9mm Parabellum Bullet Drummer Chihiro Kamijou Exits After 20 Years; Trio to Continue

Founding drummer Chihiro Kamijou has officially announced his departure from rock band 9mm Parabellum Bullet, effective December 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. The announcement, made through the band's official website, dissolves the lineup that has remained constant for over two decades.

The band confirmed that the separation followed extensive discussions with Kamijou, concluding that it was the only viable option moving forward. Their final performance featuring the classic four-member configuration recently took place at the COUNTDOWN JAPAN 25/26 event held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba.

Vocalist Takuro Sugawara, guitarist Yoshimitsu Taki, and bassist Kazuhiko Nakamura have stated they intend to keep 9mm Parabellum Bullet active. They issued a joint comment calling the change a "turning point" and affirming they will continue activities "with sincerity and determination." All previously scheduled solo shows and festival appearances are still set to proceed as planned.

Fans will get their first look at the new trio setup very soon. The group is debuting as a three-piece at the Secret Free Live 2026 event scheduled for January 8th at a Tokyo live house. Access to this debut show is exclusive to subscribers of the 9mm MOBILE app, with further details to be distributed through official channels.

Kamijou, who was born in 1981, is credited with naming the band when they formed in Yokohama back in 2004. He leaves behind a legacy that includes high-energy tracks featured in anime like Berserk and Real Drive. This split marks the end of a significant era for the group known for its contributions to anime soundtracks.