Was driving around listening to Cassis getting excited for Gazette's NYC show in a couple weekends.... thought I'd record some thoughts. Let me know what you think of this (old) Gazette single!
(shoutout to Jrocknyc shoutboxer Ken who made a few videos like this about old school Nagoya Kei that were fun... I couldn't find any of them anymore though.)
When I have more free time, I do plan on creating a brand new Youtube channel that isn't connected to my main Google account in any way, and then I will upload there every single fucking Lycaon PV and comment track I can get my hands on. And if they take those down? I'm going to start a new channel and upload everything again. Just to fuck with Izumi and Shimizuya Records.
| 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!
Hello~
Some time ago I translated all of Madeth gray'lls lyrics to German and reading through those translations again I thought that their stories are so cool I should do it once more, this time in English, and share them with everyone who might be interested. orz
This time I also want to include all the small poems and stories printed on booklets and CDs that aren't directly related to a song and arrange everything in a way to make the tragedy a little more coherent because all the songs are loosely connected.
I'll post every song individually and add a list with the links here to keep things tidy. ;D
The structure is a somewhat chronical order, but if there are multiple versions I'll mostly choose the newer ones, because Hisuis writing improved quite a lot over time. There will propably be 6 acts, even though I know a classical drama should only have 5...
Prologue
0. 楽園の黒霧 - Black fog in paradise
Act I : 狂死楽園 - Mad Death Paradise 1. 呪ワレシ華ノ生命… - A cursed blossoms life... 2. missantroop 3. 黒装束の調べ - Melody dressed in black 4. 狂死曲 - Mad Death Rhapsody 5. 狂死楽園 - Mad Death Paradise
Act II : 狂気に満ちた殺人劇 - Murder play abound in madness
6. 白昼夢の惨劇 - Daydream Tragedy
7. 血染めの喜劇 - Bloodstained Comedy
8. オペラ座の悲劇 - Disaster at the opera house
Act III : 十字架の結末・・・ - The end of the cross...
9. 十字架の結末・・・ - The end of the cross...
10. パラサイト - Parasite
11. 廃人狂イ人形 - Mad cripple puppet
Act IV : 罪深き冥華と追憶の懺麗死儀式 - Graceful confession ritual of sinful dark flowers and reminiscence
12. Le MISERABLE
13. MOTHER COMPLEX
Act V : 魔鏡に映る呪われた罪人達と生命の終焉 - Cursed sinners reflected in the devils mirror and the demise of existence
14. 生命の終焉 - The demise of existence
15. Zwei 堕胎者ト盲目ナ中絶児･･69日目ノ阻害 - Zwei An abortionist and a blind aborted child.. termination on the 69th day
16. 「マリア」ガ眠ル懺悔ノ「柩」 - 'Maria' sleeps in a 'coffin' of repentance
17. 黒死蝶ノ花束 - Bouquet of black death butterflies
18. 追憶 - Reminiscence
19. Lucifer
to be continued...
I'd very much appreciate any help finding mistakes. D; Neither English nor Japanese is my native language and the lyrics are so bizarre it's not always easy. Please note that in some songs the imagery and scenes described are very graphic.
Hisui mentioned in Interviews that he started to write grotesque and apocalyptic lyrics after surviving the great Kobe earthquake that killed 6434 people in his hometown, including his girlfriend.
It's that time again! The Official Review Team is back to recommend you some of the most worthwhile new music, and boy do we have a heaping helping this month! To accomodate, we've made some slight changes to the format, but rest assured the content is the same as usal. Major thanks this month to our guest contributor @yakihiko! Enjoy!
@emmny's Picks:
"link" by アルルカン (Arlequin)
"蘇-よみがえり- (Yomigaeri)" by AvelCain
"気持ち悪いほど晴れた空をペンキで塗り潰した (Kimochi warui hodo hareta sora wo penki de nuritsubushita)" by ザアザア (Xaa-Xaa)
"REVELATION" by 砂月 (SATSUKI)
"淫魔-BELPHEGOR-" by ギャロ (THE GALLO)
"KOGEN" by ムニムニ (munimuni)
@tetsu_sama69's Picks:
"Axis" by DEVIZE
"悲哀 (Hiai)" by MEJIBRAY
"夜想GALAXXXY (Yoruso GALAXXXY)" by DIV
"姦魔-LEVIATHAN-" by ギャロ (THE GALLO)
@ShanethVarosa's Picks:
"White Moon" by ナイトメア (NIGHTMARE)
"Reincarnation/Apocalypse" by 砂月 (SATSUKI)
"Forever Young" by Crystal Kay
beni's Picks:
"LOVE ME DO" by SCANDAL
"メルシー伯 (Merci haku)" by 絶景クジラ (Zekkei Kujira)
"恋をしている目をしている (Koi wo Shiteiru Me wo Shiteiru)" by しなまゆ (shinamayu)
"Evergreen" by GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE
@fitear1590's Picks:
"KARATE" by BABYMETAL
"JAPANESE BOY" by 中塚武 (Nakatsuka Takeshi)
"CITY DANCER" by Often Mofun
"シニカルデトックス (cynical detox)" by シナリオアート (Scenarioart)
"高級娼婦とカミキリムシ (koukyuushoufu to kamikirimushi)" by ユナイト (UNiTE.)
