Loudness, a pioneering Japanese heavy metal band, achieved success in their homeland with chart-topping releases like Disillusion before attempting to break into the Western market with the release of Thunder in the East in 1985. Despite initial novelty value and moderate success in the U.S., subsequent albums like Lightning Strikes and Hurricane Eyes saw the band veer towards a more commercial pop-metal sound, ultimately failing to achieve the same level of success in the West as they had in Japan. Lineup changes and a shift in musical direction marked this period of transition for the band, leading to a decline in their international popularity.

Following various lineup changes and stylistic shifts, Loudness experienced a resurgence in popularity in Japan with a reunion of their original members in 2001 for their 20th anniversary. The band continued to release new music and tour extensively, with a string of studio albums including Pandemonium, Biosphere, and Metal Mad. Tragedy struck with the passing of original bassist Hiroyuki Tanaka in 2006 and drummer Munetaka Higuchi in 2008, prompting the recruitment of new members. Despite these losses, Loudness persevered, releasing albums like The Sun Will Rise Again in 2014 and Rise to Glory in 2018, showcasing their enduring musical legacy and commitment to their craft.