Rise of the Northstar

Manga-obsessed Parisian groove metal quintet Rise of the Northstar combined metal, hip-hop, and hardcore with a hefty dose of Japanese pop culture influences to create their own unique "crossover" sound; they broke out internationally with their 2014 debut album Welcame. The group was formed in 2008 by vocalist Vithia, who, after a succession of lineup changes, remained the sole original member, backed by guitarists Mazin Erwan & Evangelion B, bassist Fabulous Fab, and drummer Hokuto no Kev. From the start, their music was incredibly aggressive, melding the macho swagger of h...