Since their formation in Kyoto, Japan, in 1967, Les Rallizes Dénudés has ascended to near-mythical status, captivating audiences worldwide with their relentless psychedelic soundscapes and raw, unyielding sonic power.
Helmed by the enigmatic Takashi Mizutani, the band carved out a legendary underground presence that transcended their three-decade existence, continuing to resonate as an enduring cult phenomenon.
A pivotal moment in their storied journey came in 1980 when Les Rallizes Dénudés welcomed guitarist Fujio Yamaguchi (of The Dynamites, Murahachibu, and Teardrops fame) into their fold.
This unexpected partnership between Mizutani’s avant-garde vision and Fujio’s untamed, blues-inflected style injected new energy into the band, thrilling both devoted followers and new listeners alike. Though Fujio’s tenure with the Rallizes was fleeting—lasting less than a year—it left an indelible mark on their legacy, forging a chapter that continues to reverberate among fans.
Out of the mere seven performances by the Fujio-era lineup, one show has achieved legendary status. YaneUra Oct. ’80 captures the searing energy of their October 29, 1980 performance at the original Yaneura live house in Shibuya, Tokyo.
This particular night, part of a series of gigs at Yaneura, has long been regarded as a cornerstone of Rallizes lore, thanks to bootleg recordings circulating fervently among die-hard aficionados.
Now, at last, YaneUra Oct. ’80 has been meticulously mixed and mastered from the finest sources by Rallizes member Makoto Kubota, marking the first official release of this iconic show. (Note: the record, CD, and digital release came out in August 2024.)
Anchored by the rock-solid rhythm section of bassist Doronco (Kiyohiro Takada) and drummer Kodo Noma, the interplay between Mizutani and Fujio’s twin guitars was nothing short of incendiary. Their volatile chemistry produced an enveloping, jet-black aura that defined the atmosphere of every performance.
The evening’s standout moment—the epic, 30-minute medley of “I’m the Darkness” cascading into “Flame of Ice”—stands as one of the most defining and transcendent performances in the band’s history.
YaneUra Oct. ’80 is a time capsule of one of Les Rallizes Dénudés’ most electrifying and formative chapters, finally available for the world to experience in its full glory. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to this legendary Japanese psych/noise rock band, we think you’ll enjoy it.
Check out 屋根裏 YaneUra Oct. ’80 by Les Rallizes Dénudés on Bandcamp here.
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