RENGOKU GAKUDAN

"Rengoku Gakudan" ("Purgatory Band" in English) veiled in a horrible, weird sleeve, has seen the light as the second (currently the newest) album by a Japanese rock quartet KADATH. They have gigged mainly around Yamaguchi (upon the west side of Hiroshima) for about a decade (so they cannot be called as a young combo) and released two full-length albums. All of the four talented members, apparently inspired by 70s British symphonic scene and especially Japanese symphonic progressive rock vanguards, discharge authentic, dramatic Neo-symphonic heatre. Sounds like their sound texture cannot be related to such a dark sleeve pic. And their melodic appearance or musical method is so delightful and acceptable enough not to be clearly distinguished from lots of similar units all over the world. Anyway I've attended their gig recently and got immersed in their highly qualified live performance. Hiromi's guitar play is crazy brilliant, and the rhythm section by Taiji (bass) and Hatasu (drums) launches solid steady sound basis. And let me say, actually David's keyboard should define their soundscape itself, with his crystallized play. The strict formation and technique can be heard also in this opus.

The first track "Rengoku" is the highlight of this theatrical creation. Regardless of the title, beautiful melody lines based upon deep, heavy rhythmic turf catch your heart. Speedy guitar versatility and clear keyboard full of comfort are vivacious really. The following "Kitsune" sounds pretty so heavy, metallic just like King Crimson (Wetton / Bradford / Fripp Era) enough to drive you crazy. "Shinigami" means death or reaper but is too lively and glorious to remind you of death itself ' guess they all would play with full motivation and enthusiasm ' it tells so. "Tsuki No Uragawa" is one of the most melodic and gentle songs in this album. David's saxophone sounds are superb bluesy, inorganic. Taiji's voices of passion are impressive in the epilogue "Kawakiyuku Tabibito". The Anthem for mystic incarnations goes up beautifully and powerfully.

In conclusion, their skillful play and elaborate composition, workmanship are splendid indeed. And I'm sure they will produce more and more innovative material from now on. A promising gemstone.