beni

The way you have to look at this is....
 

Too many attractive people here, and then.. there's me.
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First time with selfie/make-up and showing myself on here, outcome = fail. xD (Super blurred too, sorry and hair isn't done at all >.<)

Artist: ユナイト (UNiTE.) Single: レヴ (Rev) / ice Score: Armed with a new drummer, UNiTE. returns with a brand-new single!
Earlier this year, UNiTE. lost longtime drummer Yukimi to chronic back problems. Having been a member since the days of キャンゼル (Canzel), the ex-band of three UNiTE. members, he will be missed. With new drummer Sana (ex-EVE's Yoshi), UNiTE.’s 6th single レヴ / ice marks a new beginning. So how does Sana compare to Yukimi? Well, it's a bit early to say, but one thing's for certain: he's more into showmanship. If you watch the Rev PV, you'll see he plays his instrument about 35% of the time and spends the remainder of the time flailing his drumsticks around! But in all seriousness, his drumming has more of a robust sound and he already uses more double bass than Yukimi ever did. I'm looking forward to seeing how his future compositions compare to Yukimi's!

The single opens up with Rev, composed by guitarist Mio. Dark, ominous synth lines lead into an explosion of chuggy riffs one wouldn’t expect from a group of sparkling VK boys. Prepare to headbang! There’s an interesting rhythm that produces a sense of momentum-- almost a “rev"ving effect. While the initial part of the verse features some clunky Engrish lyrics, it is followed by much smoother, groovier pre-chorus, punctuated by light-as-air synths that squeak their way to the surface of the dense soundscape. This has to be my favorite section of the song. While the chorus is indeed catchy, it's not poppy to the point of disrupting the song-- something you can't say about many of the band's contemporaries. After the second verse, the song slows down for a dose of atmospheric synths and twangy guitar notes, before going into a guitar solo variation of the intro riffs and finishing out with one more blissful chorus. The keyboard outro might be a bit out of place, but it does help to tie the song to UNiTE.’s more typical style. Not to mention, Mio's synth arrangements are always a pleasure. Barring the Engrish, there’s strong vocals throughout the track by Yui. I can see Rev becoming one of the band’s premier “heavy” songs, so for this track, I suggest cranking the volume up to 11 and letting it blast!

Right away, fans can identify ice as the work of none other than guitarist LiN. Solidifying his reputation as the band’s quirkiest composer, this track stands out, vocally and musically. Of note from Yui, there’s a striking “itadakimasu” intro, a funky falsetto section (it’s not written in the lyrics, but is that English?), and a fast spoken word section reminiscent of oldschool VK. The song is very bass-driven and adds to the urgent, dancey beat. There’s also a slight spooky-tinge that recalls LiN’s classic B-side Love_Duck_Core_Nothing. “Squealing” pre-chorus guitar notes and a creepy “scratchy” fret board effect during that spoken word section are among the commendable moments of tight guitar work; this song outperforms Rev on a technical level. If you're not feeling the song, at least give the video a quick watch. It’s a contender for one of the best VK PVs this year! Just in time for Halloween!
The final track, 君は知らない (Kimi wa shiranai), is written by Shiina Mio. Keen fans (and eagle-eyed readers) will know that this is a “different” composer than for Rev. In fact, Shiina Mio is in general responsible for softer, poppier tracks, while the Mio “persona” takes over for the heavier, darker tracks. What’s most remarkable about this song is the prominence of acoustic guitar, which hasn’t shown up enough in the band’s repertoire. As soon as the first verse begins, one of the band’s signature traits appears in full force: ADD technical riffing. No other pop-rock band I know features such prevalent guitar work, but Shiina Mio and LiN will not stand for simple power chords. Instead, they trade off notes, go up and down scales, and show off with other riffing shenanigans. It's what makes UNiTE. stand out to me, but some listeners might be turned off by such unrelenting riffs. Yui delivers an emotional and sweet vocal performance, fit for this type of ballad. While the most conventional of the three tracks, Kimi wa shiranai is a welcome acoustic variation of the band's core sound.
With the double A-side Rev / ice, UNiTE. gained a new drummer and churned out three new songs. So what is the result? Is it “rev”olutionary? I wouldn’t go that far, but it is one of their best singles to date. As a maxi-single, there isn’t much concern about cohesion, so the band uses the three tracks to exhibit three wildly different styles – and they do quite well in all three! I’ve been looping the single for the past few weeks and each song offers something to keep me coming back. While I would say ice is my personal favorite (I'm a LiN fanboy, what can I say?), last.fm tells me that I've listened to Rev the most! Because of the variety and quality of the songs here, the single serves as an excellent starting point for new listeners. So if you’ve been sleeping on UNiTE., now’s the perfect time to give them a chance!
What did you think about the single?

