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PURE SOUL

You May Dream (****) - Another great intro to an album, taking a cue from 'More than Love' from 'Beat Out!'. This is one of those times that Glay crosses the fence and goes into full rock mode and the results don't disappoint. Highlights include that catchy chorus and the middle part with Toshi in full sing on the drums and Hisashi's awesome solo.

Biri biri Crashmen (****)- From one great rock tune to another. This Jiro concoction is one of his best and earns full marks for its sheer power and energy. This has always been one of Glay's strongest points and they capitalise on it well here.

May Fair (***1/2) - A nice song that is quite mellow and laid back. The title implies some sort of walk in the park and the song is not too far away from that concept. Perhaps a bit too mellow though and too sluggish to count as one of my favourites. But a very good song nonetheless and I love the ending where Teru trails away going 'la la la'.

Soul Love (****) - Excellent song that combines the best of both pop and rock. Essentially a very pop-styled song when you consider just the tune but the use of those wonderful guitars and the bass elevate it above boyband dreck. This'd be a good wedding song, along with 'Zutto futaride' and 'Haru wo aisuru hito'.

Deatte shimatta futari (****) - This one's another rock song. Lacks the energy of the first two tracks but it's not really meant to be that kind of song. It's actually quite funky and easy-going and actually reminds me of 'Heavy Gauge'. It features a great chorus and an even more stunning guitar solo that matches the first track's.

Pure Soul (****) - The album track. Simply fantastic and perfect to sing along to (if you know Japanese). Great melody and rythm and of course, Teru's powerful vocals are above par here. You don't get many love songs that sound like this nowadays (actually, not ever).

Yuwaku (****) - Don't know if this should have two us or one u but the official site uses one so I'll go with it. Anyway, what more can I say? This is easily one of Glay's most exciting songs: high speed, lots of electric guitar, that 'Because I Love You...' chorus, Teru singing his heart out (but then again, when doesn't he?)... this song has so many plus points that it's easy to see why this is Glay's best song to so many people.

Come On!! (**1/2) - The (relative) bad egg. Sorry, I know that a lot of people love this but it just didn't work for me. It's kind of funny and silly which I think is what they meant for it to be but it just didn't hold my attention enough. However, it is not without its merits and I would listen to it once in awhile.

Fried Chicken & Beer (***) - This is a pretty weird song. It's fun and sounds nice enough and, like 'Come On!', is probably meant to be a silly and fun romp. And like 'Come On!' it just isn't effective with getting me up. Not to say it isn't a good song but just that Glay makes songs like this that are much better.

3 Nengo (****) - Whoa... Glay goes psychadelic here! Sort of reminds me of those 70s rock bands that made songs like this. Also an obvious Beatles influence here as well. Refreshing and an outstanding attempt at doing something slightly off-kilter. Be warned: it's an acquired taste!

I'm in Love (****) - The favourite concert ending and a fitting ending to the album. This is the most Beatles-like song of all (along with Tomadoi) and it is quality work. The background instruments go very well with the verses and the simple and joyful chorus will ring in your head long after the song is over. Why is there someone singing 'Happy Birthday' at the end though?

COMBINES STAR SCORE: 41 AVERAGE: 3.73 (to 3 sig. fig.)

SCORE: 93.2%

A great album with lots of top-notch songs. But wait till you hear Beat Out!