Megamasso - Yuki Shitatari Hoshi

Megamasso's first full-length release, Yuki Shitatari Hoshi shines with the band's trademark experimental sounds. Inzargi's voice handles different styles masterfully, every element coming together in this blending of traditional, pop-rock, and electronic sounds.

Starting off the album is Shingetsu no Mizutamari, its twinkling synth effect flowing throughout the track. A strong bass line pulses underneath Inzargi's precise vocals, the guitar and drums effectively pulling the song together into a perfect intro to the release.

A complex instrumental throws the listener into Throne Angel, a track with an alternating mellow and quick pace. Ryohei's guitar and Gou's bass work right along with each other, the guitar solo mid-way acting as an excellent break. Inzargi shows off his multi-dimensional voice in this catchy number.

Yuuta's fast-paced drumming launches FM1, a more forcefully sung track with yelled backing vocals. The song is short, but interesting, and so much fun! Another shorter track, Furarako contains superb guitar work and a heavy bass line. The synthesized sounds and filtered vocals are a fantastic combination, giving this song a spacey, alien feel.

Number MIDI is driven on Gou's bass, Ryohei's guitar acting as a subtle accent. Inzargi's voice is sweet, beautifully pitched with haunting backing vocals. This melodic tune also boasts a terrific instrumental break.

The blending of each instrument in Tenrankai no Neriori is excellent. This optimistic, feel-good song is sure to bring a smile to the listener's face. Cheerfully sung verses and a catchy chorus bring out the best in Inzargi's voice, Ryohei's brief, but expertly played solo stands out in middle.

BULLET SONG is full of Megamasso's experimental synthesized pop-rock sounds. Gou's resounding bass line is perfection and Inzargi's voice is nicely suited to this style. It's not the album's best track, but is a definite good time. The oddly titled Laughter at lump of flesh is the heaviest on the album. With growled vocals, hard drum beats, and rockin' guitar riffs, this song is rather different from the other songs contained on the album. Although it too is not the most enjoyable title on the CD, it is another example of the versatility with which Megamasso works, and a chance for the listener to rock out a bit too!

Traditional elements mix with splendid bass work in Yawarakai Koushou, Shinkai, a melodic, soothing song. The individual instruments and vocals all come together so well in this sparkling ballad, a truly pretty, highly enjoyable tune.

With heavy guitar, bass, and drum work, Paradisal Halo is a combination of electronic, dance-suited music, hard rock, and symphonic sounds. Inzargi's vocals are delightful, packed with emotion. Megamasso skillfully pulls off the blending of styles with Ryohei's guitar solo and a beautiful bridge topping off this masterful track.

Closing out the release is Mandrake Usagi Konagusuri. A string opening matches well with the other instruments in this happy, sweetly sung song. Having a sort of carnival or party-like atmosphere, this song is sure to bring a smile to the listener's face. Inzargi's vocals are, once again, excellent, making this a thoroughly pleasant way to wrap things up.

Full of surprises, Yuki Shitatari Hoshi perfectly shows off the varying skills of each of Megamasso's members. From optimistic, pop-rock tunes to hard rock songs with growled vocals to synth-pop that makes you want to get up and dance, this album is worth a listen no matter what your tastes in music are. It is a refreshing departure from the usual visual kei and rock sounds.