SUGIZO Scores Dark Machine Anime OST; December Release Confirmed
Legendary guitarist SUGIZO is stepping into uncharted territory with his first anime soundtrack, and the results promise to be nothing short of spectacular. The Dark Machine the Animation original soundtrack arrives December 9, 2026, bringing SUGIZO’s signature dark, heavy sonic palette to a new e-sports themed anime series.
For those unfamiliar, SUGIZO is one of Japan’s most revered musicians—a founding member of LUNA SEA and X JAPAN guitarist who continues to lead his own projects including the jazz-rock band SHAG. His involvement in anime music marks a significant milestone, and he’s brought together an all-star roster of collaborators to realize the project’s ambitious soundscape.
The soundtrack boasts contributions from an eclectic lineup: MaZDA (longtime COSMIC DANCE QUINTET member), producer Ubar-Tumar, vocaloid producer ATLOS, JILUKA guitarist Sena, Shinobu (Creature Creature/La’cryma Christi), and the full SHAG lineup. This cross-genre assembly reflects SUGIZO’s philosophy of creative collaboration and pushes the soundtrack beyond typical anime fare.
The release includes heavy hitters on its theme songs. BUCK∞TICK delivers the opening theme “存在理由 改” (“Reason for Existence -Revised-“), while three代目 J SOUL BROTHERS handle the ending with “Galaxy Mode.” An in-universe idol group called STELLATUS contributes the energetic insert track “Pitch Black,” which drops early on November 11 ahead of the full OST release.
The physical release comes in multiple formats: a 2CD set with all 40 tracks, 2LP vinyl with SUGIZO’s personal selections, and a limited Victor Online Store exclusive bundle featuring a custom record bag. Jacket artwork comes courtesy of mecha designer Hideki Tenjin, known for his work on the Macros and Gundam series.
To celebrate the launch, SUGIZO and anime director Kazuo Terada will hold a talk and signing event at Tower Records Shibuya on December 9. It’s a rare chance to connect with the creative minds behind this ambitious cross-media project.
Head to the official Victor Entertainment store for pre-orders and streaming availability across Apple Music, LINE MUSIC, iTunes, and major download services—all going live December 9 at midnight.