , distributed exclusively at live shows to gauge local interest and refine their material. This was followed by another demo, simply named Coldrain, issued on January 11, 2008, in collaboration with Gil Soundworks, which helped solidify their presence in the underground scene. These releases featured raw, aggressive tracks that showcased the band's blend of melodic vocals and screamed choruses, establishing a foundation for their evolving style. By mid-2008, coldrain's growing buzz led to a pivotal signing with major label VAP Records, announced that year, which provided resources for professional production and wider distribution. Their major debut arrived with the maxi-single Fiction on November 5, 2008, including the title track "Fiction," alongside "Come Awake" and "I Know," all self-produced by Hayakawa and Yokochi. The single peaked at number 181 on the Oricon charts, signaling initial national traction. Concurrently, the band ramped up local performances in Nagoya, such as gigs at CLUB UPSET in April and December 2008, where they honed their high-energy live sets and cultivated a dedicated regional fanbase ahead of broader exposure.

2009–2011: Final Destination and The Enemy Inside

Coldrain released their debut studio album, , on October 28, 2009, through VAP. The album was self-produced by vocalist and guitarist Ryo Yokochi, and featured 12 tracks blending elements with melodic vocals and aggressive breakdowns. Key songs included the title track "," which served as an anthem of perseverance, and "8AM (Album Ver.)," a re-recorded version of their earlier single that had been used as the ending theme for the Hajime no Ippo. Prior to the album's release, the band promoted it with the maxi-single "8AM" on April 8, 2009, which helped build anticipation among fans. In support of Final Destination, Coldrain performed at the in August 2009, marking one of their earliest major festival appearances alongside international acts. This exposure contributed to growing domestic interest, leading to the band's first headline tour, the Tour, which included dates across such as shows at HEAVEN'S ROCK Kumagaya and CLUB UPSET in late 2009. The stable lineup of on vocals, Y.K.C. (Ryo Yokochi) and Sugi on guitars, RxYxO on bass, and Katsuma on drums provided continuity during this period, allowing the band to focus on refining their live energy and songwriting. The band's momentum carried into their second album, The Enemy Inside, released on February 16, 2011, also via VAP. Self-produced again by Hayakawa and Yokochi, the record expanded on their sound with 10 tracks emphasizing emotional introspection and heavier riffs, including standout singles like "To Be Alive" and "Rescue Me," both released earlier in 2011 to promote the album. Other notable songs such as "Adrenaline" and "The Enemy Inside" highlighted the band's evolving mix of screamed verses and clean choruses. The Enemy Inside achieved stronger commercial reception, debuting at number 21 on the and remaining on the ranking for six weeks. Following the album's release, Coldrain undertook additional domestic tours in , performing at venues like those documented in their early setlists, which helped solidify their fanbase through consistent live shows and media features on outlets. These efforts marked a period of steady growth, transitioning from their major label debut to establishing a core audience in Japan's scene.

2012–2013: The Revelation

In 2012, coldrain released their second EP, Through Clarity, on July 4 via VAP, marking a step toward broader accessibility with both physical CD and digital formats available from launch to engage fans beyond traditional retail channels. The EP comprised six tracks—"No Escape," "Persona," "The Future," "Six Feet Under," "Never Look Away," and "Inside Of Me"—showcasing the band's evolving blend of aggressive riffs and melodic hooks, with "No Escape" serving as the tied to a commercial. A promotional video log for "No Escape" dropped in early June, building anticipation ahead of the release. Building on the domestic momentum from prior releases like The Enemy Inside, which had established their growing fanbase in , coldrain ventured abroad for the first time to record their third studio album, The Revelation, at House of Loud studios in , under producer , known for his work with acts like . Released on April 17, 2013, via VAP, the album featured 10 tracks, including the title track "The Revelation" and opener "The War Is On," emphasizing polished production that amplified their intensity while introducing cleaner vocal deliveries. The lyrics across the record shifted toward introspective themes of personal revelation and self-growth, urging listeners to confront fears, dismantle barriers, and pursue authenticity, as frontman Masato explained in discussions about fighting for one's true path. The Revelation achieved significant commercial success, debuting and peaking at number 7 on the with over 9,700 copies sold in its first week, their highest charting release to date. Supporting the album, coldrain released their first full official for "Inside Of Me" on November 15, 2012, capturing live energy and thematic depth to promote the EP's lingering impact into the album cycle. To capitalize on this breakthrough, the band launched the Tour 2013, a series of one-man shows across in mid-sized venues like TSUTAYA O-EAST in and BIGCAT in , delivering high-energy performances that solidified their rising status in the domestic rock scene.

2014: Worldwide debut

In April 2014, Coldrain signed with the American independent label , enabling worldwide distribution of their music beyond . The deal was announced on , marking a pivotal step for the Nagoya-based band to expand their reach internationally. This partnership facilitated the global reissue of their third studio album, The Revelation, originally released in in 2013. The international edition came out on June 23 in and June 24 in North America, serving as the band's official worldwide debut and introducing their sound to broader audiences. The reissue retained the core tracklist while incorporating select tracks from their prior EP Until the End (2014), such as "Aware and Awake," "Evolve," "You Lie," and "Fade Away," while omitting some Japanese-exclusive tracks like "Falling Forever," to appeal to non-Japanese listeners. Coldrain's international breakthrough extended to live performances, beginning with their first European tour in February and March 2014, where they supported across 21 dates spanning the , , , and other countries. Building on this momentum, the band performed at the Rock am Ring festival in , , on June 6, 2014, sharing the stage with acts like Queens of the Stone Age and . In the , the album's release provided initial exposure through digital platforms and select radio airplay, while the band's predominantly English lyrics—delivered by bilingual vocalist —fostered early growth among English-speaking fans.

