Album review: Adams - SEXPLOSION

Good day, dear readers!~


Finally I want to upload a new album review today - this time I've chosen Adams' third album called "SEXPLOSION"! Since I've visited their concert in Luxembourg on 27th February I got the chance to already buy the CD although the album isn't released officially or digitally yet.

The CD jacket is printed double-sided, so you can decide whether you want to put Shota (left) or ADAM (right) in front; usually ADAM is on the front side. The two faces with the black background are their recent promotional photo for this album and the tour.

Before jumping into the song analysis some general information. Adams already had announced the album would mark a change in their music style: "SEXPLOSION" would become influenced mainly by electronic elements and they wanted to leave behind the pop sound characteristically for their first two albums "NEO SEXUAL" and "SIXNINE". Shota told he has collected many new impressions during the last Europe tour, especially concerning electronical music, and now has woven them into the ten new songs "SEXPLOSION" consists of. Moreover he wants to increase his singing parts and doesn't want to use the guitar that often anymore - indeed he has realized this plan in the latest release.
My very first impression confirmed this attitude: The style mainly has changed, but in my opinion didn't became worse. In opposite: This highly experimental album maybe isn't the best way to introduce Adams to new fans, but who already knows them since the beginning of their career will be pleased to enjoy a completely new face of which proves how wide and open their musical style can vary. "SEXPLOSION" offers a new perspective and brings fresh gust, confirms their motto "Original, Revolutionary, Timeless" perfectly.

1. LOVE ME
Words: ADAM / Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
This song was already released before the tour start and the pre-sell of the album as a teaser.

Right from the beginning we dive into Adams' new face of electro sounds with buzzing basses, discobeats and electronic guitars. Mainly ADAM is singing, from time to time accompagnied by Shota's background voice. The song forms a heating opening of the album and moves to dancing, is melodious and instantly buries its way into one's ear. Unfortunately the song suddenly ends after just 2:37 minutes and leaves the listener somewhat unsatisfied, expecting a similar powerful continuation. On the other hand the song mustn't have been longer, instead it could have become monotonous because the pattern repeats itself two times - once more the song would have lost its high quality.
Rating: 5 / 5


2. WHY
Words: ADAM / Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
The second song manages to pick up the dance sound of the previous number and connects the rapid end with its beginning. The dancable beat is accompagnied by powerful electronic guitar sounds, synthesizer elements and the change between ADAM's and Shota's singing parts. While the first stanza is dominated by ADAM's voice and monotonous powerchords the beat drops out when Shota starts rapping - but when the refrain starts all the elements are woven together and now form a melodious and firing melody that is likely to stick in one's ear. This earwig potential additionally is underlined by the remarkable, continuously repeating line "Why don't you remember". In the second stanza ADAM continues singing, but now the riffs get more harmonious and interesting before the sound returns to the opening chords and Shota's singing part is quite similar to his first one. The second stanza isn't full-packed with all musical elements of the song,;the guitar drops out here while beat and synthesizer continue. After a short reheating insert of Shota the final refrain returns to full musical force and is additionally transposed higher. After two repetitions also this song rapidly ends and causes a quite similar feeling like after "LOVE ME".
In my opinion this song is a very experimental one because the usual elements of an electro or pop song (1st stanza, refrain, 2nd stanza, refrain, break, refrain (2x) ) are present but vary in an interesting manner. This makes listening to this song refreshing although it may be a bit difficult to get into it at first. All in all nevertheless worth the full rating!
Rating: 5 / 5


3. Baddest Crown
Words&Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
This song is also packed with electro elements and manages to keep up the atmosphere created by the first two numbers, comparable to "WHY" follwing to "LOVE ME". Beginning with a piercing synthesizer soon a voluminous beat controls the song, accompagnied by ADAM's pure and Shota's distorted voice. The first stanza resolves without break in a melodious refrain which shows the full spectrum of all musical elements Adams are using in this song: Synthesizers, electronic guitars and two alternating voices. At the beginning of the second stanza the beat suddenly drops out and opens the stage for guitar licks, a singing ADAM and a rapping Shota instead before it returns and builds up the song's usual style again. The second stanza is quite similar to the first one and maintains a regular song pattern before it resolves neatless in a transposed break where ADAM's voice suddenly increases and pitches higher. But quickly the song returns to its beginning pattern with the piercing synthesizer and the heartbeat-striking beat, the refrain follows again. After this the song rapidly ends with the words "Baddest Crown", but is nevertheless summed up neatly and forms a pretty piece.
A song that makes fun to listen to and that deserves full rating.
Rating: 5 / 5


4. HERO - Dear Eves my precious broken piece -
Words: ADAM / Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
The fourth number carries an important meaning for Adams themselves as well as for the fans: It is dedicated to their EVES, as they call their female fans. This song will become a standard piece at future live concerts and is the one that reminds most of their "old", more pop-oriented music style; nevertheless it contains electronic elements.
The whole atmosphere of the song is optimistic and motivating, shall deliver a positive feeling to the listener. This is revealed right from the beginning where a guitar as well as a synthesizer form an increasing intro before the former lines "We are Adams not a hero nor a god nor Buddha" resound, sung by both. The raising sound continues while ADAM is singing alone now; the tension finally resolves and opens the floor for a winged refrain remarkable by the lines "Dear my precious broken piece", a background synthesizer and an electric guitar playing. The second stanza begins in the same way like the opening of the song, and soon ADAM and Shota start alternating each other's vocals and maintain the song's atmosphere which stays subdued at first, just to raise again to the second refrain which is similar to the first one. The break is quite silent and at first just the guitar is leading to another increase. Shota starts singing, ADAM joins in and then also percussion elements support the raising melody to the final, usual refrain.
Summing it up the song is an enjoyable electro-pop number and will prove as a new evergreen that will accompany Adams' future career permanently. Nevertheless it just receives 4 of 5 points because this song tends to become a bit boring when listening to it too often: It doesn't consist of that many experimental elements and can be categorized as more mainstream.


