Aoi - MASQUERADE

Aoi, who performed at Japan Expo 10th Impact, has had a solo career that spanned over the last two years while being a member of the two-man band BOUNTY. With another single about to come out, how do the songs on his last maxi-single fare?

MASQUERADE is a melodic rock song that fits very well into the gothic romanticism genre. Heavy usage of strings enforces the dramatic melody, which weaves up and down. Although the quality of Aoi’s voice is smooth, deep and mature and hence very pleasing, it does become slightly irritating when his voice goes inappropriately weak in the middle of a word or sentence. Additionally, vibrato is used almost everywhere, rather than for effect. However, having said all of this, the song is rich and charming.

Although it is the B-side, Absolution perhaps deserves more attention than the title song. With a faster pace compared to MASQUERADE and rippling distortion behind the vocals, Absolution has more depth and interest. Furthermore, Aoi’s voice is much better presented here.

The whole release is good, but not quite a hit. It’s nice and civilized, but only that. Maybe Aoi’s next release will display something more special - that is, if this single manages to keep you interested in him.