Shortly before the release of their latest single Jougen no tsuki no Orchestra -Stella Note Magic-, visual rock band THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S announced that they had signed with European label Gan-Shin Records. Alongside the Japanese physical release, a worldwide digital release via Gan-Shin came out on November 22nd, 2017. JaME used the opportunity to take a listen to the four tracks of the single and to watch the bonus DVD of the limited edition.
The title track, Jougen no tsuki no Orchestra -Stella Note Magic-, greets listeners with a warm string melody and bright, romantic pop rock sounds. These are united with Nimo's sensitive singing to form a harmonious whole. SILVER BULLET, which all versions of the release have in common, also possesses a clear pop sound. Compared with the title song, however, it also has a slightly melancholic note and it sounds a little bit darker due to the occasional distortion of Nimo's voice.
Subsequent to the two new tracks are two re-recordings: EARNEST GAME -2nd STAGE-, which is only featured on the digital and limited editions, and MONSTER'S ROAR -WILD BOOST-, which is featured exclusively on the digital and regular editions. Both songs still retain their wild touch, but they have been given a stronger pop feel by SHUN.'s growing band DJ activities. The result is two fast, catchy and recognizable tracks that should create a very good atmosphere at the band’s future lives.
As previously mentioned, JaME also took a look at the bonus DVD from the limited edition. Next to the full music video for Jougen no tsuki no Orchestra -Stella Note Magic-, which you can watch almost in its entirety at the end of this review, there is also an entertaining 9-minute making-of video. It shows the band during the filming process in a green screen box, various funny and private moments and how they pass the time until the next shot.
With their sixth single, THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S have consolidated their development into a band that can also masterfully perform gentle pop rock sounds. Jougen no tsuki no Orchestra -Stella Note Magic- offers catchy and romantic tunes, as well as fast and catchy ones, and listeners are sure to be tempted to enjoy the songs multiple times.
