beni

Everything madame Jun~

This whole show, tbh.
 

Awwwwwwwwwwwww yeah, it's that time again! What time? Time to recommend a fresh batch of new tracks!  
November may not have been the busiest month of the year, but boy do we have some sexy tunes in store for you!  A big thanks to our guest contributors this month: @Delkmiroph, @Ada Suilen, and @Lestat!  As usual, we apologize if some videos aren't available due to region restrictions. I hope your bodies (and ears) are ready for some new tunes!
 
 

 
@Zeus' Picks
 
"浮融 / fuyuu" by 有村竜太朗 (Ryutaro Arimura)

"浮融 / fuyuu" is my track of the month for November 2016, accompanied by a shift in the seasons that compliments the song when I'm out for long walks. The release of デも / demo snuck up on me; I hold Arimura in high respect for all his work with Plastic Tree despite my dislike for most of their output, but I had not heard of this until it appeared in my recommendations queue. I got what I expected - a gloomy exploration in alternative rock - but there's more here. Plastic Tree never clicked for me, but "浮融 / fuyuu" birthed a new appreciation for his unique musical talents. It's a simple, distorted set of guitar chords that forms the backbone of this emotional roller coaster, and it complements Ryutaro's vocals like a duet between two flirtatious lovers in the heat of an affair. To start the album off proper with a seven minute epic speaks to the confidence and strength of "浮融 / fuyuu". It doesn't revel in complexity or tease with build up for a predictable explosion of emotion. It's a very straightforward, melancholic, and powerful song. Definitely check this out!
 
 
@emmny's Picks
 
"雨音" (Amaoto) by emmureé

 
The rain sound resonates along with the ringing of a guitar string
Not so much ringing, rather droning in its distortion
The clouds roar once more, and spill forth the rain
While a kind voice speaks from above
The kind rain sound
Fills your ears
Simultaneously a screech
And a pitter-patter
The rain which cleansed your hands
Now becomes snow
And you'll sit, looking at the sky
Waiting for the rain sound to fill your ears again
 
 
@fitear1590's Picks
 
"アシンメトリ (asymmetry)" by ねごと (NEGOTO)

NEGOTO are long-time faves, but their 2015 album VISION did not impress. As they took a year and a half off from releases, I anxiously awaited their comeback in November 2016 with アシンメトリ (asymmetry) e.p. The eponymous track sounds like a glorious return to form.  The band has always had a synth pop flair, but this time around, they go for a lush electronic sound.  "Asymmetry" also features a colorful concept PV meant to be played across two smartphone screens; this is similar to THE NOVEMBERS's "きれいな海へ (kireina umi e). This is the first step back in the right direction for NEGOTO and I'm curious to see where they go from here!  
"ふとん史 (futonshi)" by メガマソ (Megamasso)

Fresh out of their hiatus, Megamasso hit the ground running with a double A-side single. "Futonshi" is a fun game of 'spot the VK trope,' forging a hodgepodge of so many of the scene's signatures: a paradoxically royal and cheap string arrangement, an emphasis on melodic guitar riffs that sound like half neo-classical/half video game BGM, traditional Japanese chord progressions, an out-of-the-blue refrain, and very trendy (trebly) synthwork. It's not the most original track, but it sure is catchy as hell (this is Megamasso, of course) and all three members seem to be in top form. Welcome back, guys!  
 
@doombox's Picks
 
"Kaiju" by [Alexandros]

It's not too often we get to see the aggressive side of [Alexandros] break from their snarky, sarcastic lyrical style to come across quite this straightforward. "Kaiju" is a funky, slightly grungey, yet fierce take on a sentiment that is relatable to many of us feeling stuck or stagnant in our current circumstances. None of the instrumentation is particularly technical or ground-breaking, but the open arrangement allows the chorus to come in like a punch to the face and the message of the track to take the spotlight. Who wouldn't want to 'rawr' like a big shot kaiju, right? 
 
"Omega" by Crystal Lake

It's been a hot minute since a Crystal Lake release hit me the way old releases used to, in the same vein their Dimension and Into The Great Beyond albums did. And though Ryo's vocal style and Gaku's drums are still very much what help make current Crystal Lake the metalcore monster that they are, the depth and emotional tone of "Omega" is a total throwback to the old days. It's definitely one of their first tracks in a long time I'd recommend to those who may have taken a step back for the last couple of years. Though, judging from the rest of True North, it may very well be the final shred of this style they had in them. So enjoy it while you can.
 
 
"RED ZONE" by RAZOR

Yet another new 'super-band' has arrived! RAZOR made a pretty explosive entrance onto the scene with their "RED ZONE" preview this month. My anticipation for the full mini album release is extremely high as the band is full of familiar faces from BORN, Sadie, and MY BACTERIA HEAT IsLAND. And "RED ZONE" has not disappointed me since the more I hear it, the more I genuinely love it. The chorus is catchy and melodic, the verses rip, and everything about the musicianship is as solid as one would expect from these veterans. It's also worth mentioning that they look positively awesome. So if you haven't had the chance to hear them out yet, now is the perfect time.
 
