beni

I was worried about doing this by myself due to what Keiyuu and hyura have talked about. So I'd like to just defend my choices seeing as I'll only regret not trying.
 
 
I mean early when I said late. This is because, not only did I personally see this by their attire they used to wear in the beginning of their career, but also various articles have used them as this particular subgenre mostly. As I've always said, a lot of bands will fit into more than just one subgenre, since bands usually change their style and sound over time. So I decided on using band examples most people will known about. Ones which might not be the most obvious choice to those with a lot more knowledge on this, but popular enough ones everyone would be able to have in their minds when reading the list, since pictures weren't included. I already knew others would most likey disagree, but I purposely made the descriptions short and to the point so that it was simple and quick to read. I was expecting everyone'd know which their favourites would fit into so even if I left out quite a bit of info and options, I hoped it'd be acceptable instead of a long ass list of every subgenre there is. That's why I kept the option 'other' in so everyone can have a say if they disagree.
 
 
Tanbi was one I had never seen before but I put it in their anyway because that was the definition of 'renaissance Europe influenced' which I thought is very popular. And because this ties in with the acts around Mana's and Versailles' work, I felt like it'd be wrong to not have it in. So I just grouped them, thinking that'd be easier for everyone. I've only realised now that maybe I was looking into the visual styles more, so I apologise for that. However, I did do research before doing this and I found loads of subgenres I've never even heard of, and ones where it had a different meaning each time since articles contradicted one another, making it difficult to 'hit the nail on the head.' Take Koteosa Kei as an example of this; one article said that the GazettE was this type of band. I decided to keep it simple with what I went with since I was confused with this one, so went for saying it's the darker version of Oshare Kei, which it can be described as. And as I said above with using bands which aren't exactly the most obvious choice for the subgenre, I picked bands I thought were well known here so it was easier to visualize and understand. I agree LUNA SEA fits into the Kurofuku Kei, and the Nagoya Kei have better band examples as you've said. I was even going to use LUNA SEA and deadman at one point. There's just a lot to cover and in a rather short time too. Just wanted to make it simple for a poll but I guess there's a lot to talk about with it so I'm actually happy about that. About Dir En Grey, I probably got mixed up thinking of their style, but I would say they looked old school at first. I just went with what I had thought if the articles agreed, which seems to disagree with each other so I tried my best with being clear. I tried.

Hello everyone, (●・ω・●）
I'm new here ! I'm Visual Kei since 2009. I also like Anime, Manga, Harajuku Fashion and J-Pop.
（´∀｀☆） how to add an avatar/Photo here ~
I'm a hug Fan of: Grieva, Avanchick, Arlequin, X-Japan, hide, Dir en Grey, An Cafe etc.
ヾ(＠⌒ー⌒＠)ノ
If you like to talk about anything, just write me.
Yours, 大崎坊★

Artist: TK from 凛として時雨 Single: Fantastic Magic Score: Fantastic Magic? You bet it is!
TK from 凛として時雨(Rin Toshite Shigure), male vocalist of said band, presents his second solo album titled Fantastic Magic. 凛として時雨 and TK’s solo works are indie rock and alternative, but both units also utilize the genre of shoegaze, making them incredibly interesting. As TK breaks away for a solo effort from his band formed way back in 2002, he successfully creates a wild and dramatic ride sure to please all our musical needs.

The album starts with “Fantastic Magic.” Our ears are exposed to thrashing drums and quick piano keys playing along to strumming of guitars along with TK’s whimsical vocals calling out to us between the pauses. As soon as the song’s in full flow, it’s a manic musical racecourse, building up to the chorus where we hear TK’s sincerest shouts we’ve been waiting for. The single “unravel,” featured as the opening for anime Tokyo Ghoul is up next, the song many listeners look for. It gets any listener pumped up for what’s coming next. Thanks to the cluster of violins, drums and guitars playing together, and the emotional drive of TK’s helpless tone, “unravel” is a gripping song. Along with the tuneful build up to the end, we’re hit by TK’s desperate shrieks after the first chorus. Not only is it fitting for the anime tie-in, it’s a perfect fit to TK’s signature musical style with the mixture of high and low vocalisation, creating a quick, pulse-racing track.

