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X-Japan‘s major label debut Blue Blood is one of the best metal albums I have ever heard.

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X-Japan: Blue Blood

Review By: Tom Riffel

Genre: Japanese R&B/Hip Hop

Company: Sony Music.

CD Length: 65 Minutes

Rated: PG-13

EXTERNAL EXAM

X-Japan is perhaps one of the most influential metal bands of all time. Many of today's J-rock bands have looked towards X-Japan as a foundation in their own music. The members of X-Japan, Toshi, Yoshiki, Heath, Pata, and of course, the late Hide, all contributed to what was some of the most memorable music during their reigning years.

Even after the group disbanded, members went on to pursue solo careers, carrying with them the spirit and influence of X-Japan. Blue Blood is a perfect example of the fantastic music these five musicians were capable of

FINAL EXAM:

After releasing a couple independent records, metal masters X-Japan break out with their major label debut Blue Blood. This album finds the band still carrying the strong, fast, powerful music that they played on their early albums, but also throws in some beautiful ballads, and even mixes things up with a couple of interesting musical pieces, creating a near perfect album.

Best track

X: After two mid-tempo songs, the band kicks it up a notch with “X”. The frantic riffing of Pata seems to send the song into incredible speeds. Hide’s guitar work is slower but adds a layer of melody to the track, while Toshi’s vocals are as strong and melodic as ever. The chorus shouts of “X!” punch up the energy. Needless to say, this speedy number once again has not one, but two epic guitar solos by Hide.

Worst Track

Easy Fight Rambling: This could be perhaps the most poppy song on the album. Drums and bass bounce though the song. Toshi gets a lot of help with the rest of the band singing several lines together. The chorus has nice vocal harmonies, but unfortunately, the vocals are the stand out part of this little number. Of course, Hide has his solo, but “Easy Fight Rambling's” guitar is fairly unimpressive. Overall, a decent track, but nothing to write home about.

Perfect for Fans of:

Loudness, Larc, Camino, or late 80's-early 90's heavy metal.

X-Japan‘s major label debut Blue Blood is one of the best metal albums I have ever heard. It has the right energy, speed, and wicked guitar that all good metal albums need, and it has the perfect amount of ballads to calm things down a bit.

Some songs are a bit unorthodox (“X Clamation”, “Celebration”, “Rose of Pain”), but they are what keep the album interesting and entertaining. Without a doubt, a must have for fans of X-Japan, J-rock, or metal. If you like what you’ve heard on the domestic X-Japan CD/DVD, I highly recommend you shell out for the import of Blue Blood.

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