5. blind
Words&Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
This song is also influenced by electronic elements, but is no dance number but rather a pop song. Beginning with a piano and an acoustic guitar, the sound suddenly turns to a beat and a synthesizer, then ADAM and Shota start singing softly, alternating their parts. Later an electric guitar joins in, and the first stanza resolves in a melodious refrain before the slightly varied second stanza begins. The usual pattern is kept with the second refrain until the beat and instruments shortly drop out, just to start playing again bit by bit. Finally the break resolves in the last refrain and the song is summed up in a coherent way.
All in all a harmonious song enjoyable to listen to, but also likely to loose its initial fascination when listening to it too often.
Rating: 4 / 5


6. ゲームセット (Game Set)
Words: ADAM / Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
Also the sixth song is mainly dominated by electronic elements right from the beginning on: A synthesizer imitating Sci-Fi and space-like sounds introduces the refrain, accompanied by ADAM's subdued voice, then the song gains speed and increases with percussion elements. Suddenly everything takes a turn and changes the atmosphere of the beginning rapidly: A ceasing electronic bass leads to a heart-striking beat and an electric guitar. ADAM joins in, singing for two stanzas and the number keeps its serious atmosphere until it resolves in a harmonious refrain which reveals an outburst of all elements used in this song; also the Sci-Fi synthesizer. In the middle part the elements are reduced and the beat dominates the song, but then the blooming refrain follows again. The piece ends quite rapidly and leaves the listener somewhat unsatisfied a third time already.
Nevertheless the number has high earwig potential and its experimental character make it an interesting experience to listen to. In my opinion the "problem" is that two completely different music styles face each other what makes it difficult to enjoy it as a whole: On the one hand the beat in the stanzas forms a dancing part, on the other hand the space-like synthesizer and the refrain are almost too electronic to be still dancable. The combination of both in the refrain is something one needs to get used to and can sound weird when listening to it for the first time. Moreover the song quickly can seem to be too overloaded with elements: Shota definitely wanted to try out putting together various styles and elements, but in my opinion it is a bit too much; he either could have cancelled the guitar, the beat or the synthesizer. Nevertheless I personally like the song, maybe even because of its refreshing impact on the album.
Rating: 3,5 / 5


7. Darling
Words: ADAM / Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
This song is more calm and most likely to be the only ballad on this album, although its still too fast and with continuous rhythm to be a real one. Here a completely other way of playing with electronical elements is revealed: No beats are present, instead a constant percussion plays throughout the number. Instrumentally the song is dominated by an electric acoustic guitar and some "glitter" effects in the refrain. The pattern is simple and fitting to a normal pop song with first stanza, refrain, second stanza, refrain, a middle part and several variations of the refrain until an instrumental outro sums up the longest song of the album with 5:37 minutes.
"Darling" is the most unspectacular song of this album, in my opinion, and quickly gets monotonous: It can't keep up the vivid dancefloor atmosphere created by the previous songs. On the other hand one can argue that especially this offers a welcome break to catch breath again for the next song which shall reveal as firing with an electrizing beat again. Thus, "Darling", as the title says, is a highly romantic song what is emphasized by ADAM's soft and sweet voice. It invites for dreaming and is just enjoyable to listen to, for example when you want to calm down or are shortly before going to sleep.
Rating: 3 / 5


8. S.E.X
Words&Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
Besides to "Game Set" this is the most experimental song of the album, but compared to the sixth number it unfortunately missed the track and its purpose. Shota tries out lots of elements and combines them in different ways, but the number doesn't have a clear structure and seems to be composed rather arbitrarily than clearly planned. Synthesizers, a discobeat, a distorted electric guitar and their subdued voices alternate and surprise, rather confuse the listener throughout the song. Generally this game with combining the elements in various manners could be highly innovative, but is flattened by the continuous repetition of the word "SEX" and some "Oh"s besides to Shota's spoken parts. The impression of a slightly low level is created by that and lowers the song's potential even more.
Experimenting with styles is always difficult and often doesn't succeed - unfortunately also here.
Rating: 1,5 / 5


9. Wolf
Words&Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
Number nine is the most rock-influenced song of the album and just contains few electronic elements, is dominated by Shota's guitar playing. As the title promises the atmosphere really reminds of a wolf on a hunt: It stays restless throughout the song, and while the stanzas are less melodious the refrain turns out to be more harmonious. Nevertheless a serious mood is delivered, and the break before the final refrain reminds strongly of a howling wolf: A whining electric guitar is accompanied by Shota's subdued speaking voice until ADAM takes over and the song increases again to the final refrain with its already known pattern.
All in all an interesting song which is worth listening to. Stylewise it's a bit lost because it neither fits to Adams' new nor their old sound - but since Adams wanted to create an experimental third album  this song will find its appreciated place on the tracklist.
Rating: 3,5 / 5


10. Fly through the sky
Words: ADAM / Music&Arrangement: SHOTA
The last song sums up the album in a beautiful way: It is a more pop-like song with few electronic influence and besides to "HERO" reminds of Adams' old music style, for example of "Stand Up" as the last song of their first album "NEO SEXUAL". As the title says the atmosphere is winged and invites to dreaming while flying through the sky in imagination with the light guitar sounds, the relaxed background synthesizer, glitter elements and the boys' melodious alternating voices. The pattern is usual for pop songs and makes listening to it simple and enjoyable, especially when the last stanza is transposed higher and fulfills the listener's expectations; one isn't left unsatisfied. Thus, this song is nice to calm down and relax, but also nothing too special.
Rating: 3,5 / 5


