Gokusai cover

Released 20 years ago

Gokusai

Mucc · 2006

64 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock

An eclectic fusion of alternative rock and metal, interspersed with experimental textures and danceable rhythms that challenge genre boundaries.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Gokusai — The title track encapsulates the album's themes with its dynamic shifts and haunting melodies, effectively representing Mucc's signature blend of intensity and introspection.
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    Nageki no kane — This track features a powerful combination of melodic vocals and heavy instrumentals, illustrating the emotional depth that runs throughout the album.
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    Utagoe — With its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, 'Utagoe' stands out as a crowd-pleaser that showcases the band's ability to merge accessibility with artistic complexity.
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    Kinsenka — The song delivers a poignant narrative through evocative lyrics and a compelling arrangement, highlighting Mucc's storytelling prowess against a backdrop of rich instrumentation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases eclectic compositions with varied tempos and textures, reflecting Mucc's experimental phase.

What we noticed

  • The use of layered vocals and harmonies is prominent, often featuring call-and-response patterns between the lead singer and backing vocals.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic flow with energetic peaks
  • introspective moments amidst intensity
  • for late-night drives
  • engaging headphone detail exploration
  • vibrant waves of sound

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward single tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2006, Mucc was transitioning from their earlier sound towards a more experimental approach, marking 'Gokusai' as their sixth studio album. This release followed their 2004 album 'Samurai,' showcasing their growth and willingness to explore diverse musical styles while solidifying their presence in the Japanese rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors
the GazettE· Dir En Grey· Alice Nine

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Rave circus instrumental 1:42
  • 2 Gokusai 4:30
  • 3 Nageki no kane 4:00
  • 4 Utagoe 4:04
  • 5 Gekkou 3:58
  • 6 Panorama 4:16
  • 7 Gerbera 3:50
  • 8 Risky drive 2:58
  • 9 Kinsenka 4:30
  • 10 D.O.G. 3:09
  • 11 Nijuugoji no yuuutsu 6:02
  • 12 Horizont 3:54
  • 13 Yasashii uta 4:54
  • 14 Ryuusei 4:48
  • 15 G.M.C 3:45
  • 16 Gerbera surf ver. 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata