author: Bow

Janne Da Arc's yasu is back with the second single from his solo project, Acid Black Cherry. Having once again rounded up impressive musicians such as YUKI (DUSTAR-3), SHUSE(La'cryma Christi), and Pistol Valve, ABC brings forth Black Cherry in two versions, one with and one without an accompanying DVD. This review covers the DVD version of the single.

Black Cherry starts off slowly, with something of a lounge jazz feel to it, complete with brushed cymbals. Soothing and sweet, the only thing missing to complete the illusion of lounge jazz is a stand up bass. Suddenly, the song explodes in to a whirlwind of drums, racing guitar, and an amazing brass arrangement (courtesy of the band Pistol Valve). It doesn't entirely lose its jazz feel, but the newer, faster paced music is more likely to make the listener get up and dance than to quietly sip drinks at the bar.

Lyrically, the song is similar to Spell Magic. Both are sung from a woman's point of view, and, Black Cherry, like Spell Magic, is about a woman who demands a physical relationship from a man that seem to have lost interest in her. Odd lyrical point of view aside, Black Cherry is a great song, with amazing support musicians that really bring this piece to life.

The second track is once again a cover, this time of Kozo Murashita's Hatsukoi. The guitar really makes this song, and lends it a melancholy air that is echoed by the lyrics and yasu's vocals. In sharp contrast to the title track, this song speaks of the memory and loneliness of first love.

The limited version of the single comes with a DVD featuring the PV for Black Cherry as well as an "off shot" clip. The PV is very clever, starting out in black and white with text frames inserted, like an old time movie. Once the song begins, we find the PV echoes the lounge jazz feel of the song, as it features yasu in drag, playing a 20's style lounge singer, while the band members, dressed as Yakuza, fight over a "mystery woman" in the background. Watch the audience for some surprise guests.

Black Cherry is fun and fast paced, and will leave the listener eager for yasu's next single and promised upcoming album.