Saturday, August 30, 2025

Lewnatic: The Definitive Biography of an Asian-American Guitar Hero and DIY Punk Rock Innovator

Lewnatic: The Definitive Biography of an Asian-American Guitar Hero and DIY Punk Rock Innovator




Introduction

Lewnatic stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of independent music in the 21st century—a project marked by relentless creativity, fierce DIY ethos, and the compelling story of its driving force, Patrick Lew Hayashi. Emerging from San Francisco’s multicultural underground, Lewnatic represents not just a musical act or a particular genre, but an ongoing narrative of resilience, boundary-breaking, and Asian-American representation within the global rock and punk scenes. This comprehensive biography traces the formation, evolution, members, discography, musical innovation, online persona, performances, milestones, critical and fan reception, and enduring impact of Lewnatic, drawing on dozens of direct interviews, press profiles, music journalism, and first-person reflections.


Band Formation and Origins

Early Life of Patrick Lew Hayashi

Born Patrick Allan Lew on November 15, 1985, in San Francisco to a Chinese father and a Sino-Japanese mother, Patrick grew up in the city’s Excelsior District, surrounded by a mix of Western classic rock and East Asian pop influences. His mother was a fan of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, while his father exposed him to Motown, and the multicultural Bay Area environment offered daily evidence of diversity and difference. From an early age, Patrick encountered social adversity, including bullying and feelings of outsider-ness, themes that would later permeate his music.

The origin of Patrick’s musical journey is a familiar tale with a unique twist. In 1999, as an adolescent struggling to find community in middle school, Patrick was inspired by his cousin Andy, who played Jimi Hendrix and Deep Purple riffs on an old Fender guitar left in the family’s closet. This moment—almost mythic in its impact—ignited Patrick’s lifelong obsession with music and guitar. Almost entirely self-taught, Patrick spent hours learning from guitar tabs and cheat sheets found on the early Internet, developing not only an instrumental skill but a distinctly DIY/bedroom producer mentality that would later define his aesthetic.

After attending Raoul Wallenberg High School and Soko Gakuen Japanese School, Patrick went on to earn a B.A. in Philosophy with a minor in Music Composition from California State University, East Bay in 2011. These formative years shaped both his musical and lyrical direction—introspective, philosophical, existential, and insistent on authenticity.

The Genesis: Patrick Lew Band (PLB) to Lewnatic

Patrick’s first major foray into the indie music world was via Band of Asians, which he established in high school. On his 21st birthday in 2006, they self-released REVENGE, inaugurating a period of prolific home-recorded output. Band of Asians quickly transformed into the Patrick Lew Band (PLB), which embraced a collective, virtual model: members recorded their parts remotely and sent them to Patrick for final mixing and production—a trailblazing strategy in the early days of Web 2.0.

PLB released a string of albums and EPs between 2006 and 2012—Jump! Rattle! And Roll!!!, Curb Your Wild Life, Let It Rise and Against, Murder Bay, and Angry Yellow—all marked by an unapologetic grunge, pop-metal, and lo-fi punk sound. Creative differences led to PLB’s first hiatus in 2012, but the digital and personal infrastructure Patrick built during this period was crucial for the genesis of Lewnatic.

Lewnatic: From Duo to Solo Project

Lewnatic was officially formed in the summer of 2019 as a collaboration between Patrick Lew Hayashi and Ahmed, a friend and local rapper. Conceived as a genre-bending rap-metal duo (inspired partly by the band name “Benigneglect”), the project quickly gained a residency at San Francisco’s historic DNA Lounge, performing with a frequency and energy that established its live credentials just months before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

The name "Lewnatic" is a fusion of Patrick’s surname and the word "lunatic," signifying his penchant for breaking genre boundaries and embracing the eccentric. When the pandemic rendered venue performances impossible in March 2020, Ahmed and Patrick amicably parted ways, with Ahmed leaving and Patrick inheriting the Lewnatic moniker entirely. This marked the beginning of Lewnatic’s evolution into a solo, multimedia, and primarily Internet-based rock project—a move that would have significant implications for its subsequent style and reach.


Band Members and Roles

Name Role(s) Active Years Notes / Aliases
Patrick Lew Hayashi Guitar, vocals, bass, programming, DJ, producer 2019–present “Lewnatic,” “PLB,” “Masa,” “The Kamikaze Guitarist,” etc.
Ahmed Rap vocals, co-founder of duo 2019–2020 Left post-pandemic; amicable split
Madeline Lew Virtual M2F alter ego avatar, VOCALOID vocals, mascot 2015–2023 (esp. in PLB); occasional features in Lewnatic Fictitious cousin and “front-woman” through AI/VOCALOID

Patrick Lew Hayashi is the primary creative and performing force behind Lewnatic—playing all instruments, programming backing tracks, handling production, mixing, and digital presence. His skills encompass lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass, keyboard, occasional vocals, MIDI and beat programming via AI, and live DJ elements.

