Fifteen years is a long time in any business, never mind the topsy turvy world of rock music. To celebrate their crystal anniversary Scandal have released their latest single eternal.
Since forming in Osaka in 2006 Scandal have gained a worldwide audience through constant touring, a stream of sublime singles and nine critically acclaimed albums (all of which reached the Oricon Top 5). Following on from 2020’s Kiss From The Darkness long-player eternal is a single which finds the band moving in a more mature direction. Fans needn’t worry; it’s the same Scandal with their delicious harmonies and harmonious hooks, only now revealing a softer, sophisticated side.
Long time collaborator Satori Shiraishi produced eternal and has given this single a real dreamlike, ethereal feel. Capturing that magical moment between sleep and wake it seems to exist in some strange parallel world before bursting into life with some choice chords. Veering between gentle moments and a bolder chorus eternal makes good use of musical dynamics by contrasting light and shade, each acting as a foil to highlight the other. eternal is a song that’s been made for those special moments in life; a stroll through a neon-soaked metropolis or a deserted beach at sunset. Wherever you are eternal will make the perfect companion.
The second track on this single is a remix by TOWA TEI (he is from Deee-Lite). It’s a mix on which he’s stamped his own indelible mark and furnished it with cascading synths and fleeting flutes. This version bears little resemblance to its counterpart yet it remains easily identifiable, which is how all good remixes should be handled. It a reworking that brings out a more playful side of Scandal, previously buried on its emotive predecessor.
eternal is released by JPU Records on 3rd March 2021
Tracklisting:
1. eternal
2. eternal (TOWA TEI remix)