@saishuu's Picks:
"Tokyo" by 雨のパレード (Ame no Parade)
"Around the World" by Heavenstamp
"Cry & Fight" by 三浦大知 (Daichi Miura)
"煌々と輝く (Koukou to kagayaku)" by 神はサイコロを振らない (Kami wa saikoro wo furanai)
@doombox's Picks:
"Winterfell" by EARTHISTS.
"Through The Deep" by The fin.
CAT5's Picks:
"西東京 (NishiTokyo)" by 赤い公園 (Akai Ko-en)
"subliminal" by TK from 凛として時雨 (ling tosite sigure)
Hello and welcome to a new ORZ Project and first edition of Anime Theme Recommendations (ATR) where we'll be looking into the best of the best of the current season's anime themes. This can be either an opening or an ending theme, and you may find both from the same anime has been recommended. We start with January to March, the Winter season of 2016. Special thanks to @Zeus and @Original Saku for participating, as well as @CAT5 on the technical side. Below you'll find the artist picture of the musicians behind the music and the TV sized opening animation of the song below each blurb. If any videos don't work for you, feel free to tell us in the thread and we'll provide another source if possible, and no forgetting about telling us what your favourites are that we may have missed out! Or maybe one of us are on the same wavelength as yourself? Share the love by commenting! For anyone interested, guest submissions ARE open to members outside of ORZ! So, without further ado, enjoy the list and we'll see you in three month's time for the second batch of this years quality anime tunes. Thank you and enjoy.
Opening to Ajin
flumpool - 夜は眠れるかい? (Yoru wa Nemureru kai?)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFKOXiGm2kA
Ending to Fairy Tail Zerø
Kavka Shishido - 明日を鳴らせ (Ashita o Narase)
Ending to Dimension W
Fo’xTails - Contrast
Opening to 昭和元禄落語心中 (Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu)
林原めぐみ (Megumi Hayashibara) - 薄ら氷心中 (Usura Koori Shinjuu)
Ending to ブブキ・ブランキ (Bubuki Buranki)
MYTH & ROID - ANGER/ANGER
Ending to 僕だけがいない街 (Boku Dake ga Inai Machi)
さユり (Sayuri) - それは小さな光のような (Sore wa chiisana hikari no youna)
Opening to 虹色デイズ (Nijiro Days)
ソナーポケット (Sonar Pocket) - Best Friends
Opening to Garo: Guren no Tsuki
JAM Project - 月華 (Gekka)
Ending to Haikyuu!! 2nd Season
tacica - 発熱 (Hatsunetsu)
Opening to Gintama°
DOES - Know Know Know
Opening to 僕だけがいない街 (Boku Dake ga Inai Machi)
Asian Kung-Fu Generation - Re:Re:
Opening to Divine Gate
ヒトリエ (hitorie) - ワンミーツハー (one-Me two-Hearts)
https://youtu.be/WLWD-DcP0ko
Ending to Durarara!!x2 Ketsu
PENGUIN RESEARCH - ジョーカーに宜しく (Joker ni Yoroshiku)
https://youtu.be/JCj3ddGBFVc
Opening to Dimension W
STEREO DIVE FOUNDATION - Genesis
https://youtu.be/9Cqzz88jrxY
Ending to Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans
TRUE - STEEL-鉄血の絆- (Steel: Tekketsu no Kizuna)
https://youtu.be/uIdBnZ7pSLM
Ending to Ajin
宮野真守 (Mamoru Miyano) - HOW CLOSE YOU ARE
https://youtu.be/4L-Cz1_shFI
Ending to 赤髪の白雪姫 (Akagami no Shirayuki-hime) 2nd Season
eyelis - ページ～君と綴る物語～ (Page ~Kimi to Tsuzuru Monogatari~)
https://youtu.be/rdvMayyYtvQ
Opening to 暗殺教室 (Ansatsu Kyoushitsu) 2nd Season
3年E組うた担 (3-nen E-gumi Utatan) - QUESTION
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YhEkCg6C9c
Opening & Ending to 灰と幻想のグリムガル (Hai to Gensou no Grimgar)
(K)NoW_NAME - "Knew Day" & "Harvest"
I think Soshi is wonderful vocalist, it's just taste and preference. Is there any chances they will perform together? I would be wonderful...
