BOUNTY - BLACK OUT

BOUNTY is a fairly recent band, though not without experience: made of up well-known solo artist Aoi and ex-guitarist KAZUYA of FANATIC◇CRISIS, the band is a formidable musical force. Although they came out with an album shortly after inception, their first official single didn't come out until eight months later. Released in December 2008, BLACK OUT sets out to prove that the band hasn't lost focus; after a quiet period, BOUNTY is back and intent on staying in the scene.

The title track opens with easy guitar riffs by KAZUYA, and it's clear the song is going to be quick and edgy. Aoi’s vocals are as smooth as silk, a wonderful contrast to the skipping beat and rough guitar lines. The chorus is strangely familiar, however. It's hard to place exactly where one has heard the same guitar progressions before, and it seems formula made for an anime opening or ending theme. But, barring that, the chorus and the rest of the song are trendy and impossibly catchy. BLACK OUT will stay with you long after you've taken the headphones off.

In contrast, ENDLESS WHITE is a softer, lingering ballad. The songs begins with Aoi singing nearly a capella; there is only a piano accompanying him. The guitar remains muted and light in the background, allowing Aoi to really show off his voice. Though definitely a ballad, the song has a nice tempo and a sharp guitar solo halfway through. The cascading lines give ENDLESS WHITE a wintry feeling and evoke images of a beautiful snowy day - appropriate, considering the song title.

BLACK OUT is a perfectly balanced single. The first track shows off the band's aggressive, darker side while the second conveys its gentle touch. With BOUNTY planning on a live in late December centering around this black and white theme and also scheduling shows well into the new year, it's hopeful that they will continue to come out with new releases. And if BLACK OUT is any indication, BOUNTY will be a band worth following!