Moran Strike the “Trifector” with New Single Tricolore

The CD starts on a startling note, opening with the ballad “Haruka no Ao” full of swirling blue moods, bittersweet cymbals, piano, and a haunting melody line. The title means “Far-off Blue,” highly appropriate given the imagery, and vocalist Hitomi’s tones paint a smoky cobalt that blends with sky-blues, icy periwinkles, and the deep kick-bass shade of lapis.

Coming in on the second track is the music video number, “Benizashi.” At moments its scarlet theme clashes with the previous track, taking over the senses and transporting you into sexy, jazzy whirlwind that begs for swing-dancing. The music is paired with the video so expertly that “Benizashi” has to be one of the best music videos ever made. The story is easy to follow yet wrought with provocative symbolism, having just enough gall to make you squirm–and yet, It’s so pretty! Incredible lighting and camera work edited beautifully temper the sexual theme, even as that strawberry slides out from under the little girl’s skirt…

And then we have “White Out.” Growly yet groovy, the number has an edge all of its own, with an extensive guitar line that rules the piece despite the deep story behind the words. The English of the opening verses is extremely well-worded. The melody contrasts with the rest of the music where the lyrics are in Japanese.

All in all, Tricolore (Tri-color) is exactly what it promises: a single featuring three strong pieces of music, each worth the honorable designation as an A-side track. The highlight, without a doubt, is the music video to “Benizashi,” which we recommend you watch immediately and at least three times!

3 track CD + Music video

Track List

1. Haruka no Ao
2. Benizashi
3. White Out