...or it'll be a massive train wreck.
The Casual
That moment when you actually try to talk about visual kei with someone.
Pros: Potentially interested in learning more.
Cons: Unfamiliar with anything else an artist may have done.
The Expat
I'm into plush dolls. Native women are so overrated...
Pros: Did you need that ameblo post translated? They know a guy...
Cons: Will probably find a way to make every music discussion about j-music.
The Hoarder
The visual kei ward will be fresh af bby
Pros: They definitely have that super rare live distro file you've been looking for in flac.
Cons: It's just on their hard drive from 2001 packed up in storage.
The Otaku
How otakus share rarez
Pros: Deep and knowledgeable about music, may have variety in taste, love spreading music
Cons: Can be very difficult to find common ground musically, don't like sharing, neurotic habits
The Historian
Visual kei alone would take up half the chart but historians disagree on how many different sub -keis there should be.
Pros: A walking encyclopedia of obscure musical knowledge
Cons: Doesn't know anything about anyone you would care about
The Elitist
Start by listening to some real music n00b
Pros: Actually has dope music taste (on occasion)
Cons: Spends too much time being an asshole, too selective, not open to new things
The Shadow
Is it safe to come out?
Pros: The coolest peeps in the scene for sure.
Cons: Rarely ever advertise themselves as a J-Music fan
The Bangya
Believe it or not they're sitting in assigned order.
Pros: They actually support the movement.
Cons: Describe going to lives as 参戦 (lit. "going to war").
The Hype Beast
This new visual kei band's releasing a 7-TYPE live distributed 30 copy single campaign based on the days of the week all recorded, mixed, and mastered in the same day! Pre-ordered all seven already!
Pros: They're on top of everything that's happening
Cons: Listens to Instigate the Grief and THE RUDIE SATAN PARK for pleasure.
The Tanuki
qurl you won't believe what i just found about about satsuki...
Pros: They got all the details about everyone
Cons: All but one of them are a lie (and they might not know which)
I hope you enjoyed the read! Are there any you think I missed? Comment and leave them below.
I have some thoughts regarding elitism that I thought might be relevant here.
From my perspective, I've come across what I'd personally categorize as two different kinds of elitists. The main thing separating these two would be their motivations.
The first type of elitist I like to call the "psuedo-elitist". For me, this is the most common type. This type of elitist is driven by insecurity. They feel the need to bash and criticize any and everything they don't like in an effort to validate their own tastes. Some of them also make it their mission to learn as much about music as possible and to listen to all of the "objective" music classics - which is nice, but they don't do it for the sake of the knowledge alone - they do it so they can feel like they have a leg up on others. Some of this type are actually really knowledgeable, but unfortunately, they wield that knowledge from an unbalanced place and use it to boost their egos instead of shedding light in a healthy fashion. More often than not, they also lack individuality because they're constantly looking outside of themselves for validation instead allowing themselves to trust and appreciate their own, unique music taste. Most of this kind aren't even aware of themselves, so they end up coming off as assholes - or just looking like clowns to those who can see through them. They're usually troublesome to talk music with because they're too wrapped up in their own egos to properly perform the dance that is conversation.
The second type of elitist probably doesn't even personally identify with the term "elitist" and you'd probably never catch these guys referring to themselves as such. They have discerning tastes and they may be super knowledgeable about music, but they are self-validated and don't look outwards to "objective" standards - they define their own taste, they come up with their own ideas about music, and they completely OWN however they feel about music, regardless of anyone else's opinion. These people understand subjectivity and that their perspective is really not "elite" at all. They're able to seamlessly interface with music fans of all kinds. They're pleasant to talk to because they're more interested in exchanging perspectives, as opposed to trying to force their own opinion on others or prove that their opinion is somehow "right".
Thankfully, the first type can become the second type later on if they wish. I definitely went through a "pseudo-elitist" phase when I was younger, which I'm glad I grew out of.
My main concern about them is Satoshi's drumming. Since they go EDR, they kind of downplay his drumming like a lot. So that's why I really love "甘美な嘘と退屈な薄紅" because he really shine in that song.
8/10 | DIV's unique blend of EDM and rock proves to be a winner!
Never a band to sit idle, young visual rockers DIV have continued their steady stream of releases and christened 2016 with their second and latest EP EDR TOKYO. The 'EDR' in the title stands for 'Electronic Dance Rock', and while electronics have always been present in DIV's music, they've mostly --with the exception of a few b-sides like "milky latte" and "東京ネクロポリス博物館 (Tokyo Necropolis Hakubutsukan)"-- operated on the peripheries: relegated to mood-setting intros, punchy breakdowns, and background frill. EDR TOKYO asserts itself as a more overt electronic endeavor, however. Their last single, the awesome, EDM-fueled "イケナイKISS (ikenai kiss)" gave us a good taste of what DIV's 'EDR' could sound like, and it's certainly served as precursor to the material on this EP.
