Gackt - GHOST

After a long hiatus from making music, Gackt has returned. Currently on tour in Japan, Gackt is also releasing a series of singles that coincide with the theme of his tour. The first, Jesus, came out in December of 2008, and the end of January 2009 brings GHOST.

GHOST begins with some digital noise and a pulsing techno beat. The intricately layered sound brings to mind images of cold chrome and stark electric wires, which is completely fitting as the song is tied to Japan's airing of the TV series "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles." Heavy, choppy guitar playing cements the vision of a harsh future world and contrasts beautifully with Gackt's sinuous singing. Though his vocals are digitally distorted, there is still depth to his voice, and Gackt comes off as hauntingly robotic. The growling roar before the chorus emphasizes the human spirit's emergence, which is taken a step further as the chorus is sung with less modified vocals. While the melody of GHOST is rather simple, its power lies in its arrangement. The twisting beat powers all the way through and keeps you moving.

GHOST fades out to the sound of short-circuiting machinery and flows smoothly into Blue Lagoon ~shinkai~, which starts with a slower, darker synth melody. Gackt's voice is deeper and, interestingly, becomes more electronic as the song unfolds. He doesn't show much range, but his sonorous singing controls the intense mood. As with most of his works, Gackt makes ample use of layers and syncopated beats - which is especially notable during the break - and coils multiple melodies around each other. The effect is a desolate, lonely feeling, as you're not quite sure which line to follow. Blue Lagoon ends on a single buzzing guitar chord that is somehow satisfying, yet leaves you wanting more.

Instrumental tracks of both songs are included on the single. They are welcome additions: GHOST makes for a great techno dance song while Blue Lagoon plays like a video game's backing track.

Going with the theme of a second rebirth, GHOST would be the transitional period during which Gackt attempts to come to terms with his new reality. By itself, the single is a strong release. However, GHOST does even more by driving up the anticipation for Gackt's next single, which will hopefully continue his saga.