Vidoll - Proposal ~Sotsugyou kokuhaku~

Vidoll is unquestionably one of the best bands in the history of visual kei. Since it would be pretty much impossible to give a convincing account of what makes them so special - as Frank Zappa once put it, “Talking about music is like dancing about architecture” - the best bet would be to try to convince aficionados of genuine visual kei that listening to this outstanding best-of album is almost mandatory.

Given the well-known release policy of Under Code, which consists of putting out a myriad of high-priced singles, maxi singles and mini albums, the 2-disc Proposal ~Sotsugyou kokuhaku~ costing "only" four thousand yen for a total of twenty eight tracks is quite a blessing - especially given that this compilation features songs ranging from memorable classics such as Hitorikiri no KuriXXXsu and Shutdown to ones of pure genius, like Wagahai ha, korosuke nari… and Ningyo. One can recommend this CD to those who might hesitate trying to pick up something from the band's huge discography. It is worth mentioning though, that even if this double album was released after the issue of their very first album V.I.D ～ Very Important Doll ～, it includes only songs which were released up until SHOCK WAVE CD ～CROSS GATE 2006～.

Some might criticize this release for featuring a handful of either rerecorded or slightly altered versions of some of Vidoll's older songs. However, in most cases this initiative deserves nothing but praise. For instance, ...San ga koronda!!!, Mayura Pisaroto and Itsuwari no jouzai are more captivating than ever. Unfortunately, a few songs end up being deprived of their initial greatness to some extent. Not including the introductions of Heroin and Torikabuto is a weak choice, and Torikabuto‘s new solo, though not bad, fails to be as intriguing as the original version. Therefore, if after listening to Proposal you become especially keen on particular songs, checking the other existing versions is highly recommended.

Another reason why this release is so important is due to the fact that following V.I.D, the quintet has been engaging in what one might call a meticulous struggle at becoming the exact opposite of what had pretty much guaranteed them a place in the annals of visual kei history as one of the most ambitious and unique bands ever. What went wrong then? To put it bluntly, they sold out. In other words, Vidoll seems to have surrendered to the Siren’s call of money and fame by signing to a major label. The once obscenely talented band has become a fairly generic pop-rock act. Though some of their new stuff is arguably charming, the sheer contrast with songs available on Proposal clearly shows the disadvantage of post-Under Code Vidoll. Although there are a few fantastic songs weren’t included on this compilation, there is no other CD one can think of which summarizes so well their unforgettable contribution to the visual kei scene. On the other hand, intentionally or not, this compilation also shows that even the best can end up changing beyond recognition.