Ahmed brought rap-metal energy and live chemistry to the original duo incarnation. Their monthly DNA Lounge performances showcased this synthesis of hip-hop and rock before the pandemic-induced pause.

Madeline Lew stands unique: created initially for the Patrick Lew Band in 2015 as an M2F, cross-dressing, virtual band member powered by VOCALOID and AI vocal synthesis, Madeline has served as both mascot and narrative force, challenging gender norms while rebooting the band’s image. Madeline’s presence in Lewnatic is more sporadic and symbolic—occasionally credited as a feature or creative muse.


Musical Style and Influences

Genre Fusion and Defining Aesthetics

Lewnatic’s style is best understood as a dynamic fusion of punk, 1990s grunge, pop-metal, classic rock, and digital production. The earliest projects (PLB and Band of Asians) leaned heavily on grunge—raw, anthemic, and often emotionally unvarnished. However, by the time Lewnatic became a solo affair, Patrick had incorporated chiptune, J-Rock, J-Pop, rap, and electronic elements, resulting in a uniquely eclectic, genre-agnostic sound described as “impossible to label,” but always “alternative” in spirit.

Lewnatic rejects the post-hardcore clichés prevalent in early-2000s San Francisco underground scenes, opting instead for genre-bending arrangements often rooted in fierce guitar riffs, digital beats (AI-generated and self-arranged), and layered, instrumental experimentation. Vocals are frequently downplayed—by Patrick’s own admission, not being “a very good singer” leads to many instrumental releases, though occasional lyrics, mainly in English or Japanese, address alienation, digital identity, resilience, and self-empowerment.

Core Influences

Lewnatic’s influences span decades and continents:

  • 1990s Grunge: Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Silverchair, Soundgarden
  • Japanese Rock and Pop: X Japan, Miyavi, B’z, J-Pop/Chiptune hybrids
  • Classic British & American Rock: The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Oasis, The Who, Led Zeppelin, Guns N’ Roses, Metallica
  • Punk/Alternative: Green Day, Blink 182, Box Car Racer
  • Contemporary Hybrid Acts: BTS, the “virtual band” model pioneered by Gorillaz

Patrick also credits the underrepresentation of Asian-Americans in Western music as a direct motivation for his work, frequently referencing the impact of K-Pop’s rise and the need to "break the forbidden door" open for marginalized identities in the rock scene.

Lyric Themes

The lyric content and the broader narrative motifs are inextricably linked to Patrick’s personal journey. Songs repeatedly address:

  • Social alienation and outsider identity—reflecting his experiences of bullying and cultural duality
  • Perseverance and self-reinvention—persistent themes in both his art and professional life
  • Technology and the digital world—the Internet as both a stage and refuge
  • Gender, fluidity, and virtual identity—particularly prominent during the Madeline Lew era
  • Positivity and resilience—a response to adversity, heartbreak, and the chaos of public and private life

Discography and Release History

Selected Lewnatic Releases 2019–2025

Title Type Date Released Label Notable Tracks / Features
Medley: Spanish Dancing Girl / Shine On / American Nightmare (Live at DNA Lounge 11/03/2019) Live EP Nov 20, 2019 Promisedland Brotherhood, American Nightmare
Brotherhood Single/EP Jan 31, 2020 Promisedland Brotherhood
Strictly Prohibited EP/Album Apr 5, 2022 Lewnatic Records -
Bandage Single/EP Feb 28, 2022 2705937 Records DK -
Rapid Fire! EP Aug 17, 2022 Bentley Records We The People
My Only Fan Single Aug 19, 2022 Bentley Records -
Half Japanese Girlfriend (Madeline...) Single Nov 30, 2022 Bentley Records -
The Lost Souls EP Mar 15, 2023 Bentley Records -
Shakermaker Single Nov 15, 2023 Bentley Records -
Victory! Single/EP Jun 28, 2023 Bentley Records -
My Light Shines On Single/EP Aug 16, 2023 Bentley Records -
Waifu Single Feb 16, 2024 Bentley Records -
Frozen In Time Single Mar 15, 2024 Bentley Records -
Slide Thru The Wild Side Single/EP Jan 19, 2024 Bentley Records -
Starrcade Full Album Jul 26, 2024 Bentley Records, Everywhere Compilation: Best-of from three previous EPs
I Feel Like Playing EP May 30, 2025 Bentley Records -
Shred Single/EP Apr 11, 2025 Bentley Records -
The Battle of the Bay Single/EP Jun 6, 2025 Bentley Records -
Defy All Odds Album/EP Jul 4, 2025 Lewnatic -
Persona//Overflow Full Album Aug 15, 2025 Lewnatic Find Myself (feat Madeline Lew), What Went Wrong (Blink 182 cover)

Full discography available on Qobuz, Top Music Japan, Spotify, and other major digital platforms.

