Review: ViViD- BLUE [Single]

Tracklist:

1. BLUE

2. CRISIS

3. ReLoad



BLUE- First of all, I'd like to say that even if I hadn't originally liked this song, I'm sure I would have by now, because ViViD is everywhere and I'd already heard this song about a million times before it was released. Thus, it's a bit hard for me to be objective about this song now, but I'll do my best. BLUE clearly has a great hook to it, there is no way that can be denied at all. I'm extremely fond of the rhythm the verses sit on, as well as the guitar from 38 to 44 seconds in. All the instrumentals are terrific, top to bottom, from basic rhythm to guitar solo. One of the things that stands out to me the most about ViViD is that no matter how short the song, you can always hear everything, every part of the band is clearly recognized, there is no need to strain in order to hear an istrument. I also quite like the electronic elements that have been placed throughout the song.

CRISIS- This is my personal favorite, best song on this single! I really enjoy the opening verse to this song, and even the heavier verses that introduce those background ascending notes, as well as the rap like elements are quite rousing. The use of the guitar here is, to be frank, absolutely stunning, I'm a bit dumbfounded really. I have so many comments and compliments about the guitar line during this song. But, by all rights, the downright best guitar is from 2:30 to 3:06. The fingering of the guitar strings leading into the solo, and the solo itself are superb! Of course, I'm not just talking about the lead guitar here, within this 36 seconds the rhythm and bass guitars are also present and those are fantastic as well. There are also numerous squeals and change ups in the guitar riff, I particularly like the guitar work in the beginning and second verse, 1:28 to 1:50. Also, I really enjoy Shin's vocals during the slower verses, I'm reminded a little of Gackt (maybe from Redemption), if I were to give you something specific I'd say the notes Shin hits at both 40 and 52 secs in, are good examples, and also sound very attractive.

ReLoad- I love this opening, though it does remind me of something I've heard before, a bit speed metal-like. The main riff and chorus are quite catching, and I really enjoy the high electronic notes that lie underneath everything else, best heard from 3:17 to 3:36. Additionally, I think I should have previously complimented the drummer but I feel that this song, in particular, really showcases his talents and perhaps makes the drumline the most noticable out of the three songs. I can not get enough of these guitar players, the guitar work here is more than well done, most specifically 2:22 to 2:35, this also gives you hint of the drummers great playing as well.


Dismissing the fact that none of these songs are even four minutes long, I really have no complaints about this single whatsoever. It's great, actually who am I kidding, it's fantastic! Though I do feel that all of these songs may be in danger of "overflowing", but there is a nice balance that keeps that from happening.

My Grade: A+, 5/5