 
@beni's Picks
 
"MonSter" by ZYUN.

ZYUN. is a new artist on the block who just debuted this May with a previous mini-album. What first stood out to me was the artistry of the MV, and the fact that I was positive ZYUN. was a woman. Turns out she is in fact a he, who was already famous before his debut as a fashion designer and concert promoter.  Props to him for single-handedly working his own magic into his music as the producer of the outfit designs, music videos, photo concepts and cover/booklet images. The imperfection of his vocal control is so appealing even when he's stretching his voice too much. It makes for this ballad to stand out and catch the listener's attention. This is one new artist I'll be keeping an eye on from now on, and I think you should too.
 
"シューティングスター (Shooting Star)" by Half time Old

Boy band? Tick. Nasally high pitched vocals? Tick. "Shooting Star" sung in Engrish to kick start the chorus? Tick. There's so much to enjoy with this one. From the super rocking instrumental segments to the instantly memorable and groovy chorus, Half time Old prove they're a force to be reckoned with. It may be typical J-rock infused pop, but you have to admit when it's a hell of a good one. Its theme is astronauts and space. Now tell me how you could not fall in love with the out of this world tune?
 
"まほうのカギを手に入れたら/むすびズム (Mahou no Kagi wo Te ni Iretara)" by musubizm

This infectious tune is my favorite discovery of this month, without any contest. I've had in on repeat ever since I stumbled on it, and let me tell you why. Even though musubizm is tooth achingly pure idol through and through, the sound is clearly rock. It reminds me of all female bands like SCANDAL, especially with one particular singer with an especially nasally voice just like SCANDAL's Tomomi. Who my favourite is in that band is obvious due to that individual trait, so you can tell who my bias is with musubizm already. It's yet another reason why this song kicks butt! So even though it's idol, don't let that put you off. As is often the case with idol groups, each female's voice is distinctive and the group vocals always sounds amazing, like listening to another unit of Macross Δ's Walküre. I'm impressed and excited for more to come.
 
"khaki circle" by SWIM SWEET UNDER SHALLOW

SWIM SWEET UNDER SHALLOW is a name I've known for a while now, but have never felt anything towards them. With their fourth album now out, in which they give the option of paying or nabbing it for free over at their website, this is the leading track to the release. And I sure am glad I gave them another chance. Their sound reminds me of PLASTIC GIRL IN CLOSET mixed with Swinging Popsicle. It has that shoegaze-y edge, but mostly very much indie, both musically and vocally. And I love that about them. Plus it's a male and female duo, both on vocals. You know I'm sold on that magic combination. "khaki circle" is simply divine, with a soothing and romantic lullaby structure and sound, yet also engaging enough to not be a bore.
 
"生花 (Seika)" by ATOLS feat.YURiCa/花たん (hanatan)

No words can describe the perfection of this track. Theatrical and atmospheric is just a basic description of it. Our @CAT5 had directed me to this tune, and it instantly clicked for me as well. ATOLS, a Vocaloid producer unit, was a new name to me but YURiCa is nothing new, as she is easily one of the few Utaite (cover singer on Nico Nico Douga & YouTube) singers I completely adore. This song uses her powerful and absolutely stunning voice that beats plenty of major/famous artists' vocals to make quite the impact. You know it's YURiCa, but I've never heard her touch music as massive as this before. She sure better keep it up. It has an anison feel to it, but on such a grand scale, it leaves a lasting impression and makes for an instant jam. "Seika" doesn't shy away from being pounding and in your face with its electronic sound, and with YURiCa's signature beautiful voice, amazing vocal range and vibrato, you know it's a match made in heaven. As a YouTube comment simply put, it's "overwhelmingly perfect".
 
 
@togz's Picks
 
"Taking Off" by ONE OK ROCK

Looks like ONE OK ROCK are taking off with another musical direction change. Their new track "Taking Off" was released recently as a teaser for their upcoming album Ambitions which will be obtainable in January. While the song still sounds authentic to OOR's style, it's fresh and offers a lot of vocal variation. The instrumentals aren't very complex but they help power up the chorus melody. It's catchy, memorable, and overall a fun a listen.
 
"Six Feet Under" by Crystal Lake

Before "Six Feet Under", Crystal Lake released their music video for "Omega" which offered more dynamics. With only two minutes and seventeen seconds to listen to, this track gets straight to the point. It's a completely different vibe than "Omega" and gets me even more excited for their album release on November 30th. "Six Feet Under" is a real head banger with its chaotic guitar riffs, the lowest of growls, and heavy double bass work. Both of these songs will be available on True North.
 
"倒錯症レジスタンス(tousakushou resistance)" by DIAURA

I've personally only heard of DIAURA's earlier works and haven't followed them in some time, but when I heard this song I was instantly interested again. The vibe in this song really brings me back to when I first heard them because I feel the vocals and instruments work well together to create a heavy, upbeat, but melodic environment. Definitely a band I'll be paying attention to again.
 
