Artist Spotlight: Shizune

Like last years Mahria, Shizune is a band that has completely blindsided me.  Featuring a brash, aggressive sound, they draw inspiration from a wide range on the emo/post-hardcore spectrum.  Hailing from Japan, they share surprisingly few influences with their fellow countrymen Envy and Heaven in Her Arms.  Instead, Shizune sounds quite a lot like Pianos Become the Teeth, Loma Prieta, and even Touche Amore.

Their seven track self-titled debut is a refreshing dose of heavy screamo explosions and cathartic post-hardcore anthems.  "Days of Vaestana" stands out as especially notable, blending the aformentioned sounds into one short, beautiful package.  It displays an intensity not often seen in today's music, whilst also displaying a wonderful sense of passion and emotion.

Shizune isn't well known and that's a shame, because if their debut is any indicator, they're doing screamo better than a swarth of bands out their today.  You can, and should give their self-titled a listen.  They are streaming it for free on their bandcamp.  If you like what you hear, then download it for free as well, and most importantly, spread the word!

Listen and download here