We have regrettably received news that Nemophila has gone from a quartet to a duo.

Guitarist Hazuki is leaving the band as of October, and drummer Tamu Murata has officially left as of the end of July. Both will play a few more shows before ending their tenure with Nemophila.

I usually don't post about lineup changes but this is just after a successful American tour. It appears this was coordinated to be after the tour, as something like this is not decided lightly. The official reasons for leaving are "future direction" and "musical differences," which have led to many a member's departure to bands throughout history. If you think about it, the band has been together for seven years. Seven years is a long time for one job in one place, and many people may not ever stay at one job for that long.

New guitarist Ika was originally posed as a support when she was announced a few months ago (Mayu even rejoicing how Nemophila would return to a two-guitarist band) but she might be the primary now. The strong live band scene in Japan should net Nemophila a drummer too. In any case, we will probably not see much from Nemophila after October as they recruit and get new members up to speed.

Hazuki will remain in KOIAI as one of its two guitarists. Tamu has not announced any plans but as she has a child quickly coming of age, may be focusing on that.

Vocalist Mayu and bassist Haraguchisan will remain with the band. On the good side, Nemophila does say they will put a stronger focus on international activities, so they do intend to keep making their way across the globe when they are able.

The three final shows of the quartet will be:

9/6 Incheon, KR - SOUND PLANET FESTIVAL 2026
10/9 Kawasaki, JP - JILUKA presents MAD PIT FES (Club Citta)
10/12 Tokyo, JP - Tenjo Mukyu Gokuon Dochu (Ex Theater Roppongi)

As always, I recommend seeing bands when you can. You never know when they could break up or members leave. You never know if they'll even come back to your area.