Boøwy

Boøwy were only together for seven years or so, but in that time frame they managed to update the pop and rock scenes of Japan, popularize the multi-member band above and beyond solo performers, and introduce strong elements of American popular music and new wave. A pair of compilation albums brought Boøwy back to the Oricon charts 20 years or so after their last performances. This Boøwy Dramatic collects a series of somewhat lighter tracks, focused more on balladry than on power. After a jumping little pop opener in "Honky Tonky Crazy," the band starts to move into something of a new wave sound, combining echoes and production effects with a slightly darker-tinged set of works recalling elements of the glam rock of David Bowie and the British pop and new wave scene as a whole. The band moves through its influences along the way, hinting at Brian Setzer in the vocal deliveries, suggesting Bowie here and there, and drawing modern blues and electric guitar ideas from the late '70s and early '80s. The performances and compositions are always tight, and while the style and production can seem a bit dated compared to the electronically enhanced pop currently holding the market, Dramatic demonstrates to the listener why Boøwy were so popular. A bonus DVD includes music videos for a number of songs as well. ~ Adam Greenberg, All Music Guide