In the music industry, most bands barely last a couple of years before disappearing altogether. For a band to persist beyond that shows drive, skill, and a genuine passion for music. And for a band to last even longer, around 20 years or so, speaks to something even greater. Gothic metal quintet Yousei Teikoku reaches its 20th anniversary this year, and has released a commemorative single, titled flamma idola, that demonstrates exactly what has allowed the band to thrive for as long as it has.
The first song, flamma idola, will be familiar to long-time Yousei Teikoku fans, featuring bombastic choral samples and string accompaniment. It stands out from previous work, however, through some rather off-kilter, carnival-esque sections mixed with long, drawn-out notes that impart an ambiguously “Eastern” flair. The lyrics flow remarkably well, even despite some of Yui’s most frenzied delivery to date, and the polished composition by bassist Nanami ensures subsequent listens remain just as exciting as the first. As a title track, flamma idola serves as a pleasant surprise for veteran listeners and newer fans alike.
With Veludo Papilio, guitarist Takaha takes a moderate approach to the band’s sound, slowing to a more medium tempo. The energy level stays high, however, thanks to intermittent deluges of instrumental fury. Yui's vocals stand out once again thanks to her starkly emotive vocal work, creating a track that’s full of dramatic ups and downs sure to keep listeners enthralled.
The final track, Naikan uchu shisha no yurikago, was composed by guitarist Shiren and brings all of his signature energy along with it. As expected, the main focal point of the song is an intensely memorable guitar melody that ties the track together with knife-like precision. The addition of an absolutely blistering solo provides even more power, bringing the single to an aggressive and thrilling end.
Each of the three songs on the single serves as a showcase for the composition styles of three different members, making their overall coherence an impressive achievement. This is exactly what has allowed Yousei Teikoku to carry on for two entire decades – no matter the style, the band can come together and make a song its own. Yousei Teikoku is a group characterized by variety, and there’s no more perfect way to mark twenty years of activity than a release that exhibits it. flamma idola is a landmark single for a landmark year, and is certain to find a place in the hearts of all The Fairy Empire’s loyal subjects.
