Thursday, November 27, 2025

All About Madeline Lew

Name: Madeline Lew

Nicknames: Maddie, The Duff

Born: November 16, 1985 (fictional), October 31, 2015 (as a digital avatar)

Ethnicity: Half-Japanese (HAFU)

Hometown: Osaka, Japan

Current Residence: Oakland, CA, United States (fictional)

Relatives: Patrick Lew Hayashi (sibling & alter-ego)

Occupation: Musician, Social-Media Influencer, Retail Assistant Manager (via Grocery Outlet)

Genres: Alternative, Rock, Punk, Electronic, AI & Virtual

Instruments Played: Lead Vocals (via AI & VOCALOID 6), Bass, Rhythm Guitar, CDJ, Electronics

Website: https://linktr.ee/madelinelew

Meet Madeline Lew, The Virtual Member of the Internet-based San Francisco Rock band, PLB

As the bassist, virtual mascot, and occasional singer/songwriter of the Patrick Lew Band (PLB) since Halloween 2015, Madeline made a quick rise to the top regionally and on the Internet with her older brother's band.

Madeline's tenure with the Patrick Lew Band was met with critical acclaim upon her arrival, and her presence in the musical project brought the band back to prominence in the indie music circuit and locally in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her first appearance with the band in the studio was their 2017 release OAKLAND. Aside from playing bass on numerous tracks and recordings with the Patrick Lew Band, she has also lent her lead vocals to a few PLB songs, such as "BE YOURSELF!", "Burning Desire" and "Nothing Stands Our Way" on their 2021 album Rolling Thunder.

During PLB's second hiatus between 2017 and 2020, Madeline kept busy through digital print modeling, photography and also joined Patrick and his then-girlfriend Madoku Raye's band Crazy Loser in a Box! in the Silicon Valley. And also did a few side-gigs as an EDM DJ at rave music parties. Madeline was inducted as a member of the Patrick Lew Band (PLB) in the 40 Under 40 Hall of Fame alongside Patrick at his alma mater California State University - East Bay in 2019.

Created from digital special effects, CGI and Photoshop, Madeline Lew is the ingenious alter-ego of Patrick Lew Hayashi, the talented musician behind the Patrick Lew Band. This virtual member joined the band in 2015, helping to bring its music back to prominence and achieving moderate indie-level success. In this article, we'll explore the story of Madeline Lew and her impact on the band's career, as well as get a glimpse into the daily life of Patrick Lew and Madeline.

Madeline Lew is the brainchild of Patrick Lew Hayashi, the frontman of PLB, who created the fictitious character as his alter-ego in 2015. The band had just decided to function exclusively as an internet-based virtual rock band when Madeline Lew joined them as a virtual band member.

Created through digital special effects, Madeline Lew is an integral part of the band's marketing storyline. In this storyline, Madeline Lew's role is described as the younger sister of Patrick Lew Hayashi, who saves the band from failure and brings their music back to prominence. Despite being a virtual member, Madeline Lew's presence is felt in the band's music, videos, and live performances. She is also an important character in Patrick Lew's solo project, Lewnatic.

Madeline Lew's introduction as a virtual band member and mascot helped PLB achieve the moderate indie-level success that they had not accomplished prior to 2015. It brought Patrick Lew's profitability back to prominence in the music scene and garnered the band publicity.

Daily Life for Patrick and Madeline

As for Patrick Lew and Madeline Lew's daily life, they love playing video games, immersing themselves in the Asian-American and Japanese community and culture, watching and streaming reruns on their Sony Smart TV, grabbing food outside, attending sporting and wrestling events, hanging out with friends at the mall, and checking out live music and concerts.

These days, PLB is a self-sufficient internet-based virtual rock band from San Francisco, sustained by their indie music career and social media. Madeline Lew does not travel and tour as much, so Patrick Lew plays shows and makes music under the LEWNATIC banner. The future of PLB and LEWNATIC may be uncertain, but one thing is for sure - they are not going anywhere anytime soon.

The Future of Patrick and Madeline Lew

Madeline Lew took a step back from PLB in August 2022, as Patrick Lew semi-retired her character in the project.

However, Madeline Lew will still make occasional part-time appearances with the band. Patrick Lew and Madeline Lew are looking forward to potential greatness that might come from PLB.

In conclusion, Patrick Lew and Madeline Lew want to thank their fans for staying true to their band and supporting them all these years. They believe that if you work hard enough and want it bad enough, dreams can come true.

Saturday, November 22, 2025

Lewnatic: The Definitive Band Biography of Patrick Lew’s Genre-Blurring Solo Project

Introduction

Lewnatic is the electrifying, genre-defying solo project of San Francisco’s Patrick Lew Hayashi, a musician whose career has spanned over two decades of relentless reinvention, cultural storytelling, and digital innovation. Emerging from the ashes of the Patrick Lew Band (PLB), Lewnatic stands as both a personal and artistic rebirth—a post-PLB reinvention that fuses grunge, pop-metal, J-pop, and electronic music into a singular, cinematic sound. This biography explores Lewnatic’s origins, musical style, influences, discography, live performances, collaborators, and the project’s impact on Patrick Lew’s artistic legacy, offering a comprehensive narrative suitable for press kits, websites, and streaming platforms.

Origins: The Early Life of Patrick Lew and the Genesis of Lewnatic

Multicultural Roots and Musical Awakening

Patrick Lew Hayashi was born on November 15, 1985, in San Francisco, California, to a Chinese father and a Sino-Japanese mother. Growing up in the Excelsior District, Patrick was immersed in a household where The Beatles and The Rolling Stones played alongside Motown and J-pop, reflecting the city’s vibrant multicultural tapestry. This early exposure to both Western rock and East Asian pop would later become a defining feature of his music.

At age 13, Patrick’s musical journey began when his cousin Andy, a blues-loving guitarist, played Jimi Hendrix and Deep Purple riffs on a forgotten Fender guitar in the family home. Inspired, Patrick taught himself guitar through online tabs and cheat sheets, developing a fiercely independent, DIY approach to music-making that would underpin his entire career.

The Patrick Lew Band: Foundation and Evolution

Patrick’s first formal band, Samurai Sorcerers, formed during his high school years at Raoul Wallenberg High School and Soko Gakuen Japanese School. The group, which included classmates Eddie Blackburn and Tommy Loi, rehearsed in garages and posted demos online, foreshadowing Patrick’s later embrace of digital-first music distribution.

By 2001, Patrick had founded the Patrick Lew Band (PLB), which would become his flagship project for over two decades. PLB’s sound was rooted in garage punk and grunge, but quickly expanded to incorporate alternative rock, J-pop, and electronic elements. The band’s operational model was ahead of its time: members recorded their parts remotely and sent them to Patrick for final mixing—a precursor to the virtual collaboration that would later define Lewnatic.

PLB’s prolific output included albums such as Jump! Rattle! And Roll!!! (2006), Curb Your Wild Life (2009), Let It Rise and Against (2009), and Murder Bay (2011), each marked by a blend of punk rawness, melodic hooks, and layered guitar work. The band’s lyrics often explored themes of alienation, resilience, and cultural identity, reflecting Patrick’s own experiences as a mixed-race Asian-American navigating the complexities of American society.