2015–2016: Vena

Coldrain released their fourth studio album, Vena, on October 21, 2015, in through VAP Inc., followed by a worldwide release on October 23 via . Produced by Brandon Paddock at Trojan House and Studio in , the album marked a sonic evolution with its blend of aggressive riffs and soaring melodies, drawing influences from and modern acts like and . The Japanese edition featured 11 tracks, including the title track "Vena," the introspective "Premonition," and collaborative single "Runaway" with vocalist ; it debuted and peaked at number 9 on the , selling over 5,000 copies in its first week. Leading up to the album, Coldrain issued the single "Words of the Youth" on , , which highlighted the band's growing emphasis on anthemic choruses and youth-themed . Subsequent promotion included music videos for "Gone" in September , directed to showcase emotional intensity, and "Wrong" in January 2016, offering glimpses of tour life and backstage energy. In 2016, "The Story" received a cinematic video emphasizing themes of perseverance, further underscoring the album's maturation toward accessible, radio-friendly while preserving screamed vocals and breakdowns. The album's rollout coincided with extensive touring. In late 2015, Coldrain supported on select dates of their Venom European Tour, gaining exposure across the and continent. Building on this momentum, the band launched their first European headline tour in May 2016, including appearances at Festival, followed by a slot on the Vans Warped Tour across the , where they performed staples like "The Revelation" and new cuts from Vena to diverse crowds. Domestically, the VENA JAPAN TOUR 2016 spanned multiple cities, culminating in high-energy shows at venues like Zepp , solidifying their status in the J-rock scene. A setback occurred on March 20, 2016, during the leg, when the band's tour bus collided with another vehicle en route from to their next show; while no one suffered serious injuries or fatalities, the incident forced the cancellation of a and required recovery time for the group. This event highlighted the rigors of international touring but did not derail their momentum, as Vena represented a pivotal step in Coldrain's artistic growth, balancing heavier roots with increasingly melodic structures to broaden their appeal.

2017–2018: Fateless

In 2017, coldrain released their fifth studio album, Fateless, on October 11 through Warner Music Japan. The album was recorded at Studio Barbarosa in , and produced by Michael "Elvis" Baskette, marking a collaborative effort that emphasized the band's evolving blend of aggressive riffs and melodic choruses. Key tracks included "," the released in early , and "Feed the Fire," which followed in September as a promotional single tied to the album's themes of resilience and inner conflict. Fateless debuted and peaked at number 8 on the , becoming one of the band's highest-charting releases at the time. Building on the melodic shifts explored in their prior album Vena, Fateless featured three singles overall, with "R.I.P." arriving in January 2018 to further promote the record. The band supported the album with the FATELESS JAPAN TOUR 2017, a series of Asian dates that showcased material from the release alongside fan favorites. The tour highlighted the group's growing domestic presence and culminated in their debut performance at on February 6, 2018, a milestone concert celebrating the band's 10th anniversary with a sold-out crowd of over 10,000. Following the Budokan show, coldrain extended their activities internationally with a European Tour in spring , performing in multiple countries to expand their global fanbase. In December , they issued the digital single "," produced by Baskette, which served as the main theme for the arcade game Extreme Vs. 2. This tie-in underscored the band's increasing visibility in multimedia projects within .

2019–2021: The Side Effects

Coldrain released their sixth studio album, The Side Effects, on August 28, 2019, through internationally and Warner Music domestically. The album was produced by at Studio Barbarosa in , marking a continuation of the band's collaboration with the producer following their previous effort Fateless. Key tracks included "," the lead single released digitally on December 12, 2018, which served as the opening theme for the video game Mobile Suit Gundam: Extreme VS. 2, and "" featuring Ryo Kinoshita of Crystal Lake, released as a single on November 2, 2019. The album's sound blended the band's signature aggression with melodic elements, reflecting themes of personal struggle and resilience. In 2021, amid the ongoing , Coldrain issued the EP Paradise (Kill the Silence) on September 17, 2021, capturing the band's adaptation to isolation and hope for live music's return; the title track addressed pandemic-era themes of and anticipation for reconnection. This release highlighted their shift toward digital and virtual engagement, as live tours were disrupted globally. Building on the success of their Fateless era Budokan performance in 2018, which solidified their domestic stature, the band founded the multi-artist festival Blare Fest in late 2019 as an evolution of their earlier "Blare Down Barriers" events. The inaugural edition took place on February 1–2, 2020, at Port Messe , curated by Coldrain and featuring international and Japanese acts to break down genre barriers. The pandemic severely impacted Coldrain's plans, leading to the cancellation of their anticipated "15x(5+U) Live at " concert scheduled for , 2020, announced on September 4, 2020, due to health concerns and restrictions. In response, the band pivoted to virtual formats, including the livestream event Coldrain TV on , 2020, which offered live performances, backstage access, and discounted tickets for international fans to maintain fan connection during lockdowns. They also shared full archival shows, such as their 2018 Budokan performance, on for free viewing to support quarantined audiences. Demonstrating resilience, Coldrain highlighted tracks like "" through live footage from the pre-pandemic Blare Fest 2020, emphasizing themes of urgency and survival that resonated amid global uncertainty. This period tested the band's adaptability, shifting focus from arena spectacles to innovative digital outreach while preserving their core message of perseverance.

2021–2024: Nonnegative and Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded)

In early 2021, coldrain resumed activities following cancellations due to the in 2020, focusing on preparations for new material under their ongoing partnership with Warner Music . The band's seventh studio album, Nonnegative, was released on July 6, 2022, via Warner Music . Produced by Michael "Elvis" Baskette at Studio in , the album features a mix of melodic and elements, with standout tracks including "Help Me Help You," "CALLING," and "Bloody Power Fame." It debuted at number 15 on the , achieving strong chart performance in . Nonnegative received positive reception for its energetic production and thematic exploration of resilience. Following the album's release, coldrain embarked on post-pandemic tours to rebuild international momentum. In April 2023, they served as special guests for and The Used's co-headline "Cut My Heart Into Pieces" tour across , performing in cities including Perth, , , , and . Earlier that year, the band conducted their first Asian headline tour in four years, titled "Nonnegative Asia Tour 2023," with dates in May across . On February 11, 2024, coldrain released the single "Vengeance," which serves as the opening theme for the series . Produced by Y.K.C. and , the track blends aggressive riffs with electronic elements, aligning with the series' themes of revenge and redemption. To commemorate the 15th anniversary of their debut , coldrain re-recorded as Final Destination (XV Re:Recorded), featuring updated production while reuniting with original members for select sessions. Initially available as a limited physical edition at live venues starting February 10, 2024, the project received a digital release on May 26, 2024, bundled with "Vengeance" and including refreshed versions of classics like "Final Destination" and "Counterfeits & Lies." The re-recording aimed to capture the band's evolved sound while honoring their early roots.

