What makes Before I Decay by the GazettE notable?

Before I Decay achieved notable commercial success, charting high on the Oricon charts in Japan. It was also pivotal in solidifying the band's influence within the visual kei scene, showcasing a blend of aggressive soundscapes and intricate visuals that resonated with fans and critics alike. In 2009, the GazettE released Before I Decay as their first single following their successful album, Stacked Rubbish. This period marked a significant moment in their career as they began to gain widespread recognition both in Japan and internationally. The single served as a precursor to their upcoming album, showcasing their evolving sound.

How many songs are on Before I Decay?

Before I Decay has 3 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Released 17 years ago this October

Before I Decay

the GazettE · 2009

7 min · 3 tracks · punk rock

An explosive blend of alternative metal and punk rock that pulses with urgency and emotional intensity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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BEFORE I DECAY — The title track pulsates with raw energy and showcases the band’s signature sound through its heavy riffs and emotionally charged vocals, making it an anthem for fans.
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瞞し — This track delves deeper into the band's lyrical themes of deception and inner turmoil, featuring a dynamic arrangement that highlights their musical versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong contrasts in tempo and mood but lacks cohesion due to its brief length.

What we noticed

The title track features rapid tempo shifts, alternating between aggressive verses and melodic choruses, creating a sense of urgency.
The second track employs a slower, more atmospheric introduction before building into a heavier sound, contrasting with the first track's intensity.
The single includes a music video clip as the third track, which adds visual context but does not contribute musically.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified the band's influence in the visual kei scene and achieved commercial success.
Career context: In 2009, the GazettE released Before I Decay as their first single following their successful album, Stacked Rubbish. This period marked a significant moment in their career as they began to gain widespread recognition both in Japan and internationally. The single served as a precursor to their upcoming album, showcasing their evolving sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Dir En Grey· Mucc· Alice Nine