Being a more beat oriented track, “kalei de scope” builds up tension and the emotional chaos is slowed down. The tiny taps of piano with small segments of drum beats, guitar strings, and electric beats all mix into a mesmerizing piece of music. The abrupt end makes you want more. “an artist” contrasts with previous tracks, sounding far more hopeful. TK doesn’t raise much of his voice in the song and it’s is definitely the calming point of the album. With piano backing the band, its melody is enchanting. In small sections, the music may completely halt so we can only hear TK’s echoing, breathy vocals. This creates a haunting tone, never stopping in dragging the listener in.

TK’s tone in “tokio” is just as emotionally breath-taking as his shrieks. He captures us, being entrapped and torn by his vocal work. An impressive acoustic track, it shows us just how emotional his unique voice is. A piano is used throughout this song which continues into the upcoming track. The stunning ballad “Shinkiro” features the equally child-like, innocent sounding singer Chara. The track is distinctive because of the added vocals and emotions. The fluid sounds of acoustic guitar, drums and bass doesn’t make the song overbearing or sleep inducing. The imperfection of both vocalists’ voices creates a modest and honest song which is chilling to the bone. There’s a sense of gentleness and warmth with the duo of sweet sounding voices.

The album version of “Dramatic Slow Motion” now begins to refill the tank after the few resting tracks, which is a thrilling ride, effectively building up throughout by the instrumental involvement to create a dramatic and racing tune that delivers an electrical current until the end. “Spiral Parade” is instantly a toe tapping number. Catchy and addicting. This track welcomes you to dance while rocking out. TK keeps his unique tune as the violin playing within the chorus adds another layer of chaos below the electronic beats and taps. The louder the music gets, the more instruments become involved, including random piano keys playing and steady beats from a drum.

TK takes on another soothing song, entitled “fragile.” The track is just as atmospheric as the ballads beforehand. What can now be noticed is how strained TK’s voice can be when he sings in a lower tone. This may put many listeners off the acoustic/ballad sounding tracks due to how piercing it can be. However, that’s where the source of magic can be most noticed. The irregularity of TK’s vocals creates the much needed melancholic feeling. “contrast” mashes various pieces of instruments very smoothly to create a tuneful closing. Starting off with only the piano, it quickly becomes very pleasing to listen to. We’re given everything TK’s offered us throughout the album in this final track alone. It’s atmospheric in the verses and bridges then energetic as soon as the chorus hits us. And when it does, it’s stunning. The instruments play harmonically together into a dramatic finish and TK’s vocals never slip up. It’s very worthy of being the album closer.

In conclusion, what we have here is a gem. Listeners who haven’t given a shot at the genre should definitely give TK a listen. His individuality and uniqueness is expressed wonderfully and definitely deserving of more attention. Because of how the tracks are ordered, various songs contrast effectively with one another. While my personal preference disagrees with the placement of “fragile,” the ‘problem’ many may be turned off by is TK’s vocals in the slower songs. However, the tranquility of each and every song deserves recognition. It’s ‘Fantastic Magic.’

Artist: TK from 凛として時雨 Single: Fantastic Magic Score: Fantastic Magic? You bet it is!
TK from 凛として時雨(Rin Toshite Shigure), male vocalist of said band, presents his second solo album titled Fantastic Magic. 凛として時雨 and TK’s solo works are indie rock and alternative, but both units also utilize the genre of shoegaze, making them incredibly interesting. As TK breaks away for a solo effort from his band formed way back in 2002, he successfully creates a wild and dramatic ride sure to please all our musical needs.

The album starts with “Fantastic Magic.” Our ears are exposed to thrashing drums and quick piano keys playing along to strumming of guitars along with TK’s whimsical vocals calling out to us between the pauses. As soon as the song’s in full flow, it’s a manic musical racecourse, building up to the chorus where we hear TK’s sincerest shouts we’ve been waiting for. The single “unravel,” featured as the opening for anime Tokyo Ghoul is up next, the song many listeners look for. It gets any listener pumped up for what’s coming next. Thanks to the cluster of violins, drums and guitars playing together, and the emotional drive of TK’s helpless tone, “unravel” is a gripping song. Along with the tuneful build up to the end, we’re hit by TK’s desperate shrieks after the first chorus. Not only is it fitting for the anime tie-in, it’s a perfect fit to TK’s signature musical style with the mixture of high and low vocalisation, creating a quick, pulse-racing track.

