LM.C - BOYS & GIRLS

The duo that makes up LM.C is at it again with this single, their first release since April's GLITTER LOUD BOX mini-album. Released in two versions, this is a review of the regular edition.

The title track of BOYS & GIRLS is an affair that will inhabit the minds of many listeners for days later, if they want it to or not. Mixing rock and electronic sensibilities with an extremely catchy chorus, it's not hard to see why this song was picked to be both a single and an anime opening. There is also a slight, unexpected Western touch to the song with the background calls done in English and Aiji performing a bit of Johann Pachelbel's famous Canon in D major as his guitar solo. With the famous melody done in an electric guitar and the drums crashing in the background, it becomes an almost head bang worthy moment or, at the very least, one that will get anyone up on their feet.

The second track, marble-s, opens much differently than the energetic BOYS & GIRLS. Maya's vocals are slightly distorted and whispered until the song picks up the pace, exposing its heart. Keeping in with LM.C's electronic, dance floor style of music, it also adds an unexpected twist with the acoustic guitar work, giving the song a vaguely Latin feel. Though an acoustic guitar is the main instrument of choice, layered over the synthesized beats, an electric also cuts through on occasion, although never jarringly. Maya's vocal work is perfect in this tune, though some listeners may find the cut-off bits near the end annoying. Still, his smooth voice adds just enough emotion and feeling to the song, without becoming overly dramatic, to keep it from falling into 'generic pop/dance song' territory.

With two very catchy and yet very different tracks, BOYS & GIRLS is one of LM.C's strongest offerings yet. Fans of the young group should be pleased and those who haven't taken a listen yet to LM.C should definitely re-consider lest they miss out on this fun, sunny single.