Japanese operatic metalcore adventurers FATHOMLESS SKYWALKER have begun 2026 by revealing a new chapter of their ongoing saga with the single “SAKEKAGURA.” Set for digital release on January 28, 2026—coinciding with guitarist Takuma’s birthday—the track is a “magical hymn to sake and celebration.” The release also serves as the official introduction of the band’s new blue-haired bassist, NINO, formerly of the metal band ArkRoyal. The single marks the band’s first new material since their 2025 debut album, ‘Anthems of the Resilient’, and continues their tradition of blending heavy metal with high-fantasy storytelling.
The music video for “SAKEKAGURA” was filmed at the historic Jyouseiji Temple in Uraga, Yokosuka, a site dating back to the Kamakura period. The visual features a guest appearance by Kaelhakase, the frontman of Japanese Folk Metal, who portrays the “God of Sake.” The production reunited the band with director Yuuichi Tamura and executive advisor Mr.EYEGAGO (frontman of AILIFDOPA). Musically, the track features orchestral compositions by Freddy of Serenity In Murder and was produced, mixed, and mastered by Hiro at Studio Prisoner, known for his work with Unlucky Morpheus and Crystal Lake.
The band’s connection to traditional Japanese spirits extends beyond their music; they previously collaborated with Metal Master Brewing Tokyo to create ‘FATHOMLESS VOYAGE IPA’. This American-style IPA, inspired by their song “Pirates of the Fathomless Sea,” features notes of mint and pink pepper and is currently available at heavy metal taverns across Tokyo. In the “SAKEKAGURA” video, each band member is introduced with sake-inspired titles: Chihiro as the “Sake Offering Priestess,” Takuma as the “Drunken Mad Emperor Beast,” TETSU as the “Sake-Drinking Monk,” and NINO as the “Intoxicated Swordmaster.” “SAKEKAGURA” is available for preorder now via JPU Records.
“This human world is a fleeting one, and yet that is precisely why it dances so beautifully,” the band shared in a message regarding the new song. “The hidden treasure is the love of sake. Even if one cannot drink, as long as your heart is in sake, you, yourself are the treasure.”