Reinvention Through Adversity: The Madeline Lew Era

In 2015, during a period of personal turmoil, Patrick introduced Madeline Lew—his cross-dressing, male-to-female alter ego—into the PLB narrative. Created through a combination of cosplay, CGI, and VOCALOID technology, Madeline became both a virtual band member and a symbol of reinvention, challenging gender norms and rebooting the band’s image. This move catalyzed a renaissance for PLB, earning blog features, radio mentions, and a surge of online recognition.

Madeline’s presence brought theatrical flair and a new layer of storytelling to PLB, paving the way for the genre-blurring experiments that would later define Lewnatic. The virtual band concept—melding music, visual art, and digital personas—became central to Patrick’s creative identity.

The Birth of Lewnatic: From Duo to Solo Project

Lewnatic was officially formed on July 1, 2019, as a rap-metal duo with Patrick’s longtime friend Ahmed (A.K.AYE). The name “Lewnatic” is a portmanteau of Patrick’s surname and “lunatic,” signaling his fearless approach to genre fusion and sonic unpredictability. The duo quickly established a monthly residency at San Francisco’s historic DNA Lounge, transforming the venue into a laboratory of heavy riffs, cascading synths, and spoken-word interludes.

In August 2019, Lewnatic made its first forays into Japan, playing intimate venues in Tokyo and Osaka—a testament to Patrick’s affinity for Japanese pop culture and his ambition to bridge East and West through music.

The COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 marked a turning point. With live venues shuttered, Ahmed amicably departed, and Patrick transformed Lewnatic into a solo project. This shift allowed him to harness digital tools, live streaming, and AI-driven production, reaching fans worldwide and setting the stage for Lewnatic’s evolution as a one-person, genre-blurring act.

Musical Style: Genre Blending and Sonic Identity

Core Sound and Influences

At its heart, Lewnatic is a hybrid of 90s grunge grit, pop-metal theatrics, J-pop sweetness, and electronic experimentation. Patrick’s songs often pivot mid-track, juxtaposing sludgy guitar riffs with crystalline synth arpeggios, anthemic choruses, and digital beats. This genre-blending approach is both a reflection of his multicultural upbringing and a deliberate challenge to musical boundaries.

Key influences include:

Grunge and Alternative Rock: Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Silverchair, Soundgarden
Pop-Metal and Classic Rock: Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Oasis, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin
J-Rock and J-Pop: X Japan, Miyavi, B’z, Yutaka Ozaki, City Pop, Chiptune
Contemporary Hybrids: BTS, Babymetal, Gorillaz (virtual band model)
Electronic and Experimental: AI-generated beats, VOCALOID, digital production tools

Patrick’s guitar work is marked by fiery solos, punk exuberance, and melodic sensibility, while his production style embraces both analog and digital techniques. Vocals are often layered with VOCALOID software, especially when resurrecting Madeline Lew’s AI-generated timbre, adding a futuristic edge to the music.

Thematic Content and Lyrical Motifs

Lewnatic’s lyrics and instrumental narratives explore themes of:

Alienation and Outsider Identity: Reflecting Patrick’s experiences with bullying, cultural duality, and underrepresentation as an Asian-American in rock
Resilience and Self-Empowerment: Songs often serve as anthems of perseverance, channeling personal and societal struggles into cathartic expression
Digital Life and Technology: The Internet as both stage and refuge, with frequent references to virtual collaboration, AI, and the digital age
Cultural Storytelling: Blending Eastern and Western motifs, Lewnatic’s music often serves as a bridge between traditions, celebrating diversity and hybrid identity.

Instrumental tracks are common, with Patrick noting, “A great piece of rock and roll music doesn’t always need lead vocals.” When lyrics are present, they are direct, introspective, and often peppered with Japanese phrases, underscoring the project’s cross-cultural ethos.

Genre Fusion in Context: Kawaii Metal and J-Pop

Lewnatic’s sound is part of a broader movement of genre fusion in contemporary music, particularly the blending of heavy metal with J-pop—a style known as “kawaii metal.” Pioneered by Japanese acts like Babymetal, kawaii metal combines aggressive guitar work, electronic elements, and pop melodies, often accompanied by theatrical visuals and choreography. While Lewnatic’s approach is distinct, the project shares this spirit of innovation, drawing on both the intensity of metal and the melodic sensibility of J-pop to create a sound that is both nostalgic and futuristic.

Discography: Albums, EPs, and Notable Releases

Lewnatic’s discography is a testament to Patrick’s prolific creativity and willingness to experiment. Since its solo rebirth in 2022, the catalog has grown steadily, encompassing albums, EPs, singles, and live recordings.

Major Releases

Release Title	Type	Release Date	Label/Distribution	Notable Tracks / Features
Rapid Fire!	EP	Aug 17, 2022	Bentley Records	“We The People,” “My Only Fan”
Getcha Mood On Right	EP	2023	Bentley Records	“Shakermaker”
The Lost Souls	EP	Mar 15, 2023	Bentley Records	“Victory!” (feat. Madeline Lew)
STARRCADE	Album	Jul 26, 2024	Bentley Records	“Stronger Than Before,” “No Man’s World,” “Victory!” (feat. Madeline Lew)
Defy All Odds	EP	Jul 4, 2025	Lewnatic	“Defy All Odds”
Persona//Overflow	Album	Aug 15, 2025	Lewnatic	“Xenophobe (Against the Hate),” “Find Myself” (feat. Madeline Lew), “What Went Wrong” (Blink 182 cover)
OVERTURE	EP	Sep 15, 2025	Lewnatic	“Codebreaker,” “Baptized in Rock & Roll”

Each release is available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, and Top Music Japan.

STARRCADE (2024): The Debut Album

STARRCADE represents a milestone in Lewnatic’s evolution. Released worldwide on July 26, 2024, the album curates the best songs from the preceding EP trilogy—Rapid Fire!, Getcha Mood On Right, and The Lost Souls—and weaves them into a cohesive, theatrical experience. The album blends pop-metal anthems with J-pop–inflected choruses, showcasing Patrick’s knack for crafting earworms that hit as hard as his gritty guitar solos.

Notable tracks include “Stronger Than Before,” “No Man’s World,” “My Only Fan,” and “Victory!” (featuring Madeline Lew). The album’s themes center on resilience, digital identity, and the search for belonging in a fragmented world.

The Lost Souls (2023): Personal and Experimental

The Lost Souls EP, released in March 2023, is a deeply personal record, written during a period of mental health struggles and social-media adversity. The EP channels the sounds of early 90s hard rock and grunge, with tracks like “Together We Rise” and “Victory!” (featuring Madeline Lew) blending youthful energy, camaraderie, and experimental production. The record’s lo-fi aesthetic adds intimacy, making it both relatable and emotionally resonant.

Persona//Overflow (2025): Conceptual Ambition

Persona//Overflow, released August 15, 2025, marks Lewnatic’s most ambitious project to date. The album explores themes of homecoming, collective memory, and digital identity, featuring guest appearances by Madeline Lew and covers of iconic tracks like Nirvana’s “Jesus Don’t Want Me For A Sunbeam” and Blink 182’s “What Went Wrong.” The album’s narrative structure and orchestral swells reflect Patrick’s growing interest in cinematic storytelling and collaborative creativity.