Being a more beat oriented track, “kalei de scope” builds up tension and the emotional chaos is slowed down. The tiny taps of piano with small segments of drum beats, guitar strings, and electric beats all mix into a mesmerizing piece of music. The abrupt end makes you want more. “an artist” contrasts with previous tracks, sounding far more hopeful. TK doesn’t raise much of his voice in the song and it’s is definitely the calming point of the album. With piano backing the band, its melody is enchanting. In small sections, the music may completely halt so we can only hear TK’s echoing, breathy vocals. This creates a haunting tone, never stopping in dragging the listener in.

TK’s tone in “tokio” is just as emotionally breath-taking as his shrieks. He captures us, being entrapped and torn by his vocal work. An impressive acoustic track, it shows us just how emotional his unique voice is. A piano is used throughout this song which continues into the upcoming track. The stunning ballad “Shinkiro” features the equally child-like, innocent sounding singer Chara. The track is distinctive because of the added vocals and emotions. The fluid sounds of acoustic guitar, drums and bass doesn’t make the song overbearing or sleep inducing. The imperfection of both vocalists’ voices creates a modest and honest song which is chilling to the bone. There’s a sense of gentleness and warmth with the duo of sweet sounding voices.

The album version of “Dramatic Slow Motion” now begins to refill the tank after the few resting tracks, which is a thrilling ride, effectively building up throughout by the instrumental involvement to create a dramatic and racing tune that delivers an electrical current until the end. “Spiral Parade” is instantly a toe tapping number. Catchy and addicting. This track welcomes you to dance while rocking out. TK keeps his unique tune as the violin playing within the chorus adds another layer of chaos below the electronic beats and taps. The louder the music gets, the more instruments become involved, including random piano keys playing and steady beats from a drum.

TK takes on another soothing song, entitled “fragile.” The track is just as atmospheric as the ballads beforehand. What can now be noticed is how strained TK’s voice can be when he sings in a lower tone. This may put many listeners off the acoustic/ballad sounding tracks due to how piercing it can be. However, that’s where the source of magic can be most noticed. The irregularity of TK’s vocals creates the much needed melancholic feeling. “contrast” mashes various pieces of instruments very smoothly to create a tuneful closing. Starting off with only the piano, it quickly becomes very pleasing to listen to. We’re given everything TK’s offered us throughout the album in this final track alone. It’s atmospheric in the verses and bridges then energetic as soon as the chorus hits us. And when it does, it’s stunning. The instruments play harmonically together into a dramatic finish and TK’s vocals never slip up. It’s very worthy of being the album closer.

In conclusion, what we have here is a gem. Listeners who haven’t given a shot at the genre should definitely give TK a listen. His individuality and uniqueness is expressed wonderfully and definitely deserving of more attention. Because of how the tracks are ordered, various songs contrast effectively with one another. While my personal preference disagrees with the placement of “fragile,” the ‘problem’ many may be turned off by is TK’s vocals in the slower songs. However, the tranquility of each and every song deserves recognition. It’s ‘Fantastic Magic.’

Artist: TK from 凛として時雨 Single: Fantastic Magic Score: Fantastic Magic? You bet it is!
TK from 凛として時雨(Rin Toshite Shigure), male vocalist of said band, presents his second solo album titled Fantastic Magic. 凛として時雨 and TK’s solo works are indie rock and alternative, but both units also utilize the genre of shoegaze, making them incredibly interesting. As TK breaks away for a solo effort from his band formed way back in 2002, he successfully creates a wild and dramatic ride sure to please all our musical needs.

