Album Review: 横濱純情物語 by マグヴェリー – A Pop Rock Gem from Japan’s Heart
So, you’re scrolling through your music library, wondering what to throw on next. Enter 横濱純情物語 (Yokohama Junjō Monogatari), the 2010 brainchild of Japanese rock outfit マグヴェリー (Magvery). Released under the label 鮪苺亭 (yes, that’s “Tuna Strawberry Tei”—don’t ask me why), this album is like a love letter to Yokohama wrapped in some solid pop-rock vibes. And let me tell you, it’s got enough hooks to reel you in for days.
First off, credit where it’s due: マグヴェリー doesn’t just play; they own every step of this project. From arranging and producing to directing and art direction, they’ve basically said, “Nah, we’ll do it ourselves,” which honestly adds a layer of charm. Throw in basslines courtesy of つよぽん, drums by カンちゃん, guitar riffs by ノブ, and vocals by ジン, and you’ve got yourself one tight-knit crew. Oh, and shoutout to 紫流 for the design work—those visuals are as smooth as the tunes.
Now, onto the tracks. With gems like 横濱純情物語 and 影法師, this album knows how to make an entrance. Let’s zoom in on these two because, frankly, they stuck with me like gum under a shoe.
Track Spotlight:
1. 横濱純情物語:
This title track kicks things off with a bang—or rather, a jangly guitar riff that feels like walking along Yokohama’s waterfront at sunset. The lyrics, penned by ノブ, hit that sweet spot between nostalgia and youthful rebellion without being overly sappy. It’s catchy but not cringey, if ya catch my drift. Plus, ジン’s vocals? Smooth as butter melting over hot toast. You’ll find yourself humming this one long after the last chord fades out.
2. 影法師:
If 横濱純情物語 is the main course, then 影法師 is the dessert—a little darker, moodier, but equally satisfying. This track has a haunting undertone thanks to its brooding melody and clever use of dynamics. Think: shadows dancing across cobblestone streets late at night. There’s something about the way the drums punch in and those basslines rumble—they give the whole thing a cinematic vibe. By the time it ends, you’ll feel like you’ve been part of a mini-movie soundtrack.
Final Thoughts:
What makes 横濱純情物語 stand out isn’t just its polished production or killer performances—it’s the personality dripping from every note. マグヴェリー clearly poured their heart into this album, and it shows. Sure, there are moments when it leans a bit too close to cheesy territory, but hey, isn’t that half the fun?
As I sit here typing this review while listening to 影法師 again, I can’t help but wonder… why don’t more bands name themselves after tuna and strawberries? Food for thought, right?
Rating: 8/10 – Worth adding to your playlist, even if only for the sheer joy of yelling “鮪苺亭!” whenever someone asks where you heard such a quirky gem.
