SuG - Scheat

What's the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the young band SuG? For most, it is probably their signature track Love Scream Party, where the five young members become unofficial endorsers of fun. However, to say that their first ever PV Scheat, which has no shouting, no fluorescent colour schemes and absolutely no overly-energetic partying, is terrible, would be severely wrong.

Scheat, which features as the title track on SuG's first maxi-single, is simply beautiful. It begins with an eerie chime, immediately setting a mood for mystery and melancholia. Then the strings, layered beneath the guitars, sensationalize the song without making it overdramatic and insincere. Even though Takeru's voice sometimes falters, it only emphasizes the emotions and appeals to the heart. Dissonant chords, which are used frequently and most noticeable in the verses, linger on the mind: why don't all elements of this expressive song fuse harmoniously together? Whether deliberate or not, it adds that slightly uncomfortable edge that you can’t place your finger on, making it oddly intriguing. The bridge, decorated with hard, offbeat cymbal drumming, is devastatingly lovely. An optimistic variation of the intro follows to finish Scheat gracefully with the reminiscence of summer.

The second track on the single is Cherish, and it sounds unbelievably poor when compared to Scheat; it is as if this were recorded by four people and a new vocalist who decided to rehearse together for the first time. Perplexedly, the vocal line mimics the guitar melody exactly in the chorus, and it's no surprise that it doesn't pull it off. Even Candy Lowpop, a heavy positive rock anthem filled with funky, overlapping vocals, fails to compensate for this disaster.

There are some weak moments in the title track, mainly because of Takeru's lack of experience; however, these imperfections are what make the song so exquisite and heartfelt. Sadly, the same cannot be said for Cherish, but despite this, Scheat is a single offering a rare glimpse of SuG's vulnerable aspect, and it is definitely not to be missed.