The blithesome opener "東京、熱帯夜につ (tokyo nettaiya ni tsuki)" borrows some of the EDM elements of that song, but takes them a bit further, as guitars take a backseat to bright, layered synths and atmospheric bleep bloops. The song openly embraces electronics and effectively sets the precedent for the rest of the EP; each song is inundated with lively synth-work and programming that's both varied and meticulously applied. There may even be moments where you'll question if you're still listening to DIV or not; the main synth in "神様がもしいるなら (kamisama ga moshi iru nara)" sounds like something you'd hear in a
, and the heavy, electro-blended guitars in "甘美な嘘と退屈な薄紅 (kanbi na uso to taikutsu na usubeni)" would equally at home in a track by the GazettE, yet they implement all of this without really straying from who they are. This EP proves that DIV have thoroughly invested themselves in 'EDR' and the electronics here neither sound like a gimmick nor are they arbitrary sonic decorations. Every synth sounds like it has purpose and is an inherent part of the song.
Some may worry that the heavy-focus on electronic music may have come at a price, but rest assured, that is not the case. DIV have not neglected 'R' in 'EDR'! Tracks like "夜想GALAXXXY (yasou GALAXXXY)" and "サクラユメ (sakurayume)" have plenty of audible guitar work, yet are still seamlessly integrated with the electronics. "甘美な嘘と退屈な薄紅" and "Relic Snow", which are arguably the harder tracks of the EP, even boast a bit of breakdown chugging. Clever programming also pervades the EP, with the drums alternating between satoshi's live playing, techno kicks, dubstep-snares and more. Throughout EDR TOKYO, this creates a kind of aural symbiosis that draws forth the raving energy of EDM, but equally channels the adrenal charge of metalcore and the buoyancy of styles like pop-rock and pop-punk. In short, the EP still rocks out in spite of DIV's stylistic choices - no, perhaps even because of them.
EDR TOKYO does lose a bit of steam by the last two tracks, though. That particular duo seems to retread similar musical ground as the previous tracks, but that's a minor grievance, as both tracks still maintain enough personality to sustain the EP. Ultimately, DIV have accomplished what they've set out to do: they've successfully accentuated their electronic tendencies while maintaining their rock-oriented outlook. EDR TOKYO doesn't feel like a conscious shift in DIV's musical direction - it sounds like the band simply manifesting more of who they already were to begin with.
NEVER. Trombe is a mystical deity that came to earth to provide us with happiness (when bands release a new album) and sorrow (when they disband a month after). The provider of our ROLLERCOASTER OF EMOTIONS is faceless and is all around us.
Recommended New Tracks: February 2016!Greetings, fellow Monochromians! February has come and gone, and the year has already yielded a ton of musical goodies! We've got a lot to recommend this month. and we've also got a handful of new contributors this month! Please welcome our new ORZ members @emmny (altho he has contributed before), @togz, and @tetsu_sama69 into the fold! I'd also like to give a shout-out to our guest contributors this month, @yakihiko, and @Matsuchan! So saddle in and check which out what we've got to recommend this month. Let us know what you think and feel free to discuss your own picks as well! If it conveniences you, you can check out our YouTube playlist for this month here! ^^
@emmny's Picks: "月-MOON"byAvelCain AvelCain are currently one of my favourite active bands, so while this song was technically released in the tail end of January, I gotta shout it out anyway. "月-MOON-" is actually the opening theme to an upcoming 'movie' called MOONBOW which vocalist Karma is acting in, so how it'll fit into the context of the movie is beyond me since few details have been released (as per AvelCain's mysterious shtick). The song works great as a standalone single; eve, their producer and main songwriter pulls out all the stops, pairing heavy chugging guitars with a cloyingly sweet chorus and surprisingly prominent string arrangements. "月-MOON-" is a lovely pop song at its core, but it leaves me wondering whether AvelCain will push their poppy sensibilities further and further away from their alt-metal roots as the current flagship band of Shizumiya Records for the sake of their popularity. While there's a certain level of quality we can expect from AvelCain, they always have a surprise or two to throw at listeners, which is why I'm on the edge of my seat for the release of 蘇-よみがえり- (yomigaeri) in March.
