Kuroyume to Release Two Self-Cover Albums This Summer
Legendary Visual Kei act Kuroyume is giving their final chapter a second chance. The iconic band has announced two self-cover albums arriving this summer, each revisiting and reimagining tracks from Corkscrew and Drug TReatment—the closing statements of their initial run before their 2012 hiatus.
For those new to Kuroyume’s story: the Tokyo-based outfit emerged in the early ’90s as architects of a darker, more introspective strain of Visual Kei. Where many peers leaned into theatrical excess, Kuroyume cultivated a sound rooted in gothic atmosphere and lyrical depth. Across three decades, they’ve influenced generations of bands while maintaining a fierce creative independence. Their first era concluded in the early 2000s with those two final albums, both of which pushed their sound toward heavier, more experimental territory.
The decision to revisit Corkscrew and Drug TReatment through fresh arrangements speaks to how the band views their evolution. Rather than simply reissuing these records, Kuroyume is taking an active role in reinterpreting their own work—a bold move that acknowledges both how their musicianship has matured and how differently they might approach these compositions today. For longtime listeners, this is a chance to hear beloved tracks through a contemporary lens. For newer fans, these albums offer an accessible entry point into some of the band’s most adventurous material.
The timing aligns with Kuroyume’s continued resurgence following their 2008 reunion. After years of touring and reconnecting with audiences worldwide, they’re demonstrating that they’re not content resting on legacy alone. These self-covers are a statement: we still have something to say about this music.
Fans eager to hear what Kuroyume has crafted should watch the band’s official channels for full release details, track listings, and pre-order information. This summer’s releases promise to be essential listening for anyone invested in Visual Kei’s past and present.