Samurai Pizza Cats: Press Start
Samurai Pizza Cats are back with their long-awaited second album, ‘Press Start’, set for release on 27th March 2026 via Century Media Records. The timing couldn’t be more perfect: the very next day, the band will headline their own festival, Samurai Pizza Fest, in Cologne, which is already sold out. With energetic live shows, a growing fan base and a string of exciting singles leading up to this release, 2026 looks set to be the band’s most explosive year yet.
Formed in 2021, Samurai Pizza Cats quickly gained attention for their unique blend of heavy music, high-energy performances and playful personality. Members from bands like Electric Callboy and Fall Of Gaia bring experience and creativity to the mix, resulting in a sound that feels fresh and exciting. With drummer Robin Scheer officially joining the lineup, the band is now entering a bold new chapter as they prepare to take their music further than ever before.
Musically, ‘Press Start’ could be described as a high-octane mix of metalcore, deathcore and electronic influences. Crushing guitar riffs and pounding drums form a powerful backbone, while synths and electronic effects add a lively, modern edge. Fans of Electric Callboy will recognize the energetic, playful style, but the album also carves out its own identity. Tracks like ‘Error 808’ remind me a bit of Pendulum with fast-paced beats and electronic textures that evoke drum-and-bass energy, showing the band’s willingness to experiment.
Several tracks stand out immediately. ‘Ramen-Man (feat. BABYBEARD)’ is a perfect example of the band’s playful creativity. Bursting with catchy hooks, driving rhythms and a cheeky sense of humour, the guest appearance from Japanese kawaii-metal trio BABYBEARD adds a surprising twist that makes the track unforgettable. Other singles like ‘Super Zero’ and ‘Pandastruck’ showcase the band’s ability to balance headbanging heaviness with melodies that stick in your head long after the song ends. ‘City of Gold’ leans into epic riffs and sing-along choruses, giving the album cinematic moments that are impossible not to enjoy live.
Playfulness is a defining feature of the album. From pizza references to video game-inspired lyrics, the words are clever, fun and accessible to listeners of all backgrounds. Even amidst crushing heaviness, the humour and personality shine through, making the album feel entertaining and full of life.
Ahead of the album’s release, we had the chance to chat with singer Sebastian Fischer. He opened up about the creative process behind ‘Press Start’, explained why the band decided to launch their very own Samurai Pizza Fest and gave a glimpse of what fans can expect from their live shows this year. The full interview is available on YouTube and is just as fun and engaging as the album itself.
Overall, ‘Press Start’ is a thrilling, imaginative and highly enjoyable record. With crushing riffs, electronic flair and humour-filled lyrics, Samurai Pizza Cats have created an album that rewards both longtime fans and newcomers alike. It’s a record that invites you to laugh, headbang and revel in every chaotic, pizza-fueled, video-game-inspired second.