Final conclusion:
Adams have proved that they keep their promises: They announced a highly experimental new album which should change their music style to more electro-pop, and the result fulfills this expectation to 100%. Every song contains more or few electronic elements, and with every number they tried out different ways to realize their new experiences with European electronic music. "SEXPLOSION" can definitely be recommended to their fans who will be pleased of new and varying sounds, but wouldn't be the first choice for newbies, as already mentioned in the beginning.
To put it in a nutshell: I suggest to everyone to take a peek into Adams latest work themselves to form their own opinion because it's very likely to fall in the one extreme of total advocacy or the other of absolute disapproval. Fact is that they've proven the actuality of their motto "Original, Revolutionary, Timeless" flawlessy.



Thank you for reading and see you soon!~
Junsui

Album review: Jupiter - The History of Genesis

Hello, dear readers!~

A while has passed since I have written a report or a review - but today I want to give my opinion about Jupiter's latest album, called "THE HISTORY OF GENESIS"~ I already have ordered my copy of the limited edition, but of course I couldn't withstand to already listen to the album and to form my opinion of it ^____^
So, let's take a closer look on it~

The new look for the album

Regular Edition

Limited Edition

Luckily Jupiter had created a special English page about this album, you can find it here. They added descriptions and their background thoughts about every single song what maybe makes it easier to understand the meaning of every piece.
It's quite obvious that HIZAKI produced the main part of lyrics and music - that surprised me, because at the previous album "CLASSICAL ELEMENT" the work was more split up to the single members.




1. The Birth of Venus
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
The song starts with one of HIZAKI's famous and easily recognizable guitar melodies and promises to be a fitting opening song of the album. It consists of all typical symphonic metal elements that characterize Jupiter's music style and conveys a vivid and speedy atmosphere which will continue throughout the album. Also the guitar solo leaves you stunned as always and proves that these guys know how to write songs and to play their instruments. ZIN's voice fits quite good to the melody and the song in general, too and rounds the song off. One of the common and most promising really new songs of the album.
Unfortunately one can't find the music video on Youtube, and there are no recorded live performances yet...
Rating: 4,5 / 5


2. LAST MOMENT
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
This song already was released as a single before and also has an instrumental version.

It's a typical Jupiter song with melodic as well as power metal elements. Battling and progressing guitars are perfectly underlined by ZINs melodious singing and result in a refrain with earwig potential, as well as the female voice in the beginning and in between the song. The guitar solos are stunning and impressing and perfectly into the song's scheme. Nevertheless, the lyrics of the song always make me sad because it shall remind you of living every single moment as it could be your last one. So its meaning is closely connected with death - what not neccessarily mean that this song causes depressions, in opposite. It shall create a more optimistic atmosphere, and in general this works quite fine.
Unfortunately the official music video isn't available on Youtube, but this live is also a good proof of their stunning performances, I think~
Rating: 5 / 5


3. Darkness
Lyrics: ZIN / Music: HIZAKI 
This song was released on the ARCADIA single as well before. It is one of the harder numbers and can be better categorized as Death Metal.
It starts with an interesting opening that shall create a solemn and dark atmosphere, in the truest sense of the word. Scared people, little bells resounding, a screaming child - as if the Demons of Darkness personally would stray through the streets. Then a powerful speed metal introduces the song until ZIN starts growling. The song maintains its power throughout the stanzas and results in a refrain that is just catchy in the ear, with HIZAKI and TERU battling themselves with their awesome guitar skills. Also HIZAKI's guitar solo is stunning as always and directly buries itself in your ear. Then the song returns to its power metal opening and is followed again by the refrain.
I personally like the song quite much, also because I prefer the harder metal songs. Another plus point we can give because the entire lyrics are held in English and non-Japanese have the possibility to understand the meaning of the song more easily. It's a pity that ZINs voice can't handle growling that professionally... In my opinion he would need more practise concerning that. But nobody was perfect from beginning on, and the only way for him to improve is to just continue trying~ I would like the song even better if his voice could underline the awesome music more...
Rating: 4,5 / 5


4. B.L.A.S.T
Lyrics: HIZAKI / Music: TERU
This song is striking from the very first tune and perfectly connects with the also heavy previous number. In the beginning we deal with characteristic Jupiter power metal and also shouting background vocals until ZIN resolves in a melodic refrain which is accompagnied by some "glittering" effects. Soon the atmosphere turns more serious again, and a chaotic and somewhat confusing part begins: ZIN does his best with growling and shouting and in my opinion succeeds more than for example in Darkness. HIZAKI and TERU unleash a, in the truest sense of the word, blasting guitar fire until they change to a destructive-sounding instrumental part that somehow can remind of a crashing aircraft, for example. In between, MASASHIs bass perfectly intervenes and creates a "silence before the guitar solo storm" what is realized quite successfully here. In following the song turns to the refrain and its usual pattern again with which it ends and forms a fluent connection to the next number.
In my personal opinion the best completely new song of the album, but you may have a different opinion if you are more in favour of the more peaceful ballads - just from the view of the harder metal fan ^___^ Nevertheless, one could critisize that the song is a bit chaotic in the middle part what could mess up an "enjoyable" listening... Not for me, but because of this I tune down my rating to 4,5 of 5 - just because of solidarity reasons to the other songs.