2025–present: Optimize

In early 2025, coldrain signed a global recording deal with to enhance their international distribution and reach. The band marked the partnership with the release of their single "Incomplete" on March 20, 2025, followed by "Chasing Shadows" on August 6, 2025, and "Free Fall" on September 26, 2025. These tracks formed the core of coldrain's fifth EP, Optimize, self-produced by lead guitarist Ryo Yokochi and released on October 24, 2025, via . The five-song collection, which also includes "Digitoll" and the title track "Optimize," explores themes of personal authenticity, resilience, and forward momentum in an increasingly digital world. Building on the momentum from their 2022 album Nonnegative, coldrain announced a European headline tour for late 2025, including performances in , to promote Optimize. They also joined as support on select dates of Electric Callboy's 2026 world tour, sharing stages with on Australian arena shows starting in September 2026. Throughout the year, coldrain hosted discussions around the announcement of BLARE FEST. 2026, their annual festival in set for February 2026, and participated in radio interviews reflecting on their career and creative .

Musical style and influences

Evolution of sound

Coldrain's early sound, established during their formation in and solidified on their 2009 debut album , was rooted in aggressive characterized by screamed vocals, heavy guitar riffs, and a punk-infused energy that drew from late-1990s nu-metal influences like . This phase emphasized raw intensity and fast-paced breakdowns, with vocalist delivering potent screams over driving rhythms, creating a visceral live sound tailored for 's underground scene. By their 2011 album The Enemy Inside, the band began subtle refinements, maintaining the core aggression while experimenting with tighter song structures, though still firmly in territory. Entering the mid-period from 2012 to 2018, Coldrain incorporated more melodic choruses and electronic elements, marking a shift toward post-hardcore and alternative metal. On The Revelation (2013), produced with mixing by David Bendeth—known for work with Paramore and Breaking Benjamin—the band blended brutal verses with poppy, hook-driven choruses, adding atmospheric electronics and dynamic vocal shifts between screams and cleans for broader appeal. This evolution continued on Vena (2015), where high-quality production amplified big, arena-ready hooks and modern rock sensibilities, featuring collaborations like with Papa Roach's Jacoby Shaddix on "Runaway" to enhance melodic accessibility. Fateless (2017), under producer Michael Baskette (Alter Bridge, Sevendust), further polished this hybrid style with soaring choruses and subtle electronic textures, reflecting U.S. production influences that elevated their global sound. In their recent evolution from 2019 onward, Coldrain has blended nu-metal aggression with grooves, as heard on The Side Effects (2019) and Nonnegative (2022), both produced by Baskette, incorporating shouty raps, choruses, and elements alongside crushing riffs and breakdowns reminiscent of early 2000s nu-metal. This phase emphasizes radio-friendly alternative structures while retaining roots, with tracks like "Calling" evoking Slipknot and vibes. The 2025 EP Optimize continues this trajectory, fusing heavy nu-metal basslines and emotive high-register cleans with electronic soundscapes and pop-rock catchiness, showcasing refined diversity without abandoning intensity. Throughout their career, production has shifted from self-handling to high-profile collaborators like Bendeth and Baskette, enabling cleaner, more expansive mixes that support their growth. Lyrically, Coldrain has maintained thematic consistency on personal struggle, resilience, and growth, from early confrontations with fear in The Revelation's "You Lie" to pandemic reflections and self-acceptance in Nonnegative's "2020" and Optimize's "Chasing Shadows," often delivered in English for global reach, with recent works enhancing accessibility through universal, hopeful messaging.

Key influences and comparisons

Coldrain's sound draws heavily from the nu-metal era, with frontman citing bands like , , Korn, Slipknot, and as formative influences during his formative years in the late and early . Hayakawa has specifically praised 's "In The End" for its dual vocal dynamics, noting his ability to emulate both Chester Bennington's emotive screams and Mike Shinoda's in karaoke performances, which shaped his own hybrid vocal approach blending clean melodies with aggressive screams. Similarly, 's "Stellar" inspired him with its seamless fusion of pop accessibility and heavier riffs, influencing Coldrain's melodic alternative elements. Other key inspirations include , whose shift from ballads to explosive choruses Hayakawa admired after touring with them, and , whose live intensity at a young age convinced him that "Coldrain simply wouldn't exist" without their impact on heavy riffing and emotional delivery. The band's genre roots lie in and , though Hayakawa's early exposure also included J-pop artists like and , which contributed to their emphasis on catchy, melodic hooks alongside Western heavy music aggression. This blend is evident in Coldrain's incorporation of Japanese pop sensibilities into nu-metal structures, creating a sound that balances atmospheric heaviness with radio-friendly choruses, as seen in influences from Hoobastank's heavy-pop equilibrium and Taproot's low-tuned, scream-to-melody transitions. Hayakawa has emphasized how these Western nu-metal and elements naturally merged with subtle Japanese oriental styles, forming the core of Coldrain's identity without overt cultural fusion. Critics and fans often compare Coldrain to for their shared evolution from raw roots to more mainstream, melody-driven , particularly in the use of heavy riffs paired with cunning, anthemic choruses. This parallel extends to their trajectory of broadening appeal beyond underground scenes while retaining aggressive vocals and emotional depth. Within , Coldrain shares bilingual appeal and global aspirations with peers like , both drawing from Western rock icons like to craft English-language tracks that resonate internationally, as demonstrated by joint performances such as One Ok Rock's "" featuring Hayakawa alongside other Japanese acts like SiM and . Hayakawa's vocal duality—switching between clean singing and screams—mirrors Bennington's style, further aligning Coldrain with 's legacy of raw emotion in hybrid rap-rock. By merging J-rock's melodic pop influences with Western metal's intensity, Coldrain has contributed to the Asian metal scene's growth, inspiring a new generation of bands to export hybrid sounds globally and bridging cultural divides in heavy . This fusion not only defines their discography but also positions them as pioneers in Japan's heavy export, influencing acts like Crystal Lake and Her Name in Blood through shared nu-metal and foundations.

