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Blotto
Singles Collection 2004-2007 |
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Tracklist |
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1. The Bathroom Symphony - Opening
2. Kirameki Moon Diver
3. Cosmo 80's
4. Time After Time
5. Adventures In Space
6. Niji no Wakusei
7. Sekai Wokoete
8. End of Dream - Closing
CD-Extra 1. Time After Time [PV] |
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Review |
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Belying the name, The Bathroom Symphony is a sophisticated and refined offering from this electro-pop band. Reminiscent of their first album Astro, this almost-concept album takes us into the world of The Aprils.
Weaving a surreal landscape with "The Bathroom Symphony - opening," we are invited in by Nintendo sounds and distorted childlike voices, giving way to The Aprils' signature electro-pop sound. An acoustic guitar intro and immediately the music changes, and Imai and Iguchi's vocals fly us to the next destination "Kirameki Moon Diver." Still flying we are immediately caught up in the techno beat of "Cosmo '80s," coming in to land on the last beats of the pop of "Time After Time." We step onto The Aprils' world with the jungle game sounds of "Adventures In Space" and continue our exploration with the electro-pop sound of "Niji no Wakusei." Finally rising back into the clouds with the spacey-pop and final crescendo of "Sekai Wokoete," it leads us back to Nintendo sounds and distorted childlike voices and the "End Of Dreaming - Closing." Landing softly, we look forward to another trip into the world of The Aprils.
Though my description may sound simplistic, the album inspired thoughts of a journey to another world and to be led there by The Aprils was an enjoyable experience. Unlike Pan-da, each song's position in this album is well thought out. This attention to content position with smooth transitions is what gives this album that concept feel. Surprises are also a part of this album's charm. From the unexpected combination of acoustic guitar and electronica in the song "Kirameki Moon Diver," to "Sekai Wokoete's" transition from pop to techno, the subtle nuances in both songs are beautifully arranged. Pair that with The Aprils' softer use of Nintendo and techno influences as in the songs "Niji no Wakusei" and "Cosmo '80s," and you get a feeling of a more mature band that allows the music to drive the song, and not the electronica. Though not perfect, The Bathroom Symphony combines the less-refined Astro and the perfection of Pan-da into a milestone in the maturing of The Aprils' sound. This album is a must listen for all fans of The Aprils. |
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