vistlip - [alo[n]e]vister

The single [alo[n]e]vister was one of a string of consecutive releases near the start of the band’s career. Did vistlip manage to show the skill and variety in their beginnings as they do now? Or did the band’s talent slowly grow along with its rising success?

alo[n]e starts with quite a nostalgic guitar melody which immediately beckons the listener to the rest of the song. Tomo’s vocals are extremely light and do not take over the song, but at the same time, they draw the listener’s attention. The original feeling from the very beginning of the song is kept up throughout, but it becomes heavier as the track progresses, helping show vistlip’s musical diversity. Overall, alo[n]e is very pleasant to listen to and can work both as a background track and something that is much more emotional, thanks to Tomo’s soulful vocals and the versatility of the band as a whole.

The second track on the single, Life, begins with a similarly familiar introduction but with a more energetic base. Tohya’s drumming is continuously fast-paced, and along with louder guitar and bass lines than before, the vocal aspect of the song is not quite so apparent; Yuh’s guitar solo is especially intricate and professional. The song then takes an even heavier turn before reverting back to its original pop-rock melody. Overall, Life does not change too much from what is heard at the start of the song, but it still gives plenty of variety while sticking to a rock base.

[alo[n]e]vister is a very approachable CD for a fan of any genre, and while not trying anything too radical, vistlip manages to make two songs with a mix of musical and vocal styles. Even though alo[n]e and Life are quite similar, both will surprise the listener with a very new sound. It seems that vistlip has always displayed the originality and versatility that it does today.