I see! Rentrer and Lolita were nice! If you liked the latter, I totally recommend the bassist's solo project (where he sings instead of playing bass) WING WORKS. Super-fun stuff, like:
 

Hello everyone !

I’m new to this forum, and I think that the best way to start is to present myself.
I’m eiheart, a 27 yo french girl (aka now you know why I talk like shit 8D I’m working on it tho), and I’m back on the VK ship. I started listening to VK in 06’-07’ or something, and I left in 2009 (I remember the last song that I’ve heard and found good was LEECH from gazetto). I left because I was “bored” of the scene (some of my favourites was disbanded tho), I’ve totally lost interest, I needed to see others horizons. But I fell again (with gazetto, how ironic is that XD I’ve heard that DIVISION was their best effort to date, so I’ve decided to give it a try, it was a good surprise and I re-discover my love for their music and all that I've missed). So I came back and take a look at the new scene.
I’m listening a lot of music from all horizons and style, I don’t stick on the azn side (I am not this kind of person nor a fangirl). You can take a look at my last.fm (and you can add me if you wish, you’re very welcome).
I can also participe to the dl section, by uploading my own stuff (oldies of course xD but maybe some can be interested ).
I think it’s all for the moment. If you have questions, don’t hesitate.
Bye 
 

 
(i hope my english wasn't so appalling   )

I thought DIRTY OLD MEN was a really unique and funny name. I gave them a listen ages ago and loved the thought of saying 'hey mama, listen to this track by DIRTY OLD MEN.' xD Yeah, I'll miss that aha. 
 
Every comment in this is golden. <3

Gangsta shows an effort and originality that I really feel was largely absent in their last batch of releases (excluding Bleach). The band actually used some kind of brain power while composing these songs and while, yes its not the greatest thing ever but its very noteworthy. The highlights that showed that for me were GESSHOKU, TOKYO GYPSY, and WELCOME TO THE UNDERGROUND. I found those particular tracks as well as a few others to be fun, right amount or heavy and melodic(...?). The last time I really felt that way about releases they dropped were Master of Romance and COLD BLOOD. It was also nice listening to Gangsta and not being able to say "oh that sounds a lot like" or "(insert band) did that already)."
I understand that a lot of people felt that this album was all over the place and repetitive at times but in hindsight, I could over look that and really appreciate it just for the simple fact that it sounds Genuine and not to try hard. Sorry, I tried not to repeat what I said in the review thread and be as clear as possible.

I might be late but since it's today.. o.o I know that being around the same girls can mean we'd synchronize when our periods start.. at least I was told that (I am VERY gullible). But this is super weird and slightly cool for some reason might I just add. Also weird that I'm actually talking about such a thing. O.O I'm just an awkward potato.

Agreed. Having read through the thread, I was afraid I'd be the only one to say I didn't dislike it. Of course, there's a few songs I much prefer over others (TOKYO GYPSY is my favourite track and I have a thing for Engrish singing so GESSHOKU is fab xD) and I agree with the majority too when I say it's clearly not their best release. I haven't listened to all their songs, only most of their older songs once or twice, but overall, it just sounds like a change of style a bit and it's always a breath of fresh air when that happens with bands I think. As I quoted above from Hellion, it does sound like there is 'actual originality' in this piece compared to their other albums. Then again, I'll listen to literally anything and enjoy it! It's a fun album, it really is in my opinion. I guess another factor as to why I liked it was because I was prepared for the worst after having read comments and reviews of it hah. So yeah, I'm actually not disappointed since I was expecting, like, the worst. xD I keep repeating the opening, it's so funky and fun hah. This isn't a proper review lol sorry, just commenting as well. And I can agree with Furik about the 'misleading title.' Why GANGSTA, out of everything? Doesn't really fit the overall feel of the album I think.

Hey there, welcome!! Really glad sweetholm recommended the site so you could join! Always a pleasure and ohh, wow, cool, you're listened for quite some time. Awesome bands I see = awesome person I see.
Enjoy, all the best and take care.

First and for most: Not listening to an album simply because of a title and majority negative reviews is different levels of stupid. And I'll leave it at that.
 
So I've made it through a good chunk of the album to give a solid review on the album. I will start off by saying this, I do agree that naming the album Gangsta was probably one of the dumbest decisions ever. I don't get any of that gangsta aspect or feel while listening to this release. Or maybe its so subtitle that It hasn't caught my attention. As far as the everything else goes, I do stand by my status update in which i stated this is a strong contender for one of the best albums this year. Why? The musicianship. I admit that this release as a whole isn't anything spectacular or uber amazing but that aspect is something that I appreciate a lot. Madrigal De Maria was literally Uroboros part 2 and The Black Diamonds  and BLEACH were just a compilation of crap songs with zero to no effort put in (besides ROSARIO). Gangsta sounds like the band actually enjoyed writing these songs and they don't feel forced or try hard-ish. 
 
