ALBUM REVIEW: Bloody Bride – Bridear
Japan has been no stranger to the realms of rock and metal, bringing us such fascinating offerings as DIR EN GREY and MAXIMUM THE HORMONE who have pushed the boundaries of our perceptions of the genre. It goes without saying that the surge in popularity of BABYMETAL has been a catalyst for many musicians in Japan to strive for such prominence. Hoping to carve their own path to success is quintet BRIDEAR who have just recently released their full-length effort entitled Bloody Bride which is guaranteed to turn some heads.
Deep Blue sets the tone with an upbeat energy that cascades into the charged drumming and frenzied riffing of Daybreak. The punk-infused vibe joins forces with proficient instrumentation and a distinct liveliness that instantly grabs your attention. The title track Bloody Bride continues the multifaceted wackiness that seems to chop and change styles at the drop of a hat. One moment it is offering up metalcore influenced guitar segments and the next it dives into a devilish breakdown segment accompanied by maniacal laughter in the background. Dimensions keeps the pacing at an unpredictable level, ebbing and flowing as it progresses. Slick riffing and a punchy drum beat lead the way alongside quirky vocal passages that are neatly topped off with an emphatic solo.
Keshin ups the ante with swift guitar work and a commanding drumming presence, throwing some gang vocals in for good measure. The genre-splicing really hits full tilt on this track, as you don’t know whether to applaud or shake your head in sheer confusion. Ashes lets melodic leadwork take the helm but has zero intention of letting the structure become anything less than sheer madness. Frolicking sweep sections, peaceful vocal elements, wild drum fills, this track seems to have the full spectrum covered.
The Moment commences with a synth-heavy assault that combines with powerful growls to throw you even further off guard. Another impressive solo flourish really hits the mark. Glitter throws some groove injected hooks, funky bass lines and a power metal style demeanour into a blender whilst still maintaining its crazy, spontaneous nature and it tastes pleasingly palatable. Just when you think this album surely has no other possible curveballs under its sleeve you can bet you’re getting one right between the eyes.
Boy adopts an edgier, darker tone than its predecessors, launching out some gnarly riffing to get your blood pumping. Dream Eater is almost the polar opposite with a vibrant, progressive attitude that feels particularly endearing and remarkably accessible considering what has unfolded thus far. A Glorious World keeps the momentum going with neat riff work and a mainstream pop mentality that adds another string to their already jam-packed bow. As this album approaches the closing stages Starlight may not be the most intricate piece in this collection but as soon as the realisation hits that the vocals are in English it offers up one more little surprise before departing.
The only thing Bloody Bride is missing is the kitchen sink. In the initial stages it does feel like it is difficult to get a grasp of what on earth is actually going on but the further you venture down the rabbit hole there is a whole host of moments that make you sit back and smile. It is without question that BRIDEAR are going to have the same polarising effect as Marmite but if you have a little patience and a keen ear for detail this release is really going to take you on a journey through the various dimensions of rock and metal. It is very rare that you will come across an album so fearless yet meticulously crafted and it will certainly leave a lasting impression.
Rating: 8/10
Bloody Bride is out now via Setsuzoku Records.
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