Band members

Current members

The current lineup of coldrain, stable since the band's formation in 2007, consists of five members from , , who have collectively shaped the band's and sound through their instrumental and creative contributions. As of 2025, the band continues to perform and release music with this core group, including their EP Optimize released in October 2025. Masato Hayakawa (born December 17, 1986) serves as the lead vocalist, providing both melodic singing and screamed vocals that define coldrain's dynamic style. Of Japanese-American descent, with a Japanese father and American mother, Hayakawa has been the band's frontman since its inception in 2007, often drawing from personal experiences in his English-language lyrics, which explore themes of struggle, resilience, and self-reflection. His vocal delivery has been praised for bridging emotional depth with intensity, contributing significantly to the band's international appeal. Ryo Yokochi (born November 7, 1982), known by his stage name Y.K.C., is the lead guitarist and primary songwriter, having joined coldrain in 2007 following the disbandment of his previous band Wheel of Life. Yokochi's intricate riffs and compositions form the backbone of the band's heavy, melodic soundscapes, with him handling much of the production and arrangement on albums like Nonnegative (2022). His guitar work, often featuring aggressive breakdowns and atmospheric leads, has been instrumental in evolving coldrain's music from raw to more polished elements. Kazuya Sugiyama (born April 3, 1982), stage name Sugi, plays and provides backing vocals, a role he has held since 2007. Also from the former band Wheel of Life, Sugiyama contributes to the band's layered guitar textures, often incorporating for deeper tones in tracks like "8AM." His steady rhythm work supports the high-energy live performances, and he occasionally co-composes, adding to the band's cohesive sonic identity. Ryo Shimizu (born March 12, 1983), known as RxYxO, is the and , integral to coldrain since 2007. Originally a vocalist in earlier projects, Shimizu transitioned to bass for the band, delivering driving low-end grooves that anchor the rhythm section and enhance the intensity of their influences. His contributions are evident in the band's touring stability and recordings, where his lines provide a solid foundation for the dual guitar attack. Katsuma Minatani (born March 18, 1987) handles , a position he has occupied since the band's formation in 2007, having previously played with Hayakawa in AVER. Known for his technical drumming style, featuring complex fills and precise blast beats, Minatani's playing adds propulsion to coldrain's fast-paced songs and has been highlighted in drum cam videos from live shows. As the band's mood maker, he fosters the group's camaraderie, which translates to their energetic stage presence. Hayakawa's poignant lyrics and Yokochi's riff-driven songwriting remain the core creative forces, driving coldrain's evolution and output as of 2025.

Former members

Coldrain has maintained its original lineup without any departures since the band's formation in 2007, resulting in no former members. The consistent core group—consisting of Masato on lead vocals, Y.K.C. on lead guitar, Sugi on rhythm guitar, RxYxO on bass, and Katsuma on drums—has provided stability that has supported the band's evolution and international success over nearly two decades. This lack of turnover is notable in the genre, where lineup changes are common, and has allowed Coldrain to develop a unified musical identity.

Discography

Studio albums

Coldrain has released seven studio albums since their formation in 2007, showcasing their evolution from raw roots to a more polished, sound. Their discography reflects a progression in production values, with early works self-produced and later albums collaborating with renowned international producers to refine their intense, bilingual songwriting and dynamic instrumentation.
TitleRelease dateLabelProducerPeak chart position (Oricon Albums Chart)
October 28, 2009VAP, Ryo Yokochi#88
The Enemy InsideFebruary 16, 2011VAPSelf-produced#21
The RevelationApril 17, 2013VAP#7
VenaOctober 21, 2015VAP / Brandon Paddock#9
FatelessOctober 11, 2017Warner Music / #8
The Side EffectsAugust 28, 2019Warner Music #10
NonnegativeJuly 6, 2022Warner Music Kyle Black#3
The band's studio albums have garnered increasing critical acclaim for their production quality over time, with reviewers noting how collaborations with producers like and elevated the sonic clarity and emotional depth, allowing Coldrain's aggressive riffs and soaring choruses to resonate more powerfully on an international scale. Early releases like were praised for their raw energy, while later efforts such as Nonnegative highlighted a mature blend of heaviness and melody, solidifying their status in the scene.

Extended plays

Coldrain has released five extended plays throughout their career, serving as pivotal releases that often preview stylistic shifts and bridge gaps between full-length albums. These EPs typically feature four to six tracks, blending the band's signature metalcore aggression with melodic elements, and have been issued by various labels reflecting their evolving international reach. The band's debut EP, Nothing Lasts Forever, was self-produced and released independently on June 23, 2010. Recorded at Sound Crew Studio in Tokyo, it includes six tracks: "Die Tomorrow," "We're Not Alone," "Stuck," "After Dark," "The Youth," and "Miss You." This release marked Coldrain's early raw sound, emphasizing intense screams and breakdowns, and peaked at number 63 on the Oricon Albums Chart. In 2012, Coldrain issued their second EP, Through Clarity, on July 4 via VAP Inc. Produced by , the six-track effort—"No Escape," "Persona," "The Future," "Six Feet Under," "Never Look Away," and "Inside Out"—explores themes of resilience and clarity amid chaos, incorporating cleaner production and electronic influences. It reached number 14 on the chart and supported the band's growing domestic fanbase ahead of their third album. Until the End, the third EP, followed on June 18, 2014, also through VAP. Featuring six songs including "Aware and Awake," "Evolve," "You Lie," "Fade Away," "March On," and "Inside Out (Reprise)," it was crafted to tie into the promotional cycle for The Revelation, testing heavier riffs and atmospheric builds. The EP highlighted the band's maturation, with Masato Hayakawa's bilingual lyrics addressing perseverance, peaked at #17 on the , and it bolstered their presence in the Japanese loud rock scene. Released digitally on September 17, 2021, by Warner Music , PARADISE (Kill the Silence) emerged as a pandemic-era response, capturing themes of isolation and . The six-track EP—"PARADISE (Kill the Silence)," "," "The Least of All," "Throw Me Away," "Kill the Silence," and an instrumental version—blends uplifting choruses with brutal breakdowns, released amid tour cancellations to maintain fan connection. It served as a precursor to Nonnegative, emphasizing emotional depth during global lockdowns. Coldrain's fifth EP, OPTIMIZE, arrived on October 24, 2025, marking their debut with and Sony Music Japan. Self-produced by Ryo Yokochi, the five-track collection—"OPTIMIZE," "CHASING SHADOWS," "DIGITOLL," "INCOMPLETE," and "FREE FALL"—fuses heartfelt lyrics with aggressive soundscapes, exploring digital-age anxieties and renewal. Promoted alongside the ONE MAN JAPAN TOUR 2025 and upcoming international dates, it previews post-hiatus evolution following Nonnegative. These EPs have functioned as creative bridges in Coldrain's , allowing experimentation with production techniques and sonic palettes between studio albums, while sustaining momentum through targeted singles and tours.

