Ten no Mikaku [Regular Edition]

I originally bought this album as I am a fan of GO!GO!7188. I gave it a listen when it first arrived, and didn't give it much thought after that. Going through my music collection the other day, I pulled it out and gave it another listen, and I've been pretty much listening to it constantly ever since. When you consider that this is not a genre-based album but rather a collection and demonstration of a range of musical styles, then this album stands out from the crowd. There are elements from all over the musical spectrum, including sparse vocals alongside solo piano, pure rock & roll, with a bit of pop thrown in for good measure. The sheer range of influences that can be heard, from Russian folk-music through to techno and dance-based sensibilities, coupled with production values and staging that would not be out of place gracing the soundtrack of a Hollywood epic make this an album that bears repeated listenings to pick up the nuances evident.

As much as I'm tempted to, I'm not going to do a track by track analysis. Those are just so repetitive! I'll just say that it's a great album, and most of the songs are either rock or jazz oriented. The music varies greatly from track to track. My favourites are track 9 and 10 , ama no jaku and azuki. The interesting thing about the DVD is that all 10 songs have a video to go with it, unlike most albums. However, if you're looking to hear a sound similar to GO!GO!7188's, you won't find it. Sure, maybe a couple songs will be in the same vein, but it's a different style. Definitely worth your money.