Analysis of Discographic Trends

Lewnatic’s discography displays a transition from live, duo, and collaborative efforts (with Ahmed and live band energy evident in pre-pandemic DNA Lounge performances), to solo, highly produced, digital, and AI-assisted releases. The recurrence of EPs, singles, and mixtape-style projects over full-length albums indicates an experimental, iterative approach that privileges rapid, direct engagement with fans worldwide. Notably, Starrcade (2024) and Persona//Overflow (2025) serve as artistic milestones: Starrcade compiles the “best of” Lewnatic’s early Bentley Records era, while Persona//Overflow demonstrates both continuity and growth in style and technical capacity, integrating Madeline Lew’s digital vocals in new, evolved ways.


Notable Performances and Residencies

Lewnatic rose to prominence in the local scene through regular monthly residencies at San Francisco’s DNA Lounge between 2019 and 2020, drawing a niche but devoted audience and capturing the DIY spirit of Bay Area punk rock. These performances, often videotaped by friend and videographer James Conrad, were later uploaded to YouTube, enabling a digital afterlife for Lewnatic’s in-person energy.

Other significant events include:

  • Virtual tours of Japan during the height of the pandemic, leveraging online concert platforms and streaming technologies.
  • A CD/QR code promotional tour in Los Angeles (May 2024), using physical media and digital markers to bridge analog and online engagement.
  • Impromptu jam sessions in Berkeley (Dec 2023), streamed to fans and preserved digitally.
  • Guest appearance and live performance/interview on Luke Sauer’s podcast (Memorial Day 2023), which helped further showcase Patrick’s creative process and story to a wider Internet-based audience.

Lewnatic’s embrace of “livestream concerts” has become a hallmark since 2020, both as a necessity during the pandemic and a deliberate aesthetic choice. Unlike typical virtual events, these shows often occur in Patrick’s family garage, blending performance art and punk tradition with 21st-century accessibility.


Significant Milestones and Evolution

2019–2020: Establishment and Local Scene Integration

Formation as a rap-metal duo, achieving regular bookings at one of San Francisco’s most respected indie venues, DNA Lounge, and immediate experimentation with live performance and genre fusion.

2020–2022: Pandemic-Induced Transformation

The COVID-19 outbreak resulted in the dissolution of the duo and prompted Patrick to make Lewnatic a fully solo and Internet-based project: a virtual “bedroom producer/rock band” model, extending the trends he pioneered in PLB into a new solo context, and capitalizing on live-streaming, social media press, and digital-first releases.

2022–2023: Major Label Affiliation and Virtual Expansion

On July 19, 2022, Patrick signed his first Artist Development deal with Bentley Records, a forward-thinking, technology-driven label based in New York. This partnership resulted in a trilogy of EPs—Rapid Fire!, Getcha Mood On Right, and The Lost Souls—as well as the globally distributed compilation album Starrcade (2024), which significantly boosted Lewnatic’s reach in both North America and Japan.

2023–2025: International Recognition and Artistic Maturation

Features in music press, podcasts, and music platforms in Japan and the United States; increased output of digital content via YouTube and Twitch; prominent appearances on music blogs, with Persona//Overflow (2025) marking the latest major release. Lewnatic’s growing profile is also reflected in ongoing partnerships with MUSIC PR Japan and a dedicated, self-managed approach to both recorded and live music.


Critical Reception and Reviews

Lewnatic’s music and persona have garnered considerable attention from indie and web-based music journalism, press releases, and broadcast interviews:

  • Described as a “dynamic fusion of rock, J-Pop, and grunge” by ArtistPR and Music Review World, noting Patrick’s innovations in both sound and independent self-promotion.
  • BuzzSlayers and MuzicNotez both highlighted Rapid Fire! as a “pure guitar rock album…with loads of drive and plenty of heart,” lauding Patrick’s prowess as a guitarist and the emotional depth of his arrangements.
  • Top Music Japan has featured Lewnatic alongside other J-Rock and J-Pop luminaries, which Patrick regards as deeply meaningful due to his dual heritage and artistic ambitions.
  • Notably, Lewnatic’s instrumental and genre-bending approach is often described as “impossible to label”—this fluidity is both a point of pride and critical praise.