Instrumental Beat Tapes and Remix Stems

Beyond official releases, Patrick periodically drops instrumental beat tapes and remix stems on his Discord server, inviting fans to reinterpret his work and collaborate across borders. This interactive approach has fostered a vibrant online community, blurring the lines between artist and audience.

Collaborators and Contributors

Ahmed: The Duo Era

Ahmed (A.K.AYE), a Filipino-American rapper and multi-instrumentalist, co-founded Lewnatic as a rap-metal duo in 2019. His verses and stage presence complemented Patrick’s guitar-driven riffs, resulting in energetic live shows that resonated with San Francisco’s underground scene. The duo’s monthly residencies at DNA Lounge established Lewnatic’s local credibility before Ahmed’s amicable departure in early 2020.

Madeline Lew: Virtual Alter Ego and Creative Muse

Madeline Lew, Patrick’s cross-dressing, male-to-female virtual avatar, was introduced in 2015 during the PLB era. Created through VOCALOID and AI vocals, Madeline served as a fictitious cousin, band mascot, and occasional featured vocalist. Her presence catalyzed PLB’s resurgence and continues to influence Lewnatic’s visual and sonic identity, especially on tracks like “Victory!” and “Find Myself”.

Madoku Raye: Occasional Collaborator

Madoku Raye, a vocalist, songwriter, and producer, has contributed to both PLB and Lewnatic projects since 2021. Her involvement brings fresh perspectives and additional layers to Patrick’s later digital-era releases.

RPG Mezzy: Featured Artist

RPG Mezzy is credited as a featured artist on the STARRCADE album, contributing to tracks such as “Hot Curves,” “We The People,” and “Victory!” Their collaboration adds depth and diversity to Lewnatic’s sound.

Live Performances and Touring History

DNA Lounge Residencies and Local Shows

Lewnatic’s live shows are renowned for their theatrical flair and cyberpunk swagger. During the duo era, Patrick and Ahmed held monthly residencies at San Francisco’s DNA Lounge, transforming the venue into a laboratory of genre fusion and performance art. These shows often featured custom visuals, rapid instrument changes, and a blend of live and virtual elements.

In August 2019, Lewnatic performed in Japan, playing intimate venues in Tokyo and Osaka. These international appearances underscored the project’s global ambition and Patrick’s connection to Japanese pop culture.

Transition to Virtual Concerts and Livestreams

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced a shift from in-person gigs to virtual performances. Patrick embraced live-streaming on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, turning his bedroom into a dynamic stage for real-time fan interaction. These nightly streams feature improvised jams, Q&A sessions, and behind-the-scenes production tutorials, blurring the line between performance and workshop.

The virtual Japan tour paired pre-recorded video collages shot in Tokyo’s Shibuya district with live guitar overlays from San Francisco, allowing fans in Tokyo and worldwide to participate in a shared digital experience.

Innovative Promotion: CD/QR Code Street Tours

In mid-May 2024, Patrick launched a CD/QR code promotional tour across Los Angeles, turning urban alleys into pop-up listening booths. Passersby could scan codes to download exclusive tracks, remix them, and return the results for spotlight features on Lewnatic’s channel. This analogue twist on digital distribution exemplifies Patrick’s inventive approach to fan engagement.

Community Engagement: Discord and Remix Contests

Through Discord, Patrick hosts monthly remix contests, sample swaps, and voice-note feedback circles. This interactive ecosystem has become integral to Lewnatic’s identity, fostering a sense of community and collaborative creativity among fans and fellow musicians.

Virtual Collaboration, AI, and Production Setup

Embracing Technology: AI and Virtual Band Model

Lewnatic is a pioneer in integrating AI-driven production and virtual collaboration into the creative process. Patrick uses AI tools to generate instrumentals and backing tracks, which he then augments with his own guitar, piano, synth, and vocal parts. This hybrid approach—“half-AI and half-realistic”—allows for rapid experimentation and fresh ideas, while maintaining a distinctly human touch.

VOCALOID software is used to create Madeline Lew’s AI-generated vocals, adding another layer of digital artistry to the project. Patrick’s willingness to embrace new technologies reflects his belief that authenticity flourishes when artists embrace contradiction and innovation.

Home Studio and Technical Gear

Patrick’s home studio, dubbed “Lewnatic HQ,” is a testament to the power of DIY production. The setup includes:

Guitars: Fender Telecaster, Epiphone Les Paul, Rogue SX100B bass
Amps: Marshall CODE50 (digital modeling), Vox AD50VT, Glarry 20-watt practice amp
Pedals: Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion
Recording Hardware: PreSonus AudioBox iOne interface, 2012 MacBook Pro, 2015 MacBook Air, HP Victus laptop
Software: Logic Pro X, GarageBand, Apple MainStage 3, iMovie (for video editing)
Digital Tools: AI music generators (Sound Raw Japan, Launchpad iOS app), VOCALOID, iPhone 13 Pro for mobile tracking and video
Other: Boss Dr. Rhythm DR-3 drum machine, inexpensive digital audio interface

This minimalist yet sophisticated setup enables Patrick to produce, mix, and master his music independently, embodying the ethos of the modern bedroom producer.

Production Process

Patrick’s creative process often begins with a thematic prompt—an idea, word, or phrase evoking urban life or a philosophical concept. He sketches chord progressions, programs drum loops, and textures the mix with field recordings from city streets or vintage arcade game samples. Each song emerges as a collage of real and synthetic elements, mirroring Patrick’s hybrid identity and commitment to authenticity through contradiction.

Visual Identity, Branding, and Stagecraft

Cover Art and Visual Aesthetics

Lewnatic’s visual identity is a patchwork of 90s VHS aesthetics, anime ephemera, and cyberpunk motifs. Patrick designs cover art using collage techniques that evoke both nostalgia and futurism, drawing inspiration from the vibrant world of anime, retro video games, and classic rock iconography.

Music videos are often shot on an iPhone 13 Pro and edited in iMovie, embracing lo-fi charm over polished slickness. AI-generated overlays and motion graphics blur the line between human performance and digital artifice, reinforcing Lewnatic’s fluid persona.

Stage Outfits and Performance Art

Onstage, Patrick’s outfits range from minimalist streetwear to elaborate cosplay nods. One moment he dons a denim jacket spray-painted with circuit diagrams; the next, he’s draped in a cyberpunk-inspired kimono. These shifts reinforce Lewnatic’s commitment to fluid identity and theatrical storytelling.

The integration of Madeline Lew as a virtual bandmate adds another layer of performance art, challenging gender norms and expanding the project’s narrative universe.

Critical Reception and Press Coverage

Lewnatic has garnered acclaim from indie music blogs, digital magazines, and international press for its genre-defying sound, innovative production, and cultural storytelling.

