Listening to: Kagrra, - CORE ALBUM -
Now what attracted me to start listening to Kagrra, two years ago was their distinctive style in music as a Visual Kei band. As I perceive it, the idea of blending Visual Kei music and traditional Japanese music is pure genius. I even noticed that a number of VK bands (those categorized as Neo-Japanesque) have tried incorporating musical style similar to that of Kagrra, well, some were successful while others failed to capture the public’s taste. *whispers* Well out of respect I’m not going to name those band.
For me, Kagrra,’s music works in two ways: first, it makes an individual appreciate traditional Japanese music (true, in my part); and second, it gave Visual Kei an image that goes beyond its stereotypical sound.
With their new CORE album, Kagrra, proved that they’re a band worth listening for. Their style is still the same but with music and talent way even better. For example, their 6th track 賽（さい） [Sai] will give you this very festive japanesque sound that will leave you either thumping on your lap or dancing to the Mardi gras like beat ◟( ◝◞◟◜)◜. 斬帝（ギルティー） [Guilty] the 4th track is a must hear if you’re longing for an upbeat sound that is less festive than “Sai”. But if you want something easy on the ear then I highly recommend 彩の讃歌（いろどりのさんか） [Irodori no sanka], 忘却の果ての凍えた孤独
[Boukyaku no hate no kogoeta kodoku] and 四月一日（しがつついたち）
[Shigatsu tsuitachi] which are very melodic and relaxing tracks. Plus, Isshi’s smooth voice made it more pleasant-sounding. So for those new to Visual Kei or fans who haven’t yet lend an ear to Kagrra,’s new soul then, “YOU SHOULD CHECK IT OUT ALREADY!”