THE BACK HORN
THE BACK HORN
Group from Japan
Genres: alternative rock, j-rock, pop punk, post-grunge, J-rock, rock, japanese, alternative
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9mm Parabellum Bullet
About THE BACK HORN
THE BACK HORN (ザ・バックホーン) is a Japanese indie and alternative rock band, formed in Tokyo in 1998. Members: * Vocals: 山田将司 ([member]Masashi Yamada[/member]) * Guitar: 菅波栄純 ([member]Eijun Suganami[/member]; solo project: eijun) * Bass: 岡峰光舟 ([member]Koshu Okamine[/member]) * Drums: 松田晋二 ([member]Shinji Matsuda[/member]) Ex members: * Bass: 平林直己 (Hirabayashi Naoki) (1998-2001) History: 1998–2000: Formation and Early Years THE BACK HORN was formed in Tokyo in 1998 by Masashi Yamada (vocals), Eijun Suganami (guitar), Kōshū Okamine (bass) and Shinji Matsuda (drums). The founding members came from different rural parts of Japan and met after moving to Tokyo. Their original name was “Gyorai” (魚雷, “Torpedo”), but they soon changed it to THE BACK HORN. The origin of their name comes from a misreading by drummer Matsuda: while working with a construction vehicle called a “backhoe,” he read it as “backhon.” The name has nothing to do with the musical instrument "horn". They are also known as "バクホン" (bakuhon). From the beginning, their music stood out for its raw energy and emotional depth. Their early work explored dark themes like war, isolation, and death, yet often turned those into something cathartic and defiant. The band’s first mini-album Doko e Yuku (1999) and debut album Yomigaeru Hi (2000) drew attention from the Japanese underground scene for their intensity and sincerity. 2001–2004: Breakthrough and Major Debut In 2001, THE BACK HORN signed with Speedstar Records, marking their major label debut with Ningen Program. The album expanded their sound while keeping their signature grit and emotional weight. Around this time, bassist Naoki Hirabayashi left the band, and Kōshū Okamine joined as a support musician — later becoming a full member. Their 2002 album Shinzō Orchestra and 2003’s Ikiru Sainō deepened their reputation as one of the most uncompromising voices in Japanese rock. The band began gaining mainstream attention through their contribution to Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s film Bright Future and Kazuaki Kiriya’s Casshern, where their music underscored the films’ bleak yet human tone. 2005–2008: Concept Albums and Wider Recognition 2005’s Headphone Children is often regarded as the band’s artistic milestone — a conceptual work that reflects on alienation and rebirth. The song Kiseki from the same album was featured in the horror film Zoo. Their following releases, including the live album Ubugoe Chainsaw, captured the fierce energy of their concerts. In 2006 they released Taiyō no Naka no Seikatsu, followed by their self-titled album THE BACK HORN (2007). The single Wana became known internationally when it was used as the ending theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam 00. To celebrate their 10th anniversary, the band released Best the Back Horn in 2008, followed by Pulse, an album that balanced their heavier instincts with melodic storytelling. 2009–2015: Growth, Tours, and New Sounds Throughout the 2010s, THE BACK HORN continued to evolve without losing their edge. Albums like Asylum (2010), Akatsuki no Fanfare (2014), and Unmei Kaika (2015) showed a more layered and mature sound, weaving together elements of alternative, post-rock, and classic Japanese rock. The band toured extensively across Japan and abroad, playing in Europe and Asia, where they built a devoted following. Their lyrics remained poetic and introspective — dealing with pain, faith, and the will to live — themes that resonated deeply with listeners. 2016–2025: Legacy and Continuity In their third decade together, THE BACK HORN have proven to be one of Japan’s most enduring rock acts. Albums like Carpe Diem (2015), Jinrui no Enban (2018), and Shinai Naru Anata e (2025) reflect a band that has grown older but not softer — still carrying the same emotional force that defined their beginnings. Their live performances remain intense and communal, known for bridging rage and tenderness in equal measure. Songs like Kibō wo Narase and Saigo ni Nokoru Mono show a band still searching, still fighting, and still alive in every note. Sound and Influence THE BACK HORN’s music blends elements of post-grunge, alternative, and Japanese rock with lyrics that confront human weakness and the drive to survive. Their influences range from Nirvana and Radiohead to traditional Japanese folk sensibilities. After more than 25 years, THE BACK HORN remain true to the emotional core that set them apart — a band that believes rock music can still wound, heal, and move people deeply. The band's theme is "KYO-MEI," and they aim to deliver music that moves the hearts of those who listen.
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