Through extensive interviews, and his own knowledge as a first-hand observer, KD Hopkins provides a roadmap for heretofore totally uncharted territory in the history of extreme sonic exploration. Featuring the likes of Merzbow, Hijokaidan and Hanatarash alongside a bevy of lesser known freaks, Rumors Of Noizu compiles anecdotes and memories alongside flyers and photographs from the time, in an attempt to contextualize what is perhaps the most bewildering music scene in the history of the modern underground.

Many critics have discussed the genre of noizu as a strange subculture arising in a strange place, Japan. In this book, Noizu is discussed as a natural organic expression arising in a country full of experimental culture. Tracing the earliest stirrings of noizu in various places, this micro-history, based on extensive interviews with participants and witnesses, will provide context to make sense of something that intentionally has no meaning.

This is the real Japanese Noise bible.

published: 2020