➡ Which song from "Epic Narratives" is your favorite? Support me on Patreon : www.patreon.com/ohrenje Donate with Paypal : www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=9YV824MFVXZK4 Join the BAND-MAID Community Discord : discord.gg/band-maid
The One (assuming we’re counting only the newly released songs). But Forbidden Tale is right up there too. They’re all fantastic, really. I need to live with it some more but this may be my all-time favorite B-M album, and that’s really saying something. Thank you for your great content, Ohrenje!
Brightest Star for me. Let's go Kobato! Po! Love the DVD from Day of Maid. We get to see Kanami give Miley from Smiley Time YT channel her guitar pic at the very end. Epic
About the seven parts ("songs") in "Forbidden Tale", that's what I said in the MV comments: this one single song would be a whole LP side for some of the greatests bands. Except they did it in less than 5 minutes! Great video montage for "Tamaya!"
I think it's an excellent album. We don't give enough importance to the fact that it's different from the rest, but at the same time it's perfectly recognizable as theirs. Until now, each of their releases has had the courage to propose something new, with all that it entails in recognizing and accepting theirt evolution as a band. Each album contains at least one exceptional gem and for me this one has Forbidden Tale, a song on par with their best compositions. Here we are for 2025!, I'll follow them wherever they want to take me.
I'm taking my time with this album..I think this album is probably B-M's most sophisticated musical serving and I'm chewing slowly, loll. I was never big on favourites with B-M , this band has really been one big weird exploration for me...I'll just leave it at that for now..I love the whole album, each song is to me, a treasured gem, I'm happy to still be alive to enjoy it. Arigato Ohrenje! ARIGATO, BAND-MAIDDDD!!! 😊❤
This is my new favourite album. Guitar tone seems to sound richer. Vocals and lyrics show so much maturity. Band-Maid isn't just about instruments, or rhythm section. They are all telling "Epic Narratives" as one. I have so many new favourites, but Forbidden Tale, just makes me think, feel and resonates with me. But The One is just as amazing. Each song has different charm that appeals to me. An incredible album.
The songs on Epic Narratives are EPIC. I'm very much looking forward to see Band-Maid play the songs on the album live. I saw a few of them at the day of maid and they were great. If I have to pick only two; my favorite songs are Forbidden tale and Tamaya, but all songs are great. I love Band-Maid so much that my eyes tear up from thinking about them, listening to them, or seeing them play live. Saiki is the master of transferring emotions thru her singing, and Band-Maid are masters of the same by playing their instruments, truly an amazing band of maids 🙂
Here's what Kanami said about Epic Narratives, song by song. "Here are the introductions of each songs, and my translation of them: 01 - Magie I was conscious of “Hard riffs and hard guitar solos are essential for BAND-MAID!” … But the chorus was created with the image of everyone jumping up and down and dancing ♡. The riff makes full use of slides, which is surprisingly difficult. I'd be happy if it becomes a standard song that people get excited about when they are at okyuji. But, who already have heard it at okyuji, how do you think? Comment by Saiki: "The song is growing into a song that we can get excited about together at okyuji. I did wrote the lyrics with the okyuji in mind. “Magie" is a German word meaning "Magic”, and why did I choose magic? At okyuji, I feel like "The moment when body and mind naturally move, it's as if I'm under a magic spell.” 02 - Shambles This song was created during the time when I was the "Riff-Making Machine Mincho-san!!”! The song was ending theme song for the anime "Kengan Asura" Season 2, so I wanted to give it a powerful and masculine feel while keeping the ending theme in mind, so I tuned it in drop D and thought a lot about the riffs. I've performed this song a lot in the okyuji, and when I play this riff, it seems to turn on the switch within me. Everyone loving BPM 180!! 