With PLUVIA, SAKI steps squarely into the spotlight, trading the hyper-charged group dynamics of Mary’s Blood and NEMOPHILA for a solo vision that relies entirely on her own six-string storytelling. The Japanese virtuoso’s debut instrumental album, released by JPU Records outside of Japan, transforms atmospheric metal into a canvas for raw, expressive melody. With a powerhouse lineup of international heavyweights including Gus G., Frédéric Leclercq, and Senri Kawaguchi, SAKI crafts a record that feels less like a technical flex and more like a deeply personal statement, proving that her guitar work doesn’t need words to command an entire room.
The title track, ‘PLUVIA’ serves as the centerpiece of the album, establishing the record’s blend of heavy virtuosity and melodic warmth. World renowned drummer, Senri Kawaguchi’s fluid, high-energy syncopation gives SAKI’s lead work a dynamic rolling foundation. The classical influenced melodies really act as the “singer” of the track because SAKI didn’t lean purely into hyper-speed shredding. The track is beautiful, forged through heavy metal expression.
‘THE EMPRESS,’ sitting at track 4 on PLUVIA is one of the album’s most regal, commanding instrumental pieces, showcasing SAKI’s deep roots in neoclassical guitar work and dramatic songcraft. Recorded with Frédéric Leclercq (Kreator, ex- DragonForce) on bass the low end provides a muscular, steady wall of sound that allows SAKI’s leads to really soar over the mix. ‘THE EMPRESS’ carries an almost authoritative, imposing presence with crisp, deliberate phrasing that gives every sweep and bend a royal weight.
The high-octane emotional climax of PLUVIA lies with ‘REDEMPTION.’ This track brings together an all-star rhythm section from the Japanese metal scene; hibiki on bass and Kagemaru on drums. Driven by Kagemaru’s blistering drum work and hibiki’s thunderous bassline, the track leans heavily into fast, driving metal tempos. ‘REDEMPTION’ bridges the gap between classic Japanese power metal and modern melodic metal.
PLUVIA establishes SAKI as an instrumental force capable of balancing thunderous metal power with delicate, vocal-like melodies. It’s an expressive, commanding solo debut that cements her place among premier guitarists of her generation.
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