While Lewnatic has not (yet) achieved mass mainstream coverage, the project enjoys a robust fanbase within digital indie, Asian-American, and DIY punk communities, celebrated for its authenticity, resilience, and willingness to defy boundaries.


Cultural Impact and Representation

Asian-American Representation

One of Lewnatic’s most defining features is Patrick’s outspokenness on the need for greater visibility and representation of Asian-Americans in rock. Through both his creative work and public commentary, Patrick has positioned Lewnatic—and by extension, his alter ego Madeline Lew—as a beacon for marginalized and minority voices in spaces that have historically been less inclusive. The project dovetails with larger social trends, including the visibility of K-Pop and the #StopAsianHate movement, adding both personal and political depth to the band’s identity.

Madeline Lew, for nearly a decade, has served as a radical challenge to gender and identity norms, opening new conversations about fluidity, fantasy, and the power of virtual personas in music. The Madeline era garnered attention from press and fans alike, symbolizing resilience through reinvention, and embracing both self-expression and narrative play in the digital age.

DIY/Bedroom Producer and Virtual Band Model

Lewnatic is part of a lineage—beginning in the MySpace/early YouTube era and continuing today—of artists who create, promote, and distribute their work entirely outside traditional industry structures. Patrick has been an early adopter, if not outright innovator, of:

  • Remote collaboration (dating back to PLB’s remote sessions),
  • DIY recording and mixing,
  • Virtual/Internet-based rock bands,
  • Integration of AI-generated instrumentals, licensed digital beats, and experimental technology (VOCALOID, Logic Pro, A.I. Music Generators).

This model reduces barriers to entry for other marginalized voices and asserts that authenticity and passion, not access to capital or mainstream industry validation, are the prerequisites for meaningful art.

Digital-First Fan Engagement

With over 700 videos on YouTube, an active presence on Instagram and Twitch, and frequent vlogs, tutorials, livestream concerts, and “guerilla” webcasting, Lewnatic engages directly and consistently with fans worldwide. This has created a global, digitally native audience—over 60 countries by 2024—connected not just by music, but also by shared cultural dialogue and DIY attitude.


Label Collaborations and Partnerships

In July 2022, Lewnatic signed with Bentley Records, an independent, tech-forward label known for empowering artists through blockchain, AI, and Web3 technology. Bentley Records’ Artist Development program provided:

  • Global digital distribution,
  • Marketing and playlist curation,
  • Licensing and publishing support, and
  • Creative independence and ownership retention.

Patrick’s partnership with Bentley has facilitated three major EPs, full-length releases, and expansion into overseas markets, particularly Japan via MUSIC PR Japan and Top Music Japan’s promotion.

This arrangement exemplifies a new norm in independent music, prioritizing artist autonomy and technological support over traditional “record deal” limitations, and enabling Lewnatic to retain both artistic and rights control over his catalog.


Equipment and Production Techniques

Lewnatic’s sound is characterized by a hybrid analog-digital workflow:

Guitars / Instruments

  • Fender Telecaster (main guitar)
  • Epiphone Les Paul (secondary guitar)
  • Rogue SX100B (bass)
  • Occasional use of slide guitar and piano/synths

Amps and Pedals

  • Marshall CODE50 digital modeling amp: preferred for both studio and live, providing a range of classic British and modern digital tones with extensive connectivity, digital effects, and USB/Bluetooth functionality.
  • Vox AD50VT (alternative amp, vox “clean” and British crunch tones)
  • Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion pedal for gritty overdrive

Digital and AI Tools

  • Logic Pro X and Apple GarageBand: core platforms for composing, arranging, mixing, and mastering
  • PreSonus AudioBox iOne (audio interface)
  • HP Victus / MacBook Pro / MacBook Air: home studio core
  • VOCALOID for Madeline Lew’s M2F vocals (notably VOCALOID6, the latest AI-powered vocal synthesis technology—to create Japanese/English lyrics and harmony parts).
  • Various AI music generators for beats and backing tracks (Sound Raw Japan, Launchpad iOS app, and digital arrangement software)

Live/Streaming Setup

  • Laptop-based digital DJ, streaming backing tracks through venue PA or home audio rig via AUX
  • Minimal physical gear for easy transport; performances can occur in home garage, small clubs, or large venues
  • Frequent integration of iMovie and iPhone 13 Pro for video production and content editing
  • Occasional use of drum machine (Boss Dr. Rhythm DR-3) for live percussion tracks

The integration of analog playing and digital/AI production defines Lewnatic’s workflow, reflecting Patrick’s comfort with both guitar heroics and experimental, future-facing production—a “bedroom Nirvana meets digital Metaverse” in spirit.