"Luxuria" by MALISEND Malisend's debut mini-album ロストソレイユ (lost soleil) suffered from something I'd like to call preview-disorder. You know when you're so hyped for a band's release that you listen to the promos for weeks before the actual release but when you hear the full songs they just feel kind of stale? From what I heard on the previews, it was awesome--dark, brooding metal with a heavy gothic/coll:set-era D'espairsRay influence. Unfortunately, the songs didn't develop well enough to keep up with all the ideas thrown at listeners. "Luxuria" should have suffered the most with its relatively short running length of 3:30, but the doomy guitars and ominous vocals reminiscent of iconic D'espairsRay fan favourite "Garnet" paired with a furious drum section are too delicious to resist. The breakdown at the last minute of the song where the song crumbles before heading back into the riotous verse is nothing short of breathtaking, and that moment sealed its fate as an album highlight.
"形の無い、何よりも、愛したのは、お前だけが" "(katachi no nai, nani yori mo, aishita no wa, omae dake ga)" by gibiky gibiky gibiky highfashionparalyze, the odd nagoya kei outfit originally composed of Aie and Kazuma (ex-merry go round, smells) changed their name earlier this year to the equally odd "gibiky gibiky gibiky" in response to the addition of bassist Kazu (ex-kagerou) and Sakura (ex-l'arc en ciel, zigzo), signaling a new era and sound for the band. They operate on the outskirts of visual/nagoya kei, as their sound is mostly based off of improvisation with a heavy noise/experimental rock leaning. This song has been around in one form or another since the band's 2009 demo, surfacing again as a full-band remake on the live distribute single MA&MA&MA from 2015, which will again be featured on their upcoming first full length album. While HFP/gibiky 3x can be quite hit-and-miss given the jarring vocals and off-kilter guitar work, "形の無い、何よりも、愛したのは、お前だけが" is absolute alt-rock perfection. Kazuma can easily overpower a track with his intense vocal acrobatics, but aie and co. keep up without missing a beat, turning a once haunted and sparse demo in a brilliantly melancholy full-band arrangement.
@fitear1590's Picks: "さようなら僕だけの人 (sayounara boku dake no hito)"byベル (belle)Belle most notably features guitarist Yumehito (ex-2 different versions of Ayabie). Since their debut in late 2014, they mostly flew under my radar, first sparking my interest last fall with their "ビードロ (vidro)" video, which harkened back to some late 90s/early 2000s white kei guitar tones! While that song was good, the new PV track from their first full album is perfucktion. The band reminds me of カルペディエム (Carpe diem) with their beautiful sense of melody and tastefully exaggerated vocals. And again, Yumehito's airy guitar tones are just lovely. There's definitely something very refreshing about this band in the current scene. Skip to 1:31 in the video to hop straight to the music!
"欲望の歌 (yokubou no uta)" by ゴールデンボンバー (Golden Bomber) Oh. My. God. I think we collectively shit ourselves when known troll band Golden Bomber released this PV masterpiece. From the obvious MALICE MIZER and LAREINE costume homages, to the more subtle nods to X-JAPAN/Dir en grey and Versailles-esque music, there's plenty to enjoy for longtime fans of the scene. Whether it's chubby-faced Gacktmijo with braces or playing with the "PV white girl" trope by having fake-Klaha chase her through the forest while striking vanity poses, the video is just a blast. I never found the appeal in this band, but recently, something's clicking. The vocalist's contribution on the recent スピッツ (Spitz) cover album was actually beautiful and now this hilarity. There's a special place in VK hell for Golden Bomber, but you know what, I think they're totally down to own that spot!
"灰燼に帰す (kaijin ni kaesu)" by サウイフモノ (souiumono)Souiumono may have recently announced their disbandment, but at least they're going out with a bang. Not only did they have the most entertaining and RPG-appropriate announcement (@Trombe's translation: "the band will disband as demon boss is defeated, curse is dispelled and subjugation quest is cleared, and peace of the world is restored"), they also left us farewell album GAME OVER. While there are a few too many old tracks, the new ones do not disappoint. Track two, composed by bassist Nuppe, combines the heaviness we've come to know in this last era of souiumono with SACCI's gorgeous dramatic choruses, recalling something Merveilles-era Gackt might sing (yes, two MALICE MIZER references this month). I just hope we don't have to wait too long before the members resurface in new bands.
"Little Boy" by SeussSeuss's new track is a mellow indie anthem. The marchy beat is what initially pulls you in. When the vocals emerge from the dense spiral of riffs, they are a bit garbled. While Engrish can be a turnoff, I have definitely come to appreciate this song a lot more than their clunky twee pop single, "Dancing stupid". I find myself coming back to this latest track, for background music if nothing else. Their album TODAY WAS GOOD is out March 9th.
