Kagrra, - Uzu

Kagrra,'s music seems to be an acquired taste; most people either love it or hate it. However, there's no denying Kagrra, has always been able to mix traditional Japanese music flawlessly with modern rock, and their newest single Uzu is no exception. For fans, this single is going to be a must have, and for those who have come to give Kagrra, a try, you'll be hard pressed to leave disappointed.

Uzu was released in both limited edition, which comes with Uzu's PV and a guitar pick, and regular edition, which comes with an extra bonus track Himawari. This review is of the former.

The title track begins grandly with a traditional Japanese melody accompanied by eerie synth backing. The mood is smooth and calm, with Isshi singing in a deeper pitch to match, before he lifts effortlessly into the falsetto he's known for and takes the song with him. The rhythm speeds up to underscore the rich emotion of the refrain, which is full of regretful longing. Shin takes on the koto during the instrumental break, and the sound of the delicately plucked notes melting into a wailing guitar line is seamless and beautiful. The song ends with the last few lines being played on the koto, and the soft, haunting effect leaves no question why Uzu was used as a theme song for the Japanese horror film "Hitori Kakurenbo".

Hoozuki is slower than the previous track and has the settling feel of autumn. The gentle guitar lines give the song jazz overtones, and the meandering pace uncoils in a way that is picturesque and relaxing; the song makes it easy to imagine drifting aimlessly on a boat while a glow of lights dances across the water. The only flaw to Hoozuki is Isshi's singing in the first half. The key seems too low for him, and his voice sounds flat and forced. However, in the second half, the key shifts to a higher register and Isshi is able to bring out the full range of his voice once again.

If Hoozuki is Kagrra,'s foray into autumn, Shigatsu Tsuitachi is their homage to spring. The song was released on their album Core earlier this year and is perhaps included on this single to liven up the atmosphere. Shigatsu Tsuitachi is an uplifting, pop-sounding number with more synthetic backing than Kagrra, normally uses, and it's a welcome change after the slower, more emotionally laden preceding tracks. Isshi's singing is encouraging, and the quick beat helps end the single on a more light-hearted note.

The word 'uzu' means 'swirl' in Japanese, and it's an apt title for this single. Mixing traditional instruments with a modern sound and the introspection of fall with the hopefulness of spring, Uzu is a swirl that slowly draws you in...and when you reach the center, perhaps you'll have acquired a new love for the band that is Kagrra,.