This is the album that should have came after COLD BLOOD because COLD BLOOD was also a great example of SADIE just being original and doing their thing. Gangsta is what Beautiful Deformity is to the GazettE. A step back into doing what they can do and excelling at it. The sad part is that even though I enjoy this release, I know SADIE will disappoint with the next few releases after. They really are an inconsistent band that hasn't yet figured out how to progress properly...and they probably never will. However, I'm pleased with this release. 
 
7.5/10

Agreed. Having read through the thread, I was afraid I'd be the only one to say I didn't dislike it. Of course, there's a few songs I much prefer over others (TOKYO GYPSY is my favourite track and I have a thing for Engrish singing so GESSHOKU is fab xD) and I agree with the majority too when I say it's clearly not their best release. I haven't listened to all their songs, only most of their older songs once or twice, but overall, it just sounds like a change of style a bit and it's always a breath of fresh air when that happens with bands I think. As I quoted above from Hellion, it does sound like there is 'actual originality' in this piece compared to their other albums. Then again, I'll listen to literally anything and enjoy it! It's a fun album, it really is in my opinion. I guess another factor as to why I liked it was because I was prepared for the worst after having read comments and reviews of it hah. So yeah, I'm actually not disappointed since I was expecting, like, the worst. xD I keep repeating the opening, it's so funky and fun hah. This isn't a proper review lol sorry, just commenting as well. And I can agree with Furik about the 'misleading title.' Why GANGSTA, out of everything? Doesn't really fit the overall feel of the album I think.

Artist: girugamesh EP: Gravitation Score: After a few years of borderline radio-friendly stagnation, Girugamesh have hit back with quite possibly their best release yet.
After a few years of borderline radio-friendly stagnation, Girugamesh have hit back with quite possibly their best release yet. Last year's Monster symbolised a beacon of hope for both fans and the band. The aggression was back, the heaviness was back, Girugamesh was back. Although steeped in pop-sensibilities at times, the album took a 180 from pop to electronic metalcore, leaving the burning wrecks of Now and Go far behind.

It's been a year since their last full-length Monster, and Gravitation not only keeps this reclaimed heaviness in place but polishes it to perfection. Kicking off with their hardest song to date, 'Go Ahead' lures you in with gentle tones before ripping your head off. Satoshi's transition from gentle crooning to terrifying growls, for example, are nothing short of frisson worthy. Having the rawest vocals, the hardest breakdown, and the most memorable chorus, this song characterises the EP and spearheads their new sound. As a song that can only be described with superlatives, 'Go Ahead' highlights how Gravitation has led the band to a new level of heaviness. This permeates throughout the EP. While 'Reflection' displays a hard metalcore influence, for instance, 'Vortex' goes beyond that, opting for a thrashy deathcore vibe; a massive departure from Go in many respects.

I thought it would let up at some point but the whole EP is like this; every time a lull in the intensity is expected, it continues its bombardment of chunky riffs and pleasantly incessant drumming. This is exemplified best in 'Reflection' where Satoshi tries to do some severe damage to his throat...in the best possible way. They could have included a slower, gentler track to give the listener a breather, but instead they opted for five heavy songs varying in loudness and intensity. The infectious electronic elements and catchy vocals which have characterised their more recent efforts are used to full effect here, modernising their previous sound and making each track as memorable as the last. All of these elements culminate in 'Vortex' which, replete with screams, riff-heavy guitar work and double-bass pedaling, is the best way to end Gravitation: in the same loud and exciting way in which it started, exuding a confidence not found on their older material. This is the Girugamesh we wanted after Music and the band sure as hell knows it.
 
By cramming everything their fans love about them into one neat package, Girugamesh has created their best effort yet. Contrary to more recent releases, the intensity and loudness of their old sound is back and better than ever. While taking a new form reflective of some current "-core" genres, classic Girugamesh permeates to the point where they might win their older fanbase back.

Upon listening to Gravitation it's clear that Girugamesh are back and louder, heavier and better than ever!

Holy signature. 

In for the head-tilt, though. And I suppose he only always looks the same to people who don't give him much thought. 
To me he always looks gorgeous.
 

Certainly not a dumb introduction!!...I mean, this thread is listed as "Hot!" !!  Not a bad start I'd say ()
 
Weclome, I feel your frustration.  No one around me is into this kind of music either.  Luckily I found MH as well, it's just the best forum, period!  I've been on some other music forums, and its just people talking crap to eachother.  MH actually is very supportive and nurturing to its userbase.

My minion jacked my selfie lol
 

As someone mentioned that i should write some more reviews im making this happen right here and right now .

