The Japanese scene has always been distinctive – celebrated for its loyal fanbase and continually treated to extra releases, tracks, and bonuses. At the same time, it’s a culture that embraces innovation and novelty. Even within that crowd, VIOLENT MAGIC ORCHESTRA (VMO) stand out as brazen troublemakers. This isn’t just a musical performance – it’s a performance, merging black metal elements with electronic music and visual arts.
A techno beat, an electronic keyboard foundation, metal guitar accents, and black metal scream vocals make VIOLENT MAGIC ORCHESTRA feel at home both in the heavy music scene and on the dance floor; or out of place in both... During their shows, elaborate décor, dynamic lighting, and strobes blend with the music to create a fully immersive atmosphere that enchants both the audience and onlookers.
Paying homage to one of their inspirations – Scandinavian black metal bands – the members adopt their names as stage personas, written in Japanese katakana script. VMO has performed at several heavy music festivals across Europe, collaborated with SUNN O))) and Attila Csihar, the vocalist of Norwegian black metal pioneers MAYHEM, and dreams of working with BJÖRK or APHEX TWIN. These aren’t merely shocking stunts, but a versatility that immerses you in both physical dance and intellectual journeys.