5. The Moon
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
This song is more peaceful than the previous two ones and consists of one surprising turn what made it sympathetic to me - I always approve artists trying out new and unusual elements, and here it turns out quite well. It starts with a more calm guitar intro and radiates a slow and somehow beaming style, synthesizer sounds accompagnied by flashing guitar and bass sounds. ZINs voice is pleasurable to listen to and conveys the tranquil atmosphere quite well - one easily can flow away with the song. Nevertheless it takes an interesting turning point after the second stanza: The tune turns to a bar piano which quickly battles with HIZAKIs guitar and shortly changes the atmosphere to a more vivid and light style. But this sequence only lasts a few moments until the song returns to its usual pattern with the chorus and the song is rounded off by the same instrumental part like in the beginning - as if we would have walked around the full moon's silhouette one time. At least that was my metaphorical image in front of my inner eye when listening to this song.
To put it in a nutshell this song has high potential to become an enjoyable ballad and really shouldn't miss on this album. It conveys Jupiter's main thought of creating an own universe quite good.
Rating: 4 / 5



6. 氷の中の少女 Koori no Naka no Shoujo
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
This song was released as the second digital download single before.
It is a more "common" song that reminds me of typical JRock. It consists of Jupiter's usual speedy pattern and a catchy refrain, although the lyrics generally deal with sadness. HIZAKI again reveals his fabulous guitar skills and proves once more that Jupiter always have something melodic and characteristic in store to maintain their image. Nevertheless, in my personal opinion it's nothing very special, a more - well, just common song.
Rating: 3 / 5


7. Church Candle
Music: HIZAKI
The only instrumental number of this album. HIZAKI again has created one of his famous guitar solos that reminds quite much of his earlier times of HIZAKI Grace Project. Also this time he makes use of many special effects like a harpsichord and violins what creates a choral and somehow Christian atmosphere - as it's intended by the title. His soft, skilled guitar playing sounds quite similar to a violin and is patient, reminds more of a singing voice than an instrument. Finally percussion elements are added which underline the sublime style of the song, and the number ends in a highly symphonic style. 
Just a song to admire the skills of this guitarist - my highest regards to him.
Rating: 5 / 5
 


8. Red Carnation
Lyrics: HIZAKI / Music: ZIN 
The song starts with choral elements, for example a harpsichord and a harp, then takes the turn to Jupiter's usual speed metal style. Most remarkable sign of this song is the female voice especially inventing in the chorus and later parts. The style generally differs a bit from HIZAKI's way to compose a song and often takes semitone steps, as it seems to be more ZIN's style. Nevertheless the song sticks to the usual pattern of their music.
Personally, it's not really my taste, but objectively no bad song at all.
Rating: 2,5 / 5


9. 絶望ラビリンス Zetsubou Labyrinth
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
Again a harder and highly speedy song with strong metal accent. In opposite to B.L.A.S.T it has a strict pattern and isn't that experimental. Also the title "Labyrinth of Despair" fits perfectly to the ascending synthesizer effects as well as the descending guitar in the middle part of the song. The catchy voice and melody makes it good to listen to this number, and I guess it is a highly rocking song especially at lives that is able to heat up the audience. A firing guitar solo goes along with a short passage of ROOKIE FIDDLER's violin, and even ZIN's voice does a good job here. Because the beginning and the end are the same the"completition" of the song is emphasized. A very promising song I personally like quite much!
Rating: 4,5 / 5


10. Shining
Lyrics: HIZAKI / Music: TERU
This song conveys a motivating and more vivd atmosphere from the beginning on and raises your mood after the somehow a bit chaotic and threatening previous song. ZIN's voice fits very good to the song and the vocals underline the permanent speedy guitar riffs. Of course a guitar solo mustn't miss also here, this time it's TERU'S turn. Nevertheless I personally consider this song as a bit too conventional and non-surprising - it's just predictable and doesn't contain a really kicking moment. It's more JRock and VKei "mainstream" (sorry, TERU, forgive me my maybe a bit harsh rating >___<;)
Rating: 2,5 / 5


11. ARCADIA
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
Also this song was released earlier as the first of the two digital download singles. 
It has a catchy refrain with the stanza "We have all the Love we need in the World". I personally was caught instantly by this when I listened to the song for the first time and think, this motto has something true in it.
Still one of my favourite songs of the album.
Rating: 5 / 5

12. Luminous
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
This song was released as the second track on the "LAST MOMENT" single. It's a slow and shining ballad with the touching words " I will always be with you" as the beginning of the refrain. You can listen perfectly to it when you want to calm down or try to fall asleep - it comforts your heart and soul if you are willing to listen carefully. ZINs voice with the characteristic tremolo brings inner peace and is enjoyable to listen to. A felicitous ballad that mustn't miss on every album.
Rating: 5 / 5


13. The History of Genesis
Lyrics & Music: HIZAKI
The title song of the album is a longer song, as it is usual for Jupiter and also already visible in Versailles' times. If we compare the albums and their longer, highly innovative and changing songs we can come up with this scheme:

Versailles:
Holy Grail => Faith & Decision
Versailles => Created Beauty

Jupiter:
CLASSICAL ELEMENT => CLASSICAL ELEMENT
The History of Genesis => The History of Genesis
Moreover it's significant that HIZAKI has composed all this songs himself. So we are dealing with an instrumental masterpiece again.

