Leech
the GazettE · 2008
11 min · 3 tracks · punk rock
Aggressive riffs intertwine with haunting melodies, showcasing a blend of alternative metal and punk rock influences.
Top tracks — play these first
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LEECH — The title track sets the tone for the album, combining raw energy with introspective lyrics that delve into personal struggles and societal issues.
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DISTORTED DAYTIME — This track showcases intricate guitar work paired with a driving rhythm, emphasizing the band's ability to merge melody with aggression effectively.
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HOLE — With its haunting atmosphere and emotional depth, 'HOLE' offers a stark contrast to the heavier tracks, highlighting the GazettE's versatility and lyrical prowess.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The single showcases strong writing and production, with a cohesive sound that reflects its punk rock roots.
What we noticed
- The title track 'LEECH' features a rapid tempo with aggressive guitar riffs that dominate the mix, while the vocals oscillate between melodic and harsh styles.
- Each track maintains a consistent energy level, with no significant dips in tempo or intensity throughout the single.
- The arrangement of 'DISTORTED DAYTIME' introduces a contrasting breakdown section that shifts dynamics before returning to the high-energy chorus.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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 — 'Leech' solidified the GazettE's popularity following their previous commercial success.
- Career context
- By the time 'Leech' was released in November 2008, the GazettE had established themselves as key figures in the Japanese visual kei scene. This album followed their commercial breakthrough with 'Stellar' and marked a significant evolution in their sound, as they began to explore darker themes and heavier musical textures.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dir En Grey· Mucc· Alice Nine
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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LEECH
The narrative shifts from self-reflection to a piercing critique of societal expectations, capturing a sense of urgency and desperation.
This structural shift enhances the song's emotional weight, as it juxtaposes internal struggle against external pressures, inviting deeper contemplation.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 LEECH 4:13
- 2 DISTORTED DAYTIME 3:52
- 3 HOLE 3:13
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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