"WOLFMAN" by コドモドラゴン (Codomo Dragon)

 
コドモドラゴン (Codomo Dragon) is another act that I used to follow but stopped somewhere along the way, but this track brought me back. It starts off with a distanced drum and funky bass line. It's a cross between punk and funk that leads in to a really good vocal line. But funk and punk isn't all that's offered in this song. There's very quick guitar work but also some heavy riffs. The chorus is an interesting key change as well. I've got my eyes and ears on you コドモドラゴン.
 
"色眼鏡 色彩皆無 (iromegane shikisai kaimu)" by ラッコ ( LACK-CO.)

If anyone knows me at all, they'll know I'm forever Tenten biased. Naturally I hopped on the ラッコ ( LACK-CO.) bandwagon as soon as this video was released. Aside from Tenten's unique vocals, the music is also technical in some places. From this song alone, this new unit is a good combination between My BACTERIA HEAT IsLAND and KuRt if you keep Tenten's vocals in mind. I'm really excited to hear more from this group, but most of all excited to see some of these members still active in the music scene. 
 
 
@CAT5's Picks
 
"ビハインド (behind)" by cinema staff

It's been a mere six months since cinema staff's latest full length album eve, and they're already back with a Triple A-side release titled the Vektor EP. While eve was an exemplary exercise in the band's trademark indie-styled pop-rock, Mizuki and the gang seem to be taking off the kid gloves on this new EP. "behind", the third A-side, has been released as a promotional video, and it's already one of the most explosive cinema staff tracks in years! At roughly about two minutes, the song packs in some of the band's more spastic tendencies, proving that they haven't forgotten any of their emo or punk influences just yet. It's great to hear these guys rock out again!
 
"アラジン (aladdin)" by 水曜日のカンパネラ (suiyoubi no campanella)

Two seconds into this song and you'll think you're listening to Micheal Jackson's "Thriller." Seriously. Producer Kenmochi Hidefumi wasn't exactly subtle in paying homage to the MJ classic. Yet I find it peculiar that I've not seen too many people commenting on this fact, and those that do, don't seem to be bothered by the blatant plagiarism either. Why? Well, it's simply well done, that's why. It's a sign of true artistry when you can take something so well-known and transform it into an entirely new entity, and suiyoubi have managed just that. In fact, "aladdin" is such an earworm that after a few listens, you'll completely forget that this song references anything other than suiyoubi's own, unique brand of Jpop.
 
"PANDORA" by EVO+

EVO+ is a female utaite, which is usually an area of music outside of my wheelhouse and something @beni knows more about, but what a serendipitous discovery this has been for me! Having teamed up with doujin music producer ATOLS, EVO+ just released her first EP titled PANDORA, and the title track for it is gorgeous. EVO has a deep, sultry croon and her vocal melodies have a vague, anison feel to them, but when the beat drops, you know this is something really special. The production is very hip, with a few trap elements, but it's also got a really organic and earthy feel to it - not unlike suiyoubi no campanella. The utaite scene may be based around cover songs, but if this song is what happens when they get original, then I need to hear more.
 
"env Reg." by 網守将平 (Shohei Amimori)

I first heard Shohei Amimori back in 2014 on a compilation titled Forma. 4.14 put out by Japan's finest label for IDM - PROGRESSIVE FOrM. His track was easily one of the standouts, so I was definitely interested when I discovered he'd be releasing his first album early next month on the same label. But now that I've heard this track, my excitement IS OVER 9000!!! Seriously, I love this. "env Reg." is intelligently produced electronic music, yet it's also fun and groovy too (watch out, METAFIVE!)! Just to add icing to the cake, it features one of my favorite indie-pop artists on vocals - Babi. I have such high hopes for the album!
 
"Crystal Chrysalis" by world's end girlfriend

world's end girlfriend probably needs no introduction, as anyone into post-rock or IDM to any extent has likely come across his moniker by now. If you haven't, well, his music is an expansive amalgam of beautiful, cinematic soundscapes, twisted distortion, and gritty electronics. His latest album LAST WALTZ is expectedly massive, and I admit, choosing a standout is next to impossible. The epic, thirteen-minute "Flowers of Romance" would have been an easy choice, and the equally gargantuan "Radioactive Spell Wave" would have been just as apt, but there's something about "Crystal Chrysalis". It's got a certain atmospheric gravitas to it. The other songs are generally more overt and in-your-face, but the power of this track lies in its subtlety. It's deeply atmospheric, yet haunting all the same. Brilliant.
 
 
"Discal Smoke" by LASTorder

PROGRESSIVE FOrM is hands-down one of my favorite labels. They've had a rather dismal output in recent times - and understandably so, as the many artists on the label have set the bar quite high - but they seem to be making a comeback, and I'm happy to feature yet another artist from the label in my picks this month! LASTorder has always been pretty good, but I dare say he's reached a stellar peak with this track. "Discal Smoke" has your standard IDM glitchy-ness and LASTorder's typically bold drums, brilliantly combined with analog instrumental bits, and very tastefully implemented vocal samples. This track was instant love from the very first second, and it just gets better as it progresses. Delicious!
 
