What makes Zettai Zetsumei by Radwimps notable?

This album debuted at number one on the Oricon Albums Chart and received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and emotional depth. It marked a significant moment for Radwimps as they gained international attention, particularly after their subsequent contributions to film scores like Your Name. Zettai Zetsumei is Radwimps' fourth studio album, released in early 2011. Following the commercial success of their previous album, Okazu no Gogo, this record further solidified their stature in the Japanese rock scene, showcasing a maturation in both lyrical themes and musical complexity.

Who is Zettai Zetsumei for?

Zettai Zetsumei works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, wave-like pacing with varied intensity and introspective reflections on life.

How many songs are on Zettai Zetsumei?

Zettai Zetsumei has 15 tracks, running approximately 74 minutes.

Zettai Zetsumei

Radwimps · 2011

74 min · 15 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant blend of emo and indie rock, layered with introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation that shifts from delicate to explosive.

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Top tracks — play these first

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君と羊と青 — This track features poignant imagery and a haunting melody that encapsulates the album's exploration of love and longing, making it a standout piece.
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学芸会 — With its intricate arrangement and vivid storytelling, this song highlights Radwimps' ability to blend personal narrative with broader existential themes, resonating deeply with listeners.
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救世主 — The climactic energy and introspective lyrics in this track serve as a powerful conclusion to the album, tying together its central motifs of hope and despair.

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 dynamic songwriting and varied instrumentation but lacks tight cohesion across its length.

What we noticed

Lyrically, the album explores introspective themes, with many songs featuring metaphorical language and vivid imagery.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
wave-like pacing with varied intensity
introspective reflections on life
for late-night contemplation
engaging storytelling through layered sounds

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid lengthy immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album further solidified Radwimps' stature following prior success.
Career context: Zettai Zetsumei is Radwimps' fourth studio album, released in early 2011. Following the commercial success of their previous album, Okazu no Gogo, this record further solidified their stature in the Japanese rock scene, showcasing a maturation in both lyrical themes and musical complexity.
Stylistic neighbors: Asian Kung-Fu Generation· Ling Tosite Sigure· THE ORAL CIGARETTES