LONESOME_BLUE’s The Three In One – “A Quick Shot To Satisfy The J-rock Cravings” • Strah

(Kiwi)

The Three In One. A signal of unity and strength from the Japanese ladies. Lonesome_Blue is lonelier since their 2022 debut Second To None. Guitarist Narumi, who brought the metal edge and unpredictability, left in July 2023 and the Lonesome crew have pressed forth as trio.

After a series of singles, The Three In One is their new EP, a six song romp of catchy j-rock/metal. Freelance guitarist Yashiro (Mary’s Blood, Pinkish Crown) has been aiding them on live dates, but not sure if she is playing on here.

Lonesome alternates between Japanese and English lyrics and singer Amako has a light accent to her English pronunciations. Her voice is cheery with a pop sheen to it. This is evident in the bouncy earworm of “Live It Up”, with its opening chords reminding of Helloween’s “Future World”.

Lead off “Queenism” jams right in and staying true the title, it possesses a delicate flair with subdued keys and fast-paced chorus displaying the majesty and togetherness of the group. Experimentation and electronic modern metal influences appear in “Touch Me Not” which features snazzy drumming from Mizuki, but does not fall in line with their usual production.

“Go Nuts” does exactly what it says – another upbeat rocker featuring some shredding ability and playful vocalisms that highlight Amako’s strengths. “Final Calling” is a heartbreak, piano-led ballad with the chorus a bit too sugary and sentimental, but the effort is appreciated.

The best for last is saved with closer “Elemental” and the double-bass drums are out in full force. It is pure power metal with shuffling keys in the verse and glory filled guitars in a sci-fi setting.

There is a certain amount of heaviness that is absent from the debut full-length. The guitar needs some more power and Yuki’s bass could be beefed up in the mix.

It seems they are searching for the right balance and how to proceed without an official guitarist in the ranks. There’s still quality tunes to be found and is a quick shot to satisfy the j-rock cravings.