The album starts with “Fantastic Magic.” Our ears are exposed to thrashing drums and quick piano keys playing along to strumming of guitars along with TK’s whimsical vocals calling out to us between the pauses. As soon as the song’s in full flow, it’s a manic musical racecourse, building up to the chorus where we hear TK’s sincerest shouts we’ve been waiting for. The single “unravel,” featured as the opening for anime Tokyo Ghoul is up next, the song many listeners look for. It gets any listener pumped up for what’s coming next. Thanks to the cluster of violins, drums and guitars playing together, and the emotional drive of TK’s helpless tone, “unravel” is a gripping song. Along with the tuneful build up to the end, we’re hit by TK’s desperate shrieks after the first chorus. Not only is it fitting for the anime tie-in, it’s a perfect fit to TK’s signature musical style with the mixture of high and low vocalisation, creating a quick, pulse-racing track.

Being a more beat oriented track, “kalei de scope” builds up tension and the emotional chaos is slowed down. The tiny taps of piano with small segments of drum beats, guitar strings, and electric beats all mix into a mesmerizing piece of music. The abrupt end makes you want more. “an artist” contrasts with previous tracks, sounding far more hopeful. TK doesn’t raise much of his voice in the song and it’s is definitely the calming point of the album. With piano backing the band, its melody is enchanting. In small sections, the music may completely halt so we can only hear TK’s echoing, breathy vocals. This creates a haunting tone, never stopping in dragging the listener in.

TK’s tone in “tokio” is just as emotionally breath-taking as his shrieks. He captures us, being entrapped and torn by his vocal work. An impressive acoustic track, it shows us just how emotional his unique voice is. A piano is used throughout this song which continues into the upcoming track. The stunning ballad “Shinkiro” features the equally child-like, innocent sounding singer Chara. The track is distinctive because of the added vocals and emotions. The fluid sounds of acoustic guitar, drums and bass doesn’t make the song overbearing or sleep inducing. The imperfection of both vocalists’ voices creates a modest and honest song which is chilling to the bone. There’s a sense of gentleness and warmth with the duo of sweet sounding voices.

The album version of “Dramatic Slow Motion” now begins to refill the tank after the few resting tracks, which is a thrilling ride, effectively building up throughout by the instrumental involvement to create a dramatic and racing tune that delivers an electrical current until the end. “Spiral Parade” is instantly a toe tapping number. Catchy and addicting. This track welcomes you to dance while rocking out. TK keeps his unique tune as the violin playing within the chorus adds another layer of chaos below the electronic beats and taps. The louder the music gets, the more instruments become involved, including random piano keys playing and steady beats from a drum.

TK takes on another soothing song, entitled “fragile.” The track is just as atmospheric as the ballads beforehand. What can now be noticed is how strained TK’s voice can be when he sings in a lower tone. This may put many listeners off the acoustic/ballad sounding tracks due to how piercing it can be. However, that’s where the source of magic can be most noticed. The irregularity of TK’s vocals creates the much needed melancholic feeling. “contrast” mashes various pieces of instruments very smoothly to create a tuneful closing. Starting off with only the piano, it quickly becomes very pleasing to listen to. We’re given everything TK’s offered us throughout the album in this final track alone. It’s atmospheric in the verses and bridges then energetic as soon as the chorus hits us. And when it does, it’s stunning. The instruments play harmonically together into a dramatic finish and TK’s vocals never slip up. It’s very worthy of being the album closer.

In conclusion, what we have here is a gem. Listeners who haven’t given a shot at the genre should definitely give TK a listen. His individuality and uniqueness is expressed wonderfully and definitely deserving of more attention. Because of how the tracks are ordered, various songs contrast effectively with one another. While my personal preference disagrees with the placement of “fragile,” the ‘problem’ many may be turned off by is TK’s vocals in the slower songs. However, the tranquility of each and every song deserves recognition. It’s ‘Fantastic Magic.’

Artist: TK from 凛として時雨 Single: Fantastic Magic Score: Fantastic Magic? You bet it is!
TK from 凛として時雨(Rin Toshite Shigure), male vocalist of said band, presents his second solo album titled Fantastic Magic. 凛として時雨 and TK’s solo works are indie rock and alternative, but both units also utilize the genre of shoegaze, making them incredibly interesting. As TK breaks away for a solo effort from his band formed way back in 2002, he successfully creates a wild and dramatic ride sure to please all our musical needs.