Glory Hill is 4 piece Pop Punk band from Okazaki City in Aichi Prefecture . They are around from 2005 and as of today they released 7 singles , 2 mini albums and 4 albums as Indie Band and 2 singles and 1 album as Major Band . And that 1 album is the one im gonna review here . Released on 14th may this year , their first and debut album as Major Band called "Good Loser" .
Seriously i dont know where to start this review . The band did not change much from the Indie era , altough i have to say most songs have a little better compositions , they still the good old happy go lucky Pop Punk band but with a little bit of Melodic Hardcore touch here and there . The album opens up with "Now or Never!!" a freaking good song , fast , melodic , punkish , hell yeah very upbeat song , really good if you need some postivie energy , the song is the essence of this , not to mention this solo , ive heard a lot bands playing Pop Punk from Japan recently , but i did not heard a solo that would hit me that good . The next two songs , "Take my Word" and "Asterisk" , are very typical for this genre , melodic , happy sounding less aggressive than the opener , but still managing to deliver what this kind of music should deliver , a good positive vibe . Its worth to mention that "Asterisk" has parts sung in japanese , cause mostly they use the typical engrish thats well known by all listeners of japanese music , not to mention that this song reminds me of Flow . The 4th song called "Shut up and Dance" opens up with Disco beat than jumping into punkish riffs yet with some of the danceish vibe still staying in the song , the further in the album the more this starts sounding more like an american Pop Punk band .
I could go around writing about all the songs in this manner but it would take some time and im starting to get sleepy , also for this kind of album writing about each song is kinda ... hard , its not like are songs are repeatable , cause altough ive had this feeling on their earlier albums i did not have this here . But this genre is the essence of easy non technical music , easy for the ears , open for a big audience , as said earlier very melodic and upbeat , a truly mainstream rock band , and altough some ppl might have issues with the engrish lyrics , they still are worth at least a try and i promise you that this will be one of the best bands in this genre you will listen to .
Summarizing this up , if you like this kind of happy upbeat music and dont mind engrish then its your thing , ive seriously had a lot of fun listening to this album , lots of good vibes , melodies and riffs reminding me of Sum 41 and Blink 182 that etched themselves easy in my mind , also the songs are so addictive that i will hum them for some time now . My recommendation .
Score : 8/10 for being one of the best Pop Punk releases this year , and being the best album in their history .(As i am not used to do a 1 star to 5 star rating but from 1 to 10 ill stick to this)

I think you look cute. And I love your hair

Since I took some photos today to show a friend a couple of dresses I purchased, I thought I could put up those since my hair is done in them unlike my original picture. Took forever positioning the mirror (had to be on bed hah) even though I couldn't get a full body image! >.< And the 'selfie' looks a bit weird, I think I was in the middle of blinking. xD A bit too much lipstick too lol, doing your own makeup is difficult.. I hope the dress design/details shows, sorry if it doesn't! Being someone who does a photography course, I am SHOCKING with the lighting and camera use. Apologies.

Too many attractive people here, and then.. there's me.
-
First time with selfie/make-up and showing myself on here, outcome = fail. xD (Super blurred too, sorry and hair isn't done at all >.<)

Hi there, I'm Lorelei!! I just joined this site for the first time and I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone. I'm 24 years old and I've been listening to VK and J-Rock since I was a tiny baby 12 year old hahaha.. My friend told me about this site so I decided to give it a try~~ <3
My favorite sub genre of visual kei is angura kei (but I like just about anything) and some of my favorite bands are

Kiryu,
Kagrra (RIP Isshi ; ; ),
Memento Mori,
DIV,
Carat
Panic Channel,
R-Shitei,
176biz,
Charlotte (RIP  Kazuno ; ; ),
Nightmare
Alice Nine.
Ballad
Black Gene for the Next Scene
Grieva
Golden Bomber
Litchi Hikari Club
12012
aLiBi
Heidi.
Girugamesh
Orochi
Sadie

The list is kinda never ending~

Hello ladies!... and guys, I guess... hello to you too
 

Since I took some photos today to show a friend a couple of dresses I purchased, I thought I could put up those since my hair is done in them unlike my original picture. Took forever positioning the mirror (had to be on bed hah) even though I couldn't get a full body image! >.< And the 'selfie' looks a bit weird, I think I was in the middle of blinking. xD A bit too much lipstick too lol, doing your own makeup is difficult.. I hope the dress design/details shows, sorry if it doesn't! Being someone who does a photography course, I am SHOCKING with the lighting and camera use. Apologies.

Since I took some photos today to show a friend a couple of dresses I purchased, I thought I could put up those since my hair is done in them unlike my original picture. Took forever positioning the mirror (had to be on bed hah) even though I couldn't get a full body image! >.< And the 'selfie' looks a bit weird, I think I was in the middle of blinking. xD A bit too much lipstick too lol, doing your own makeup is difficult.. I hope the dress design/details shows, sorry if it doesn't! Being someone who does a photography course, I am SHOCKING with the lighting and camera use. Apologies.