The Kaleidoscope - River flows

Although the single River flows was The Kaleidoscope’s first release on avex trax, debuting back in 1998, the group is most recognized and remembered for their contribution to the anime “One Piece” with the song fish. Hearing The Kaleidoscope’s first single gives their fans a chance to experience their true sound.

The beginning of River flows sounds almost like the acoustic guitar in Breakfast at Tiffany’s by Deep Blue Something. It's an easy going song, fit for a soundtrack of a movie or drama. The song itself holds its arms open wide to listeners and beckons them with a calm whisper. The style of light rock, paired with orchestral strings and a hint of pop, makes River flows an interesting composition.

While listening to the following track free, the listener experiences an older taste beneath the cracks of the song, a time when synthesizers did not rule the industry nor overshadow the vocalist. free even incorporates a jazzy feel as light swing piano motifs slip into the background of the instrumental section before slamming back to the main melody of the song. The song sounds reminiscent of The Beatles‘ work - soft and how indie should be - although The Kaleidoscope is fronted by a more jovial vocalist.

The third and final track, helpless, opens with a short wave of mildly loud guitar riffs before calming down to another seemingly Beatles inspired mix of tambourine and drums buried under guitar. At some moments, the tambourine sticks out, and you can find yourself focusing unnecessarily on that.

Overall, the single offers three relatively unheard of tracks and showcases the original style that is found in the band's popular song fish.