 
"Waltz For Real World" by uyama hiroto

Uyama Hiroto will probably be viewed as the spiritual successor to his peer and collaborator, the late Nujabes. However, with all due respect, I would say that Hiroto's new album freeform jazz has propelled him into a league of his own. The album, while technically not "free-jazz" certainly feels less bound than his previous works. It's a more musical effort overall, and the drumwork is especially more organic than previously, as opposed to the straightforward boom-bap approach that similar artists take. In fact, you can hardly categorize this as just "jazzy hip-hop" anymore. The entire album only features one rap feature (and thankfully so, because I can't stomach cheesy backpacker rap!).  freeform jazz is such an exquisite listen that I honestly can't choose just one track to recommend, so hopefully the heartfelt melodies of "Waltz For Real World" will persuade you guys to delve further!
 
 
Guest Recommendations
 
 
@Lestat's Picks
 
"天上天下唯我独唱 (Tenjou tenge yuiga dokushou)" by Gossip-ゴシップ-

Semi-nationalists Gossip-ゴシップ- conclude their dynamic year with their sixth and final release of 2016, now headlining the propaganda papers with this November's distribution of 天上天下唯我独唱 (Tenjou tenge yuiga dokushou). Ensuing their exceptional maxi-single 東京スキャンダル (Tokyo Scandal), compilation album 脳味噌回転愚流愚流地獄-黒歴史盤- (Nomiso kaiten guru guru jigoku - kuro rekishi ban -) and the following three consecutive monthly singles, the group continues to yell its 'Banzai!' at the rising sun. The title track delivers us with classic —if we can call it as such, with a mere two years under their belt— Gossip-ゴシップ- elements with which this band has its boot stiffly put between visual kei's door; the bellowing ring of sirens, footsoldiers marching toward warfare, and Saku's patriotic chants loudly supporting an emanating blitz. And what follows is an unforgettable, catchy offensive, ready to go down in history.
 
"Ash" by GOTCHAROCKA

Have you been searching for a fool-proof method to brighten up your day in only a short matter of time, or do you simply need a well-deserved break from the abundance of gloomy-sounding bands surfacing in the Japanese music scene? Look no further, as GOTCHAROCKA will surely and effortlessly lift your spirits with their ever-positive atmosphere while the month is growing colder. This time, they provide you with another warm and tight embrace in the form of "Ash", an optimistic and encouraging message conveyed to you in a presentation of melodic and sprightly riffaging, up-beat drums, and glossy, light singing. Be sure to make use of this song, as these three smiling guys will want you to remember this memo; "Keep playing until your grief is gone." 
 
 
@Ada Suilen's Picks
 
"Re:incarnation" by Insanity Injection

This year brought up another great superband in the visual kei scene; their name is Insanity Injection and the members who compose it are known for bands like Aliene Ma'riage, Glamscure and Das:Vasser, so the hype has been real since their first announcement. Then they released three singles, all of them solidified their style and the first mini album, where this epic track is featured in, confirmed their strong position in the scene; eleven minutes of greatness and technique, where each element, from the vocals (the coupling of Kyouka x Chaos has been simply awesome!), to the instruments, and the background effects assume a peculiar meaning with sudden stylistic changes inside the melody. The band shows that they cannot fail at whatever sound they make.
 
"深紅に揺らめく、儚き鶺鴒 (Shinku ni yurameku, hakanaki sekirei)" by Chariots

Another incredible comeback in the visual kei scene is Riku, with his solo project's respectful new line-up featuring people of VII-Sense and UnsraW fame made this year brighter for me. After releasing three solid singles they go strong with a mini-album, where the title-track is the most powerful and astonishing part of the release. This emotional ballad is reminiscent of Phantasmagoria's golden age where Riku unleashes his deep and suggestive voice in a powerful and fascinating rock sound. A sure synonym of their glorious return.
 
 
@Delkmiroph 's Picks
 
"猫夢 (Nekoyume)" by 有村竜太朗 (Ryutaro Arimura) 

Like everyone knows, Ryutaro started his own solo project after many years in Plastic Tree. With the promise of his first solo release of 1996-2011, 「デも／demo」 impressed me with some songs (I have not heard the mini album fully yet). But "Nekoyume" is very expressive to me and I would say that this is a personal style of Ryutaro's that reminds me of the last releases of Plastic Tree. "Nekoyume" is energetic and catchy at every chorus, and the AC. Version gives the song more life, but I love both versions equally!
 
"END TRIP" by Insanity Injection

I definitely love this release from Insanity Injection. I followed them since their first release, but I did not hear their digital releases. I think I should get to them.  "END TRIP" is a very deep and solid song that makes me think that someone is still doing great work in the visual kei scene. Chaos' voice with Kyoka is a great combination which brings a melancholic mix into the whole mini-album. Of course it reminds me of some other bands which is also why I like it. I would love to go to a concert of theirs to watch all this dark insanity. It's great when the name of the band already expresses this to the listener.  
 
