Artist: Ryujin 
Title: Ryujin Self Titled
Label: Napalm Records
Cat #: NPR1239DGS
Release Year: 2024
Duration: Album
Format: CD
Packaging Type: Digipak

Ryujin is the self-titled album from the Japanese melodic death/power metal band Ryujin.

"Formed in 2011 as Gyze, “Samurai Metal” band RYUJIN deftly deliver heavy metal from Japan to the international masses with their self-titled Napalm Records debut.

After releasing four highly acclaimed albums and appearing at major festivals worldwide, RYUJIN have developed their own identity, expressed with accents of tasteful traditional Japanese instrumentation (i.e. Shamisen, Dragon Flute, Erhu, Taiko), and lead guitar god Ryoji Shinomoto's incredible shredding technique and ripping vocals. 

High speed riffs and breakneck guitar descents pair with traditional Japanese elements, delivering a sound influenced by everything from ancient orchestral Gagaku to even modern anime themes. RYUJIN features production by Matthew Kiichi Heafy (Trivium) and mixing/mastering by Mark Lewis, with guest appearances by Heafy (vocals and conducting on various tracks) and Mukai Wataru of the Kansai Philharmonic Orchestra (cello).

Recommended if you like: Children of Bodom, Halmah, Grymheart, Trivium, Norther, Wintersun, Arch Enemy, Warmen, In Flames

Track Listing:
        
01.Hajimari    
02.Gekokujo    
03.Dragon, Fly Free    
04.Raijin and Fujin (Feat. Matthew K. Heafy)
05.The Rainbow Song (Feat. Matthew K. Heafy)
06.Kunnecup (Feat. Mukai Wataru)
07.Scream of the Dragon    
08.Gekirin    
09.Saigo No Hoshi (Feat. Matthew K. Heafy)
10.Ryujin    
11.Guren No Yumiya (Feat. Matthew K. Heafy)
12.Saigo No Hoshi (feat. Matthew K. Heafy)