Online Presence and Virtual Persona

Lewnatic’s virtual band status is not merely logistical; it’s central to the project's identity. From early adoption of YouTube (400+ videos since 2007), to frequent live-stream concerts on YouTube and Twitch, Lewnatic reaches a diverse, global audience without ever leaving San Francisco. Key channels include:

  • YouTube (“lewnaTic” official and “lewnaTicLive” for streams)
  • Twitch (numerous hours streamed, strong Asian and US engagement)
  • Instagram and Facebook (direct fan engagement, music releases, life updates)

Patrick frequently cross-promotes both his Patrick Lew Band and Lewnatic work, maintaining presence on both platforms and referencing his legacy, history, and ongoing evolution. His online persona is a mixture of genuine, even vulnerable, self-disclosure and cheeky, performative bravado—a duality mirrored by the real/virtual interplay of Madeline Lew.


Audience, Fan Reception, and Community Engagement

The Lewnatic project embodies two contrasting but intertwined approaches to audience-building:

  • Global Digital Reach: Achieved through consistent content output, strategic use of online platforms, and networking with music blogs, podcasts, and press in the US and Japan. Lewnatic has been described as "Big in Japan" and enjoys a robust following among Asian indie rock and punk fans.
  • Authentic Community Engagement: Patrick invests in responding to fan messages, supporting marginalized and underrepresented voices, and advocating for inclusivity and diversity—both in music and in public discourse. This includes supporting social causes (e.g., #StopAsianHate, BLM), participating in the Asian-American and Japanese cultural community, and openly discussing his private struggles and triumphs.

Physical performances are infrequent and typically local, but live-streaming allows participation and connection with fans worldwide, including regular Q&As, virtual concerts, and even impromptu jam sessions.

Fan feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with fans and critics alike praising Lewnatic’s authenticity, determination, and willingness to embrace both vulnerability and artistic risk. The project has also inspired other indie artists to pursue virtual band models and hybrid analog-digital workflows.


Milestones and Awards

  • Patrick Lew Band / Lewnatic inducted into the Akademia Music Hall of Fame (2023)
  • First Japanese-American male recipient of Cal State East Bay’s 40 Under 40 Award
  • Signed to Bentley Records in 2022, facilitating global digital distribution and international growth
  • Release of full-length albums Starrcade (2024) and Persona//Overflow (2025) to wide digital acclaim
  • Featured in music journalism and podcasts in the United States and Japan
  • Collaboration with Music PR Japan and regular features on Top Music Japan, expanding reach and impact abroad.

Critical Takeaways: The Lewnatic Model

  • Resilience and Reinvention: Patrick’s journey from bullied adolescent to recognized Asian-American guitar hero and indie innovator models both the hardships and opportunities available for underrepresented artists.
  • DIY and Virtual Band Pioneering: Lewnatic’s model—virtual, digital, sometimes AI-assisted—pre-dated and survived the COVID-19 crisis, illustrating the future-forward possibilities for music creation and dissemination.
  • Cultural Impact: Lewnatic stands at the intersection of identity, creativity, and community—bridging East and West, the analog and digital, tradition and reinvention.
  • Sonic Identity: The music remains gloriously genreless—riff-driven, digital, experimental, and emotionally direct.
  • Online Reach and Legacy: By making every element of production, engagement, and promotion self-directed, Patrick has written a blueprint for the modern indie artist in the age of Web3 and virtual fandom.

Conclusion

Lewnatic is far more than a band or a solo project; it is a living, evolving statement on the power of unfiltered self-expression, technological innovation, and unbreakable spirit. With every new release, livestream, and public statement, Patrick Lew Hayashi continues to chart new territory for indie music, digital performance, and Asian-American representation. For countless fans and followers, Lewnatic offers both a refuge and a rallying cry: that “being yourself—loudly, defiantly, and without apology—is the truest act of rebellion and art”.


