XY were one of 2023’s most exciting new prospects. Formed through Yoshiki Superstar Project X, they’re a hybrid rock band/dance-vocal troupe that can perform as one big group but also split into specialized units. Living legend Yoshiki provides an idiosyncratic touch as mentor and producer, but releasing new music in a timely matter isn’t one of his specialties. Because of this, XY had only one song to their name throughout their entire debut year. Luckily, that song was pretty damn good.
After a seemingly endless wait, XY’s units will both be releasing new material this month. First off is the rock band, fronted by dual vocalists Gai and Karma. YG takes advantage of a straightforward rock sound but doesn’t forget to include some unique touches (member Furutatsu’s violin immediately comes to mind). Japan is one of the few global music markets where rock is still a dominant force, making YG‘s sound a comfortable fit. It’s a sturdy track, built upon pummeling guitar and charismatic vocal performances.
It’s nice to hear Gai and Karma share the spotlight, as last year’s Crazy Love was pretty much the Jay show. They have a grittier style that fits this song well and some of their choices in phrasing and emphasis help YG stick out among similar efforts. It’s also fun to hear Yoshiki tackle a more upbeat production. He didn’t write this song, but his arrangement has a classic, forthright touch that could have been popular in almost any decade. Because of this, I have a feeling YG will enjoy a long life on my playlist.
| Hooks | 8 |
| Production | 8 |
| Longevity | 9 |
| Bias | 9 |
| RATING | 8.5 |
Grade: B
I had to replay that breakdown cause I thought something was off with my earphones, only to realize that it is an actual part of the song 😭 still kinda cool tho.
It’s pretty much a decent rock song. Not as strong as Crazy Love, but it has its own strengths. I admit I didn’t recognize Gai’s voice cause his voice is generally pretty deep (given I’ve known him since Z-Boys and that was way back in 2019, even if it was a casual follow), but it’s nice to see him tackle a slightly higher tone.
But I like it, dk if it’s something I’d be playing too much, but we’ll see. A straight 8 for me for now.
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I loved Crazy Love, but this song just isn’t for me. Reminds me of Seattle grunge, or even worse, the post-grunge sludge that got me turning off the radio in the US, and tuning in to Britpop. As soon as that electric guitar started, my allergies began. For me, this sound is when rock died.
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This is so random but I can’t unsee it
Red hair = BB Gdragon x Apinks Namjoo
Black hair = TXT Taeyeon x BB Taeyang
Pale blond with purple tips = SVT Woozi
Ash hair = SVT MinHyuk
Blond = BTS Taehyung x NCT Taeyong
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Blond also looks like NCT Taeyong x NCT Lucas
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Nobody will ever see this but I dont care. Not a day goes by where i don’t think about these boys and yoshi who wrote the song, but tragically passed away before XY’s debut. Yoshi, you would have LOVED being in XY and its clear you were so excited about it so im sorry that your time was cut so short. That your life was cut so short. You were an amazing lyricist, musician, and person. Im sorry that I only found out about you after you died through XY but , your music inspires me everyday so much. You seemed like such a joy and such a light in everyone’s lives, a genuine beautiful soul and I wish I knew you before you died so I could tell you that because truly you were on of a kind. You said you wanted to change the world. You believed everyone was equally talented and gifted. That it didn’t matter what someone was doing in life and what another was because nobody is no less than anyone. You just wanted to challenge norms and let everyone know how important it is to stay authentic to themselves through your music with ” blue blood” .That is so truly beautiful and rare! That is amazing! You have inspired me so much , along with the other members , your dream will always be in my heart and I’ll always do my best to stay authentic to myself because of you. I could never forget about you and neither will the others. I hope that you are doing okay in heaven still writing music. I think about you a lot. Your music and words will stick with me forever. Thank you, Sasaki Yoshizumi for your life and legacy.
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