Bergerac – SIXTH SENSE

Released on April 22, SIXTH SENSE is Bergerac’s first mini-album and their first release in half a year. It is also perhaps the final release of this group, which will disband in September. According to vocalist Itsuki, with this mini-album they wanted to create songs for live shows in particular, and they also aimed to branch out into song types they’d never done before. SIXTH SENSE is largely successful in both respects, and is certainly a work the band should be proud of.

Composed by guitarist Satsuki, the album opener Diaboros is a song of strong dualities: light and dark with double vocal tracks. Menacing bass and guitar lines are accompanied by sinister whispers, and Itsuki sings in a low register even in the chorus, which is mainly lightened by the softly strummed acoustic guitar. Providing a break in the tension, the bridge features Itsuki singing in falsetto partnered with acoustic guitar, creating a somewhat heavenly atmosphere in contrast to the rest of the piece.

The following, Aoi namida ni utsuru kimi, opens quietly with synths that lend the song a digital sound as they duel with the bass. The chorus is propelled by Itsuki’s urgent melodies and Iru’s speed drumming, keeping the intensity in the song high. Composed by guitarist Narumi, it carries the flavor of his high school days, when he created it. It’s followed by the very catchy Shadows of you, which is composed by Itsuki. It opens with Tatsuha’s fast, moody bass, which becomes a rumbling foundation as guitars and synths are layered on. The song grows optimistic in the chorus, with the acoustic guitar making a stronger presence and the melodies lifting.

Another piece composed by Itsuki, Selfish is one of the album’s more unusual pieces, a jazzy pop number with some interesting pauses in music and instruments. While it’s a dance number as opposed to the expected rock piece, it is sure to do well in live houses thanks to its catchy beat and moving melodies. This song is a testament to the group’s versatility and highlights a side of them it would have been nice to hear more of. The following song, No. XIII, is dark and urgent with an energetic atmosphere. According to Tatsuha, it was originally composed to be a more violent song but transformed after the other members added their input. While the chorus melodies aren’t too interesting, the guitar part is a genuine treat, particularly during its screeching moments.

The final song on the album is Satsuki’s death wish. Itsuki ventures into falsetto during the verses, and when the acoustic guitar joins in the chorus, the mood becomes especially beautiful. We are treated to an exhilarating guitar solo of impressive speed play, and the song takes a turn for the better with the ominous call and response between the guitar and all the members yelling.

SIXTH SENSE is an impressive release and one that shows off the variety of sounds and skills that Bergerac possesses. We look forward to following the careers of the talented individual members, even after the group disbands.