"愛のゆくえ (Aino Yukue)" by きのこ帝国 (Kinoko Teikoku) 

I discovered this shoegaze/dream pop band this year (exactly two month ago). Kinoko Teikoku won me over when I heard their first album eureka, but I was more excited for this new album that they announced for this month. I had the expectation that they were becoming more dream-pop with each release. It's now normal for them in my opinion. "Aino Yukue" is an enjoyable song that's half shoegaze and more dream pop (I guess). It's a totally soft and sweet melody with strong beats as the title track of the album. I appreciate the album, and this song mostly.  I believe that this song is all cute and lovely.    
 
 
Thanks for checking out our recommendations this month! If you have any thoughts on our list or recommendations of your own, please feel free to comment below! If you're interested in being a guest contributor, contact either @CAT5 or @doombox! See you all next month! ^_~

Don't think we have a mobile games thread, and what good timing! I was always put off with playing games on anything but the consoles such as PlayStation and DS. Recently started using my PC and laptop to play games like visual novels, and because of that shift, I then started using Google Play on my mobile and now it's taken up all my space on the phone! It's a change but it actually feels nice that you can just take it out whenever and get to it (as long as you have battery life, u r g, and internet connection~). I can see why most people play on their mobiles now. I'm guessing tablets and that are just as popular now? My one fear is that we'll mostly be getting games on these platforms (I was so surprised at how many things of my own interest is in the Google Play store), because I feel only certain kinds of games look good enough on it and are worth playing. I'm also so iffy with trusting mobiles as is, what with data usage (Pokemon Go conspiracy theories is scaring the heck out of me).

Wonderful review. I have yet to listen to the release because I'm iffy about how much I'll like it. I love RADWIMPS and Noda's first album, but the recent MVs have yet to captivate me. But I must admit "Water Lily" is growing on me (Just love that "From Beehives to Water Lillies" line you did) now that I've returned to give it another listen now, and I have a feeling I'll also dig all the songs you wrote at the bottom as the highlights. I may have to revisit that website on more occasions too. THAT was entrancing. Reminds me of Namie Amuro's Golden Touch. Thanks for reminding me I still need to give it a listen, and for making me enjoy "Water Lily" even more!

Tracklist:
1 サプリミナル・ダイエット
2 骨抜きに恋して
3 腰掛けラップ
4 PH4
5 GODcustomer
6 等身大グレー
7 ベルサッサ
8 自撮ール
 
| Slowly losing charisma, but still a fun release.

 
Pop gets the short end of the stick in "serious musical discussions". A lot of pop is swept under the rug as formulaic music for simple-minded people, so it's challenging for a pop musician to innovate while essentially staying the same artist. It boils down to mixing together a bit of something old, a bit of something new, and the musical equivalent of Chemical X. These are the ingredients which form The Hit Single, a coveted substance sought by many, found by few, and difficult to produce at scale. Over the last few years Charisma.com has taken the approach of slowly but steadily expanding their musical palette in order to produce many Hit Singles. The beats of last year's OLest were much more dynamic than the offerings found on their debut EP for example; they pushed their sound to a place they hadn't taken it before while still keeping the pop hooks and hard hitting commentary that got them fans. Their newest release 愛泥C is set to bring everything together and take it up another level, but inconsistency holds it back.
 
I would describe the issue as death by one thousand tiny cuts. Elements don't come together as they should. I am no stranger to famous Japanese producers assisting the dynamic duo, but it feels like the different producers never agreed on the core sound of the album. It will bounce from pop to dance music to hip hop very fast, and sometimes they go off on weird tangents or include cringe-worthy sections (most specifically "GODCustomer"), which requires the flow of the album be immaculate to make up for the constant change in mood. It's not. There's the lead single "サプリミナル・ダイエット" which is classic Charisma to a fault, the deliciously smooth "PF4", and the infectious "ベルサッサ" which catches my ear and please me greatly. Then there are the tracks which sound pleasant but leave no effect at all on me, such as the end track  "自撮ール". Then there are the more abstract trap influenced bangers such as "腰掛けラップ", where Itsuka shows some difficulty in flowing with the beat. It's unfortunate that the most abstract beats are the most beastly but also complemented with trap influences and a very lazy chorus where the beat drops and they echo a phrase for eight bars. It's supposed to sound hard but doesn't. Charisma.com feel much more comfortable in electro pop / hip-hop territory and it shows. Charisma seem to have an easier time making snazzy hits when they stick to pop territory and I'd much prefer if they kept the trap influences to a minimum.
 
Bigger isn't always better, and when some tracks bang hard and others fall flat, the whole experience feels like empty calories. More than ever it feels like they're forcing themselves to be catchy, hip, and "lolsorandom". I adore where the duo takes their brand of pop music, but not at the expense of consistency. They need to stop trying so hard. Throwing everything and the kitchen sink at the listener is a surefire way to lose their attention. Scale some of the stranger elements of the beats back a tiny bit, get all your producers in a room to talk about the experience as a whole, and keep the hard hitting social commentary mixed with humorous lyrical themes the band is known for. There needs to be the right amount of direction to offset the spastic insanity that is Charisma.com.
Purchase from CDJapan!
 

