A Major Change for 9mm Parabellum Bullet
After over 20 years together, the rock band 9mm Parabellum Bullet is saying goodbye to one of its founding members. Drummer Kamijou Chihiro officially left the band on December 31, 2025, bringing an end to the group’s original four-piece formation that had been rocking stages for more than two decades.
How It Happened
According to a statement on their official website, the decision came after repeated discussions among the members and with Kamijou himself. They concluded that there was “no other option but for Kamijou to leave 9mm Parabellum Bullet,” and his departure took effect at 11:59 p.m. on December 31.
The band’s final performance with Kamijou was earlier that day at COUNTDOWN JAPAN 25/26 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, making it a poignant send-off for the longtime drummer.
The Band’s Message to Fans
In the announcement, vocalist and guitarist Sugawara Takurou, guitarist Taki Yoshimitsu, bassist Nakamura Kazuhiko, and agency representative Takagi Sayoko shared a heartfelt message. They expressed their gratitude, saying, “Over the course of these 21 years, the band has been able to overcome both joyful and difficult moments thanks to the support of our fans. We are deeply sorry to have to share this kind of news.”
Moving Forward as a Trio
The band made it clear that this isn’t the end. “We see this decision as a turning point, and from here on, the three of us will continue 9mm Parabellum Bullet’s activities with sincerity and determination,” they stated. All previously scheduled solo shows and announced festival appearances will proceed as planned, thanks to the understanding of event organizers and related parties.
They also reflected on their history: “We will never forget the 21 years of 9mm Parabellum Bullet that began with four members, and we will continue moving forward. If our fans continue to walk alongside us, it would give us tremendous strength.”
Meet the Band (After Departure)
| Position | Name |
|---|---|
| Vocalist, Guitarist | Sugawara Takurou |
| Guitarist | Taki Yoshimitsu |
| Bassist | Nakamura Kazuhiko |
Agency Representative: Takagi Sayoko
A Look Back at Their Journey
Formed in Yokohama in March 2004, 9mm Parabellum Bullet debuted on a major label in 2007 with Discommunication e.p. and quickly rose to fame. They held landmark performances at Nippon Budokan, including their first show there in 2009 and a two-day concert celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2014, solidifying their place in the Japanese rock scene.
First Steps as a Three-Piece
Following Kamijou’s departure, the band has already announced their next move. On January 8, 2026, they will hold their first live performance as a trio, titled Secret Free Live 2026, at a live house in Tokyo. This concert will be exclusive to members of the band’s official mobile fan site, 9mm MOBILE, with venue details and application information to be announced through official channels.