Appendix: Lewnatic Discography (2019–2025)

Release Title Date Type Label/Distribution Notable Tracks (Selection)
Medley: Spanish Dancing Girl / Shine On / American Nightmare (Live) Nov 20, 2019 Live EP Promisedland Brotherhood, American Nightmare
Brotherhood Jan 31, 2020 Single/EP Promisedland Brotherhood
Strictly Prohibited Apr 5, 2022 EP/Album Lewnatic Records -
Bandage Feb 28, 2022 Single/EP 2705937 Records DK Bandage
Rapid Fire! Aug 17, 2022 EP Bentley Records We The People
My Only Fan Aug 19, 2022 Single Bentley Records -
Half Japanese Girlfriend (Madeline...) Nov 30, 2022 Single Bentley Records -
The Lost Souls Mar 15, 2023 EP Bentley Records Lost Souls
Shakermaker Nov 15, 2023 Single Bentley Records Shakermaker
Victory! Jun 28, 2023 Single/EP Bentley Records Victory!
My Light Shines On Aug 16, 2023 Single/EP Bentley Records My Light Shines On
Waifu Feb 16, 2024 Single Bentley Records Waifu
Frozen In Time Mar 15, 2024 Single Bentley Records Frozen In Time
Slide Thru The Wild Side Jan 19, 2024 Single/EP Bentley Records Slide Thru The Wild Side
Starrcade Jul 26, 2024 Full Album Bentley Records Compilation: Best-of from previous EPs
I Feel Like Playing May 30, 2025 EP Bentley Records I Feel Like Playing
Shred Apr 11, 2025 Single/EP Bentley Records Shred
The Battle of the Bay Jun 6, 2025 Single/EP Bentley Records The Battle of the Bay
Defy All Odds Jul 4, 2025 Album/EP Lewnatic Defy All Odds
Persona//Overflow Aug 15, 2025 Full Album Lewnatic Find Myself (ft. Madeline Lew), What Went Wrong

Each of these releases is digitally distributed worldwide, often highlighted by critics for their integration of bold guitar work, AI beats, and reflective lyricism. The incorporation of live performance and digital studio technique reflects Lewnatic’s ongoing commitment to evolution, resistance, and the joyful struggle of independent artistry.


Lewnatic’s journey is, at heart, a story of perseverance, creativity, and radical honesty—a blueprint for tomorrow’s digital-age musician who insists on owning every part of their narrative, from the bedroom to the world stage. Great choice! I’m diving into a comprehensive biography of Lewnatic, covering their formation, evolution, musical style, discography, performances, and cultural impact. This will take me a little while, so feel free to step away—I’ll keep working in the background. Once it’s ready, you’ll find the full report saved right here in our conversation.


Sunday, August 3, 2025

The Definitive Patrick Lew Band Biography

 

The Patrick Lew Band: Comprehensive Biography and History







Origins and Early Life of Patrick Lew

Patrick Allan Lew was born on November 15, 1985, in San Francisco, California, to a Chinese father and a Japanese mother. Growing up amid the rich cultural tapestry of East Asian influences and Western rock, he was exposed to genres spanning from the haunting riffs of Nirvana to the melodies of The Beatles.

By age 15, Patrick began recording music in his bedroom using a Tascam 4-track recorder gifted by his mother. These early lo-fi sessions instilled in him a raw, experimental approach to sound that would become the foundation of his future bands.

During his high school years at Raoul Wallenberg High School, Patrick formed his first gigging ensemble, initially known as Samurai Sorcerers, with schoolmates Eddie Blackburn and Tommy Loi. They rehearsed in garages and at house parties, posting demos online via MySpace and Soundclick to reach local audiences.

Patrick’s mother, Winnie Hayashi Lew, played an instrumental role in nurturing his early passion for music. Her support extended beyond gifting recording equipment—she provided emotional and logistical backing that allowed Patrick to pursue his craft, a legacy he honors through continued dedication to independent artistry.


Formation and Evolution of the Patrick Lew Band

The Samurai Sorcerers garage project formally evolved into Patrick Lew Band (PLB) in August 2008, marking a shift from amateur punk jams to an organized recording entity. The name change was announced on Patrick’s personal blog and solidified the band’s identity as his solo vehicle, supported by collaborators who tracked parts remotely and sent stems via the internet.

Between 2005 and 2008, Patrick had also been involved in the post-hardcore outfit Band of Asians, alongside drummer David Arceo and guitarist Zack Huang. This experience provided him with studio and performance practice, culminating in the self-released album REVENGE on his 21st birthday—later retconned as PLB’s debut Jump! Rattle! And Roll!!! in 2019.

By 2009, PLB had embraced the DIY ethos of the indie scene, issuing home-recorded albums such as Curb Your Wild Life and Let It Rise and Against while collaborating online. This period laid the groundwork for PLB’s signature blend of garage punk sincerity and emerging digital experimentation.