Music Review World described Lewnatic as “the genre-bending rock project of Patrick Lew Hayashi,” highlighting the project’s fusion of pop-metal, grunge, and classic rock, as well as its fiery guitar solos and experimental sounds.
ArtistPR and MUSIC PR Japan praised Lewnatic’s dynamic fusion of rock, J-pop, and grunge, noting Patrick’s role as an Asian-American icon and his commitment to positivity and representation in the music industry.
MuzicNotez and BuzzSlayers lauded the Rapid Fire! EP as a “pure guitar rock album with loads of drive and plenty of heart,” emphasizing Patrick’s prowess as a guitarist and the emotional depth of his arrangements.
Top Music Japan and MUSIC PR Japan have featured Lewnatic alongside other J-Rock and J-Pop luminaries, expanding the project’s reach in Japan and abroad.

Lewnatic’s instrumental and genre-bending approach is often described as “impossible to label”—a point of pride for Patrick and a hallmark of the project’s critical appeal.

Fan Community and Engagement Strategies

Lewnatic’s fan community is as diverse and dynamic as the music itself. Patrick’s interactive approach—through Discord, YouTube, and social media—has fostered a global network of fans, collaborators, and fellow musicians.

Livestream Concerts: Regular YouTube and Twitch streams offer fans improvised jams, Q&A sessions, and behind-the-scenes access to the creative process.
Remix Contests: Monthly remix contests and sample swaps on Discord invite fans to reinterpret Lewnatic’s work, blurring the line between artist and audience.
Digital Content: Over 700 videos on YouTube, including music videos, tutorials, and vlogs, provide a window into Patrick’s world and creative journey.
Social Media: Active engagement on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok keeps fans informed and involved, while collaborations with MUSIC PR Japan and Top Music Japan expand the project’s international footprint.

Patrick’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and cultural advocacy resonates deeply with fans, many of whom see Lewnatic as a beacon for marginalized and underrepresented voices in rock music.

Impact on Patrick Lew’s Artistic Legacy

Post-PLB Reinvention and Artistic Evolution

Lewnatic represents a bold new chapter in Patrick Lew’s artistic journey. Following the official retirement of the Patrick Lew Band in July 2025, Lewnatic has become the primary vehicle for Patrick’s creative expression, embodying the lessons, innovations, and resilience honed over two decades in the indie music scene.

The project’s genre-blending approach, virtual collaboration, and embrace of AI-driven production position Lewnatic at the forefront of contemporary music innovation. By integrating cultural storytelling, philosophical inquiry, and digital artistry, Patrick has crafted a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Cultural and Emotional Storytelling

Lewnatic’s music serves as a vehicle for cultural and emotional storytelling, weaving together narratives of alienation, resilience, and self-empowerment. The project’s cross-cultural ethos—bridging East and West, analog and digital, tradition and reinvention—reflects Patrick’s own journey as a mixed-race Asian-American artist.

Through songs that celebrate diversity, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for marginalized voices, Lewnatic has become a symbol of representation and possibility in the indie rock landscape.

Recognition and Awards

Patrick’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including:

Induction into the Akademia Music Hall of Fame (2023)
First Japanese-American male recipient of CSU East Bay’s 40 Under 40 Award (2019)
AcademiaMusic Award (2016) for the experimental track “Game Changer”

These milestones underscore Patrick’s resilience, innovation, and enduring impact on the music industry.

Future Projects and Upcoming Releases

Looking ahead, Patrick plans to continue expanding Lewnatic’s sonic and visual universe. Upcoming projects include:

A full-length concept album (late 2025): Exploring themes of homecoming, collective memory, and digital identity, with guest features, orchestral swells, and interactive companion visuals.
In-person shows in Japan (late 2025): Collaborations with local producers to infuse new textures and perspectives into Lewnatic’s sound.
Integration of cinematic elements: Patrick is exploring acting auditions and plans to incorporate more cinematic storytelling into future music videos.
Continued virtual concerts and livestreams: Ongoing engagement with fans through YouTube, Discord, and social media, including monthly remix contests and behind-the-scenes content.

Patrick’s vision for Lewnatic remains open-ended—a project where identity, technology, and community converge to celebrate the creative process itself.

Conclusion: Lewnatic’s Legacy and Invitation

Lewnatic’s journey from bedroom demos to global livestream spectacles is a testament to Patrick Lew Hayashi’s restless curiosity, fearless genre-hopping, and unwavering commitment to authenticity. As a post-PLB reinvention, Lewnatic embodies the spirit of resilience, innovation, and cultural storytelling, inviting listeners to join an ongoing odyssey where the only rule is to embrace the unexpected.

Whether you’re tuning in on YouTube, remixing stems in Discord, or dancing at a pop-up performance, Lewnatic offers a space for outsiders, dreamers, and rebels—a “Lewniverse” where music, identity, and technology collide in a celebration of possibility.

Lewnatic is not just a band. It’s a movement. It’s the future.

For streaming, exclusive releases, and digital vlogs, connect with Lewnatic on:

Contact: lewnatic@bentleyrecordsred.net

“Lewnatic is me, unfiltered. No gimmicks, just raw emotion and anime beats.” — Patrick Lew Hayashi

Got it — I’ll start researching a detailed band biography for Lewnatic, focusing on its origins, musical evolution, key releases like STARRCADE, and its role in your post-PLB creative journey. This will take me several minutes, so feel free to leave — I'll keep working in the background. Your report will be saved in this conversation.

Saturday, October 18, 2025

Lewnatic

Lewnatic is the electrifying, genre-blurring brainchild of San Francisco’s Patrick Lew Hayashi—a one-person band and mythic Asian-American guitar hero smashing the walls between punk, grunge, J-Pop, and digital rock. Fusing 90s grunge grit, arena-sized pop-metal riffs, and a fearless DIY ethos, Lewnatic delivers wild, hook-laden anthems with theatrical flair and cyberpunk swagger. From the bedroom studio to global virtual stages, Lewnatic’s music pulses with raw resilience, anime-fueled energy, and outsider spirit—cinematic, rebellious, and unapologetically wired for the digital age. Tune in, turn up, and join the Lewniverse.

Origins and Formative Years

Patrick Lew Hayashi was born on November 15, 1985, in San Francisco, California, to a Chinese father and a Sino-Japanese mother. These multicultural roots exposed him early to a fusion of traditions, teaching him that bridging worlds breeds creativity.

By age 13, Patrick stumbled upon his cousin’s dusty Fender guitar and amplifier, setting off a lifelong obsession. Inspired by Nirvana’s raw power, Metallica’s precision, and The Beatles’ melodic genius, he taught himself chords and crafted his first riffs in a makeshift bedroom studio.

He navigated a dual curriculum at Raoul Wallenberg High School and Soko Gakuen Japanese School, graduating in 2004. His formal music exploration deepened at California State University, East Bay, where he earned a B.A. in Philosophy with a minor in Music Composition in June 2011.

These academic and cultural experiences cemented Patrick’s DIY ethos and philosophical approach to songwriting. He learned to think of each riff as a question, each lyric as a thesis, and each recording as an experiment.

Growing up in Daly City, he programmed backing tracks on outdated laptops and shared demos on early internet forums. This online hustle honed his production skills and taught him the value of community feedback.