Singles

Coldrain's singles spans their career, beginning with physical maxi-singles and transitioning to digital releases, often tied to album promotions or media tie-ins. The band's early work focused on establishing their sound in the Japanese market, with subsequent releases reflecting broader international appeal through streaming and collaborations. The debut single "" was released on November 5, 2008, as a maxi-single by VAP, peaking at #181 on the . It featured B-sides "Come Awake" and "I Know," and served as the ending theme for the TV program Kanbai Gekijō. "Wasting Away," released in 2009, continued this format with additional tracks supporting their initial breakthrough. In their mid-career phase, "Inside Out" arrived in 2013 as a digital single, emphasizing melodic aggression and marking a shift toward more polished production. "Premonition" followed in 2015, promoted via an official music video that captured the band's live energy and thematic depth on resilience. Recent singles have leveraged anime partnerships for wider exposure. "Mayday" (feat. Ryo from Crystal Lake) came out in 2020 as a digital single from The Side Effects, highlighting collaborative dynamics in the Japanese rock scene. "Vengeance" in 2024 peaked at #20 on the chart and opened the anime NINJA KAMUI, underscoring themes of revenge with intense instrumentation. The 2025 release "Incomplete" continues this momentum, available digitally and focusing on emotional introspection. Initially dominated by maxi-singles with B-sides for physical sales, Coldrain's output post-2015 emphasized , aligning with streaming growth. This evolution has boosted their international streaming presence, with tracks like "" and "Vengeance" amassing millions of plays on platforms such as and .

Other releases

Coldrain has produced a variety of supplementary releases beyond their core studio output, including live recordings, early demos, re-recordings, and contributions to soundtracks. The band's live albums capture pivotal moments in their career. 20180206 LIVE AT BUDOKAN, released on September 26, 2018, via Warner Music , documents their February 6, 2018, performance at Tokyo's , marking their tenth anniversary with a setlist spanning their up to Fateless. The release includes Blu-ray/DVD formats with a limited edition featuring a live CD and 120-page photo book. Another key live effort, LIVE & BACKSTAGE AT BLARE FEST.2020, issued on October 28, 2020, features footage from their headline sets at the Blare Fest event in Nagoya's Port Messe on February 1 and 2, 2020, blending full concert visuals with backstage insights. Early in their formation, Coldrain self-released a demo titled 1st in 2007, a three-track that showcased their initial sound with songs like "" and "My Addiction," distributed independently before their major label debut. In 2024, to commemorate the fifteenth anniversary of their debut album, the band released (XV Re:Recorded), a refreshed take on the original 10-track record with updated production while preserving the raw energy of tracks such as the title song and "24-7." This re-recording appears as part of the expanded digital + VENGEANCE (XV RE:RECORDED) on May 25, 2024, via Warner Music Japan. Coldrain has also contributed to compilations during their association with from 2014 to 2019, appearing on promotional samplers that highlighted label artists alongside acts like New Found Glory and . Additionally, the band has provided guest spots on soundtracks, leveraging their intense style for thematic openings. "New Dawn," released August 2, 2023, serves as the opening theme for the second season of Netflix's BASTARD!! -Heavy Metal, Dark Fantasy-. Similarly, "Vengeance," issued February 10, 2024, opens Adult Swim's .

Tours and performances

Headlining tours

Coldrain launched their headlining career with the Tour in 2009, supporting their debut studio album of the same name, which consisted of 19 dates across various venues in from November to December. The tour focused on domestic audiences, featuring high-energy performances of tracks like "Final Destination" and "Proceed," helping establish the band's presence in the Japanese scene with capacities typically around 1,000 fans per show. Expanding internationally following the release of their album Vena, Coldrain undertook their World Tour in 2015, encompassing 25 shows across and from to October. The European leg included stops in the UK, , , and , while Japanese dates reinforced their home base, with setlist highlights such as "Vena" and "Inside Out" drawing growing crowds and marking a shift toward larger venues of several thousand attendees. This tour represented a key step in their global outreach, blending aggressive breakdowns with melodic elements to captivate diverse audiences. In 2022, the band headlined the Nonnegative Japan Tour to promote their seventh studio album, comprising 19 dates from to across major cities like , , and Fukuoka. Setlists emphasized new material alongside fan favorites, including frequent performances of "Cut Me," "Coexist," and "The Answer," as well as earlier hits like "," reflecting their evolving sound. Attendance continued to rise, with venues selling out at capacities exceeding 2,000, showcasing the tour's success in sustaining momentum post-pandemic. Significant milestones include their headline show at on February 6, 2018, as the culmination of the Fateless Japan Tour 2017, which drew approximately 10,000 fans and featured a comprehensive set spanning their , from "Fate" to "Feed the Fire." Coldrain has also headlined their Blare Fest festival in in 2020, 2023, and 2026, serving as hosts and performers for multi-day events that attract thousands, highlighting their role in curating Japan's scene with lineups including international acts. The 2026 edition took place on February 7–8, 2026, at Port Messe Nagoya. In 2025, Coldrain announced the Optimize Tour in support of their EP Optimize, comprising 10 dates across and in venues such as Bayside, , and Haneda in . The tour's setlists prominently feature recent singles like "Incomplete," "Chasing Shadows," and "," alongside staples such as "Paradise (Kill the Silence)." This was followed by their Optimize EU/ Headline Tour in November and December 2025, encompassing around 12 performances in cities including , , , , , , and others. Over their career, attendance has grown substantially from early tours averaging 1,000 per show to major headline events exceeding 10,000, underscoring their rising popularity.

