Kra - Creatures (European version)

Creatures was released in Europe by the German label CLJ Records in November 2007, about a month after the Japanese release. Kra's first European release is also the tenth mini-album of their career. Along with the normal CD booklet, the European version of the mini-album also contains translated lyrics in English.

In the interview JaME had with the band before the JROCK INVASION event, vocalist Keiyuu explained that Creatures sounds different from their former releases because of the new methods and elements they used. However, it still retains the basic sound Kra is known for. With this description, it seems the petite vocalist hit the nail on the head. With the first track Planet, it becomes clear what new elements they have added: electronics. Though quite different from what Kra has produced in the past and sounding more like a Eurobeat song, it’s quite catchy and a great way to shake the listener awake and get his attention.

Yami yo no gene (Dark night gene) also starts with an electronic beat but changes quickly into upbeat rock. Though the lyrics are sort of dark with references to vampires, it’s an incredibly catchy song with the typical merry-sounding pop-rock sound the band often produces. The next two songs, Yume no juuin (Dream resident) and Jounetsu (Zeal), follow in the same fashion. Yume no juuin is a bit gentler, with Keiyuu’s voice sounding light and boyish. Jounetsu, on the other hand, is heavier and slightly punk. There is more focus on Mai’s guitar playing and Yasuno’s drumming is in the foreground, and once in a while a few interesting trigger effects are added. Jounetsu also contains the same chanting heard in the opening track Planet, which is reminiscent of a gospel choir.

Doko mademo tsuzuku saka no tochuu (On the way on the slope where it continues) has a slightly different feel to it as it's set in a 6/8 time signature, which gives it a sway-along feel. Though the lyrics tell a story of two lovers parting, it has an optimistic sound.

The following song, Ai no fureba (Flavor of love), is a welcome change as it breaks the pattern of the upbeat pop-rock songs. It’s very jazzy, with a quick, swinging rhythm and even a horn section added. Without being chaotic like some jazz songs tend to be, Kra managed to find a nice balance and the four musicians flawlessly adapt to the swinging groove which is so different from pop or rock. Yuura especially does a great job with his bass lines. The bridge contains a trumpet solo, adding to the quirkiness of the song.

The last song of the mini-album is World, a happy sounding rock song. The instrumental bridge of the song, where the bass dominates, has a slightly 1960s feel to it. As Keiyuu’s vocals are added again, effects are used to make him sound choral and the resulting harmonies are wonderful.

After seven songs, the mini-album comes to an end. The downside of Creatures seems to be that quite a number of songs are in the same style and it starts to become slightly repetitive. The songs would all be very enjoyable on their own, but put together they lose their uniqueness. With that in mind, it’s probably better that the band settled on a mini-album instead of a full album, as they would have lost the listener's attention with more songs. However, the mini-album showcases Kra’s abilities very well, showing both their usual style as well as a completely new side and their ability to develop their music. It seems likely that with this release, the band will gain a number of new fans in Europe!