Photo Credits to: Bryce Pollock
Dimrays is an emerging loud-rock/metalcore duo from Osaka, Japan, known for blending heavy riffs with emotional, melodic elements. Now composed of Akane (vocals) and Naho (bass), the band showcases a powerful mix of clean vocals, screams, and dynamic instrumentation that sets them apart in Japan’s modern heavy-music scene.
With releases like Pain≒T, ANTITHESIS, and their latest 2025 single “anxiety”, Dimrays continues to evolve while gaining attention for their intense live performances and fearless creativity. In this interview, we talk to them about their journey, sound, and future plans.
The band was formed when all the members met at the same university.
The origin of the band’s name, Dimrays, stems from the fact that we formed during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time of great uncertainty. We wanted the name to reflect the idea that even in a dimly lit world, there is a ray of hope, that beauty can exist within the gloom, and that our music might become a source of support for someone. With these thoughts in mind, we chose the name Dimrays.”
Originally formed as a four-piece band, you’re now active as a duo. How has this shift impacted you emotionally and creatively?
While it’s challenging to operate as a duo, we’re happy about the increased autonomy and growth in what we can achieve independently.
Though you currently operate as a duo, how do you divide roles like lyric writing, composition, arrangement, and visual concepts?
Composition and arrangement are handled by MACKY, a former member who now serves as our support guitarist.
Lyrics and melody creation are handled by our vocalist, Akane, while visual concepts are expressed freely by each member in their own style.
Has becoming a smaller group brought more creative freedom or new challenges?
I don’t really feel like we’ve gained more freedom.
The support from fans, former members, staff, friends, and everyone around us is why we’ve managed to keep going as a duo.
As for challenges? Oh, there are tons! (laughs)
“Dimrays’ music masterfully blends heavy guitar riffs, emotional clean vocals, and screams. How do you strike the balance between this ‘aggression’ and ‘melody’?
After finalizing the band’s instrumental demo, we layer melodies on top while consciously balancing these elements.
We aim to express what we personally find ‘cool.’
What message or story went into your debut single, Pain≒t, and how was it crafted?
Since this was Dimrays’ first track—and the band’s direction wasn’t fully solidified yet—we worked through trial and error, asking ourselves,
‘What is Dimrays?’ We focused on embodying the song’s aesthetic flow, paying close attention to transitions between sections.
The lyrics start with darker themes, reflecting the title’s idea that ‘change requires pain.’ But by the end, they shift to a forward-looking emotion, so it’s ultimately an uplifting track.
Your tracks Everlasting and Pareidolia show clear musical growth. Compared to your earlier work, what aspect of your creative process has evolved the most?
I think it’s because we’ve started to grasp the sense of momentum in our songs and the nuances of Dimrays’ songcraft—that’s what fueled our growth.
Which song do you feel best embodies Dimrays’ “core identity”? Why?
Bad Taste.
Just listen to it—you’ll get it.
Many of your lyrics explore themes like “duality” and “inner conflict.” What draws you to these subjects?
Maybe we’re just bottling up too much hate daily? (laughs)
Dimrays’ commitment to visuals—costumes, stage production, and music videos—is striking. How crucial are these elements to your storytelling?
We focus on creating visuals we believe in—it’s how we shine our brightest.
Your band name evokes a duality of ‘light’ and ‘shadow.’ How do you express that contrast through your music and visuals?
Honestly, we’ve never intentionally crafted music or visuals around that duality.
The Japanese metalcore scene is evolving rapidly. Within this landscape, what kind of presence does Dimrays aspire to embody?
When people ask,Which bands are defining the metalcore scene?’—we want Dimrays to be the first name that comes to mind.”
Tell us about the most unforgettable live performance you’ve ever delivered?
It was our set at Kawasaki Club Citta for the MIXED HELL event.
That moment was special because it marked Dimrays’ first time stepping onto a major stage.
Many of your international fans don’t understand Japanese. What kind of reactions have you received from them?
We’re thrilled by how much love and support we’ve gotten—far more than we ever expected!
Are there any artists, domestic or international, you’d love to collaborate with?
We’d kill to tour with Spiritbox or Wage War!
They’re the bands we binge-listened to while honing our screams. Honestly, we’re down to share the stage with anyone, anywhere.
Finally, what’s next for Dimrays? Any hints about new albums, tours, or projects fans can anticipate?
We’re cooking up a new EP right now!
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