Supporting and festival appearances

Coldrain has performed as a supporting act on several high-profile international tours, allowing the band to share stages with established rock and metal acts while building connections in new markets. In April 2023, they joined Papa Roach and The Used as special guests on the Australian leg of the Cut My Heart Into Pieces Tour, covering eight dates across Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne (including an additional show), Sydney, and Brisbane. The band's festival appearances have been instrumental in showcasing their high-energy post-hardcore sound to diverse audiences. Early highlights include their debut at Summer Sonic in 2009, which helped establish their reputation in shortly after releasing their first album. They performed at Rock am Ring in 2014, sharing the bill with acts like Queens of the Stone Age and at the in . In 2015, Coldrain appeared at Soundwave Festival in , delivering sets across multiple cities including and . The following year, they completed the full U.S. run of Vans Warped Tour 2016, performing alongside bands like and at over 40 stops nationwide. Additional slots at in 2018 further exposed them to European metal fans at . These performances have significantly contributed to Coldrain's growth in Western markets, where festival and supporting slots introduced their to audiences unfamiliar with acts, leading to increased international fan engagement and tour demand. During their 2016 Vans Warped Tour travels, the band encountered a setback when their tour bus was involved in a collision in the United States, though no serious injuries occurred among members or crew, allowing them to continue the run. In recent years, Coldrain has taken on a curatorial role with Blare Fest, a two-day event they host at Port Messe starting in , featuring a mix of Japanese and international acts without positioning themselves solely as headliners, which has fostered a collaborative environment and sustained their influence in the regional scene. Editions were held in 2020, 2023, and 2026 (February 7–8 at Port Messe Nagoya), the latter featuring a notable collaboration during ONE OK ROCK's performance, where Masato Hayakawa joined MAH from SiM and Kenta Koie from Crossfaith to perform "Skyfall," marking the first rendition of the song since 2018.

Music videos and visuals

Official music videos

Coldrain's official music videos primarily accompany their singles, featuring a mix of performance-based footage and narrative elements that align with the band's and style. These videos have progressively incorporated higher production values, transitioning from straightforward band-centric clips in the band's formative years to more cinematic collaborations with established directors and ties to or gaming media in recent releases. This evolution reflects the band's growing international profile following their 2014 signing with , enabling access to advanced visual effects and storytelling techniques. An early standout is the 2014 video for "You Lie," directed by Stuart Birchall, which captures the band's intense live energy in a minimalist setup to underscore themes of deception and emotional turmoil. Later, the 2019 video for "Revolution," directed and produced by KOH, serves as the opening theme for the arcade game Mobile Suit Gundam EXVS 2, blending band performance with dynamic animations inspired by the Gundam franchise to evoke a sense of upheaval and transformation. In 2024, "Vengeance" marked a collaboration with anime, directed and edited by Takasuke Kato of THINGS., syncing the band's aggressive riffs with action sequences from the Adult Swim series Ninja Kamui, for which it serves as the opening theme, amplifying motifs of revenge through stylized combat visuals. The video has amassed over 5 million views on YouTube. The band's 2025 releases continued this trend toward polished, thematic visuals. "Incomplete," released in March and directed by Margt, with assistant directors Nanase Akiyama and Naoki Arima, employs introspective cinematography with close-up performances and abstract imagery to explore themes of personal fragmentation and resilience. "Chasing Shadows," released in August and directed by Masaki Watanabe, features performance elements aligned with the track's themes of pursuit and introspection. Similarly, "Free Fall" from September, directed by Seidai Takekoshi of LIFE is SAMPLING, delivers a high-energy performance clip with dynamic camera work and drone shots, capturing the track's themes of descent and intensity. These recent videos highlight coldrain's shift to self-directed creative input alongside professional teams, resulting in visuals that rival major international rock productions.

Live and promotional videos

Coldrain has released several live performance videos capturing their high-energy shows, including the full concert from their February 6, 2018, performance at Nippon Budokan during the FATELESS JAPAN TOUR 2017, which was issued as a DVD and Blu-ray on September 26, 2018, accompanied by a 100-page photobook and two CDs of live tracks. Official clips from this release, such as "RUNAWAY" and "BURY ME," were shared on the band's YouTube channel, showcasing the band's dynamic stage presence with Masato's dual vocals and the crowd's intense participation. Additionally, fan-recorded clips from their 2016 Vans Warped Tour appearances, including sets in Houston and Atlanta featuring songs like "Revelation" and "Gone," have circulated widely, highlighting their integration into the U.S. festival circuit. Promotional videos for tours often include behind-the-scenes content to build fan anticipation, such as the 2015 "VENA WORLD TOUR DOCUMENTARY in " broadcast on Space Shower TV, which documented their headline and support shows across the continent following their 2014 European stint supporting . For the Blare Fest series, which the band hosts annually in , official highlights from editions between 2019 and 2025 feature live footage like "" and "" from the 2020 event, released via and later as a DVD/Blu-ray package including three hours of backstage material. These videos emphasize the festival's collaborative spirit, with guest appearances from acts like SiM and . The band's official YouTube channel serves as the primary distribution platform for these videos, amassing a dedicated following through consistent uploads of live sessions and promotional content that align with their themes of resilience and intensity. Fan engagement is evident in user-generated shares of tour performances, such as clips from Warped Tour and Blare Fest circulated on platforms like YouTube and social media, fostering a global community that amplifies the band's reach during live events.

Awards and nominations

Major awards

Coldrain achieved recognition in the Japanese music scene with a win at the Space Shower Music Awards 2021, where the supergroup Triple Axe—comprising coldrain, SiM, and HEY-SMITH—received the Best Punk/Loud Rock Artist award for their collaborative efforts amid challenging industry conditions during the . This accolade highlighted the band's influence in the punk and loud rock genres, marking one of their notable triumphs in domestic alternative music honors.

Nominations and recognitions

In 2025, J-Rock News praised the Optimize EP for its raw energy and emotional depth, marking it as a strong return for the band following their hiatus.

