Ibaraki Members, Gear & Sound

Ibaraki is a melodic black metal project spearheaded by Matthew K. Heafy, renowned as the vocalist and guitarist of the band Trivium. This project marks a personal and artistic exploration for Heafy, drawing heavily from Japanese folklore, specifically the demon Ibaraki. Ibaraki blends the intensity of black metal with deeply personal themes, showcasing Heafy's evolution as a musician. Collaborating with Ihsahn, a pivotal figure in the black metal scene, the project benefits from his role as producer, further enriching the sound with his distinct influence.

Ibaraki's sound is characterized by its dynamic interplay of aggression and melody, achieving a rich, expansive sonic palette. The guitar tones are both searing and intricate, often leveraging Dean MKH Signature Guitars equipped with Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker Pickups for a powerful, articulate sound. Amplification through the EVH 5150 III 50-Watt Tube Head provides the necessary tube-driven depth and ferocity that black metal demands, while the precision of the Victory VX100 The Super Kraken allows for sculpting intricate tones. The result is a soundscape that balances raw power with melodic intricacy, capturing both the ferocity and the haunting beauty of the genre.