-OZ- - ATHENA

-OZ-'s latest single, ATHENA, is a great example of what this band can do. With a dark, rock style that is neither too hard nor too soft and each member contributing to the well-balanced sound, -OZ- certainly provides something fresh for long-time visual kei fans.

ATHENA opens with a raging instrumental of hard-hitting drums and raw guitar riffs. Deep bass lines throb through this intro before Natsuki's voice enters. An almost stark contrast to the heavy music, his vocals are compelling, almost sweet as the first verse launches into a powerful chorus; a rush of impossibly fast drum beats round out the first half of the song. A seductively rippling bass, courtesy of Nao, highlights verse two. A high energy track, ATHENA continues racing toward its finish with skillful guitar flourishes, which are excellently paired with Natsuki's smooth voice to provide balance.

Though this single only contains one track, it's a good one, a song that definitely has the strength to stand alone. ATHENA will no doubt leave listeners with a sense of excitement and satisfaction.