The folks at MangaCast have been lobbying US publishers to pick up Detroit Metal City for close to a year, so I’m guessing they’re pretty stoked to hear that Viz will be bringing it to the US in 2009. The premise sounds like a glorious mash-up of Dr. Jeckell and Mr. Hyde, This Is Spinal Tap, and KISS Meets the Phantom:

Now get ready for Krauzer, the crude and lewd vocalist/guitarist of the three-piece death metal band Detroit Metal City (or DMC). With long blonde locks, devilish make-up, and a KISS-inspired outfit, Krauzer terrorizes the stage with his crass lyrics and stage presence that riles the crowd up in a frenzy. Once the live show is over, Krauzer takes off the wig and makeup and returns to the world as Negishi Souichi, a 23-year old ronin with a music degree and a dream of starting a Swedish Pop band. As Souichi, he’s a mild-mannered, somewhat weak-willed young man who just wants a normal life. As Krauzer, he’s a foul-mouthed, solo-busting guitar master who controls a throng of fans at his will and command. He’s not to particularly proud of his alter ego, and keeps his identity as Krauzer hidden from everyone.

Click here to read more about the series and get a sneak peek at the artwork.