ZIN's voice is pleasant to listen to, and the song begins as a marching ballad with little bells resounding in the background which remind a bit of Christmas time (at least me). Then a turning point is reached and the song gains speed by YUKI's drums, a violin joins in, and in the end also the powerful guitar riffs emphasize the more metal-like style of Jupiter. Two English part follow where also the other members sing along, then TERU strikes with a kicking guitar solo until ZIN starts singing again and the song returns to the characteristic Jupiter speed metal style. Shortly before the end the song returns to it's ballad pattern from the beginning and makes you want to wave your arm together with the crowd on a concert. Finally the song results in a fantastic last accord and sums up the album quite well; at least the limited edition.
A great song with highly innovative elements that proves best that all the members are fantastic musicians and master of their job. My highest regards to their musical career and their skills!
Rating: 5 / 5


14. SACRED ALTAR
Lyrics: ZIN / Music: HIZAKI
This song was the second one on the "Koori no Naka no Shoujo" single and is only available on the Regular Edition.
Again we deal with a harder number, starting with a mysteriously whispering female voice. A sinister and scary atmosphere shall be introduced, underlined by the words "To those who haven't trust in God's sanctuary - you shall suffer your punishment - foolish humans". In following two blasting powerchords overwhelm you before the two guitars open the song with a melodic intro and finally result in one of Jupiter's famous speed metal battles. In the first stanza ZIN starts singing, focusing on a deep voice level until he changes to growling and shouting - perfectly underlined by the continuous firework of power metal in the background. 
In the refrain ZIN tries to pitch his voice to higher tones and to sound like an angel of vengeance - but he fails concerning that, unfortunately. It sounds more wanted than skilled, and once again we have to observe that he just lacks of skill in some aspects. Again a generally awesome song suffers from that, so that I won't rate it with full points, but with 4 of 5.
The musical aspect is and stays awesome though, and I especially love these guitar solos and the battle between the guitars~ Also the fact that the complete song except of the refrain is held in English makes it easier for oversea fans to follow the content of the song which is quite fitting to the hard death metal-like sound - another positive aspect here.



Final conclusion:
I must confess, at the very first I didn't have high expectations in this album. Maybe this was influenced by KAMIJOs fabulous "Heart" which absolutely captured me and of course because of my opinion that no band ever can be as good as Versailles... I still miss them although I'm quite glad especially about KAMIJOs solo project. Jupiter aren't able to hit my very taste: I like them quite much and also ZIN is a sympathethic young singer, but this band just can't replace Versailles, sorry...
So I was quite sceptical about how this album would turn out. After the last releases I was quite disappointed by their latest work, and I wasn't sure whether I should "The History of Genesis" at all. LAST MOMENT wasn't able to make me absolutely enthusiastic, nor the two digital releases. Moreover I was even more concerned when I saw that all titles from the singles also would be on the album - for what I'm buying it when I already know half of the songs? Another fact that made me sceptical... But in the end I'm very glad I've bought it though!~
The reasons: Although we maybe already knew so many songs, in their setlist and their order on this album they can unfold a completely different impact. Especially LAST MOMENT, followed by the harder Darkness and B.L.A.S.T and the more slowly The Moon form a perfect unit, as well as ARCADIA, Luminous and The History of Genesis. The songs just sound better when listening to them in the complete album than as single ones.
Moreover I listened to the already released songs with different ears, especially to LAST MOMENT and ARCADIA. Somehow I learned to value them more, and now they're two of my favourites, as well as Darkness and SACRED ALTAR.
Also I was positively impressed by the most of the new songs - only disappointment were Red Carnation and Shining which don't hit my personal taste. But all in all this album was definitely worth buying and listening concentratedly to it~ Somehow Jupiter managed to pull me into their universe again, although I was very sceptical before... They just proved that they are too talented and experienced musicians not to be taken serious. I just can recommend this album to everybody who loves Versailles and their power-symphonic metal influences as well as to everyone who can become enthusiastic about astonishing guitar solos, instrumental parts and harder metal sounds. And please don't judge ZIN too much - although he also isn't my favourite singer I have learned to value him and will give him the chance to improve since he is still quite young and new in the business. Moreover I can say from my own experience that he sounds better live - so if you should have the possibility to visit one of their concerts, go there and let yourself be drawn into their very special but fantastic universe!


Thank you for reading and see you with the next review!
Junsui

Album review: KAMIJO - Heart

Good day, dear readers!~

Finally the great day had come: On Wednesday one of my favourite artists, KAMIJO, released his first full album entitled "Heart". Although my ordered copy hasn't arrived yet I had the possibility to listen to it already, and of course a short review mustn't miss!
So let's get started~

1. Vive le Roi
An opening typical for this artist, packed with symphonical elements like violins, church organ, a ringing bell, piano etc. It reminds of Versailles' introductions like "Intro" or "Prelude" quite much but is a fabulous beginning of the album.
Rating: 5 / 5



 
2. Rose Croix
This song continues the intro properly and is a typical symphonic metal song we got used to from his solo project already. The speed combined with the mix of classical and modern instruments forms an impressing number that makes fun to listen to. Also the equilibrium between the remarkable melody and the middle part creating a mysterious atmosphere makes it an interesting song.
Rating: 4,5 / 5

3. Yamiyo no Lion

As we already knew this song from the second single of his consecutive releases it nevertheless doesn't loose its impact on the album and is well-placed as the third number. A song filled with symphonic metal power that quite reminds of Versailles times.
Rating: 4 / 5

4. Louis - Enketsu no La Vie en Rose - Symphonic Metal version
The remastered version of his very first solo release indeed sounds more modern because it focuses on guitar, bass and drums and even includes a new guitar solo. Compared to the original version his voice has improved again after just one year, a very positive side effect. Personally I like both versions quite much because the song is just a great work and represents his solo project in best way.
Rating: 5 / 5


 

