author: anna

Both HYDE (L’Arc~en~Ciel) and K.A.Z. (Oblivion Dust) are artists that have been around for a long time and as such they have learned to multi-task. While continuing work with their respective bands (even if the work is just hiatus), they've started a new project titled VAMPS, with the two of them rushing headlong into a countrywide tour with only one single released! Whether the title of their band is a play on the jazz term for improvised accompaniment or on the word "vampires" (as neither of them are probably getting any sleep with such a busy schedule), the whole thing has the class and style of both - and LOVE ADDICT will have you seriously addicted.

The title track starts off with slamming guitar chords and a quick beat. It’s old school rock and delightfully uncomplicated and the moment HYDE starts in with his hoarse, half-yelled growls, the song becomes an instant favorite. The song is fierce and wild, with the focus clearly on the emotion and not the composition. In fact, the simple, repeated melody is what makes it great; the unchanging rhythm allows the pure force of the song to shine. Notably, the lyrics are all in English, and HYDE’s pronunciation is better than ever.

TIME GOES BY is far softer in comparison, yet what it lacks in power, it makes up for with a more complex, layered sound. It opens with an acoustic guitar and HYDE singing gently, but turns into a light rock song soon enough. The easy melody evokes a feeling of nostalgia and hope, and the cymbals play a big part in setting the drifting mood and creating the driving edge. The chorus sees HYDE performing some beautiful falsettos, and the lyrics are both in Japanese and English.

LOVE ADDICT is a pretty good indicator of what fans can expect from VAMPS. It shows the unleashed force of two rock stars and the artistic ability of two creative and respectable musicians. From energetic start to longing finish, the single is something fans of both HYDE and K.A.Z. can enjoy. And, as a tour can’t be built on a single, more fantastic music can be expected from them soon. It seems safe to say that by then, we’ll probably just be fans of VAMPS.