What makes Stay Away by L'Arc-en-Ciel notable?

The album's lead track 'STAY AWAY' reached number one on the Oricon charts, demonstrating L'Arc-en-Ciel's commercial appeal. The multiple remixes showcased their willingness to experiment with sound, further influencing the Japanese rock genre and attracting a diverse fanbase both domestically and internationally. Released on July 19, 2000, 'Stay Away' came during L'Arc-en-Ciel's peak as they were transitioning into mainstream success in Japan. This single followed the band's breakout album 'Ark' (1999) and solidified their place in the J-Rock scene as influential artists capable of crossing genres.

How many songs are on Stay Away?

Stay Away has 4 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Stay Away

L'Arc-en-Ciel · 2000

17 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of alternative rock and indie elements, punctuated by emotive vocals and intricate melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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STAY AWAY — As the title track, it encapsulates the band's signature sound with its soaring choruses and introspective lyrics, making it an anthem of emotional resilience.
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get out from the shell — This track combines energetic instrumentation with a message of liberation, resonating with listeners seeking empowerment through music.
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STAY AWAY (Jaze Poo mix) — This remix offers a fresh take on the original song while retaining its core spirit, showcasing L'Arc-en-Ciel's adaptability and creative exploration.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

This single showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing energetic tracks with creative remixes.

What we noticed

The lead track 'STAY AWAY' features a dynamic arrangement with shifting tempos and layered instrumentation that builds intensity.
The second track 'get out from the shell' introduces a more subdued tone, contrasting with the energetic opener.
Both remixes of 'STAY AWAY' offer distinct reinterpretations, altering the original's structure while maintaining its core melody.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

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 — It marked a significant commercial success, solidifying their mainstream appeal.
Themes: emotional resilience· J-Rock evolution
Career context: Released on July 19, 2000, 'Stay Away' came during L'Arc-en-Ciel's peak as they were transitioning into mainstream success in Japan. This single followed the band's breakout album 'Ark' (1999) and solidified their place in the J-Rock scene as influential artists capable of crossing genres.
Stylistic neighbors: Asian Kung-Fu Generation· Bump of Chicken· Radwimps