5. Death Parade
In my opinion the most experimenting and innovative song of this release. When listening to it for the first time it maybe sounds a bit strange, but after some time the melody becomes pleasing and the song enjoyable four minutes filled with an interesting combination of various stylistic elements. Based on march rhythm you really can be reminded of a death parade, also because of some vocoder voices that could represent voices of ghosts or other mischievous creatures. It's not too dark and also consists of cheerful moments what makes it not easy to like this song instantly - just give it a while and then it will become a number one really can like very much.
Rating: 4 / 5



6. Romantique
After the first five songs filled with symphonic metal and action the atmosphere now changes to a more romantic one, in the truest sense of the title of the sixth number. Maybe the most Lareine-like song on this album represents KAMIJO's softer side that can touch one's heart very well. The song is perfect for dreaming and just adoring his pleasant voice; most likely you should listen to it when you want to calm down or spend some time at a beautiful place. For me it's a good option to forget stress and to grant myself a break from everyday life. The melody accompagnied with a violin and the piano elements form a wonderful ballad that's definitely worth listening to.
Rating: 4,5 / 5



7. Dakishimerarenagara (what a title x___x;  its meaning is "While hugging" )
This song creates a motivating and elated atmosphere enjoyable like a walk along an alley or a tour in a gondola on a ship canal in Venice. Dominated by French elements like an accordeon one can go on short vacations while listening to this song. Not too slow but also not too fast it goes along with the previous number quite well and is a typical KAMIJO song worth listening to.
Personally I prefer the "harder" symphonic metal songs, so my rating of 3,5 of 5 maybe is a bit influenced by my personal opinion... If you are more the type for ballads our point of view can differ maybe, but I also would be willing to rate it up to 4.



8. Moulin Rouge
The main song of his first consecutive releases single abducts you into the world of night life in Paris and indeed creates the atmosphere of joining the same-named revue theatre, as the number intends to do. Finding saxophones in his solo project is quite rare, but he used similar effects in Lareines "Fuyu Tokyo" and again refers to his earlier works. The song's atmosphere is swinging and peppy, motivates and it just makes fun listening to it, especially because it's a neat experiment with styles (in musical matter as well as in face of his outfit ^__^). In my opinion still one of his best songs I always would recommend to listen to if you want to get to know his solo project better~
Rating: 5 / 5

9. Sanctuary
Number nine of this album is a quick song consisting of symphonic metal elements and a light, almost hovering atmosphere that gets a bit more serious in the middle part. Nevertheless the return to the melody is obvious, and personally I can observe many characteristics which also are present in Versailles' songs, like one of support guitarist Meku's famous solos.
Rating: 4 / 5



10. Katate ni Yume wo motsu Shoujo
A very impressing number characteristical for KAMIJO's solo works. In my opinion the most Versailles-like song with fabulous guitar solo of HIZAKI himself, so the comparison with the band lies quite close. Every Versailles fan will feel remembered of songs like "Princess" or other works from Jubilee and will be satisfied with a "halfway comeback" - although his solo project still is independent and unique enough not to put it on the same level like Versailles. A rocking but nevertheless light-hearted symphonic metal song that contains everything one needs for another wonderful work that definitely is worth a listen.
Rating: 5 / 5

In between these songs a female voice proclaims the following lines:

"The heart is forbidden territory by law of clan.
The empire that conquers the territory of heart -Rose Croix-
The weapon they hold in their arms is Art!
And the heart of human is the greatest weapon.
There is nothing more powerful than love to move one’s heart.
Would he use this weapon for the clan’s pride?
Or just be soaked in love?
From now on, you shall choose your own future
Love or Pride?”

This is the background thought of the release and forms an intermezzo before continuing. I think everybody needs to ask him/herself the rhetorical question at the end, but I think KAMIJO would have problems when chosing between the two options xD


11. Tsuioku no Mon Amour
Although this song also already was known from the Moulin Rouge single it stays a speedy but enjoyable number perfectly fitting in between. The voices recalling in the middle part create an atmosphere that me personally always let fly away in my thoughts - as it's maybe the song's intention, as the title says (Thoughts of my beloved).
Rating: 5 / 5

12. Heart
Finally we have arrived at the title song of the album, and it definitely is holding its promise: It contains everything KAMIJO makes use of in his different solo project numbers. Besides to stunning guitar solos and typical symphonic metal elements he mixes classical instruments like violins, bells, piano etc . Moreover this is the longest song with eight and a half minutes, but it doesn't get boring in one single second and always stays innovative and refreshing because of its many stylistic changes. A really touching song which many catchy melodies will cause you an earwig, absolutely proving his skills as a musician and composer.
Rating: 5 / 5

13. Presto - Acoustic version
The regular edition will also include an acoustic piano and violin version of the already quite famous melody of Presto that appears not only in the same-named song on "Symphony of the Vampire" but also can be found in "Throne"'s refrain. So I was quite irritated why he has composed a third version of the same melody and thought it would just be for commercial issues, but I indeed have changed my opinion after listening to it for the first time. I was absolutely fascinated and touched: The generally catchy melody gets stuck in your ear even better without the speedy metal elements, it's even a bit slower than the original. I almost prefer this version to the symphonic metal one although I'm more the metal type; it's a quite rare case I give such a rating.
Last but not least his voice invites for dreaming and it's just too wonderful listening to it... I think that's KAMIJO's most striking talent: His voice can really touch your heart - not many artists are able to do this to me, but he definitely can be counted as one.
Rating: 5 / 5



Final conclusion
As the title proclaims this album is real art created from the bottom of the artist's heart. As he himself explained the title is also the pun of the words "he" and "art", and believing that love is an art itself he has composed many new tracks that prove exactly this aim. One can feel that KAMIJO has improved a lot again as a musician, not only compared to his Lareine and Versailles times but also in face of his first quite cautious steps of his solo project. Now he definitely doesn't need to hide anymore and has released a first full album that is definitely worth a listen. It can rock you or soothe your soul, just as you want it to do; it consists of a huge variety of atmospheres and nevertheless stays a unique creation that doesn't get boring a single moment. I was really impressed and my high expectations were fulfilled, so buying this CD is absolutely worth its money. Another time KAMIJO has proved he is a Vampire Prince of Hearts, in the truest sense of the word.
Rating: 5 / 5 
Go and get your copy yourself! (<- some hidden advertisement xD )


Have you also already listened to "Heart"? If yes, what do you think about it? You can let me know in the comments ^___^


Thank you for reading and see you another day~
Junsui

Convention report: AnimagiC Sunday

Hello dear readers!

