BACK-ON - flower

In September 2007, BACK-ON released two consecutive singles: Butterfly and flower. Even though both singles were released on the same date, each has its own unique sound, so instead of one being a continuation of the other, both can stand on its own.

The single's title song, flower, is unlike most of their music. Instead of mixing rock and hip-hop, it is more hip-hop with a pop twist. The introduction is accompanied by a gentle violin; the song is sweet and smooth as the listener is greeted by KENJI03's soothing voice, which adds to the calm feeling of the track before becoming louder with the chorus. The chorus is intense with the mix of a strong melody and powerful vocals. Almost halfway into the song, both vocalists play off each other, with TEEDA's usual hip-hop singing joined by KENJI03 singing in the same vocal style. Then, with the same calm and ease with which it began, the song ends.

In contrast to the gentle sound of the first track, the second begins with a heavier and faster tempo. ZERO has a much heavier guitar sound with a familiar chord played through the whole track. GORI is very subtle as his bass blends into the background; the drums keep the melody for the vocalists. Even though the guitars are obviously the highlight of this track, they're not as powerful as on other songs BACK-ON has created. Even though it seems to slightly lack in that intensity, it is really the two vocalists who bring the song together, making it potent to its listeners. This rock track is energetic, upbeat and catchy.

The final track of the single is Colors. It continues with the same musical theme as the second, but is much more dynamic with than its predecessor with its techno beats and guitar sounds. ICCHAN's drums are definitely the highlight of this track, as it provides some contrast to the vocals, but the other instruments also seem to blend into the background, leaving the drums to shine. This track is heavy and intense; a song that a listener can rock out to. In a way, it can be considered a rock song - especially in comparison to the first track - but once TEEDA begins to sing, he adds a touch of hip-hop, showing listeners that BACK-ON can mix their hip-hop sound into both pop and rock.

flower seems to be the conclusion of the two-consecutive releases for September 2007. This is an excellent release for any fan, old and new, to get a taste for what BACK-ON can create. They're diverse, they're hip-hop, they're rock.