SuG - Koakuma Sparkling

The transition from indies to major is one that has the potential to effect any band’s style. As SuG’s second single since being signed to major label Pony Canyon, Koakuma Sparkling will certainly show how the band’s style is evolving.

First, SuG tries something different with a ska approach to the classic summer love song. Koakuma Sparkling starts with an extremely energetic, exuberant burst of music, and alongside SuG’s usual ‘heavy positive rock’ style the band is joined by a chorus of brass instruments. This energy builds up thanks to shinpei’s quick drumming and masato and yuji’s rock-style guitar work. As the first verse begins, it is obvious that Takeru’s vocals are sweeter and more delicate than usual, which helps show the other side of summer love. The song takes an even more exuberant turn during the chorus as the music seems to increase ten-fold, and rather than seeming over-the-top, the instruments and sound effects blend together very well. As the song continues there are enough deviations from the main rhythm of the song and added sound effects to keep the listener’s attention. Koakuma Sparkling soon reaches its climax with what could be described as a real musical celebration, followed by some soulful vocals from Takeru. The song finishes with an emotional guitar solo while still retaining the same rhythm from the very beginning of the song. Koakuma Sparkling then ends with a fanfare fitting for one of SuG’s most energetic songs. Koakuma Sparkling certainly showcases some of SuG’s best qualities; it is fun, entertaining and original while still being incredibly perfect and professional.

Five Starz ~go maime haiyuu~ starts out with a more relaxed approach as far as the music is concerned. The listener may be surprised as the main base of the song is a variety of minimalist sound effects. The song does begin to quicken its pace as it progresses, although the main focus seems to be the vocalists: as “Five Starz” is a reference to the five members of SuG, each of them takes a turn singing. Both yuji and masato’s parts use different rhythms and styles of background music, which may make the song seem stilted; however, Takeru soon joins in to slow the pace down. At this point, the guitars and drums become clearer, edging more towards a typical SuG song. As the song continues, Chiyu brings a calming quality while shinpei’s fun, cheerful quirkiness brings yet more playfulness to this already entertaining song. By the end of the song, the music has picked up enough to match the surprising vocal aspect. The bass seems very deep while the drums and guitar keep a quick rhythm, sounding slightly odd but original. In general Five Starz ~go maime haiyuu~ gives each of SuG’s members a chance to show his own character, and as a result it's a song that is very enjoyable to listen to.

Koakuma Sparkling certainly shows that SuG’s sound is constantly developing and evolving. The band has kept its original style even with the transition to a major label; SuG still manages to keep the entertaining, fun quality that it has always had. Both songs on Koakuma Sparkling are extremely detailed and professional, but the main point is that they are both very memorable due to the exuberance in each song. Koakuma Sparkling in particular has so much energy and enthusiasm packed into it that one wants to listen to it an infinite number of times. SuG has certainly outdone itself in creating a rare example of two songs that transcend both band and genre.