Since we already have a thread/team for Overwatch on PC you can find right here, I thought it wouldn't hurt to gauge interest for a PS4 one since I've gotten pretty addicted to it now and noticed a few friends I have here on PS4 usually come up online recently. 
 
 

| From Beehives to Water Lillies 
 
 

 
illion, is the solo project of RADWIMPS' Yojiro Noda, released his first album Ubu on February 25th 2013 in the UK through Warner Brothers Records. Since the debut of illion, the 2nd awaited album finally surfaced nearly three years later on October 12th 2016. Three years is a lot of time for a musician to grow and learn about their taste when it comes to musical composition. P.Y.L reflects change while staying true to the sound illion represents. 
 
This album resembles remnants of Ubu.  "Told U So" falls along the same feeling as "BEEHIVE", though that doesn't go to say it doesn't sound new and unique, they're two completely different songs. Both offer complex rhythms (clapping, synths etc), but "Told U So" contains more depth with electronics which makes it feel emotionally heavier. "Water Lily", which was released prior to P.Y.L as a single, has a completely fresh sound. Drifting, or floating is the best word to describe what "Water Lily"  should physically feel like. There's a special type of contrast between the echoing synths, the light strum of guitar, and distorted base that carries Yojiro's flowing vocals. The bar was set high for P.Y.L with such a teaser. There is an interactive site here with vibrant and abstract visuals to compliment the aura of this song, where viewers have the opportunity to manipulate the fade in and outs of the song while utilizing the colors and images spread out through the screen.
 
"Highlight (feat. 5lack)" has to be the strangest addition. The beginning sounds extremely relevant to the flow of the album and sticks to the sound illion promotes but it shifts about halfway through when a rap lays over a very sluggish instrumental. This track was also released before the full album just after "Water Lily", but it sounds disjointed from the overall picture P.Y.L should create. A change in musical direction really shines in "85", "P.Y.L", and "Wander Lust". All three introduce unpredictable synth techniques that wouldn't be expected from Yojiro. "85" essentially sounds like something right out of Tron or Outer Space. The combination of soft vocals, an 8-bit bass line, and an 80's synth drum beat makes this the most unique track on the entire album. "P.Y.L" and "Wander Lust" are very similar in a sense that they have distorted synths that sound broken,  like when something goes in and out of frequency causing an echo and static. Both have powerful vocal melodies to accompany their peculiar usage of distortion. 
 
"Miracle" deserves it's own category for having a very smooth and jazzy vocal melody with a very waltz-y piano instrumental. It's the first of eleven songs and works not only as a great opener but a smooth transition from illion's previous album UBU. There's a singer-songwriter section to this release as well. "Dream Play Sick", "Ace", and "Strobo" use orchestral instruments and progress with a very melancholic feel. "Strobo" combines harp in a circular pattern while the piano reinforces the beat with a few chords here and there making the vocal melody the center of attention. The most emotionally heavy is "Ace" which is prominently piano. It's a very simple track, but the whisper-y vocals are chilling and almost haunting. "Dream Play Sick" is a little more playful with phrase pauses and is mainly guitar and vocals for the most part in the beginning (give or take a few claps, static, disjointed violin and layered choppy vocals that resemble some of the techniques used in "MAHOROBA" from UBU). 
 
Overall this album went above and beyond new material. Yojiro Noda really explored and reached a new level with this release even if a few tracks didn't hit home. "Highlight (feat 5lack)" is the weakest but it's forgivable with songs like "85", "P.Y.L", "Water Lily", and "Told U So" that just hit the ball in to a whole other ball park. 
 
 
Support the artist!
 
CDJapan | iTunes (USA)

If a similar topic exists, mods can move or destroy or transfer this to a black hole.
 
Are you part of the generation that absolutely can not get off their phones? At the silent moments you pull your smart phone out of your pocket and start playing candy crush because boredom is just so... boring? Maybe you've got a really good time-killer at your hands and would like to recommend it to others who might be equally tired of being bored. Or maybe you are the bored one, trying to find ways to pass the time while waiting for buss or a doctor or a friend or a coffee.
 
This is the topic to all of those who feel the need to do something with their hands, constantly.
 
Okay for me this is just a outlet for my continuous HoDA addiction. 
 
I don't play other mobile games but this is like pokemon with more complex rules.
 
 
Fans of Biowares Dragon Age franchise get the most out of this game, as it features tons of characters from Origins, DAII and Inquisition plus all the DLCs, and numerous variations, but I managed to get  @Biopandahooked on this for a while and he has absolutely no idea of Dragon Age.
 
Pros:
+ Easy to understand
+ SO MANY HEROES TO COLLECT
+ Chances of getting rarer heroes increase with level
+ A truly freemium game, with absolutely no need for real-life cash if you've only got patience
+ No need for actual human interaction
 
Cons:
-  You need wifi to play it
- PvP has the worst match-making mechanics ever (seems to not even want to match you up against someone of your own level. Will offer matches with people with a lot higher level heroes than yours)
- Gems tend to be hard to obtain unless you constantly take part in the PvP events
- Once you're out of stamina and power points... well, too bad. Wait for a few hours for them to regenerate.
- F U CAN I JUST HAVE A COLE PLEASE
 
Pls try this one out if you've got too much time in your hands and would like to collect nice, shiny heroes from the Dragon Age universe.

