Loudness

Japanese heavy metal band

Loudness is a pioneering Japanese heavy metal band that formed in 1981 by guitarist Akira Takasaki and drummer Munetaka Higuchi. The band quickly gained popularity in Japan and became notable for being one of the first Japanese metal bands to gain a significant following in the United States. Loudness was signed to major American label Atco Records and released their fifth album, "Thunder in the East," in 1985, which included their hit single "Crazy Nights." This album was particularly significant as it was the first Japanese heavy metal album to enter the Billboard Top 100 chart, marking a milestone for the band's international success.