"エメラルドグリーン (emerald green)" by そこに鳴る (sokoninaru)Last year, I reviewed sokoninaru's debut EP I'm NOT a pirolian. "Emerald green" is the band's first single from their new mini, YAMINABE. How does it fare, you ask? Just based on this song, the band has streamlined many of perceived 'gimmicks' of pirolian's PV track "pirorhythm stabilizer 〜only your world〜," but vocalist/guitarist Suzuki does squeeze in a rad solo, as he's known to do. Overall, it's closer in style to “夏の落とし物 (natsu no otoshimono), which was my favorite from their first EP, so no complaints here. As far as I'm concerned, they work best when they're just a little more mellow. With 8 tracks on the upcoming YAMINABE, I think a lot of us will have a much better idea of how we feel about this polarizing band come March 9th.
@tetsu_sama69's Picks: "朱色の空 (Shuiro no Sora)"byDeathfina When I first heard of this band, I was a little hesitant - mostly because Haku's vocals in his previous band Mitht needed a lot of work and I was concerned there might not be much improvement on his end... I was very wrong. After returning to the Visual-Kei scene with Deathfina, their first release, "Shuiro no Sora", really impressed me, especially the A-Side track of the same name. Even though it's a slower song, it packs a lot of emotional energy in it, which is something a lot of bands have trouble doing for me recently. There isn't a point where the instrumentals derive from the feel of the track, and it's not overtaken by the slightly gothic synths, Haku's deep vocals help bring together this pretty solid song.
"若者離れが止まらない!" by ZETSURIN⚡HAGUKIThis release totally came out of nowhere for me and latched onto me with its super infectious and groovy vibe. ZETSURIN⚡HAGUKI came from the ashes of now disbanded Tokyo Heroes and didn't pull any punches, especially with the title track "Wakamono Banare ga Tomaranai!" It's an extremely energetic track with a sweet and tasty Spanish guitar flavor. I've tried to get this song out of my head since I first listened to it, but once the bass line kicks in and takes you to the chorus, it's hard to resist the urge to jam to this addictive song. It's also hard to pick exactly what I like the most about this song because, overall, there isn't a weak point in the instrumentals or the vocals and something about it reminds of the heavy, jazzier songs MUCC used to release.
"9rue1 au5ocracy" by Insanity InjectionFirst of all, y'all knew this was coming, and a track of this single had to make it on here, especially since I've been looking forward to this band since it was revealed it was an actual band. I was also more than happy it was released internationally so anyone can buy it online almost anywhere! Even though I enjoyed the single as a whole, one song hit me right where it made my heart explode into a ball of happiness. "9rue1 au5ocracy" is everything batshit I hoped this band would release, and if you like a heavy, dark punch to the face followed by a train of wild screams, then this is the real deal. Chaos's and Kyoka's vocals dip up and down into a mingle of sweet, strange harmony before twisting into dark, hard-hitting and chaotic screams, spiced with pure head-banging instrumentals throughout.
@Zeus's Picks: "Vinyl"byHOLLOWGRAM Halfway between 9GOATS and GULLET, HOLLOWGRAM never had the spark to their music to really catch on. Anyone that's dabbled in visual kei can tell you how important it is to stand out. That's why vocalist Ryo's sudden outburst to start "Vinyl" off is so important. The confused electronic elements and the lifeless guitar work are out, and rock is in! Coupled with a charismatic vocalist who is the very definition of consistency, it is difficult not to lose yourself in this song. "Vinyl" sounds like KEEL without aie's influences, that Nagoya kei guitar tone, and aggressive bass. Ryo intends to do something totally different with HOLLOWGRAM than his previous projects and it appears that the band needed some time to truly come together. If this is the new direction they wish to go in, I will gladly follow.
"Strong Fate" by 和楽器バンドI'm left wondering where this band pulls their influences from every time they release a new single. "Strong Fate" is a ballad with a twist near the middle and the end because despite the name, this band is anything but "traditional" compositionally. Vocalist Yuuko Suzuhana has a habit of stealing the limelight - and it's not hard to when you are this talented - but for once it's the entire band which grabs my attention instead. Different instruments take center stage depending on the tone called for at the moment, so the transitions between the koto/shakuhachi and the guitar/percussion are not only refreshing, they feel natural too! The atmosphere conjured is intense. It's incredibly satisfying to be lulled into a state of complacency only to skyrocket into the stratosphere without warning. And of course I can't forget to mention the major label production which turns everything up to 11. Yet another interesting single from one of my guilty pleasures.
"B.R.N" by Insanity InjectionBetween his flamboyant taste in visual kei apparel to sounding like he never left 1999, Kyouka's antics will never get old to me. INSANITY INJECTION is the new band I have been waiting for and picks up right where Kyouka's other bands left off. One half old-school kote kei charm and the other half mental badassery with those eagle screams to top it off, this is the most inspired revival kei sound I've heard in quite some time. On top of that, the looks and production values put the visual back in visual kei. The falsettos and that chorus drive the cheese home even more. "B.R.N" is a very interesting first single, and I2 is shaping up to be the experimental mess that DROSERA OBLAAT. was meant to be. I can't wait.
