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Apologies for the click-bait title. I don’t typically use them, however I actually wished to share this observe and I wasn’t certain how one can do it. I don’t write “Buried Treasures” for J-pop, nor do I characteristic a countdown devoted to Japanese b-sides. So, I believed I’d try to catch everybody’s curiosity earlier than writing about what’s in all probability my favourite tune of the yr to date.
I say “in all probability” as a result of writing about pop music is usually like evaluating apples to oranges. That’s why I select to separate countdowns into codecs and areas in an try to have some type of classification system.
At any price, this spectacular tune comes from the lately launched album from Tokyo Gegegay — the primary since that moniker basically grew to become a solo mission for chief Mikey. The observe known as High Down, and it’s a complete banger.
Right here’s why I like it:
1. The Beat
This beat is seismic. Taking part in this at excessive quantity within the automobile is an expertise I extremely suggest. And quite than depend on bass for its energy, the observe kicks proper down the center with unbelievable pressure. On this means, it’s very paying homage to Michael Jackson’s early-90’s work, which simply occurs to be a candy spot for me.
Higher but, this addictive groove retains constant all through the complete tune. I’m so sick of music with overly-fussy, ever-changing percussion that fills the area with tinny sounds. High Down‘s instrumental is commanding and assured and the tune permits itself to luxuriate on this vibe.
2. The Efficiency
I like Mikey’s vocals. They’re sinister and peculiar and gutsy. He assaults the groove with gusto, typically snarling his means by the observe. A downright otherworldly bridge is among the tune’s highlights, however I’m much more smitten with the impassioned ad-libs that come later. There’s such presence and persona on this efficiency. You’re not going to mistake him for anybody else.
3. The Continuity
So many pop songs as of late really feel like numerous segments compelled collectively. Producers are forgetting the artwork of the segue. High Down‘s items are distinct, however they circulate along with such ease and panache. I like the way in which the verses transfer into the pre-chorus, shifting rhythm however holding the observe’s core momentum in tact.
| Hooks | 9 |
| Manufacturing | 10 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 10 |
| RATING | 9.5 |
Grade: A
And as a bonus, right here’s a video of Ryuhei from boy group BE:FIRST dancing with Mikey to the tune:
Readers, for those who needed to decide proper now, what’s your favourite tune of 2023 to date?
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