Always interesting to see a match up outside of the norm! I personally prefer Chanty. They're one of my favourites in VK right now, and they're just my cup of tea, visually and musically compared to cinema staff. That's not to say that cinema staff shouldn't win. Of course I'm not surprised that Chanty is leading this, since the demographic of MH is so VK driven. There's definitely similarities between the two in sound, even though not that obvious, but the influences are there and I can hear the parallels. What with the pop and even mistakable sound of the two. It actually reminds me of how I had mistaken Yeti for J-rock and THE TURTLES JAPAN for Visual Kei. It's fascinating how it can happen for some people and not others. Since I've voted, I'm debating on switching it, because what it boils down to for me is the fact that I may prefer Chanty, but I do agree on cinema staff being the better group, as @Carmelzors and @CAT5 best explained it. 

Hey there, welcome! It's lovely to meet and have you now.
 
I felt the same way when I joined, but never fear, you're here to join in on the fun. And no need to overthink any commenting, just contribute whenever you'd like. No pressure, just enjoy!
 
And bless you for the shoutout! Remember that our messages (members with blue/red names as you probably already know) are always open in case you need any assistance. 
 
Will see you around! Hope you enjoy your stay with us.

ギルガメッシュ
 

 
Vs.
 
D'espairsRay
 

 
The similarities are there. Both bands lasted about the same amount of time Despa lasted 12 years and Giru lasted around 13, both bands experienced drastic changes in sound towards the later end of their careers, and finally both bands line-ups remained consistent with the exception of girugamesh's early vocalist change. Now the question is who is better.

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
 
This is a brilliant match-up. Both bands are amazing, and both have released top-tier, classic material. I'm gonna have to give this to toe, though. LITE are amazing, and they definitely have a leg-up in terms of diversity. They are also have more fierce, raw, and face-melting math-rock jams than toe, but their discography is highly inconsistent. Don't get me wrong, I love that they continuously experiment with their sound, but they've also wound up with quite a few misses on their side because of it. In example, "Phantasia" and "filmlets" are both brilliant imo, but their subsequent releases haven't been as strong overall.
 
On the other hand, toe's sound has remained pretty consistent throughout, but it works because no one can truly emulate toe - while LITE have played with so many different styles that they don't necessarily have an instantly recognizable sound. The quality of toe's work has even remained steadfast as well. Even their weakest album "HEAR YOU" is still lightyears ahead of any band that attempts a similar style. toe also has a really keen melodic sense to their songwriting. This really seals the deal for me personally, because more often than not, LITE seems a bit more focused on instrumentality and musicianship than composing truly standout melodies.
 
This is definitely a tough comparison, though. Both bands are pretty much gods, ahaha.
 
 

BATTLE OF THE MATH ROCK KINGS.... WHO NOODLES W/ THE BEST???
 
LITE
Lite, stylized as LITE, is a Japanese rock band that has been termed "one of Japan's top instrumental rock acts." All of their albums have charted in Japan, with For All the Innocence charting the best, at number 85 on the Oricon chart. Lite's sound combines the precision and musicianship of prog rock with the emotionally charged cinematic compositions of art rock, in a heavier, more modern package that they describe as "math rock". The band has performed overseas more than once, in the UK and Ireland among other places.
 
 
toe
toe is a Japanese rock band from Tokyo. While mentioned in many post-rock circles, their song structure and dynamics are also similar to many popular math rock artists. The group was founded in 2000 and consists of four members. The vast majority of the band's music is instrumental in nature and is also known for its melodic, clean guitar settings. Additionally, the compositions have repetition from typical rock motifs, but use very subtle changes in beat and rhythm to form a unique sound. The band has changed their sound over their musical tenure by incorporating acoustic guitars, Rhodes piano, and vibraphones in their most recent releases. Like LITE, toe has also toured outside of Japan on multiple occasions, and their album "The Book About My Idle Plot on a Vague Anxiety" was pretty well-received by international critics.
 
So, who wins this duel in your opinion? I find it very, very hard to choose, personally, cuz I enjoy jamming to both of them.. I guess in the end I do listen to LITE more though.
 

Always interesting to see a match up outside of the norm! I personally prefer Chanty. They're one of my favourites in VK right now, and they're just my cup of tea, visually and musically compared to cinema staff. That's not to say that cinema staff shouldn't win. Of course I'm not surprised that Chanty is leading this, since the demographic of MH is so VK driven. There's definitely similarities between the two in sound, even though not that obvious, but the influences are there and I can hear the parallels. What with the pop and even mistakable sound of the two. It actually reminds me of how I had mistaken Yeti for J-rock and THE TURTLES JAPAN for Visual Kei. It's fascinating how it can happen for some people and not others. Since I've voted, I'm debating on switching it, because what it boils down to for me is the fact that I may prefer Chanty, but I do agree on cinema staff being the better group, as @Carmelzors and @CAT5 best explained it. 