The album starts with “Fantastic Magic.” Our ears are exposed to thrashing drums and quick piano keys playing along to strumming of guitars along with TK’s whimsical vocals calling out to us between the pauses. As soon as the song’s in full flow, it’s a manic musical racecourse, building up to the chorus where we hear TK’s sincerest shouts we’ve been waiting for. The single “unravel,” featured as the opening for anime Tokyo Ghoul is up next, the song many listeners look for. It gets any listener pumped up for what’s coming next. Thanks to the cluster of violins, drums and guitars playing together, and the emotional drive of TK’s helpless tone, “unravel” is a gripping song. Along with the tuneful build up to the end, we’re hit by TK’s desperate shrieks after the first chorus. Not only is it fitting for the anime tie-in, it’s a perfect fit to TK’s signature musical style with the mixture of high and low vocalisation, creating a quick, pulse-racing track.

Being a more beat oriented track, “kalei de scope” builds up tension and the emotional chaos is slowed down. The tiny taps of piano with small segments of drum beats, guitar strings, and electric beats all mix into a mesmerizing piece of music. The abrupt end makes you want more. “an artist” contrasts with previous tracks, sounding far more hopeful. TK doesn’t raise much of his voice in the song and it’s is definitely the calming point of the album. With piano backing the band, its melody is enchanting. In small sections, the music may completely halt so we can only hear TK’s echoing, breathy vocals. This creates a haunting tone, never stopping in dragging the listener in.

TK’s tone in “tokio” is just as emotionally breath-taking as his shrieks. He captures us, being entrapped and torn by his vocal work. An impressive acoustic track, it shows us just how emotional his unique voice is. A piano is used throughout this song which continues into the upcoming track. The stunning ballad “Shinkiro” features the equally child-like, innocent sounding singer Chara. The track is distinctive because of the added vocals and emotions. The fluid sounds of acoustic guitar, drums and bass doesn’t make the song overbearing or sleep inducing. The imperfection of both vocalists’ voices creates a modest and honest song which is chilling to the bone. There’s a sense of gentleness and warmth with the duo of sweet sounding voices.

The album version of “Dramatic Slow Motion” now begins to refill the tank after the few resting tracks, which is a thrilling ride, effectively building up throughout by the instrumental involvement to create a dramatic and racing tune that delivers an electrical current until the end. “Spiral Parade” is instantly a toe tapping number. Catchy and addicting. This track welcomes you to dance while rocking out. TK keeps his unique tune as the violin playing within the chorus adds another layer of chaos below the electronic beats and taps. The louder the music gets, the more instruments become involved, including random piano keys playing and steady beats from a drum.

TK takes on another soothing song, entitled “fragile.” The track is just as atmospheric as the ballads beforehand. What can now be noticed is how strained TK’s voice can be when he sings in a lower tone. This may put many listeners off the acoustic/ballad sounding tracks due to how piercing it can be. However, that’s where the source of magic can be most noticed. The irregularity of TK’s vocals creates the much needed melancholic feeling. “contrast” mashes various pieces of instruments very smoothly to create a tuneful closing. Starting off with only the piano, it quickly becomes very pleasing to listen to. We’re given everything TK’s offered us throughout the album in this final track alone. It’s atmospheric in the verses and bridges then energetic as soon as the chorus hits us. And when it does, it’s stunning. The instruments play harmonically together into a dramatic finish and TK’s vocals never slip up. It’s very worthy of being the album closer.

In conclusion, what we have here is a gem. Listeners who haven’t given a shot at the genre should definitely give TK a listen. His individuality and uniqueness is expressed wonderfully and definitely deserving of more attention. Because of how the tracks are ordered, various songs contrast effectively with one another. While my personal preference disagrees with the placement of “fragile,” the ‘problem’ many may be turned off by is TK’s vocals in the slower songs. However, the tranquility of each and every song deserves recognition. It’s ‘Fantastic Magic.’

You're right on that. Mana's not involved with her anymore.
 
And HELL TO THE YES. I love her too much, this is awesome news! =D

I must admit, MEJIBRAY's ballads are my favourite tracks by them. EMILY and Anemone are too beautiful. 

I must admit, MEJIBRAY's ballads are my favourite tracks by them. EMILY and Anemone are too beautiful. 