References

  1. https://music.apple.com/us/artist/coldrain/294914748
  2. https://www.discogs.com/artist/3260374-coldrain
  3. https://coldrain.jp/
  4. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography
  5. https://music.apple.com/jp/artist/coldrain/294914748?l=en-US
  6. https://en.namu.wiki/w/coldrain
  7. https://alchetron.com/Coldrain
  8. https://www.generasia.com/wiki/coldrain
  9. https://www.discogs.com/release/30062362-coldrain-1st
  10. https://www.theklabristol.co.uk/gigs/coldrain/
  11. https://www.discogs.com/release/8950966-coldrain-Fiction
  12. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/Fiction_%28coldrain_single%29
  13. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/coldrain/2008/club-upset-nagoya-japan-1b8aad1c.html
  14. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography/final-destination
  15. https://musicbrainz.org/release-group/67c5f59d-719b-463a-b47b-a69ec3685920
  16. https://open.spotify.com/album/59oPyyTWZjJtyVAs1pBHAN
  17. https://www.discogs.com/release/8946730-coldrain-8AM
  18. https://www.concreteweb.be/reviews/coldrain
  19. https://guestpectacular.com/artists/coldrain/events/tour/final-destination-tour-2009
  20. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/Yokochi_Ryo
  21. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography/the-enemy-inside
  22. https://open.spotify.com/album/2ALjlhoBOR4PdtggnnT8SL
  23. https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/463264/rank/album/
  24. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/coldrain?date=past
  25. https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/463264/products/
  26. https://www.discogs.com/master/793841-coldrain-Through-Clarity
  27. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-s_7oDMfjms
  28. https://www.musicglue.com/coldrain/biography/
  29. https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/463264/products/1013740/1/
  30. https://www.journaldujapon.com/2014/11/11/english-interview-coldrain-lets-start-the-conquest/
  31. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e45o8RZaHcg
  32. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/coldrain/2013/tsutaya-o-east-tokyo-japan-23ef64b3.html
  33. https://www.altpress.com/coldrain_sign_to_hopeless_records/
  34. https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/japans-coldrain-signs-with-hopeless-records
  35. https://www.discogs.com/release/7237894-coldrain-The-Revelation
  36. https://www.reddit.com/r/coldrain_jp/comments/1of81ul/until_the_end_is_now_avaliable_worldwide/
  37. https://japanunderground.wordpress.com/2013/12/11/coldrain-ready-to-go-global-european-support-tour-confirmed-uk-tour-in-the-pipeline-for-2014/
  38. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/coldrain/2014/nurburgring-nurburg-germany-bc01526.html
  39. https://www.hopelessrecords.com/releases
  40. https://www.discogs.com/master/1036256-coldrain-Vena
  41. https://www.frontview-magazine.be/en/news/coldrain-announce-new-album-vena-to-be-release-october-23rd
  42. https://genius.com/albums/Coldrain/Vena
  43. https://open.spotify.com/album/0GC8hjVn9Jz5oEq9gFj9KV
  44. https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/463264/products/1149287/1/
  45. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dOOSq5W1G8
  46. https://www.loudersound.com/news/coldrain-launch-wrong-video
  47. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mw7WRVevwIc
  48. https://newnoisemagazine.com/coldrain-story-music-video/
  49. https://syncnet.work/en/archives/24366
  50. https://www.breathingthecore.com/2016/04/news-coldrain-touring-europe-in-may.html
  51. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/coldrain/2016/merriweather-post-pavilion-columbia-md-33ff30f1.html
  52. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDyLP1iImVo
  53. https://jrocknews.com/2016/03/coldrain-caught-traffic-collision-us.html
  54. https://thesoundboardreviews.com/2015/10/26/album-review-vena-by-coldrain/
  55. https://www.punktastic.com/album-reviews/coldrain-vena/
  56. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography/fateless
  57. https://www.discogs.com/release/13479348-coldrain-Fateless
  58. https://genius.com/albums/Coldrain/Fateless
  59. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/FATELESS
  60. https://music.youtube.com/browse/MPREb_rqA9pfbjykg
  61. https://jrocknews.com/2017/08/coldrain-commemorate-10th-anniversary-with-new-album-fateless-and-nippon-budokan-performance-in-2018.html
  62. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/coldrain/2018/nippon-budokan-tokyo-japan-13eedd99.html
  63. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/concert-map/coldrain-33d508b5.html
  64. https://jrocknews.com/2018/12/coldrain-revolution-single.html
  65. https://genius.com/albums/Coldrain/The-side-effects
  66. https://www.discogs.com/master/1749229-coldrain-The-Side-Effects
  67. https://metal.academy/reviews/18406/23291
  68. https://jrocknews.com/2019/01/coldrain-revolution-music-video.html
  69. https://genius.com/Coldrain-paradise-kill-the-silence-lyrics
  70. https://satanic.jp/contents/557236
  71. https://desdainart.com/blog/2020/3/2/blare-fest-2020-in-nagoya-japan
  72. https://music.fanplus.co.jp/news/201912145405694b3
  73. https://www.thunderchord.co.uk/post/japanese-hard-rockers-coldrain-to-premiere-live-concert-coldrain-tv-on-october-18th
  74. https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/coldrain-tv-digital-online-virtual-concert-discounted-tickets-overseas-fans-available-quarantine-coronavirus-covid-19-2020
  75. https://electricbloomwebzine.com/2022/04/coldrain-announce-upcoming-album-nonnegative-and-unleash-latest-single.html
  76. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography/nonnegative
  77. https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/463264/products/1446266/1/
  78. https://ghostcultmag.com/album-review-coldrain-nonnegative-warner-japan/
  79. https://www.therockpit.net/2023/live-review-the-used-papa-roach-with-special-guests-coldrain/
  80. https://thebeat.asia/bangkok/the-list/events/japanese-rock-band-coldrain-to-hold-their-first-asia-tour-in-four-years
  81. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUHgTYLyYuc
  82. https://genius.com/Coldrain-vengeance-lyrics
  83. https://music.apple.com/us/album/final-destination-xv-re-recorded-vengeance/1746964479
  84. https://www.discogs.com/release/29887060-coldrain-Final-Destination-XV-Vengeance
  85. https://electricbloomwebzine.com/2024/02/coldrain-drop-new-single-vengeance-in-conjunction-with-ninja-kamui-premiere.html
