Dir en grey will be releasing their new single, Saku, on 14.07.2004. The cd will consist of 3 new songs,Machiavellism, -saku-, and G.D.S. Earlier this month, their ohp allowed fans to sample a small portion of the song. I had heard from numerous people that the song was different from the deg norm (if such a thing exsist). So, I decided to give it a chance and see what all the fuss was about. The first time I heard it, I really didn't know what to think besides 'That IS different' and 'What the hell?'. I played it a few more times to finally have the song sink in. After it did, I liked the song. Saku isn't like most of Dir en grey's previous songs. This is a very techno-ish song. Of course, being a fan of some techno, I didn't mind.
It also showed me how the band is trying out different styles. Most fans who have at least heard a few songs from each era can tell that with each new song or album, they try different things. In my opinion, this is a good thing and there is nothing wrong with it. But, of course, not everyone likes the changes. In 2003, Dir en grey released their 4th full album, Vulgar. The fans responded with both good and bad things to say about the music and the members. When The Final came out earlier this year, everyone could once again hear the changes. With all the good reviews and talk I read about it, it seems that the fans accepted the new sound. With this new single, I expect the reactions to vary. Not all of their fans like the more recent eras (Kisou, 6 Ugly, Vulgar, etc.) compared to the older ones (Missa, Gauze, Macabre). It all depends on what grabs the person's attention. I don't expect everyone to like it. I just ask that people at least give it a chance.~Aly
I got my internet back after four months... immediately I went to Diru's site. I heard from Aly that the sample song on the site, Machiavellism, sounded techno. I was scared to death to be honest because my favorite sounds are ones made with just the band and awesome guitar riffs, but with faith I went to listen to it. My initial reaction was, "Nya... so much noise... where's the music?" I don't know what I was expecting but that was not it. I was still kind of hoping for the sound they carried on Vulgar. I thought The Final had a similar sound to Vulgar in some ways and that it might be prevalent in the new album and singles. I'm getting sad for the lack of good guitar solos in their newer songs. After listening to the song twice I loved it and can still stand by my claim of loving every DEG song. Although I wouldn't call it techno. While discussing it with Kenny-san, he referred to it as speed metal or he said something like that... I'll go with him because I am horrible at classifying music. I'd say it sounded like a cross between the sounds of Buck Tick and Duel Jewel. It also reminds me of a Miyavi song at the beginning... a very irritating Miyavi song... anyways isn't that a concept? I would like to say this about the single and the band... Dir En Grey is growing... it is impossible to stay exactly the same for as many years as Diru has been around. As a fan you have to grow with the band... expand your mind... hear the work behind the music and know the dedication of the band through out the years to get where they are now. As Aly did, I can only ask you not to dismiss the new single... there is something the band wants you to experience by listening to their music... I only hope you can feel it as strongly as I do. I'd also like to add this...
tech�no
n.
Any of various styles of dance music characterized by electronic sounds (does this count electric guitars? I don't think it does...) and a high-energy, rhythmic beat
All I hear is guitar and drums yo... I don't believe I hear any excess noises. If it's supposed to be dance music... well I'd just say no.
~Ami