What does Vulgar sound like?

A chaotic fusion of aggressive metal and melodic intricacies, pushing the boundaries of extreme musical expression. Rooted in progressive metal and alternative metal. Start with "audience KILLER LOOP".

Is Vulgar a good place to start with Dir En Grey?

Yes, Vulgar is recommended as a starting point for new Dir En Grey listeners. A chaotic fusion of aggressive metal and melodic intricacies, pushing the boundaries of extreme musical expression. Released in 2003, Vulgar is Dir En Grey's fifth studio album, marking a significant moment as they transitioned from their earlier sound toward a more aggressive and complex style. Following their previous release, 2001's Kisou, this album solidified their presence in the international metal scene and showcased their evolving artistic vision.

Vulgar works well if you're into steady mid-tempo intensity, haunting melodies with brutality and immersive listening experience.

How many songs are on Vulgar?

Vulgar has 15 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Vulgar

Dir En Grey · 2003

57 min · 15 tracks · progressive metal

A chaotic fusion of aggressive metal and melodic intricacies, pushing the boundaries of extreme musical expression.

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Top tracks — play these first

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audience KILLER LOOP Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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OBSCURE — The track features haunting melodies intertwined with aggressive instrumentation, exemplifying the album's exploration of darkness and emotional turmoil. Its dynamic shifts capture the essence of Dir En Grey's unique sound.
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MARMALADE CHAINSAW — This song stands out for its relentless energy and complex structure, showcasing the band's ability to blend heavy riffs with intricate arrangements. It epitomizes the chaotic spirit of Vulgar.
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THE ⅢD EMPIRE — As one of the album's lead tracks, it encapsulates the thematic weight of societal critique while featuring a blend of melodic and harsh vocal techniques that define Dir En Grey's artistry.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's chaotic structure and aggressive sound mark it as a notable entry in progressive metal.

What we noticed

The album features abrupt tempo shifts, with tracks alternating between frenetic aggression and melodic interludes.
Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, often eschewing traditional verse-chorus formats in favor of more experimental arrangements.

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

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo intensity
haunting melodies with brutality
immersive listening experience
unsettling vocal dynamics throughout

Maybe skip if you

prefer light, upbeat sounds
seek quick, catchy tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Vulgar marked a significant transition in sound, establishing wider recognition for the band.
Themes: Japanese metal scene· emotional despair· unsettling dynamics
Career context: Released in 2003, Vulgar is Dir En Grey's fifth studio album, marking a significant moment as they transitioned from their earlier sound toward a more aggressive and complex style. Following their previous release, 2001's Kisou, this album solidified their presence in the international metal scene and showcased their evolving artistic vision.
Stylistic neighbors: the GazettE· X Japan· Mucc