Stratuz is out to conquer the Japanese market
With the re-release of the album Osculum Pacis which will also be distributed globally
In the history of Venezuelan rock, few artists and bands have managed to penetrate the demanding Japanese market. Venezuelan metal band STRATUZ continues to write successful pages in their musical chronicle, as their latest album Osculum Pacis is about to be released in Japan in physical format, something even more relevant, given the predominance of the digital option in the streaming era. Thanks to the efforts of the WormHoleDeath Records label, from 28 June 2024, the album by the Caracas quartet will be available in record shops in the land of the rising sun.
“Japan is an extremely attractive market for any band aspiring to expand their international reach. We would love the opportunity to present our work in this captivating country. We are aware that conquering this market requires time, effort, and strategy, but we are confident that, with dedication and hard work, we can make it happen. In the meantime, we will continue to work tirelessly to reach our goals and take our music to new frontiers”, said Franklin Berroterán, singer and founder of Stratuz.
But the re-release of Osculum Pacis is not limited to the Japanese territory, the effort of the band in conjunction with the work of the label WormHoleDeath Records is seeking a global release of the album through their offices in the United States, Italy, Norway, and Japan. It is worth mentioning that the album was released in April 2022 through Sliptrick Records, but unfortunately, it was only available in digital format and there was never a physical release (CD or Vinyl), which led the Venezuelan band to cancel the contract with the label. Now they put their trust in WormHoleDeath, signing a licensing agreement to provide the necessary platform for Stratuz’s music to reach a wider audience both physically and digitally.
“The album will be distributed globally through the supply chain managed by WormHoleDeath Records, which has locations in Los Angeles (USA), Tokyo (Japan), Firenze (Italy), and Fredrikstad (Norway). This distribution network will allow us to reach international audiences and ensure that the music reaches fans all around the world. The presence of this label, which has trusted our music, in these strategic locations allows us to maximize the visibility and accessibility of the album in various international markets,” explained the vocalist.
On the subject of the Japanese release, Berroterán says: “We look forward to receiving feedback and constructive criticism from the Japanese public on our current work Osculum Pacis. Their participation is essential to us and will help us continue to grow as artists and creators. We are confident that their feedback will be of great value to Stratuz”.
As for plans, the Caracas-born musician announces that the band is working on the production of a special event to celebrate 40 years of Stratuz in 2024: “This will be a significant moment when we will be able to gather with our friends, fans, and colleagues to commemorate four decades of music and achievements. It will be a unique opportunity to share with those who have supported and believed in our work over the years. During this event, we look forward to sharing special moments with our fans, signing records, and expressing our gratitude for the unwavering support we have received”.
The Venezuelans have the wind at their back, as WormHoleDeath Label Japan is a subsidiary of WormHoleDeath Records and is headed by Mr. Masa Kishimoto, an expert in the Asian music market, with extensive experience in the Japanese music business through Shinko Music Entertainment Inc., Hydrant Music, Bit Organization Inc., and Teichiku Entertainment Inc. The incorporation of this subsidiary will allow them to complement the development of their work in Japan and consequently in Asia in general, strengthening their presence in the region.
