As 2026 approaches, marking 30 years since THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT’s debut, the band has announced details of its anniversary project, “THEE 30TH.” Known for their raw energy and significant impact on Japanese rock, this project not only revisits their artistic achievements but also serves as a poignant reflection on their legacy, honoring the memories of late guitarist Futoshi Abe and vocalist Yusuke Chiba.
Launched under the theme “96k24b, 180g & 4K,” the initiative aims to reintroduce the band’s works with renewed depth and clarity. Fans can anticipate high-resolution 96kHz/24bit audio streaming, heavyweight 180g vinyl reissues of iconic albums, and music videos upscaled to 4K quality. This project not only preserves but revitalizes their contributions to the music world, bridging the past and present for listeners.
The project begins on February 1 with the release of a 4K version of the music video for their debut single, “Sekai no Owari,” on YouTube. Following this, fans can expect monthly 4K music video uploads. Official “THEE 30TH” accounts have also been launched on X (Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, creating a dedicated space for fans to engage with the band’s history.
On the same day, the live collection “THEE LIVE” (2010) will be reissued on Blu-ray, and their best-of album “THEE GREATEST HITS” (2009) will be available digitally. The commemoration continues with remastered high-res audio and vinyl reissues of cult grass stars (March 1) and High Time (April 1), the latter rebranded for vinyl as is this High Time?.
For fans, this anniversary is a reminder of the powerful mark THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT left on Japanese rock and a way to honor the memories of Futoshi Abe and Yusuke Chiba, whose artistry and spirit continue to resonate through their work. Through “THEE 30TH,” their enduring legacy finds a new platform to inspire both devoted fans and new listeners alike.