Jealousy
Artist: X Japan
Album: Jealousy
Musicians: Toshi (vocals), hide (guitar), Pata (guitar), Taiji (bass), Yoshiki (drums/piano)
Composer/Lyricist:
Release Date: 1 Jul 1991
| Jealousy – X Japan Tracklisting:Â Â 01. Es Dur no Piano Sen *Bold titles – recommended listening. |
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OVERVIEW
X Japan is widely recognized as the most influential rock band in Japan. Jealousy is their third album and a solid example of the breadth and power of their music. From beautiful piano instrumentals to quick-paced metal, from acoustic rock to ballads, almost every track of Jealousy is a classic. The talent of each member is apparent in every solo and beat. This well-composed and performed album is a must for fans of metal and proves that X Japan is a legend for a very good reason.
THE GOOD
Silent Jealousy
This is the best song on the album, and one of the best songs X Japan ever wrote. “Silent Jealousy” is an epic in only seven minutes. From the mournful piano instrumental that greets us, the song quickly slams into a rapid rock beat and takes us on a rollercoaster ride. This song proves X Japan‘s impressive talent not only at composition, but also at their respective instruments. Yoshiki’s piano solos are expressive and beautiful, and his drumming is almost insane. Toshi’s voice soars above the guitars and orchestral accompaniment. And hide’s guitar solo is complex and simply amazing to hear. “Silent Jealousy” will leave you absolutely breathless by the time it roars to its finish. This song is not to be missed by any fan of rock music, even those who are not interested in Japanese rock in general. It is a stellar example of just why X Japan is so highly regarded, even today.
Voiceless Screaming
This surprisingly gentle song is completely different stylistically from the other vocal tracks on this album. It is sung entirely in English and backed only by acoustic guitars and soft orchestration. However, it is just as amazing as the harder rock songs. With an intricate guitar accompaniment constantly flowing behind it, Toshi’s voice takes center stage here, and it does not disappoint.
Say Anything
X Japan is in love with ballads. “Say Anything” is the requisite ballad on Jealousy, but that doesn’t make it bad by any means. This slow-paced but beautiful song builds gradually to the moving chorus before gently drifting off. It is the perfect song to end this album on a peaceful but bittersweet note.
THE BAD
Desperate Angel
“Desperate Angel” begins with high-pitched 80s vocals sung acapella, which is unfortunately too reminiscent of less talented hair bands. The rest of the song isn’t quite as bad, although it isn’t good. A fast beat quickly moves you through the song, which was fine in my opinion. The song sounds chaotic and the chorus didn’t grab me as I listened to it. You can’t fault them for their skill in playing this song, but it is not one of their better efforts.
The Rating: 8
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