I expressed my opinions after listening to the album a few more times, In chat. So I'll post them here.
I still believe DOGMA is their best effort since DIM. That will not change at all. I still believe DEUX is the best track on the album. This will also not change. However, I can say that the middle part of the album is very boring. Tracks 6-11 offer nothing new and is just filler. My initial rating of the album (when those tracks are negated), is still a solid 9/10. With them, its a 7.5/10. The other tracks do a great job of highlighting what the band is good it as well as how they are ready to take it to the next level. Basically what an album is supposed to do. Also, i won't lie, there is a certain repetition (even with my go-to songs), that can't be ignored as well. I can see how this rub many the wrong way. I feel that Ruki is to blame here since he has a dangerous amount of creative control in the band which does more bad than good if you ask me. Ruki has a very carbon/stale taste that's been plaguing every album since TOXIC. Eventually, while some can find some appreciation in some of these clearly rehashed songs, many will (if they aren't already) grow tired of hearing the same go-to riffs and such. I believe it was Uruha who stated that some of the songs he brought fourth were turned away because it didn't fit Ruki's "vision" of the album. Presty said this to me a few days back and it is very true, Ruki is indeed a diva. Its gotten to the point where I feel like Aoi or Uruha would shine MUCH better if they had their own bands.
Composition wise, DOGMA (the song) is just wow. I was not expecting the track to turn out that way at all. Perfect example of the band trying something new. Whoever they got the influence from, please, may they do it again. DERACINE is another great track. Its a fairly simple song ,but the way Aoi and Uruha's guitars compliment each other and the smooth but heaviness of the track is very nicely done. RAGE is a nice blend of GazettE and Lynch. And as cheesy as Ruki's lyrics are during the screaming part, I like it. Its a VERY nice touch and gritty. BLEMISH, is pretty much Vortex but a upgraded version that packs more of a punch. DAWN, is just Gazerock mixed with Metalcore, and i dont mind it. Its a solid track. OMINOUS is on the same page as DOGMA as being another just well composed song, where you don't know what is next. Perfect ending.
Now to why i enjoy DEUX so damn much. It has that signature and genuine Gazerock feel to it but the other elements such as the well placed synths and piano and Aoi's part after the second bridge just shatters me. It feels like they all sat down and put their all into making this track as strong as it can be. Also, that ending came out of no where and I shit you not, I fell to the floor in awe. Its THE perfect song that the band has ever composed.
In general, this album is a perfect follow up from BD. Very evident that time was put into these songs. The energy/umph is there as well as the growth. I like. Album of the year atm.