The Patrick Lew Band Legacy

In 2006, Patrick launched his first major project, Band of Asians, self-releasing the album REVENGE on his 21st birthday. It was a raw manifesto of intent, filled with grunge grit and youthful defiance.

Soon after, he rebranded as the Patrick Lew Band (PLB), assembling a revolving internet-based collective. Members recorded their parts remotely and sent them to Patrick, who performed final production and mixed each track into cohesive anthems of pop-metal intensity.

Between 2006 and 2012, PLB’s prolific output included albums such as Jump! Rattle! And Roll!!!, Curb Your Wild Life, Let It Rise and Against, Murder Bay, and the Angry Yellow EP. These releases showcased Patrick’s ability to fuse punk rawness with melodic hooks and layered guitar work.

Creative differences ushered PLB into a hiatus in late 2012, but the seeds for reinvention were already planted. Patrick reflected on the collective’s spirit and began envisioning new ways to expand his musical universe.

In 2015, he resurrected PLB as a “virtual rock band,” introducing Madeline Lew—his cross-dressing M2F alter ego using VOCALOID and AI-generated vocals. This avatar rebooted the band’s image, earning blog features and Bay Area radio mentions while laying the groundwork for Lewnatic’s genre-defying experiments.

Birth of Lewnatic Duo

On July 1, 2019, Patrick and his longtime collaborator Ahmed officially formed Lewnatic as a rap-metal duo. The name marries Patrick’s surname with “lunatic,” signaling his fearless approach to genre fusion and sonic unpredictability.

They kicked off monthly residencies at San Francisco’s famed DNA Lounge, transforming the venue into a laboratory of heavy riffs, cascading synths, and spoken-word interludes. Each show blurred the lines between virtual performance art and live punk spectacle.

In August 2019, Lewnatic made their first forays into Japan, playing intimate venues in Tokyo and Osaka. These early international appearances highlighted the project’s global ambition and Patrick’s affinity for Japanese pop culture aesthetics.

As COVID-19 swept the globe in March 2020, Lewnatic’s momentum shifted. Their final duo performance at DNA Lounge on March 8 became a moment of farewell, with both members choosing divergent paths afterward.

This brief but intense chapter laid the foundation for Patrick’s next evolution—reimagining Lewnatic as a solo project that could harness digital tools and live streaming to reach fans worldwide.

Solo Transformation and Bentley Records

In early 2022, Patrick resurfaced Lewnatic as a solo act, stripping down the lineup to focus on his multi-instrumental prowess and production agility. The move allowed him to experiment with new textures and songwriting structures without compromise.

On July 19, 2022, he signed a one-year Artist Development deal with New York–based Bentley Records. This partnership provided professional mentorship and resources while preserving Lewnatic’s DIY spirit and creative autonomy.

During 2022 and 2023, Patrick released three EPs under the Lewnatic banner, each exploring themes of work, belonging, and urban solitude. He also relaunched weekly live-stream shows on YouTube, turning his bedroom into a dynamic stage for real-time fan interaction.

He embraced virtual touring, collaborating with Japanese indie venues to stream performances overseas. Back in the U.S., an innovative CD/QR code street promo tour in Los Angeles invited passersby to scan and download exclusive tracks—an analogue twist on digital distribution.

Patrick’s solo era honed his vision of Lewnatic as both a personal diary and a communal playground. It demonstrated how one artist could wield technology to collapse geographical boundaries and spark collaborative creativity.

Musical Style, Gear, and Production

At its core, Lewnatic is a hybrid of 90s grunge grit, pop-metal theatrics, J-pop sweetness, and electronic experiment. Patrick’s songs often pivot mid-track, juxtaposing sludgy guitar riffs with crystalline synth arpeggios.

His gear list reads like a modern bedroom-producer’s dream: a Fender Telecaster feeding into a Marshall CODE50, a PreSonus AudioBox iOne for crisp preamps, and Logic Pro as his digital canvas. He alternates between a 2015 MacBook Air and the latest HP Victus laptop for rendering AI instrumentals and looped beats.

For vocals, he layers his own tracks with VOCALOID software, occasionally resurrecting Madeline Lew’s AI-generated timbre. Effects pedals like the Boss DS-2 add distortion textures, while a modest Glarry 20-watt amp powers intimate rehearsals and livestream jam sessions.

Patrick’s production process begins with a thematic prompt—often a word or phrase evoking urban life or a philosophical concept. From there, he sketches chord progressions, programs drum loops, and textures the mix with field recordings from city streets or vintage arcade game samples.

Each song emerges as a collage of real and synthetic elements, mirroring Patrick’s hybrid identity and his belief that authenticity flourishes when you embrace contradiction.

Discography and Notable Releases

Since its solo rebirth, Lewnatic’s catalog has grown steadily. His first three EPs—released in late 2022 and throughout 2023—dive into the rhythms of shift work, the alienation of late-night commutes, and fleeting connections in digital spaces.

The debut STARRCADE album in 2024 marked a leap toward theatrical flair, weaving pop-metal anthems with J-pop–inflected choruses. It showcased Patrick’s knack for crafting earworms that hit just as hard as his gritty guitar solos.

Singles like “My Only Fan” and “Victory!” have become livestream staples. They epitomize Lewnatic’s signature interplay of darkly melodic hooks and waves of distorted ambience.

Patrick plans to unveil a full-length concept album by late 2025, exploring themes of homecoming and collective memory. Early demos hint at guest features, orchestral swells, and interactive companion visuals.

Beyond releases, he periodically drops instrumental beat tapes and remix stems on his Discord server, inviting fans to reinterpret his work and collaborate across borders.

Live Shows and Virtual Community

Lewnatic’s live shows defy traditional formats. At DNA Lounge, Patrick projected custom visuals synchronized to backing tracks, while switching between guitar, keyboard, and vocal mic in rapid succession.

Since 2022, his nightly YouTube streams have drawn a dedicated subset of fans who tune in for improvised jams, Q&A sessions, and behind-the-scenes production tutorials. These streams blur the line between performance and workshop.

The virtual Japan tour paired pre-recorded video collages shot in Tokyo’s Shibuya district with live guitar overlays from San Francisco. Fans in Tokyo watched on local screens, while viewers worldwide joined via chat to share impressions in real time.

During the LA CD/QR promo, Patrick documented street performances on Instagram, turning urban alleys into pop-up listening booths. He then invited passersby to remix the tracks and return the results for spotlight features on his channel.

Through Discord, he hosts monthly remix contests, sample swaps, and voice-note feedback circles. This interactive ecosystem has become as integral to Lewnatic’s identity as its recorded catalog.

Visual Identity and Future Directions

Patrick designs Lewnatic’s cover art using collage techniques that nod to 90s VHS aesthetics and anime ephemera. The result is a patchwork style that feels both nostalgic and futuristic.

Stage outfits run the gamut from minimalist streetwear to elaborate cosplay nods—one moment he’s in a denim jacket spray-painted with circuit diagrams, the next draped in a cyberpunk-inspired kimono. These shifts reinforce Lewnatic’s fluid persona.