Here follows the last part of my AnimagiC reports about the photoshoot-Sunday.
Although it already was the last of the three days I wasn't that exhausted like the years before on Sunday... I had asked a friend whether she wants to accompany me, and she was very enthusiastic about the idea and immediately agreed. She also guaranteed she would take loads of photos of me, and I was quite happy to have found somebody who would have enough patience with me xD
I decided to wear my Pirate Lolita outfit, and I also invented a new coord: My mother just had bought fitting shoes I borrowed from her, and so I could wear my striped AatP socks for the first time although I already possess them for over a year. At the end my Mum bestowed me the shoes because I have scratched the heels and she can't wear them in the bureau anymore... What a strange way to get a new pair of shoes xD But I'm quite happy about it because they really look good and are very comfy to wear the same time~
Nevertheless at first I have worn my AatP boots, but I took shoes and socks with me so that I had the possibility to change. And at the end it was the right decision, although my bag must have weighed over five kilos with everything I needed...

We arrived around the same time like on Saturday, at 11am. At first my friend wasn't sure whether she should buy an outdoor ticket, but at the end she decided in favour of spending the 10€. I don't think this ticket is worth its money at all because you can't do much with it: You just have access to the area with the outdoor stage, the Dunkelsüß tent, CosBase and catering service - but also the food is way too expensive, in my opinion. But at least we had free toilets then, that would have become a problem instead xD

We took out the convention booklet and planned our day: At first I showed her the area, then we went to the riverside of the Rhine for taking some pictures and for seeing all the other cosplayers around. It's quite impressing that we managed to take almost 170 photos just of me xD Most of them look the same and aren't that cool, but at least one photo was worth being edited and uploaded here ^___^

The only pity was that it started to rain then... No, it didn't rain, the clouds spilled their whole load; we almost needed an arche! And we stood there in the grass under a tree with just one umbrella, and the ground got muddy and my shoes and bag looked like complete sh*t after x___x Now it was the right decision to have the possibility to change half of the outfit, and I have the feeling that the socks-shoes coord is the more popular version - now people started asking me for photos, and I felt flattered when even the serious press and two professional photographers asked me; one of them even had a reflector with him! Although I don't know where the photos will be published I'm quite happy that I haven't had styled up myself for nothing~ The only disadvantage of the outfit change was that I now had to carry the boots in a plastic bag in my hand, they weigh quite much after a while...
I also took a photo of me at CosBase again, but the one above is much better ^__^

We had to wait for a while until the photo was printed, and we enjoyed just walking around the area and watching all the people and taking pictures. It was the right program for Sunday and I enjoyed the time, it was no stress at all~ In the afternoon I haven't had the motivation to take more photos of myself at all, but luckily we were done in noon time already.
We watched the cosplay show on the outdoor stage for a while, but we got a bit bored by it and decided to go to McDonalds to eat something. On the way back to the area we found a shop on the street that sold lots of Anime and Manga stuff, especially lots of stuffed Pokémon! *___* Oh, I could have bought them all, but because I already had bought three plushies at this convention I convinced myself to let it be... There will come enough other occassions where I can buy toys ^__^ And I was really captured by their huge box with Pokémon figures... They literary had all Pokémon, not only the most popular ones! I found all my lovely favourites - but seriously, I don't have the space and use for them, they just would be dust collectors on my desk... So at the end we left without buying something, I was proud of myself! ^___^

Back at the area we made fun of watching the show of the Japanese musician milktub who gave a concert at the outdoor stage - Japanese Rock'n'Roll is quite hilarious xD It's not my style of music, I must confess, but it was funny though - especially when a crew member asked us whether we want to move a bit closer to the stage so that it would look like he has more fans xD Because we were friendly people and in a good mood we did so.

With Ayumu and Megu of ZWEI

 I was very surprised when I suddenly saw the two girls of ZWEI in the crowd in front of the stage, attending the show of their colleague ^__^ they were very chilled and agreed to take photos with everybody who asked them, isn't that cool? So I also did and was quite happy after~ I forgot to do the victory sign, but who cares ^___^;

We haven't stayed too long anymore: I took my photo from CosBase and we walked around again and watched the Luna Haruna performance for a while, but then decided to go home. We needed to take the tram, but luckily nobody glanced at me stupidly and we had our peace. In general we also wanted to go to the Bonn comicshop because we thought it would be open because of the convention, but unfortunately it wasn't...

It was only around 6pm when I arrived at home, but it was absolutely okay because I had enough time to rearrange things etc. I also put together all stuff I had bought and am very satisfied with the outcome~

From left to right: The bat plushie, a Woobat, the Kaomoji ball, the Nyanpire shirt and the signed Manga with autograph card ^___^ Not to forget the photobook, of course!

