Review | TOBARI “innovation” – The Hand That Feeds HQ
TOBARI go all out and deliver a masterful rock tune in daybreak.
TOBARI is a rock duo comprised of Shio Amagi (CV: Yoshiki Nakajima) and Kuroi Hashiba (CV: Tetsuei Sumiya). The duo is signed to the fictional label, SUNPRO (home to the pop-rock duo, ZIX).
Tracklist:
Track analysis:
TOBARI also released their own take on the innovation drama CD series, an appetizer series for the upcoming X Lied series (in which TOBARI and Infinit0 are going to partake for the 1st time).
daybreak is the title of TOBARI’s song featured in this drama CD. Much alike their debut single, daybreak is a pop-rock song with an interesting edge to it.
The intro to daybreak is dramatic with melancholic guitar riffs and pitch vocals setting a pretty interesting tone to this track.
The verses are slow paced, riding on top of a memorable bass line and splashy drums. The song progresses nicely into a powerful chorus, at the same time picking up the pacing.
As a result, the second verse has a completely different dynamic than the 1st verse. It makes the group shine and ends up further supporting the powerful vocals by TOBARI.
Yoshiki Nakajima and Tetsuei Sumiya showcase an impressive chemistry, harmonizing perfectly with each other – thing that shows in the chorus -, and seamlessly exchanging parts between each other throughout the song.
On an individual level both were rock solid. Sumiya leads the way with his mid toned vocals, shows his own colors with fancy flourishes and does some pretty impressive high notes. Nakajima is in his element for this song. He made good use of his versatile vocals to deliver a solid performance riding primarily on his higher register, with some touches on his mid-toned register. When it came to high notes, fancy vibrato and harmonies, he was the go-to guy.
TOBARI have a massive, rock tune in daybreak. It is addictive. Its vibe is mature and serious – a breath of fresh air for 2D groups exploring rock music -, the chemistry is awesome and the vocals are perfect.
TOBARI have been, since day 1, a powerful and exciting duo. Their rock sound is filled with flair and power. There is a mature vibe to their sound as well that makes them incredibly appealing and those vocals… The Yoshiki Nakajima – Tetsuei Sumiya combo continues to impress with their chemistry and quality.
daybreak is a top tier rock tune that, no matter how many times it is replayed, will never get less exciting to listen to.
innovation is available for purchase at CDJAPAN.