Sweet & Straightforward
Magic of White presents a more dense and polished production that was handled by the band. They continue to barrel straight ahead with some heavy riffage (almost at a L7 level) before merging into some pop passages and roller coaster melodies. Yuko’s stellar mini guitar solos continue to flash. “Block Castle” is one of their strongest songs that is showcased in the above video. “Joy” and “Understanding,” both written by bass player Chiharu (ちはる), are other highlights with their brisk tempos and overall exuberance that characterize the classic K.O.G.A. sound. Makoto Sakarai from NUDGE ‘EM ALL provided them the song “Sweet Bright” that has almost a British Invasion bounce to it (namely “Pretty Flamingo.”) The title track “Magic of White” features churning guitars rhythmically pushing the song forward. Their backing harmonies and vocal arrangements truly come to the forefront on “Cherry Tree on the Hill.” This ultra-melodic song sounds fitting for a J-drama before taking off in the direction of the Muffs. “Try or Give Up” brings them back around to their speedy Supernazz sound. “Photograph” is not the Weezer song, but it does sound influenced by them and Ric Ocasek circa the “Green” album.
As a live act, they made a striking impression by wearing sophisticated dresses that are more commonly worn by jazz acts or groups like Tokyo Groove Jyoshi. After touring Japan in 2005, they officially broke up on November 5th of that year. Bass player Chiharu (ちはる) went to the band Teenline (named after Shivvers’ song and power-pop compilation/omnibus series). Guitarist Yuko and drummer Yuki started their own group called newbie. I wonder if any of the members are still involved with music? Nevertheless, they left listeners these two unsung albums of exciting Japanese-girl-group-power-pop-punk that are now turning 20 & 21 years old respectively. While only around momentarily, you can hear the trio's influence on their contemporaries like the Squeaks, the Dazes and THE PORTUGAL JAPAN as well with younger acts such as the Selectionz and Jamto Highball ジャムトハイボール. The music they made was immediate, yet enduring as the years have proven their songs were made to last.
Really good to see an article on The Clicks. Tend to be forgotten these days but their two albums, which i got a couple of months ago s/hand on CD, are both very enjoyable. Production is a little lo-fi in places but overall the tunes and the playing shine through. Have you checked out teeny frahoop ? Another all-female Japanese trio. Their albums, Wee Wee Pop and 2nd Hospital are both on YouTube (I have them on CD as well.) Have a listen to "Eat candy" and "Ride the Rocking Rocket" as starters
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading and replying. When I saw that there was barely a digital trace on the group 20 years later, I decided that needed to be rectified. I would love to offer an interview with any of them, but so far have hit dead-ends with connections to possible connections. Thanks for reminding me about Teeny Frahoop. I have a few of their songs on K.O.G.A. comps and will listen to their albums since they are now very accessible.
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