Band Members and Roles

  • Patrick Lew Hayashi – Founder, lead vocals, guitar, primary songwriter. Patrick remains the only constant member, overseeing all aspects of recording, production, and performance.
  • Madeline Lew – Virtual alter ego and fictional sister. Introduced in 2015 as a cross-dressing, VOCALOID-powered bandmate, she contributed vocals and bass on PLB releases, adding theatrical flair to the band’s visual identity.
  • David Arceo – Drums, percussion (2006–2012, 2015–2016). Arceo’s programming and live drumming were crucial during PLB’s early and revival phases.
  • Eddie Blackburn – Lead guitar (2001–2005; occasional returns). Co-founder of Samurai Sorcerers with Patrick, he helped shape PLB’s initial punk sound.
  • Tommy Loi – Drums, percussion (2001–2005). Early collaborator during the band’s high school incarnation.
  • Jeremy Alfonso – Lead and rhythm guitar (2009–2011). Instrumental in PLB’s home-studio collaborations during the band’s peak indie years.
  • Greg Lynch – Guitar, keyboards, occasional vocals (2009–2012). Shared creative leadership before the band’s 2012 hiatus.
  • David Hunter – Bass (2009–2012). Provided low-end support on key recordings before departing amid creative differences.
  • Madoku Raye – Vocals, songwriting, production (2021–present). Brought fresh perspectives during PLB’s later digital era and side projects.
  • Sebastian Morningstar (C-Bass) – Synths, vocals (2025–present) in the rebranded Men of Mad’ness project, reflecting PLB’s ongoing evolution into new digital studioscapes.

Musical Style and Genre Influences

PLB’s sound draws from a wide palette:

  • Garage Punk and Grunge: Raw, energetic riff-driven tracks reminiscent of Nirvana and early 90s Seattle acts.
  • Alternative Rock and Punk: Fast-tempo, rebellious themes influenced by The Sex Pistols, Green Day, and The White Stripes.
  • Electronic and DIY Experimentation: Use of digital programming, VOCALOID vocals (Madeline Lew), and AI-generated instrumentals as streaming platforms rose to prominence.
  • J-Rock and City Pop: East Asian melodic sensibilities interwoven with punk aggression, reflecting Patrick’s cultural heritage and love for X Japan and Miyavi.
  • Virtual Band Aesthetics: Integration of CGI-designed avatars and storytelling, positioning PLB alongside acts like Gorillaz and experimental online collectives.

Patrick’s lyrics often explore themes of alienation, resilience, and self-identity, underpinned by his philosophical background from CSU East Bay, where he studied philosophy and music composition.


Discography and Key Releases

14 full-length albums, 1 live album, several EP's and singles.

Side projects:

  • Lewnatic: Seven EPs including Rapid Fire (Aug 2022) and The Lost Souls (Mar 2023), blending rap-metal, pop-metal, and digital rock textures.
  • Benigneglect: Rap-rock duo releases and live shows at DNA Lounge, formalizing PLB’s urban crossover ambitions.
  • Men of Mad’ness: Formed July 4, 2025 as a digital-only studio band project, signaling PLB’s next evolutionary chapter.

Notable Achievements and Awards

  • Induction into the 40 Under 40 Hall of Fame at California State University, East Bay (June 7, 2019), the first Japanese-American male recipient in that cohort.
  • Akademia Music Award for Best Experimental Rock Song in 2016 for “Game Changer,” underscoring PLB’s genre-defying creativity.
  • Featured across major media outlets including Ascendant MagazineUSA News, and MUSIC PR Japan, reflecting growing recognition beyond indie circles.
  • Endorsements and cameo acknowledgements:
    • Wrestling legend Gail Kim gave a PR shout-out in a CAMEO video (MV contest).
    • PLB’s music licensed in TV shows like The Man in the High Castle and White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch.

Live Performances and Tours

Patrick Lew Band’s live history straddles in-person gigs and virtual events:

  • Early house and school performances as Samurai Sorcerers, building local buzz through guerilla shows and MySpace promotions.
  • 2011 busking and small-scale Antioch, CA shows post-Murder Bay release, shared via PLB’s official YouTube channel.
  • Monthly residencies at San Francisco’s historic DNA Lounge under both PLB and Lewnatic banners, forging a hybrid live-streaming model (last show Mar 8, 2020).
  • Virtual livestream concerts during COVID-19 lockdowns, leveraging platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live to maintain audience engagement without traditional touring.
  • Special one-off performances, such as PLB (JP) Virtual Concert Recount on August 5, 2020, and Asian Girls event vlogs, exemplifying PLB’s global online community outreach.

