Yakuza

Yakuza: Way Of The Dead

by Mark Corroto
January 1, 2003

The modern use of the Japanese word “Yakuza” refers to organized crime or mafia. I’m quite sure the Chicago jazzcore/avant metal/psychedelia band Yakuza is actually referring the ancient usage of the word, which is “the crazy ones.”

Yakuza’s music picks up where Naked City, Faith No More, and Painkiller left off. They make music where speed metal and Sun Ra converge. Think Soundgarden with real musicians or a punk version of Hank Mobley.

The Way ...