Release Information:
Artist: Maximum The Hormone
Album: "Greatest The Hits 2011-2011"
Format: Single
Release Date: March 23rd, 2011
Label: VAP
Genre: Metal/Punk/Alt. Rock
Country: Japan
Reviewers Note:
Don't let the title trick with it's play on words. This release is in no way or shape a "Greatest Hits" release. The title is a play on word's by the band saying "Greatest Hits doesn't necessarily mean a collection of past titles. We can say these new songs are our best!"
Review:
Track 1) "Utsukushiki Hitobito No Uta" ("鬱くしき人々のうた")
In traditional MTH fashion, this opening track teases the listener with a promise of a great metal start off but quickly turns to a punk/ska paced track that just as quick as the first time changes into a full blown metal rage with vocalist Daisuke's signature growls (which we're hearing for the first time recorded since his throat surgery back in 09') and his vocals sound as great as ever. Fellow vocalist/guitar player Maximum The Ryo displays the usual guitar skills come to be known MTH's fans and quickly changes the guitar style from slightly distorted to heavily distorted at a moment notice. Sadly, there is no section in this track that showcase's the very talented bass playing of bassist Futoshi. And of course always a stand out is Nao, the bands female singer/drummer (who is returning from her pregnancy) delivering her section of clean vocals and very solid drum patterns throughout. Aside from the downside that they don't showcase the bass playing abilities here, this track is definitely a great welcome back to MTH fans since the bands last release back in 08'.
Track 2) "Maximum The Hormone"
Here we are with the band's self-named track and right out the gate this band self-titled track sounds to be one of their heaviest tracks. Daisuke's opening growl mixed with the opening arrangement of the ryff and drum section is without one of the heaviest sections of music the band has recorded. At around the 30 second mark the tone completely changes and sounds like something you would hear in the great days of 90's alt. rock and fortunately DOES turn into a showcase of the bass playing abilities of Futoshi. The drum playing here is top notch as well. Whenever the band does indeed release a true "Greatest Hits" album, i expect to see this track on the listing. This is the kind of track you wish to find on EVERY album nowadays. Great heavy, yet precise, guitar playing, a bass line that can carry a verse without depending on guitars, tight drumming and perfect fitting vocals. This is sure to be top song in the band's catalog.
Track 3) "My Girl"
What we have here with "My Girl" is something that sounds straight out of the late 90's era of bands like The Offspring, the main ryffs are so 90's alt. rock/punk as well as the singing, that is, until the 46 second mark where the band knocks the whole song on it's ass bringing the typical MTH style of bringing the heaviness out of nowhere and turning a nice soft rock song into absolute mosh-pit headbangers heaven. The whole band here shows just how fast their timing and styles can change in just one song is a perfect example of the band if you were going to introduce someone to them through this single.
Overall:
For only a 3 track single, this is a very solid release and a great way for the band to return after a 3 year hiatus. For any MTH fan this release is highly recommended and you will not disappointed.
Rating (Considering It's Only 3 Tracks Long):
9/10
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