MISSA

Missa is as far as I´ve been able to read the debut EP from Japanese act Dir En Grey. I´m totally new to the band and this is the first songs I´ve heard from them. As I understand from the reviews I´ve read they have become more influenced by modern heavy metal on their later releases but Missa is not in that vein.

The music is pretty simple in structure with pretty fast rock ( almost punk) beats and some really sharp guitar riffs. Actually I was reminded of The Smiths more than once. There is also a lighter heavy metal feel to the music but Missa is not a very heavy EP. The music is very melodic and I have no trouble singing along after very few listens. The lyrics are in Japanese though so I have no clue whatsoever as to what they are about. The vocals from lead singer/ Guitarist Tooru Nishimura remind me of David Sylvian from the UK band Japan. Very emotional ( some might say pathetic) and expressive vocals. Personally I think Tooru Nishimura is a great singer with a really personal approach. Note how the two guitars compliment each other. One distorted and one without distortion. Sounds great IMO.

The musicianship is excellent. A bit surprising if you remember that this is their debut EP. I´m sure there are great things in wait on later releases.

The production is good. Clean and enjoyable.

Missa is a good release from Dir En Grey and it gives promises of greater things to come. 3 stars is well deserved. Remember the music is very simple so don´t expect long progressive structures and instrumental interplays.