I used to have this sort of stigma where, just like the world of Ultimate Fighting, lumber jacks, and LAN parties, rock music was the domain of men and only men…Fortunately I was happily mistaken.
The latest release from the aptly named UPLIFT SPICE happens to be their first full album. It’s self titled and rightly so. For those of you who regularly check ignite, (which all of you should be doing :] ), you’ll already know that these guys couldn’t have picked a better name.
The first thing you’ll notice is Chiori’s incredibly powerful yet versatile vocals. It’s a very unique and punchy voice that can only be achieved by her sheer passion for rocking out hardcore.
That’s not to say the rest of the band are any less awesome. Yuuki (guitar), Atsushi (bass), Tobita (drums) and Chiori all work in perfect cohesion to create a melodic and exhilarating sound that’s truly theirs.
The album opens with “鬼” which acts as a sort of slingshot of an introduction leading into “カノジョ” and “hallelujah”. Other tracks to note (but definitely are not limited to) are the heartfelt “NGC224″, and the invigoratingly explosive “摩天楼”.
But it’s “未完成”, (mikansei / unfinished), where they truly shine. It’s superbly orchestrated and sung with profound sincerity. It’s as if they’re telling you a very personal story with it’s highs and lows, each second building off the last to an ultimate resolution. It may be difficult to understand the exact meaning of Chiori’s resolute lyrics, but somehow you’re still able to relate to them. And as the song comes to an end there’s a sense of closure as you’re left with a profound optimism.
UPLIFT SPICE’s first full album is just that; incredibly uplifting, intensely spicy, and not to mention straight-up awesome. Who needs energy drinks when you have these guys?
UPLIFT SPICE – “未完成” (mikansei / unfinished)
[audio:http://sparkplugged.net/wp-content/uploads/music/moo.mp3]
The PV for “花火の色” (Hanabi no Iro), it’s from a previous release but still worth sharing :]
Visit UPLIFT SPICE’s official MySpace
Buy UPLIFT SPICE’s self-titled debut album
By Jimi on October 21, 2008 at 1:08 am
Perhaps I like these guys a lil too much??
…nah :]
By lops-sama on October 21, 2008 at 9:30 am
Together with Bugy Craxone my favourite female fronted band!
By Jimi on October 21, 2008 at 12:22 pm
BGC’s definitely good too!
By Shay on October 21, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Definitely great stuff and about you liking these guys too much, Jimi — I didn’t notice, not at all =P Great info and this article makes me like UPLIFT SPICE even more. In other words, mission accomplished =)
By Shay on October 21, 2008 at 3:12 pm
Bugy Craxone and UPLIFT SPICE ftw!! They should play a show together (and we should go) =P
By lops-sama on October 22, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Nice idea! But first I need to see other bands. Like…my complete last.fm Top 50! ^__^
By Jimi on October 22, 2008 at 4:44 pm
UPLIFT SPICE is currently touring with another amazing band called ANARCHY STONE. All female and bloody brilliant they are. gawd i wish i could see one of those shows.
By steve on December 16, 2008 at 11:10 pm
BGC and Uplift Spice @ Shimokitazawa Cave Be Dec 22
Damn!
and I arrive in Japan the next day. =(
But I’ll see a ton of other great bands… including Mu-NYA.
BGC with better vocals?? (gomen Yukiko-san!!)
By Shay on December 17, 2008 at 12:22 am
Hi Steve!! I’m sorry you’ll miss the BCG & Uplift Spice show but you’re right, you’ll have a ton of other GREAT oppurtunities :P haha HAVE FUN ^^