"Where the Falling Angel Meets the Rising Ape" by CyclamenMember change-ups have haunted Cyclamen like no other over the last few years, but that doesn't stop magnanimous front man Hayato Imanishi one bit! Cyclamen is a band that moves through phases and now is that time where we return to explore the softer, more tranquil side of Cyclamen's sound. "Where the Falling Angel Meets the Rising Ape" as a tribute to Terry Pratchett, author of the Discworld fantasy novels, is touching enough. What really sells this track for me is how super chilled and dreamy the atmosphere is, reminding me so much of the whimsical adventures detailed in the "Discworld" series. I'm genuinely saddened when it comes to a close, but the short length works in it's favor too. It's nice to see Cyclamen still experimenting and with all of the new tracks we've been getting previews of. I'm excited to see where this band goes next!
"「サプリミナル・ダイエット」" by Charisma.comNow let's talk about catchy! I've gained a soft spot for this dynamic duo ever since DIStopping. Their music meets at the three way intersection of culturally relevant, catchy, and hard hitting without coming across as too preachy or holier-than-thou. "Suppliminal Diet" - a combination of "subliminal" and "dietary supplement" - discusses the harm that the media and society causes by promoting unhealthy body types. The focus on how society/media is a supplementary diet pill is crazy genius and the music video is great fun while still keeping that signature Charisma.com weirdness. It's a tad over produced, but hats off to the girls for making such a high energy song with an important meaning! It seriously gets catchier with every listen. I already can't wait for 「愛泥C」.
@togz's Pick: "Veiled Eyes"byPLASTICZOOMSPLASTICZOOMS has always been a band I found interesting whether it be because of their flaws or unique musical choices. Over the past few releases, this band has shown great change in their sound and style. Veiled Eyes doesn't fail to bring change to the table yet again. It was announced that this song would be a digital release but... I didn't realize the song would be so digital. While I don't think this one track sums up PLASTICZOOMS as a whole, I do feel it's a great song to check out as it does have hints of that more New Wave sound mixed with their previous Nu Goth tendencies. Aside from the mixture of the previous two genres, they've added a lot more electronic elements that really boost the song in to a dance-like groove. The bands production and mixing quality seem to be improving alongside Sho's vocal range. This song is a lot of fun, and I've been waiting for PLASTICZOOMS to release this for sometime. I wasn't disappointed and you won't be either! If you'd like to check this track out, you can purchase it on itunes~!
@beni's Picks: "No. 2"byCIDERGIRL Being their first track on their latest second mini-album, there's a lot to love with this indie, all male band despite their petite discography. The familiarity of the chorus in "No.2" might be too along the lines of 'been there, done that' but it somehow makes it instantly memorable. The crystal clear vocals and poppy yet rocking melodies is something to be enjoyed by plenty of us.
"氷の皿 (Ave Maria)" by Poet-type.MWhat a find to get into the swing of things for 2016. Being a member of two late rock bands, namely BURGER NUDS (1980) and Good Dog Happy Men (1999) didn't stop this dude from going to even greater things as a soloist back in 2011 and again in 2013 after a pause in activities. The Visual Kei-esque vocals took me by surprise at first until I was lulled into the dreamy sound of the tune and fell for everything that makes the song. The mix of soft rock and electro makes for a contemporary mash of differing genres which works wonder, and with his lush, distinctive vocals it all mashes splendidly together. It's another of those underwater/deep blue sounding songs that comes off as peaceful and romantic, leaving a super lasting impression.
"Urusai." by SUPER BEAVERSUPER BEAVER have been on a roll recently and there's no stopping them. Continuously getting better with every release, "Urusai." is proving to be their bulls eye - their best song to date. At only two minutes and thirty five seconds long, the tune is a roller-coaster, squashing in its energetic chorus three times and a softer, slower couple of verses. The song is fittingly named "Urusai.", as we all know means 'shut up'. The song opens with vocals from all the guys and guitar chugs that penetrate your ear drums, instantly becoming addicting. Being a short song that packs a punch, I can promise you that you'll be coming back to it repeatedly. Loud, obnoxious, and bursting with energy, SUPER BEAVER certainly are a super bunch.