Looking ahead, Patrick aims to bring Lewnatic to Japan for in-person shows in late 2025, collaborating with local producers to infuse his sound with new textures. He’s also exploring acting auditions, hoping to integrate cinematic elements into future music videos.

As Lewnatic ventures into its next chapter, it remains an open canvas—a project where identity, technology, and community converge to celebrate the creative process itself.

Lewnatic’s journey from bedroom demos to global livestream spectacles highlights Patrick Lew Hayashi’s restless curiosity and fearless genre-hopping. Each chapter has built on the last, weaving a narrative of reinvention and communal exploration. Whether you’re tuning in on YouTube, remixing stems in Discord, or dancing at a pop-up performance, Lewnatic invites you to join an ongoing odyssey where the only rule is to embrace the unexpected.

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 Magazine, USA 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.

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

The Patrick Lew Band Comprehensive Biography

The Patrick Lew Band: A Comprehensive Biography for Indie Music Fans

Introduction

In the landscape of indie music, few stories are as compelling, genre-defying, and fiercely personal as that of the Patrick Lew Band (PLB). Founded by San Francisco native Patrick Lew Hayashi, PLB has consistently embodied the powerful spirit of do-it-yourself artistry, cultural fusion, and digital age reinvention. Over more than two decades, this project has evolved from garage punk beginnings into a globally networked, virtual rock phenomenon, inspiring musicians and fans who see themselves as musical outsiders or cultural misfits.

This biography delivers a deep dive into PLB’s origins, musical development, membership, discography, technology-driven production processes, signature performances, and—above all—its impact on indie culture and Asian-American musical representation. Written in a tone designed to resonate with the indie music community, it unpacks the raw truth and radical innovation that define PLB’s journey, with rich context from numerous press features, interviews, and direct artist statements.

Band Origins and Patrick Lew’s Personal Background

Patrick Lew’s life and artistic ethos are the backbone of PLB’s story. Born on November 15, 1985, to a Chinese father and Japanese mother in San Francisco, Patrick was immersed from a young age in a world colored by cross-cultural influences. His earliest exposure to music came through his mother, who introduced him to classic British rock bands like The Beatles and Rolling Stones, as well as through his cousin Andy, a blues-loving guitarist who challenged Patrick to explore the guitar at the age of 13. This familial encouragement—and the gift of a Tascam 4-track recorder—sparked persistent bedroom experimentation, giving rise to the lo-fi, direct aesthetic that is still a hallmark of PLB’s recordings today.

Patrick’s childhood was marked by struggle. He navigated bullying at school, a sense of outsider status both in his predominantly white community and within Asian social circles, and personal adversity, including battling a childhood disability and losing his grandfather at a young age. These formative experiences deeply colored his musical ambitions and lyrical subjects, centering themes of alienation, identity, and resilience that would define his songwriting for years to come.

Despite these challenges, Patrick found a creative home in music early on. At Raoul Wallenberg High School, he met future bandmates and started performing at garages, house parties, and school events. His mother’s support—financially, emotionally, and logistically—fostered a safe space for this musical exploration. This nurturing environment laid the groundwork for the rest of his career, and Patrick has never failed to acknowledge that PLB’s formation and survival are deeply entwined with his mother’s sacrifices.

Formation and Evolution of the Patrick Lew Band

Early Bands: Samurai Sorcerers and Band of Asians

The genesis of the Patrick Lew Band can be traced to high school experiments under names like Famiglia and most famously, Samurai Sorcerers. Initially founded with classmates Eddie Blackburn (lead guitar) and Tommy Loi (drums), the band cycled through covers and originals, absorbing influences from 90s grunge, punk, hard rock, and classic rock. These early projects set the stage for Patrick’s first serious foray into home recording and digital self-promotion, with the group posting demos online to platforms such as MySpace and Soundclick, foreshadowing the online-first philosophy that would later define PLB’s growth.

From 2005 to 2008, Patrick joined forces with drummer David Arceo in a heavier, post-hardcore band, Band of Asians, which provided valuable studio and stage experience. The album REVENGE, released independently on Patrick’s 21st birthday, would later be retconned as the first true PLB album Jump! Rattle! And Roll!!!.

The Birth of the Patrick Lew Band

The pivotal evolution came in August 2008, when Patrick announced via blog that Samurai Sorcerers was rebranding as the Patrick Lew Band. This move signified a transition from loose punk jams to a formalized recording entity, with Patrick as the creative and logistical centerpiece. The intent was to create an outlet for Patrick's genre-blending compositions and experimental approach—while also providing a stable vehicle for various collaborators to join via remote digital sessions.

From this point, the operational structure of PLB reflected both its resourcefulness and necessity: most band members recorded their parts independently and sent tracks or stems to Patrick for final editing and production. The “virtual band” approach—necessitated by geographical distance, day jobs, and education—was many years ahead of its time and established PLB as a digital-native rock project long before the COVID-19 pandemic made such workflows normal.

Key Phases of the Band’s Timeline

2001–2008: Garage bands and early digital demos, culminating in the BAND OF ASIANS period.
2008–2012: PLB’s core era, with notable releases like Curb Your Wild Life and Let It Rise and Against produced using home-recording gear. The band functioned as a hybrid between home-based recording and sporadic live shows.
2012–2015: First hiatus, with Patrick experimenting in side projects (Heavy Sigma, The Steel Lions) amidst personal turbulence.
2015–2019: Revival of PLB and the introduction of Madeline Lew, the “virtual bandmate,” resulting in a surge of digital releases, online buzz, and new live as well as virtual performances.
2019–2025: Digital era marked by cross-pollination with Patrick’s Lewnatic solo project, increasing international reach, and live-streamed shows, culminating in the official retirement of the PLB moniker and a shift towards new projects like Men of Mad’ness.

Musical Style, Influences, and Evolution

Sound and Stylistic DNA

PLB’s sound is defined less by a single genre than by fearless fusion. From the outset, Patrick’s writing and production have drawn on a wide palette:

Garage Punk and Grunge: Dirty, guitar-driven textures and raw vocal delivery, reminiscent of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Seattle’s 90s scene.
Alternative Rock and Britpop: Energetic, melodic hooks inspired by The Beatles, Oasis, and Britpop’s emotive directness.
Japanese Rock and Pop: Melodic J-Rock and City Pop influences, directly reflecting Patrick’s cultural background and love of artists like X Japan and Miyavi. Lyrics sometimes peppered with Japanese, giving tracks additional authenticity for Japanese fans.
Electronic, Noise, and Lo-Fi Punk: Further depth comes from the use of drum machines, VOCALOID-generated vocals (notably through the Madeline Lew persona), and digital experiments—a nod to EDM, chiptune, and the “bedroom producer” tradition.
Performance Art and Virtual Band Aesthetics: With Madeline Lew, PLB incorporated cross-dressing alter egos, AI-generated tracks, and CGI/Photoshop avatars into its identity, pushing PLB into theatrical, multimedia territory sometimes compared to Gorillaz or Japanese visual kei.

Patrick’s lyrics are equally eclectic—often delving into issues of alienation, resilience, generational legacy, and Asian-American identity. Tracks like “My Cold Heart,” “Strength Not to Lose,” and “Half Chinese, Half Japanese (And Proud!)” exemplify how personal struggle and cultural reflections are inextricable from the music.