  86. https://bravewords.com/news/japans-coldrain-signs-with-century-media-records/
  87. https://lambgoat.com/news/46829/coldrain-sign-with-century-media-records-release-new-single-incomplete/
  88. https://v13.net/2025/03/coldrain-release-incomplete-single-via-century-media-records/
  89. https://lambgoat.com/news/48991/coldrain-release-new-single-chasing-shadows-and-official-music-video/
  90. https://chaoszine.net/coldrain-release-new-single-free-fall/
  91. https://www.centurymedia.com/new/coldrain
  92. https://deadrhetoric.com/reviews/coldrain-optimize-century-media/
  93. https://slrmagazine.com/2025/10/26/japanese-alternative-force-coldrain-releases-highly-anticipated-new-ep-optimize-out-now-via-century-media-records/
  94. https://jrocknews.com/2025/11/review-coldrain-ep-optimize.html
  95. https://lambgoat.com/news/50086/electric-callboy-announce-world-tour-ice-nine-kills-polaris-etc-to-open-on-select-legs/
  96. https://www.wallofsoundau.com/news/electric-callboy-ice-nine-kills-coldrain-tour
  97. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RElUBzNdzo4
  98. https://www.instagram.com/p/DPMW9rpE7ya/
  99. https://www.loudersound.com/features/new-metal-revolution-coldrain-the-rising-sons
  100. https://www.the-alternation.co.uk/2025/10/review-of-upcoming-ep-coldrain-optimize.html
  101. https://www.hitthefloor.com/music/rock-metal/coldrain-revelation-album-review/
  102. https://v13.net/2016/02/coldrain-vena-album-review/
  103. https://www.loudersound.com/features/welcome-back-coldrain
  104. https://www.thunderchord.co.uk/post/album-review-coldrain-nonnegative
  105. https://mixdownmag.com.au/features/interviews/coldrain/
  106. https://www.loudersound.com/features/the-nine-best-nu-metal-singles-by-coldrain-s-masato-david-hayakawa
  107. https://www.allthingsloud.com/coldrain-you-give-everyone-a-beer-and-theyre-all-friends/
  108. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN2AG6yjPRs
  109. https://www.punktastic.com/interviews/introducing-coldrain/
  110. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/Masato_David_Hayakawa
  111. https://genius.com/artists/Coldrain
  112. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/Kazuya_Sugiyama
  113. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/Shimizu_Ryo
  114. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/Minatani_Katsuma
  115. https://www.tumblr.com/emashitayuuki/141230082195/katsuma-the-badass-drummer
  116. https://www.last.fm/music/coldrain/+wiki
  117. https://www.discogs.com/release/4504924-coldrain-Final-Destination
  118. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/The_Enemy_Inside
  119. https://www.discogs.com/release/4504927-coldrain-The-Enemy-Inside
  120. https://www.discogs.com/master/793833-coldrain-The-Revelation
  121. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/VENA
  122. https://genius.com/Coldrain-vena-lyrics/q/producer
  123. https://jpop.fandom.com/wiki/THE_SIDE_EFFECTS
  124. https://genius.com/Coldrain-the-side-effects-lyrics/q/producer
  125. https://wmg.jp/coldrain/discography/
  126. https://genius.com/albums/Coldrain/Nothing-lasts-forever
  127. https://music.apple.com/us/album/through-clarity-ep/1048040366
  128. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/ep/coldrain/through-clarity/
  129. https://genius.com/albums/Coldrain/Until-the-end
  130. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyABPvnYdFc
  131. https://www.albumoftheyear.org/artist/78959-coldrain/
  132. https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/463264/products/785249/1/
  133. https://www.vap.co.jp/coldrain/
  134. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography/tagged/single
  135. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=somevideo
  136. https://coldrain.jp/blogs/discography/20180206-live-at-budokan
  137. https://www.discogs.com/release/17648377-coldrain-Live-Backstage-At-Blare-Fest-2020
  138. https://hopelessrecords.bandcamp.com/music
  139. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6yl3NAC9u0
  140. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/coldrain-33d508b5.html
  141. https://guestpectacular.com/artists/coldrain/events/tour/vena
  142. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/coldrain-33d508b5.html?tour=some-tour-id-if-specific
  143. https://guestpectacular.com/artists/coldrain/events/tour/nonnegative-japan-tour-2022
  144. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/coldrain-33d508b5.html?tour=3de359b
  145. https://blarefest.com/
  146. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/coldrain-33d508b5.html?tour=73dd0eb9
  147. https://www.wallofsoundau.com/news/the-used-papa-roach-are-bringing-coldrain-to-australia-in-april-2022
  148. https://scenestr.com.au/music/the-used-papa-roach-2023-australia-tour-20230118
  149. https://metal-roos.com.au/the-used-announce-additional-melbourne-show-support-acts-for-25-year-anniversary-australian-tour-announced/
  150. https://letsgopunk.com/coldrain/
  151. https://guestpectacular.com/artists/coldrain/events/2014-06-06/germany/nurburg/nurburgring
  152. https://musicfeeds.com.au/news/soundwave-2015-lineup-coldrain/
  153. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/coldrain/2015/royal-melbourne-showgrounds-melbourne-australia-63cbbe4b.html
  154. https://www.kerrang.com/full-vans-warped-tour-2016-line-up-revealed
  155. https://warped-tour.fandom.com/wiki/Warped_Tour_2016
  156. https://downloadfestival.co.uk/download-2018/
  157. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/one-ok-rock/2026/port-messe-nagoya-nagoya-japan-634c3ea7.html
  158. https://www.promonews.tv/videos/2014/09/11/coldrain-you-lie-stuart-birchall/28961
  159. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FipfA_bUEts
  160. https://music.youtube.com/channel/UC0L1UZsfCTUu15xPUoMkyfA
  161. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJOe157TmAc
  162. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPQSZq-5Hv4
  163. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6JikEL_VDM
  164. https://cdsvinyljapan.com/products/4943674284658
  165. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hQcTDS_xeE
  166. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-YuCdaHFH4
  167. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waQi7mo5TyI
  168. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmo9HygCJ6M
  169. https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001743.000002929.html
  170. https://awards.spaceshower.jp/2021/report/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.