"KOKO" by WEAVERLike SUPER BEAVER, WEAVER is a band that I hold close to my heart because of their charm. There's something strangely surreal, empowering and warm about their music, and "KOKO" is probably their best song to prove this. With a sound that sets them apart from your usual pop/rock bands in America only because they're Japanese, "KOKO" is both engaging and has too much repeat factor for its own good. The song has plenty of colour and character to it thanks to the structure which is similar to that of the dubstep genre; a strong and loud build up before the chorus hits. Artistic and full of flare, there really isn't a dull moment in "KOKO".
@doombox's Picks: "KICK ASS HERO"byFEELFLIP & SKALL HEADZTo celebrate their ongoing ska punk festival concerts with the same name, band bros FEELFLIP and SKALL HEADZ put out a kick ass song to go along with just how kick ass it must be to bring the entire Japanese ska punk scene together year after year. The song and video are a high energy romps true to the spirit of both bands' work with strong horn sections and lots of pop-punk ruckus that proves that the more the merrier, indeed!
"時を貫く槍(toki o tsuranuku yari)" by Within The Last Wish I've been in love with this track since the video came out last month, but when I saw it was recently uploaded to Bandcamp for ￥200 (with a second and equally amazing song) I had to snatch it up, asap. I have a major weakness for the screamo-esque vocals over hyper-melodic post-hardcore and the swirling dissonance that radiates from this track. Within The Last Wish have masterfully crafted a powerful and memorable approach to tackling age-old feelings of loss and introspection.
"Delicious" by MONKEY MAJIK It's hard not to dance along to this feel good jam from what is probably one of the most unassuming J-pop groups in history. If MONKEY MAJIK didn't release something new for the Year of the Monkey it would be a sad missed opportunity for sure. The song, and hilarious video, play on some retro 80s-inspired jazz-funk complete with jazzercize dancers in horrible spandex to round out the 'it's so bad, it's good' concept. The music and lyrics are extremely catchy as we'd expect, but they're also a bit of a new leaf from your typical acoustic-ballad style MM is known for. It ends up being just the spark of creativity needed to keep things fresh, yet familiar.
@CAT5's Picks: "gods"bymothercoat After the release of last year's super solid album "GOHUM", indie-quirksters mothercoat have returned with a new single, and they've stepped their game up another notch! "gods" almost sounds like a mash-up of their previously released songs "fake a fake" and "post", sporting a slightly mathy main riff that's rhythmically remeniscent of the former, yet carries the buoyant energy of the latter. The production on "gods" is also noticeably improved from the band's 2015 output. Every instrument is clearly audible with a pristine sense of individual space and clarity. Even with the vocals laid atop, everything jives pleasantly as a whole. "gods" is a distinctly 'mothercoat song', but it should appeal to any fan who likes a bit of 'pep' in ther indie-rock 'step'. ; )
"C.P.U."byマリアハト (Maria Hato)If there's one thing you should know about me, it's that I fucking LOVE mmm (me-my-mo). Who is mmm? You're right to ask. Chances are you probably haven't heard of her unless you're an ardent fan of Japanese indie-folk singers. Long story short, she's an underground folk musician that got her start in 2006 and has been involved with the scene since, performing with several bands like oono yuuki, Oh Shu, and Aniss & Lacanca. She has a unique voice and a penchant for writing compelling songs. She could release a record of herself blowing into a mic, and I'd still love it. I'm biased. Sue me. Thankfully, the music she makes is actually much more interesting that. After a brief 'retirement' from the music world in 2013, she returned in late 2014, much to my delight. She's also resumed activities with her band マリアハト, and they've just released this utterly fantastic 7inch single. mmm has always shown unorthodox tendencies in her music, but "C.P.U." is, without a doubt, her most adventurous song to date. It starts off simple and pleasant enough, but then veers off into an unexpected breakdown, complete with tribal drumming and noise-sax, before diverging even further into a psychedelic-dub haze. The song never looses its way, however; these aural detours somehow feel like they were a planned route all along. I love it! Be sure to check out the equally trippy PV in the spoiler!
☆Guest☆ Picks: "殉恋歌(junrenka)" by BORN Bringing the typical BORN music format, "殉恋歌(junrenka)" is such an amazing song, with heavy bass, average drums, guitars as always fitting very well with each other and with high traces of Ryoga's epic and crazy singing style. If you know how each member's voice sounds, you can clearly notice all of their voices in some parts of the song, which make this, and their last single even greater.
-submitted by @yakihiko
"Ruin"byDeviloofDeviloof is a 5 member Deathcore band from Osaka claiming to be the "Most violence and extreme Visual Kei band" and with their 1st Single "Ruin", which was originally released in December but made available through indie-CD shops since February 10th, they definitely proove that they have every right to do so! A pretty good amount of blastbeats, and probably the heaviest breakdowns and most nasty-sounding vocals of the scene make this song a must listen for every fan of heavy Visual Kei..
-submitted by @Matsuchan
See you next month!
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