Influences

PLB’s influences are both omnipresent and direct. Nirvana stands at the top of Patrick’s pantheon, along with The Beatles, X Japan, Metallica, Green Day, and The Rolling Stones. There is an unabashed reverence for classic “guitar heroes” like Jimi Hendrix and MIYAVI, but always filtered through a post-punk, lo-fi indie lens. Patrick also frequently cites pop and punk idols from the West and East, from BTS and B’z to Motown and beyond.

Members and Roles: A Virtual Collective

While the lineup has shifted over time, the continuity of PLB rests with Patrick Lew himself—a fact that has allowed the project to remain sharply focused and nimble regardless of external turmoil or turnover. Still, the band’s story is enriched by its cast of collaborators, both real and virtual.

Member Name	Role(s)	Active Years/Notes
Patrick Lew Hayashi	Founder, all instruments, vocals	2001–2025; lead creative force, songwriter, producer
Madeline Lew	Virtual alter ego, vocals, bass	2015–2024; cross-dressing, VOCALOID-powered persona
David Arceo	Drums, programming	2006–2012, 2015–2016; studio and live collaborator
Eddie Blackburn	Lead guitar	2001–2005; co-founder of Samurai Sorcerers, returned 2007
Tommy Loi	Drums, percussion	2001–2005; early high school phase
Jeremy Alfonso	Lead/rhythm guitar	2009–2011; instrumental in home-studio era
Greg Lynch	Guitar, keys, vocals	2009–2012; creative leadership, live performances
David Hunter	Bass	2009–2012; bass on key recordings
Madoku Raye	Vocals, songwriting	2021–present; digital-era collaborator
Sebastian Morningstar (C-Bass)	Synths, vocals	2025–present; Men of Mad’ness collective

This table summarizes major contributors. Notably, the Madeline Lew persona is a unique entry in indie music: a “virtual sibling” who brought visual theatricality, sexual/gender fluidity, and a multimedia edge, serving as both creative muse and marketing ambassador. Madeline’s story arc—created via Photoshop, CGI, and VOCALOID synthesis—became a key driver in PLB’s mid-to-late career resurgence, before her quiet retirement in 2024.

The Discography: Key Releases and Sonic Growth

PLB’s catalog is prolific, covering more than 14 studio albums, several EPs, and one live album—not counting the output of side projects Lewnatic, TheVerse, Crazy Loser in a Box, and Benigneglect. Many releases are home-recorded and independently distributed via platforms such as Spotify, Bandcamp, Apple Music, and Soundclick.

Selected Discography Highlights

Jump! Rattle! And Roll!!! (2006; retconned as official debut) – Post-hardcore roots with Band of Asians.
Curb Your Wild Life (2009) – Early statement of intent, blending punk’s urgency and indie rawness.
Let It Rise and Against (2009) – Home-recorded, collaborative peak; digital distribution.
Murder Bay (2011) – Document of the band’s home-studio era and group collaboration.
To the Promised Land (2015) – First release after 2012 hiatus, featuring Madeline Lew’s debut.
Bubblegum Babylon (2015) – Colorful, punk-pop fusion album with visual flair.
Fire in the Sky (EP, 2016) – Embracing digital punk and lo-fi electronics.
Oakland (2017) and Cold Sirens (2017) – Reflections on loss and Bay Area life after Patrick’s mother’s passing.
Rolling Thunder (2020), Codebreaker (2020), Immortality (2020) – Electronic, genre-bending, with increasing urban and global reach.

Recent works, such as Forbidden Door (2024) and Lost in the Meta (2025), continue to push the envelope, integrating AI-driven instrumentals, streaming-first release strategies, and introspective lyrics about digital life and selfhood. Singles like “Lithium,” “Fractured Lines,” and “Life Is...” showcase ongoing stylistic exploration.

Live Recordings

PLB’s In Your House! (2021) is emblematic of the band’s pandemic-era shift toward virtualization: a live album recorded during streaming concerts and “empty house” performances, innovative for its era and a musical time capsule for the lockdown years.

Lewnatic, Benigneglect, and Side Projects

Patrick’s solo and collaborative spin-offs—including rap-metal alter ego Lewnatic (signed to Bentley Records), experimental garage punk project Crazy Loser in a Box, and rap-rock duo Benigneglect—demonstrate both his adaptability and relentless creative output. These projects are as genre-bending as PLB and underline Patrick’s penchant for combining punk, Asian pop, digital art, and social commentary.

Notable Performances and (Virtual) Tours

Though in-person gigs were never PLB’s main promotional thrust, the band built a legacy of guerrilla shows and digital-first events that resonated strongly with the indie and Asian-American communities.

Early Years: Garage sets, house parties, and school functions, legendary (if chaotic) for their intensity and outsiderness.
2009–2012: Home-studio collaborations with intermittent live outings, including school residencies and busking in Antioch, CA.
2015–2020: Monthly live performances at San Francisco’s DNA Lounge, often under the Lewnatic or PLB banners. DNA Lounge, a historic all-ages venue, provided a home for PLB’s diverse audiences.
Pandemic/Lockdown Era: Some of indie music’s earliest adopters of live-streaming, Patrick and Madeline used Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live to sustain a global fanbase during COVID-19. Even before the pandemic, PLB experimented with remote performances and audience interaction.
Special Events: Standout moments include the PLB (JP) Virtual Concert Recount in August 2020, the Asian Girls event vlog, and vlogs that reveal a personal side rarely seen in the mainstream music world.

Despite a self-deprecating reputation as “just bedroom producers,” PLB’s approach has proved prescient in an era where virtual bands, VTubers, and networked fan communities increasingly define music culture. The band’s digital wanderlust enabled them to cultivate fans in over 50 countries, especially in Japan, where label partnerships and radio play expanded their reach beyond the Bay Area and into the Asian indie rock scene.

DIY Ethos and the Home Recording Process

One of PLB’s defining features is its fiercely independent, DIY approach—a necessity in its early years and a choice in later ones. Patrick became not just a musician but also a capable engineer, producer, and digital marketer. His philosophy is simple: “Art doesn’t depend on big budgets or industry access. It lives in the hands of those who dare to make it”.

Home Studio Setup

Patrick’s creative “lab” is the Lewnatic HQ, a two-story family home in San Francisco’s Excelsior District outfitted with accessible gear:

Recording: 2012 MacBook Pro running Logic Pro X and GarageBand, PreSonus AudioBox iOne, and software synths and drum machines.
Instruments: Epiphone Les Paul and Fender Telecaster guitars, Boss Dr. Rhythm drum machine, Vox AC50 and Marshall CODE50 amps, Fender Jazz Bass.
Digital Tools: Apple MainStage, iPhone for mobile tracking, and AI-generated backing tracks—especially in recent Lewnatic and PLB releases.

The production process is intensely iterative: overdubbing instrumentals one by one, double-tracking vocals, and employing computer-based effects to simulate studio fullness on a shoestring. For vocals and special effects, Patrick has utilized VOCALOID software, particularly in crafting Madeline Lew’s digital “voice” before AI voice cloning and chatbots became as ubiquitous as they are now.

