The moment anime and metal fans have been waiting for has arrived – Paledusk has officially dropped the complete version of “HUGs”, the electrifying opening theme for the hit anime series Gachiakuta. Clocking in at an intense 5 minutes and 33 seconds, this genre-defying track delivers everything promised by its TV-size preview and more, blending brutal metal riffs with unexpected pop sensibilities to create what’s already being hailed as the Fukuoka quartet’s next masterpiece.
Commissioned directly by Gachiakuta creator Kei Urana and graffiti designer Hideyoshi Andou, “HUGs” perfectly captures the raw emotion and rebellious spirit of the anime’s story about Rudo, an orphan rising from the slums to challenge a corrupt society. The track’s chaotic energy mirrors the series’ themes of justice and survival, making it more than just an opening song – it’s a sonic representation of the anime’s soul.
This release marks a significant milestone for Paledusk as it represents their major label debut. Fans can look forward to a CD release on September 17, available in two versions: a standard edition and a deluxe first press featuring LP-size jacket packaging and exclusive Gachiakuta-themed trading cards. These collectibles include rare illustrations of Paledusk’s members drawn by Kei Urana himself, along with anime visuals of key characters Rudo, Enjin, Zanka, and Liyou.
The band’s meteoric rise continues with their upcoming “PALEGALAXY vol.2” tour across Japan this September, featuring special guests Polaris and Knosis. This comes on the heels of guitarist DAIDAI’s impressive international collaborations, including work on Bring Me the Horizon’s chart-topping album and contributions to tracks by Lil Uzi Vert and BABYMETAL.
With Gachiakuta currently airing weekly on 28 CBC/TBS affiliate stations and streaming globally on Crunchyroll, the full release of “HUGs” adds another layer of intensity to the anime experience. A music video is reportedly in the works, promising to further amplify the visual and auditory impact of this groundbreaking track.
For fans worldwide, “HUGs” represents more than just an anime theme – it’s a testament to Paledusk’s ability to push musical boundaries while staying true to the raw energy that made them one of Japan’s most exciting young bands. As Gachiakuta challenges societal norms on screen, Paledusk continues to break conventions in the music world, proving that sometimes the most powerful revolutions come with the loudest soundtracks.
The single is now available on all major streaming platforms, with CD pre-orders open for international fans. One thing is certain – in the worlds of both anime and metal, things are about to get significantly louder.
Gachiakuta airs weekly and streams on Crunchyroll internationally. “HUGs” CD releases September 17, with pre-orders available now. Paledusk’s “PALEGALAXY vol.2” tour kicks off this September across Japan.
Adreena is a writer from Nagano, Japan, but is now residing in Singapore. She mostly writes music news and reviews, but in her spare time, she likes writing fiction and poems.