Asobi Seksu Album: “Asobi Seksu”

I don't know how this band has flown under the radar. They are so much better than blonde redhead, the obvious comparison. female front girl, standing about 4.5 ft tall, has one of the most amazing voices i have ever heard. haunting, beautiful, primal, passionate, backed by crescendo guitar work (some smashing pumpkins hidden in there), retro synthesizer sound, a bit of joy division, but truly unique. saw them live recently, and that is an experience. this is a no brainer.

Asobi Seksu's self-titled debut is a solid record from an excellent band, and though it is overshadowed by their sophomore record, Citrus, it's still a worthwhile album and something that any shoegaze fan should consider. The most obvious reference point for Asobi Seksu is My Bloody Valentine, and while no band can do shoegaze as well as the genre's creator, Asobi Seksu do it better than most other MBV wannabes. The band's singer main singer, Yuki Chikudate, has a beautiful, haunting voice that works flawlessly with the swirling atmospherics of the guitar work. Unfortunately, the band's lead guitarist, James Hanna, shares singing duties on some songs, and he is vastly outclassed by Yuki's gorgeous vocals.

Yuki Chikudate sings in both Japanese and English, with some songs featuring solely one language or the other, and others a blend of the two. Amongst the modern indie bands fronted by luscious Japanese singers, Asobi Seksu definitely outshines both Blonde Redhead and Deerhoof for style and songwriting. This is a good record, but newcomers should definitely check out their follow-up, Citrus, first.

Asobi Seksu are an excellent band. Their music is dreamy at times but driving at other moments as well. This first album really captures a moment in time. They tend to get classified as shoegazer music, which puts them in a league with some excellent bands from the early '90s like Slowdive, My Bloody Valentine, Ride, and Swervedriver. This import edition contains a bonus live track that is not on the domestic release -- well worth it. The CD also has a video of the single "Walk On The Moon." If you're looking to expand your musical horizons, this CD is an excellent place to start. If you're a long-time fan of Asobi Seksu, then this enhanced import edition will really satisfy. Either way it's a great album from a great band.