^
True that, not sure if anyone knows there's an artist topic for MEJIBRAY here.... 
we should make that topic lively again though ;3

I love you for this. xD 
 
 
Literally how I'd put it. Fans should never determine whether or not you should listen to a band. Sure, some fanbases can be a bit too manic or rude, but that's the case with everything including music. But it's not like that everywhere, and it can always be avoided. If you feel you can't enjoy a certain artist because of fans, I think you're listening to music wrongly.

No Shave November!

Their single Hanabi has my hopes raised. It's the same style as VZ with it's an original composition and not a rearrangement. They're so consistent that it's hard to pick up on the differences between the two. Plus, for a band that's not strictly visual kei they excel at having music and visuals that complement one another.
 

 
If their second album is as solid as their first, we might have a force to be reckoned with on our hands.

You should try the original The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. I love it and can't stand any of the new remakes. It's got a pretty different feeling to it.
 
"Fun" fact: I used to hate The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and thought it was just screaming without any real substance. This was something like 12-13 years ago. That changed with time though, and now I adore the film.
 
 
And both Scream and ESPECIALLY The Exorcist are fantastic films. The Exorcist does pretty much everything right. Brilliant film! Even the original, banned trailer is beyond cool. Had I seen this trailer at the cinema when I was around 13-16 years old I would seriously have shat my pants and left right away. It's that awesome:
 

It's time to show my face... After years lurking here...
 

 
That photo taken in April 2014 and I just realize how rare I am taking picture of myself...

I was also thinking of Denshi Kei when reading -k∆-'s text. can't believe I forgot electro ones -.- Too many subgenres doh.
 
 
Both shironuri and piko piko kei are new to me. The latter sounds way too cute. : 3

I was also thinking of Denshi Kei when reading -k∆-'s text. can't believe I forgot electro ones -.- Too many subgenres doh.
 
 
Both shironuri and piko piko kei are new to me. The latter sounds way too cute. : 3

Hey! I'm Matt..I'm from England and I've liked Visual Kei and J-Rock for ages now. I'm character artist/concept artist by day, I play many video games and I'm new here so yeah hey!

I feel like having my nickname as 'banana' now after certain users have noted of the resemblance. xp
(Upset about the above happenings so I try to say anything else ><)

It snowed here so I took a snow selfie. Not as goofy as last year's : P
 

Most recent snap. A bit more femme/cute than usual, but it was fun.
 

Being generous with a full-body picture.

They decided to hold a party in a club to celebrate Ko-ki's birthday, where they would play as DJ.
Well, first the fans had troubles to get in because of their ages (they didnt say anything about it before start selling tickets) and also the police went there.
 
After the members played in a relllllllllly boring way , and they all got drunk and got crazy. They weren't nice with the fans and just wanted to flirt with their gurls in front of the fans.
So everyone was like "did i pay for this shit?" "its okay to have a private life, get drunk and flirt around but why invite fans to see that?" "i didnt want to see the members like this"
Result, 80% of the ppl there left ViViD fanbase (which wasnt big recently) so i wonder how they'll leave this situation now.
 
Im not accusing them or anything, just heard that this tour wasnt selling well so it sounded like a  coincidence to me.

It's more a term than an actual genre, but if you talk to someone who's into horror, they'l know what torture porn is and they'll be able to mention a few films within that "genre". And yes, there's people out there who love watching violence, blood and gore, and I am one of them. But I don't like everything just because it's got blood and gore. I really like some of the Saw films, really dislike a few of them. Hate the Hostel films, DESPISE A Serbian Film and so on. But I can mention more sick films I enjoy, than dislike. I'm a sucker for it, both the realistic stuff as well as unrealistic stuff.
 
 
I love brutally bloody violence, gore and whatnot on the screen, and I love MMA (fighting) and such as well. But when it comes to real life violence (aka violence where there's no doctors to take the call, no ref to tell them what's OK and what's wrong and so on) I'm not a fan at all. Can't stand that. Seeing people fight when going out a saturday night properly disgusts me. But when it comes to film it really can't get gory or bloody enough for me.