As a final conclusion I must admit that I had lots of fun this year, too! The organization and venue is the best such a convention can get here in Bonn, and although you always have some stupid people around most of the visitors and especially the crew members are chilled and good-mooded! They created a unique atmosphere and I want to thank the organization again for making this three-day fun fair possible. Every year again with pleasure~ ^___^


Thank you for reading!
Junsui~

Convention report: AnimagiC Saturday

Hey guys ^__^

Today the report of the AnimagiC Saturday follows!~


Of course this day was more interesting and I started at 11am. I had styled up myself a bit, but also tried not to overdress: I wore my black-red dress with my beloved varnish boots~ I intended to represent a self-invented demon character, and because it possesses horns I weaved four ram-shaped horns with my hair ^-^ when you use wire and fix the ends with gel glue they really stick in their position, and I haven't had problems the entire day~ Somebody has asked me how I managed this - only with help of wire, magic xD

My outfit (Photo by CosBase.de)

This day I had lots of things on my to-do-list, and after shooting a photo at the photographer stall CosBase I entered the hall for a signing session of the mangaka Kamineo. I brought my edition of the Manga "Alpha²" with me and already queued before 12am with some other people, and I needed until 12.50 until it was my turn... But it was incredible to observe how she sketched one of the characters in less than two minutes on the first page! She also signed a photo card I took with me, and successfully and happily I left ^__^
Now I had time until the Lolita fashion walk at 4pm, and I took a walk through the market hall again, but then discovered the Nintendo 3DS with Pokémon Y and tested it - mon dieu, it's just too awesome! Honestly, I was so captured by it, I really want to have a 3DS and this game now xD I'm already searching for them on eBay, maybe I'll be lucky and find a good one~ Especially the function where you can play with your Pokémon like with your dogs at Nintendogs at the end convinced me of the revolutionary character of this game ^___^

After a while I went upstairs to Manga Hamburg again and tried out another style of sketching: I created a normal pencil sketch and worked with twelve different grey shades to "colour" it - seriously, the outcome was fabulous! I never had thought you can create so vivid pictures just with pencils! Because I always have loved the pencil as my first drawing utensil I'm even more fascinated by it now and will definitely work with this technique more~
As a thank I left my sketch there and added some kind words in face of the good organization, and they said they would add the artwork to their gallery ^__^
Then I left the sketching school and returned to the Nintendo 3DS - haha, in the meantime somebody has continued playing the game and trained my Pokémon, the first one already had evolved xD I spent some more time there until I went outside for the Lolita fashion walk.
When walking through the market hall I had a funny experience: A vendour offered me a free booklet for using it as a fan because it was very hot inside. I denied and said I don't need one because I have a real fan in my bag, and he was like "Okay" - but then turned around the booklet and offered it to me again with "Booklet?" I laughed and then agreed, but actually there was just nothing interesting in... But it served well as a fan ^___^
I also started talking with him for a while, and he reported about the effort of unpacking all the Mangas from the boxes etc.; it needed from 8am to 1pm without a single break! He also told it was surprisingly empty this year, especially in Saturday afternoon prime time. But the rush at Friday noon must have been a catastrophe, even worser than the other years... It was very interesting to get these background information, especially because I'm thinking of contributing to the crew members next year.

After this chat I took the photo shown above from CosBase and went to the Lolita fashion walk. This year all models have worn handmade dresses from Japanese indie brands because the reseller Lorina Lidell made the import possible. These dresses are also cheaper than the brand ones and very beautiful indeed! Even the Japanese singer Luna Haruna participated in the fashion walk because she wears Lolita fashion for herself.

"Shades of Wonderland" photobook

After the show the Dunkelsüß base organized a giveaway where you could win a copy of the huge photobook "Shades of Wonderland" by Werkbank 030. I also participated and left for a concert of the Japanese duo ZWEI at the outdoor stage - they were really good and I liked their show, especially when bassist Megu ran off the stage directly through the crowd, followed by the staff xD They did their best to make fun and create a fabulous atmosphere, but then it started raining that heavily that I escaped into the Dunkelsüß tent. I waited until the winner of the giveaway would be announced, and they pulled the lucky person - but the first four (!) persons weren't present, most likely because of the bad weather... But the fifth person was there - it was me! I was absolutely dumbfounded and over the moon, but I felt a bit unpleasant and observed when everybody looked at me when I took the copy... It weighs 3,5 kilos! I already had heard about the book, but had no real idea of how the final result looks like - but it's really cool and serves very well for explaining Lolita fashion to people who never have heard about it before. Some of the models and even Luna Haruna have signed the front page, it's a really unique copy~

With the signed first page~

Luckily it stopped raining after a while and I left the tent for entering the Anime cinema: They showed "Blue Exorcist: The Movie" I definitely wanted to watch because I really like the Manga. But it was already so full, it didn't seemed as if I would be successful to get inside anymore... All the other waiting people tried to convince the staff we could stand in the back etc, and finally he agreed and let us sit in the middle floor between the seat rows. So I also got a quite good place in the front center on the ground and had a good view~ I enjoyed the film and especially liked the animation technique; it really has improved within the years, compared to the ancient Anime I knew from my childhood days xD

It already got 8.15pm when the movie was over, and because nothing interesting was going on anymore this evening I decided to go home - after playing Pokémon some longer, of course xD In general I had intended to also watch the real movie of Black Butler, but waiting until 10.45pm would have been too long and boring... That was how the Saturday ended.


It was a really cool day indeed, especially because of the "Shades of Wonderland" copy I've won ^__^ big thanks to Dunkelsüß for making this miracle possible~ I was very satisfied with the 41€ I've paid for the two-days ticket, and I have managed to look through everything I wanted to see inside the hall in time before it would have been too late on Sunday.


On the last day photo sessions followed~
See you there!
Junsui