Review ~ MUCC
SHION
MUCC, a veteran of 11 years, displays their talent yet again in their newest album, Shion, proving once again that just because they are older doesn't mean they can't continue to rock the music scene.
The sound of gently dripping water begins Shion. A steady beat adds to the quiet noise, continually becoming faster. Suion flows seamlessly into the second track, Fukuro no yurikago. With Middle Eastern sounds accompanied by Tatsuro's eerily floating voice, this song hypnotizes the listener. The third track, Nuritsubusunara enji, is a much heavier song, complete with strong guitar lines and powerful chorus. FUZZ, on the other hand, brings a new sound to the table with techno-like beats and a catchy harmonica line. The vocals stand out beautifully, powering the song.
MUCC slows things down a bit with the third track, GAME. The guitar sounds are slightly distorted, making them almost sound like they are crying. The pounding of the drums during the breakdown mirrors the pounding of a heart. As if to relieve the depressed mood set by the former song, Flight is an up-beat and catchy number. To add to the fun feeling, Anjelier also has more of a techno beat and a drum line straight out of the glam rock of the 80s. This is definitely another danceable track. As Tatsuro toys with his range, his emotions bleed throughout the song.
Chiisana Mado changes the pace once again, slowing down to a crawl: the low cry of the guitar is followed by the sad longing of melancholy vocals. String instruments and an almost monotonous drum line aggravate the depressed atmosphere. However, the next track, Semishigure, picks up the pace slightly. Flirting with brokenhearted emotions, Tatsuro's voice soars above the other instruments, filling the music with his passion.
With a striking guitar riff and an eerie sound, the title track, Shion, moves the album forward and away from the depressive feel of the earlier tracks. MUCC's passion for life and music is thoroughly expressed in this track, dynamically showcasing the variable talents of each member. A sweeping arc of string instruments introduces the next track. Sorawasure's incredible guitar riffs and string instruments conjure the image of a great struggle. The song ends with a slight sound of satisfaction, a peaceful resignation.
Next, SHIVA highlights MUCC's metal side with quick guitar work and a powerful drum line. The last track on the album, Libra, seems to illustrate an inner battle of guilt, doubt and the decisions a person has to make for a better outcome. Beginning with heavy bass and blasting into a full band sound, Tatsurou's monotonal voice only adds to the music. The harsher tones of the instruments mixed with the softer strings help drive home the passion a little clearer. Libra is an utterly powerful way to end Shion.
Despite having very little knowledge of the band's prior works, this album is still obviously an amazing continuation of MUCC's works. If there were a rating system in place for this review, Shion would get full marks and more.
track list
1. Suion
2. Fukuro no yurikago
3. Nuritsubusunara enji
4. FUZZ
5. GAME
6. Flight
7. Anjelier
8. Chiisana mado
9. Semishigure
10. Shion
11. Sorawasure
12. Shiva
13. Libra
Review by Etsu; album art copyright MUCC
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