X Japan – Angel

Single Review – duffpress

Review By Darren McIntyre

X Japan is a rock band from Tateyama, Chiba, Japan which was formed in 1982 by drummer & pianist Yoshiki & vocalist Toshi. They started as a power/speed metal band with heavy symphonic elements but later gravitated towards a more progressive sound. The boys have given us 5 studio albums with an untitled new album slated for release soon, they have had a couple of breaks in between with their last release being 2015’s Born To Be Free, fast forward 8 years and we get the haunting power ballad Angel which I will be reviewing for you today.

Angel – Melodic haunting piano tones ooze from the intro as a powerful stringed section lets this incredible track come to life. Toshi comes in with soulful vocals that just elevate this powering ballad to another level as the track builds and builds with a real mesmerising sound that is just incredible. The arrangement is a slow burner that is full of emotion, depth and pure lyrics that spring into action mid-way through the track as a pounding rhythm section brings us snare drum kicks that let the track evolve and really make its mark for sure. We really get the sense of fulfilment from this cool melodic piece as the boys feel like they have come full circle and produced something special in this track that has us instantly hooked with its mesmerising tones, slick lyrics and colossal piano tones that grab you and pull you into this epic composition that is just breathtaking. The basslines are holding us with their incredible groove that wraps itself around this spellbinding piece that is sure to give these boys a surefire hit.

X Japan  –

               Toshi  –  Lead Vocals / Guitar

               Pata  –  Guitar / Backing Vocals

               Sugizo  –  Guitar / Violin / Backing Vocals

               Heath  –  Bass / Backing Vocals

               Yoshiki  –  Drums / Piano / Keys

Track Listing  –

                      Angel