Logiq Heats it Up at Ikebukuro Chop

Logiq were one of many bands playing the little hidey-hole of Ikebukuro Chop on March 5. Outside, it was a dismal winter evening, but Chop was heated enough that Logiq fans could justify the sensu (Japanese handheld fans) they brandished.

The set began with a video projection accompanied by a sweet piano instrumental reminiscent of the band’s January single release. The footage shown was identical to images seen in the single’s PV: red temple pillars and green, grassy temple gardens. The band’s logo appeared to epic musical strains, an introductory photo of each member filling the screen before it began to rise, revealing the band ready and waiting for the crowd.

The above-mentioned single, “Akai Ito” began the set, vocalist AGEHA’s voice floating gorgeously through the small venue during the taceted opening. Bassist YAHIRO flung his cape in a dramatic physical representation the flaring music. The gorgeous tune made a strong impact, yet an entertaining beat kept the number lively while through it all an oriental lilt flavored the melody. With a muted cymbal crash, the music paused and the band froze in various poses. Resuming once more slowly, the music lulled as AGEHA sang gently.  The band played out the final chorus and saw the song through to its end, manipulating syncopated rhythm in perfect unison.

“Bougetsuki” maintained the powerful impact with a strong start, once more focused on the vocals. Under flickering blue and green lights, the stark red of AGEHA’s costume stood out drastically. Behind him, the small red tassel on TAKESHI’s Chinese hat bobbed about, lively as the drummer struck out. Guitarist MAHIRO made his mark with a lovely, ambient solo and he sang during the next verse when AGEHA gave the song over to the crowd.

“wo-shan-ni-” struck up with a funky clap beat and AGEHA recruited the crowd, begging their support as he lifted a fan and clapped along with the music. Speed and rhythm livened up yet another sweet oriental melody. “On bass, YAHIRO!” the vocalist announced and YAHIRO stepped up for a bluesy bass solo, dancing dramatically with his cape fluttering with each movement. “On drums, TAKESHI,” AGEHA continued. Instead of crashing out a drum solo, TAKESHI abandoned his kit and stepped up front, taking the mic and egging the crowd on. What he lacked in power he made up in enthusiasm, eyes wide as he called “Raise those hands higher!” like a dissatisfied drill sergeant. “Now,” AGEHA continued, “put your hands together for this guy: On guitar, MAHIRO!” The guitarist took the last of the crowd’s clapping support and as one, the three frontmen spun into the chorus, YAHIRO concluding the number with another flick of his dark mantle.

All too soon, AGEHA made an announcement. “This is the last one,” he said. The number was a new piece that showcased the band’s talent. At first, YAHIRO spun in wild circles while AGEHA and MAHIRO jumped to the energetic tune, the music flowing. “Clap your hands for me!” the vocalist called, encouraging the crowd to put their hands together. The crowd obliged, clapping along to a gentle beat until MAHIRO came in with some impressive fingering which he kept up while jumping in circles, making the guitar-work all the more impressively. The energy lasted throughout, the band jumping until their final pose.

As they bid farewell to the crowd, synthesized music rolled. “Thank you so much for this fun time.” AGEHA said sincerely before concluding, “This was Logiq.”

Though woefully short, the set showcased Logiq’s beautiful yet fun music, giving the crowd a sample of things to come. Their staging was entertaining and honest with simple but attractive movement the crowd could follow easily. Their melodies would linger in the mind long after the night’s bands were exhausted and the crowd straggled home, humming to the tunes in their heads.

Set List

1. Opening
2. Akai Ito
3. Bougetsuki
4. wo-shan-ni-
5. Logiq NEW SONG_03
6. Ending