Patrick is quick to acknowledge that while aspiring for better sound quality, the point of PLB is authenticity—not radio polish. The result is a gritty, emotionally direct quality unique in the digital music space and beloved by fans of lo-fi indie and punk.

The Virtual Band Concept and Visual Identity

PLB’s virtual band presentation—years before such terms became mainstream—is central to its appeal. The project’s storytelling extends beyond song to include avatars, animated videos, vlogs, and the celebrated character of Madeline Lew.

Madeline Lew: Virtual Sibling, Symbol, and Icon

Introduced in 2015, Madeline Lew is Patrick’s cross-dressing, CGI-powered alter ego, “cast” in PLB’s marketing as his long-lost younger sister and creative savior. Whether realized through digital photography, deepfake filters, or VOCALOID technology, Madeline grew into both a band mascot and a direct commentary on gender, identity, and the limitless storytelling possible in the virtual music age.

This meta-border crossing—blending gender, technology, and cultural reference—is part performance art, part personal catharsis, and part internet self-mythology. For Patrick, Madeline’s creation also coincided with periods of personal turmoil and recovery, making her as much a “guardian angel” as an artistic persona.

Madeline’s introduction catalyzed a renaissance in PLB’s fortunes, helping the project recapture indie buzz, win new fans, and sustain its reputation for digital experimentation and outré storytelling. Her retirement in 2024 marked the end of a creative chapter but left a deep impact on both visual branding and the emotional reach of PLB’s music.

Multimedia and Visuals

PLB’s world extends through music videos, vlogs, and digital art—often produced with the help of friends like James Conrad. Music videos, especially those themed around Asian-American pride (e.g., filmed in San Francisco’s Chinatown), are visually striking, combining guerrilla street shoots, animated avatars, and thematic storytelling.

Live shows also foregrounded digital avatars and projected visuals, further blurring distinctions between “real” and virtual performance. In this sense, PLB’s model overlaps with famous virtual acts like Gorillaz, yet remains more intimately tied to real-life struggles and community-building.

Side Projects, Collaborations, and Expanding the Brand

PLB’s scope broadened significantly through neighboring projects:

Lewnatic (2019–present): Originating as a rap-metal duo and now a solo effort, Lewnatic allowed Patrick to further experiment with city pop, electronic punk, city-flavored modern rock, and animated visuals reminiscent of the Japanese pop scene. A one-year deal with Bentley Records in 2022 led to increased exposure and cross-promotion.
TheVerse: An electronic-shoegaze project with Gem Jewels, merging EDM and rock for a distinctive local and digital following.
Crazy Loser in a Box: A garage punk outfit co-fronted with Sigyn Wisch, notable for its energy and ongoing impact in regional indie circuits.
Benigneglect: A hybrid rap-rock project with Filipino-American MC A.Kaye, delivering urban-metal crossovers and live residencies at DNA Lounge.
Men of Mad’ness (2025–present): The most recent rebranding, a studio-only digital collective pulling together voices old and new for a gritty, nostalgia-tinged take on modern rock connecting PLB’s past with future-forward ambitions.

These projects reinforce Patrick’s status not only as a solo innovator but as a connector, collaborator, and scene catalyst—often using digital-first strategies for promotion and collaboration.

Recognition, Awards, and Cultural Impact

While PLB has rarely courted the commercial mainstream, recognition from press and the music industry is an integral part of the band’s evolution:

2016 Akademia Music Award: “Game Changer” awarded Best Experimental Rock Song, highlighting PLB’s genre-defying creativity. Patrick marked this milestone with a genuine acceptance vlog, noting its personal significance in a career otherwise shaped by outsider status.
2019 CSU East Bay 40 Under 40 Hall of Fame: Patrick became the first Japanese-American male to receive this honor, symbolizing acceptance as both an artist and a barrier-breaking Asian-American musician.
Media and Industry Placement: Features in USA News, MUSIC PR Japan, Ascendant Magazine, and REDx Magazine; music licensed for TV in shows like The Man in the High Castle and White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch; public endorsements from figures such as wrestling legend Gail Kim.

PLB’s story has further fueled workshops and online panels advocating representation in rock music and the larger Asian-American creative community, making Patrick a vocal advocate for diversity in genres still struggling to shake old stereotypes.

Industry Endorsements and Community Recognition

PLB’s homegrown empire did not emerge in a vacuum. Notably, the band has been supported and amplified by music blogs, local record stores, and the global independent music community, especially in Japan. PLB’s albums have appeared in the “rock” section at San Francisco’s hallowed Amoeba Music, bridging the gap between local street recognition and international reach.

The Band’s Ethos, Resilience, and Legacy

If one theme unites all of PLB’s incarnations, it is the resolve to make meaning out of adversity. From ongoing struggles against racism and Asian-American invisibility in rock, to enduring the passing of Patrick’s mother in 2017, to frequent setbacks with unreliable collaborators or music industry roadblocks, PLB’s continued output stands as a testament to defiant creative survival.

DIY Empowerment: Patrick’s commitment to “turning limitation into liberation” defines PLB’s historical approach to gear, budgets, and marketing. Instead of chasing a record deal, Patrick doubled down on independent distribution, home studio upgrades, and nontraditional promotions.
Cultural Representation: As a mixed-race Asian-American in a rock world that has long marginalized nonwhite artists, Patrick both “sings from the soul” and advocates for the next generation of Asian and minority musicians striving for visibility and creative freedom.
Philosophical and Creative Identity: Having studied philosophy at CSU East Bay, Patrick’s lyrics often dig deeper than standard punk fare. Topics like astral projection, generational legacy, and cultural dislocation run throughout PLB’s more introspective body of work.

Even as Patrick retired the PLB name in July 2025, shifting focus to new projects, he continues to push musical boundaries, integrate new technologies (AI, virtual avatars, live-streaming infrastructure), and expand the notion of what it means to be “indie” in a post-genre, post-geographic age.

Conclusion

The Patrick Lew Band’s journey is far more than the sum of its songs, side projects, or virtual avatars. It is a story about taking the “outsider” narrative and flipping it into creative gold—a project that has, by necessity and vision, redefined what it means to be an indie artist in the 21st century. For fans of raw DIY punk and forward-thinking digital music, PLB’s discography and evolving constellation of side projects offer a roadmap for authenticity over polish, belonging over conventional success, and cultural representation as political (and personal) music.

Whether as the grungy bedroom band that could, the viral virtual act that did, or the ongoing digital entity inspiring misfits worldwide, PLB’s ongoing influence is certain: where independence, innovation, and identity collide, the Patrick Lew Band’s legacy will endure.

For streaming, exclusive releases, and digital vlogs, connect with Patrick Lew Band and Lewnatic on:

Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud, YouTube.
Instagram: @patricklewband and @lewnatic415
Linktree for PLB Essentials
Ongoing project updates and archival material at Top Music Japan and MUSIC PR Japan.

This biography was compiled from a broad range of digital archives, interviews, press features, and personal narratives, representing the most authoritative and up-to-date account of the Patrick Lew Band and its global cultural footprint as of October 2025.