Samurai Pizza Cats Hit the Start Button: The German Band Featuring an Electric Callboy Member Releases Its Second Album
On the German modern metal scene, a number of interesting names have emerged in recent years, but few have managed to capture fans' attention as quickly as Samurai Pizza Cats. The project led by guitarist Daniel Haniß, whom most listeners know primarily from Electric Callboy, returns three years after its debut with a new studio album, Press Start.
The album was released on March 27, 2026, via Century Media Records and follows the 2023 debut You're Hellcome. While the first record introduced the band to a wider audience, the new release shows that this is far more than just a side project of a well-known musician.
Samurai Pizza Cats were formed in 2021 in Castrop-Rauxel, Germany. Alongside Daniel Haniß, the line-up consists of vocalist Sebastian Fischer, bassist Stefan Reufer, and drummer Robin Scheer. The band's name references the anime series of the same name from the 1990s, which accurately reflects their music as well. Their sound combines modern metalcore, electronic elements, pop culture references, and a distinctive sense of humor.
Although they are often compared to Electric Callboy, they quickly established their own identity. Their music is at times heavier and more aggressive, and they are not afraid to venture into electronicore or even deathcore territory.
Their first album, You're Hellcome, featured tracks such as Pizza Homicide, The Wolf In Me, Outcast, Freakshow, and Alpha. The debut demonstrated that the band could successfully combine extreme metal passages with catchy choruses while maintaining its own unique character.
Their second studio album, Press Start, marks another step forward. The band remains faithful to its video game-inspired aesthetic while sounding more mature and confident. Among the album's standout tracks are Pandastruck, Super Zero, City Of Gold, and Fear No Slice. The song Ramen-Man, featuring Japanese trio Babybeard, has also attracted significant attention.
Musically, the album continues to blend heavy riffs, modern production, electronic elements, and powerful choruses. Although Daniel Haniß' signature style is still evident, Samurai Pizza Cats now come across as a fully-fledged band with their own direction and identity.
Although the name Samurai Pizza Cats is not yet among the best-known acts for Czech fans, Press Start suggests that this could soon change. In just a few years, the band has built a strong position on the German scene and is gradually gaining attention in other European countries as well.
If you are a fan of modern metalcore, electronic elements, or bands such as Electric Callboy, Annisokay, or Future Palace, this quartet is definitely worth checking out. Press Start is an album that confirms Samurai Pizza Cats have firmly earned their place on today's scene.