Artist: MY FIRST STORY Album: 虚言NEUROSE Score: Blazing your own trail isn't all it's cracked up to be. It seems MY FIRST STORY have had a solid increase in popularity over the short amount of time they've been a band. In 2011 members of the piano-pop outfit fromus joined forces Hiroki Moriuchi and formed an alternative-rock powerhouse. 虚言NEUROSE (Kyogen NEUROSE) is their third full length album and shows a solid change in the band's direction taking shape.

It's a nice that the first track "monologue" pays homage to the piano-centric compositions from the band's early days. Soon electronic elements creep in and the intro builds on itself until it blends seamlessly into the title track, "虚言NEUROSE". This song is a high energy crowd-pleaser with open power chords and more atmospheric synth. It breaks down into small haunting piano interludes that are the dynamic strength of the track. Sadly, the song ends up being forgettable and blends into about 10 other similar tunes in my memory if I try to recall anything specific about it afterwards. Further down the tracklist, "ROOM" has more personality in spades and the guitar riff has a quirky bounce to it that leaves it stuck in your brain. The song has a focused electricity to it that would make it perfect for anyone looking for driving music. And each part of it feels necessary to make the energy climb sky high. Even Hiroki's scream, while it's the same wild animalistic cry we got in "虚言NEUROSE" was called for and it didn't cut in like some abrupt interruption. "ROOM" felt more like MY FIRST STORY's version of what is popular right now, and not cloning someone else's version of it.

 
The album holds a few solid tunes with hints of old school flair that die-hard fans should enjoy, "If I Am.." defines the 'classic' MY FIRST STORY sound while letting the drums take center stage, even riding the fine line of overpowering the vocals at points. The band should explore more of this sound. The simple, stripped down style suits them and shows off the side of them that people fell in love with on their self titled album. "Someday" picks up where "If I Am..." left off and returns to the band's signature style. Drums continue to be the driving force only this time they are armed with electronics and a more intricate vocal melody. The passionate feeling in the vocals steals the show and reveals that Hiroki does have an impressive vocal range. The band took some risks and it's always nice to hear an expansion of their sound. "CHiLD -error-" opens with a monster drum line and plays with some punk influences in skank beats and three chord progressions on guitar. Their experimentation pays off because they didn't over-complicate it. I braced myself for a train wreck but "CHiLD -error-" stays the coarse and ends up being one of my favorites on the album.

 
On the other hand some songs fell flat and came far too close to ONE OK ROCK territory. I would consider this the most glaring flaw on 虚言NEUROSE. It's hard enough not to have comparison based on the Moriuchi brothers' similar voices, but in a perfect world that is where the comparisons would end. MY FIRST STORY is encroaching on a style ONE OK ROCK is already famous for. It's a bad move any way you slice it. The most disappointing of all were promotional tracks like "Black Rail" and "Fake" that were sent out to define this album and end up sounding like tired, cliché filler. This was exacerbated by bad tracklist placement. "Drive Me" and "Monochrome effector" came up short. While both had cool intros that stood out, the songs themselves didn't deliver and rested on the band's laurels with dull compositions. "Zero Gravity" is the summit of this album and harbors full-tilt screamed verses with fervent guitar-heavy aggression supporting it. The song has an unusual layering effect where the sung choruses have lower volume screams behind them that do not blend very well. It leaves me confused as to what direction they wanted to go or if it was simply a bad experiment. The song has another identity crisis soon after that and takes on an EDM(-ish) section that then tries to marry all three elements together and fails, leaving this album's climax rather anti-climactic.

 
The band themselves are adept musicians. The changes in their writing style shows they have the ability to grow and evolve as necessary. They can play a multitude of styles well. Now, this bias may be defined by my musical taste from an American perspective, but a band having it's own musical identity is a big part of what makes them worth listening to. 虚言NEUROSE has a few songs that I would recommend, but mostly it's a letdown. There's far too much filler and the songs that give them their own identity play second fiddle to other songs that resemble what other bands, much too close to home, already do better. MY FIRST STORY are a relatively young band, and they have a lot of time left to find themselves. I hope this album ends up as an experimental addition to their catalog and not a transitional one. Continuing down this path will only place them in an already overcrowded cannibalistic market that lets the trends define them instead of creating those trends.