Maybe some examples might help?
 
These are really general, as both areas of music have a broad range of vocalists, but you still find certain styles more prevalent than others in different scenes.
 
Here are some really typical indie-rock style vocals:
 
 
Here are some poppy VK vocals:
 
 
 
Now if you're used to listening to music in the former group, would it be completely inconceivable to more closely associate cinema staff's mizuki with the latter group of vocalists?

hi, i'm ryan... i've been lurking here since forever, created an account a few months ago, and lately something's been telling me i should try to talk here more.
i'm not terribly good with forums though - something about the way anything i'd say gets kept on the site forever seems to trip me out a bit.
and i'm not sure how much of value i'd have to comment - so, i'll try to make myself useful and get to posting some (probably wildly inaccurate) translations~

as far as me....... got into vkei with ナイトメア about when their s/t came out, haven't found a band that resonates more with me since.
p sure i can find something to like in just about any style/scene, but i really think vkei hit its golden age between 1997-2007. at least to me.
as of typing this i'm also stanning diru, mucc, the gallo, and meji pretty hard. and since 2014 i've been living in varying degrees of Worried About Royz.
 
IRL i work at a sushi/udon place, it's p great, and i'm trying to get the hang of this whole 'understanding and speaking japanese' thing. it's hard tho.
Oh, and i'm trying to get a band together. also hard.
and that's basically it for me because i have no life outside visual kei.

Nice to meet all of you though - even if i haven't said much anything before i owe y'all a lot for recommending a lot of my fav bands.
special shoutout to all the staff/mods, rarezhut guys, and everyone who translates band shit bc it'd be so much harder to get into this dumb scene without people like you putting in all the work.

Oh and @ everyone feel free to hmu on twitter, username's same there as here
 

Hey, everyone. I thought this might make for a pretty cool match-up. The most obvious difference between both of these bands is that one is visual and the other is not, but I actually think these guys have a bit more in common than what meets the eye. For lack of a better term, both cinema staff and chanty play similar styles of "indie-rock" with faint midwestern emo influences (the riffage, guitar tones, and even random, yet scarce screams that both bands employ). Both bands are also really poppy, opting for big, catchy hooks, accessible melodies, and mostly straightforward arrangements - all while maintaining a subtle balance with their more raw, aggressive sides. Both vocalists are also fairly melodramatic, haha.
 
On a more trivial tip,  I think it's interesting to note that I've often seen chanty described as "a vk band that sounds like J-indie", while I've also seen J-indie fans describe cinema staff's vocalist as "sounding vk". Whatever the case, I think it's clear that both bands have a decent amount of crossover appeal. Which band do you prefer, and why?
 
Chanty

 
Samples:
 
 
 
VS
cinema staff

 
Samples:
 
 
 

Digimon World: Next Order is getting a PS4 / PSVita release in the US. I'm super stoked, because the original game is one of my top 10 favorite games ever (like, somewhere in spots 3~1 for me). 

If anyone has too much money and needs a thing to spend it on, Street Fighter II soundtrack box set available for pre-order from Bravewave.
 

 
Brave Wave (Europe):
http://bigwax.fr/en/brave-wave/gs-001?mc_cid=332fac068a&mc_eid=0b2835b138
 
Mondo (US):
https://mondotees.com/products/street-fighter-ii-the-definitive-soundtrack?mc_cid=332fac068a&mc_eid=0b2835b138

New hair for Tzk
 

 

I'll see myself out now...

From Taiwan ~
Hello, everyone, first of all, this forum is my own experience to find it!
I have been collecting rare bands for seven years
At present is still to continue to collect rare bands, until the day of retirement.
Starting from the junior high school, already touch the visual kei of music,
Also very grateful to my elder sisters  introduced the visual kei to me, there may be me and the "visual kei" affinity it!
Do not know why, always like the old visual kei of the song, the new but not accustomed to ...
In short I will be in this forum and enjoy the rare songs
(Fully translated by Google)
 
welcome gift  http://www.mediafire.com/file/pb8skq6jshkav2g/？.mp3

Interesting question. I've always wanted to be able to read and write Japanese but never really wanted to be Japanese. I am happy with my own ethnicity, even if I'm just a little, plain British girl hah. I've always wished to live in Japan though, or anywhere in Asian and not where I've always lived here. To be able to easily find and purchase their music, clothes and DVDs, go to concerts and events and look around the area makes me really jelly of everyone who lives there. But not exactly to be born Japanese, although, some TV series and movies have made me want to grow up there aha. : 3

Now is the time to introduce myself
 
Hello, I'm Takato, 17 years old and i'm from Germany. I've been a fan of Japanese music for several years.
My all-time favorite is UnsraW
 
In my free-time when im not listening music: Video games, playing Bass Guitar (im a beginner), reading Mangas or watching Movies/Animes. Oh, and I love cuddling. 
 
Im here to discover other bands, write with people with the same interests and to improve my english.
 
Nice to meet you.