Virtual Band Concept and Multimedia Persona

Patrick Lew Band pioneered a virtual band framework that interlaces music, visual art, and digital narratives:

  • In 2015, Patrick introduced Madeline Lew, a cross-dressing M2F alter ego realized through CGI, Photoshop, and VOCALOID, as the long-lost “younger sister” saving PLB from obscurity.
  • PLB’s core identity expanded beyond audio to include vlogs, animated avatars, and fandom-driven online storytelling, echoing innovations by Gorillaz and other multimedia virtual acts.
  • Lewnatic built on this paradigm with live-stream avatars and digital labs (PLB HQ) for real-time fan interaction and behind-the-scenes production tours.

Side Projects and Related Acts

Patrick Lew has explored diverse musical avenues beyond PLB:

  • Band of Asians (2005–2008): Post-hardcore ensemble that laid groundwork for PLB’s studio collaboration methods.
  • TheVerse (2015–2019): Shoegaze and EDM collaboration with producer Gem Jewels, blending electronic soundscapes with rock elements.
  • Crazy Loser in a Box (2018–2024): Experimental garage punk project co-fronted with Sigyn Wisch, contributing to local indie circuit vitality.
  • Lewnatic (2019–present): Solo-driven rap-metal/rock persona signed to Bentley Records, releasing three EPs and conducting live-stream “virtual residencies” at DNA Lounge.
  • Benigneglect (2019–2020): Rap-rock duo with Fil-Am rapper A.Kaye, forging a hybrid urban-metal strand within the Bay Area scene.
  • Men of Mad’ness (2025-present): Latest iteration as a studio-only digital collective, amalgamating PLB’s virtual legacy with new voices Madoku Raye and Sebastian Morningstar.

Impact and Global Reach

  • PLB’s music spans 50+ countries, establishing an international indie following through streaming platforms and grassroots social-media campaigns.
  • Notable penetration into the Japanese market, with licensed releases via EGGS (Tower Records subsidiary) and collaborations with Top Music Japan to expand distribution.
  • Influencing Asian-American representation in alternative rock, Patrick’s journey has inspired workshops, online panels, and advocacy for artists of color in rock genres traditionally dominated by Western male archetypes.
  • PLB’s DIY model showcased how independent musicians can circumvent industry gatekeepers, leveraging low-cost home studios and digital networks to build authentic global communities.

Challenges and Industry Resilience

Patrick Lew’s career has faced multiple trials:

  • Ethnic barrier in rock music: Navigating a scene with limited Asian-American visibility, Patrick used adversity to fuel creative defiance and stereotype-breaking messages in his lyrics.
  • Label setbacks: Early developmental deals (2005) ended abruptly, prompting Patrick to master home-recording techniques and self-distribution to maintain creative autonomy.
  • Personal tragedies: The passing of mother Winnie Hayashi Lew in April 2017 led to a brief hiatus and emotional turmoil, yet catalyzed Patrick’s reinvention with albums like Oakland and renewed side projects.
  • Band conflicts: Multiple lineup changes and creative differences in 2012 and 2017–2018 tested Patrick’s resolve but ultimately refined PLB’s identity as a solo-driven visionary project.
  • Economic pressures: Balancing full-time work at Costco Wholesale with a rigorous DIY music career, Patrick has demonstrated unwavering work ethic and resourcefulness in funding his artistic ventures.

Recent Developments and Future Directions

  • Discontinuation of PLB: On July 4, 2025, Patrick announced the official retirement of the PLB name, shifting focus to Lewnatic and a new band, Men of Mad’ness, marking the end of a two-decade era and the start of a fresh digital venture.
  • Lewnatic’s ongoing legacy: Continues to release EPs under Bentley Records, focusing on instrumental-driven performances and virtual concerts, with no plans to return to traditional touring.
  • Men of Mad’ness: A digital studio-only collective formed on Independence Day 2025, featuring a lineup of Patrick Lew, Madeline Lew, Madoku Raye, and Sebastian Morningstar. The project promises gritty, angsty rock with a nod to 90s and 2000s influences, exclusively released online and via streaming platforms.
  • Future plans: Patrick envisions continuing to break musical boundaries, exploring hybrid multimedia personas, and expanding interactive live-stream experiences that fuse his philosophical insights with global digital communities.

Patrick Lew Band’s journey—from bedroom demo recordings in San Francisco to pioneering a virtual rock phenomenon—exemplifies resilience, creativity, and cultural fusion. As PLB closes its chapter and new projects like Lewnatic and Men of Mad’ness emerge, Patrick’s commitment to DIY authenticity and genre-defying experimentation cements his place as a trailblazer in indie rock’s digital age.