New Stage is an undeniably impressive release.
Some may claim GUYZ are underrated or classed as an underground rock group, but their presence in Japan in early 2010 proves otherwise. Formed back in 1998, the quartet has since complied a rather small but intricate discography that inversely showcases their skill. With two albums and more than a few singles released, GUYZ are well-placed in the indie-rock world.
The moment Yayoo questions “can’t you feel my instinct?” in the first line of the song, the listener is automatically drawn into the title track. Fast, bright and up-beat, New Stage is quite close to the genre that defines most J-pop in its dreamy, explorative melodies.
The B-side, I.S., is a gem. With similarities to South Korean group Sugar Donut and even US stars, Green Day (the latter only applying to the backing track), the song is bold and stunning. The guitarist, Hong Jun’s guitar solo near the end of I.S. makes the song shine and proves it just as worthy as the A-side.
The final track, Come On Baby (RMX), starts off sounding like a remixed hybrid of the title track, New Stage, with the same level of radiating feeling exerted into the listener and a similar intro. Come On Baby (RMX) contains the same gradual lift to the climax as the title track, but does this effectively as if it were ending how it started.
For even a first listener of GUYZ, the single New Stage is a sure charmer. Each track is easy to listen to and will be a great adage to any music collection.