03 - Protect You Since it is the ED theme for the TV anime "Grendizer U", I was conscious of making it a song with a sense of speed, but not too intense! I imaged a melody that makes you want to sing it from the very beginning, so I hope you'll sing it at the okyuji too! The guitar solo is melodious and technical, and it's fun to play, so I'd love to have you cover it ♡ 04 - SHOW THEM On creating a song together with The Warning, I wanted a type of song that is first time for both of us, when creating a demo. After that, we continued to have meetings online and receiving arranged data from The Warning... and this song was completed after a lot of back and forth! I directed the recordings when they came to Japan, and Danny, Pau, and Ale are all great artists individually. It was really fun. 05 - Forbidden tale What is “life?", “being alive?” etc, I produced this song with the biggest theme in the history of BAND-MAID. A lot has happened over the past three and a half years. It made me think. What does it mean to live? Is there such a thing as heaven? How was your life like? Were you happy along the way? The proof you lived, If I could represent your life with this song... as such, I included such a message, I created this song in the hope of leaving a song of what I think of “life” is. I did not talk to the vocalist SAIKI about the theme in depth, but the lyrics brought tears to my eyes. Getting to know BAND-MAID and I will be happy if this song will remain in your heart. 06 - Bestie I had the pleasure of co-writing this song with Mike Einziger of INCUBUS. I never thought I would have this kind of honoring thing to happen, starting at a festival... Mikey is really kind and a wonderful person who naturally makes everyone around him smile. Mikey came and told us many stories and gave us many ideas. And this Bestie was created as BAND-MAID song based on a riff Mikey gave us. I wanted to capture all the fun times we spent together, the respect I have for him, and the warm feelings I have for him in this song.... It became a new song for us as a band, and it helped me and the other members grow as a band! I can't wait to see him again. 07 - Brightest Star It's been a while since I composed a song for Kobato! I made this song with the theme of "POP me" and hoped to bring out the cuteness of Kobato! I put a Kobato main guitar solo for her to play at okyuji, and in the hope to be happy to perform with her. It's fun to play because of the extra cutting, but it's also a song with a playful spirit that can only be done for Kobato songs! I wonder if any of you have already heard it at okyuji? Comment by Miku: When I first heard the song, the image of sparkling stars came to mind. I tried to use the lyrics and singing style to compare the light and shadow of the stars in the night sky to human emotions po! It is fun playing the duetting solo part facing with KANAMI Sensei and stimulating po! Note: The title is "Brightest star", not "Ichiban-boshi (first-appearing-star)" po🕊 08 - Letters to you When we all are working hard every day, there are times when we feel hard, tired, and depressed. At such times, I wanted to create a song that would be soothing to your heart. I wrote this song in the hope that,,, I could write a song that would be soothing to you at such times, and that you could lean on. I wonder if Sai-chan did understand my feelings when she listened to the song? The lyrics made me think so and so touching ♡ Love. I dared to use only one picking harmonic in the guitar solo. I like that kind of thing. (It's a fine taste, isn't it?) Comment by Saiki: Both warming and heartrending feelings could be felt from the song, and I thought it could link to complex emotions of “people thinking of others”, so wrote the lyrics with feeling of “Writing letters while thinking of the people I want to meet. I hope it reaches everywhere and anywhere riding on the wind.” in mind. I'm glad that I was able to capture the feelings of the composer, KANAMI-chan. 09 - The one Actually, I started writing this song as I was suggested “How about write a song to be played at the end of Yokohama Arena?” We didn't actually play it at Yokohama Arena, but I made this song with the thought of “If we were to play it at the end..., if Yokohama Arena was to be the last show, I would have no regrets!“ Nothing may not last forever, but I think the song will exist if the connection between people continues, and I would be happy if this song will connect people for a long time! At the end of the song, I sang the guitar solo ♡ 10 - Memorable I created the melody during the US tour. It had been a long time since we were able to have okyuji with an audience, and I was very happy to see everyone's smiling faces from the stage for the first time in a long time…. I was so happy. I wrote this melody hoping to keep such warm feelings with the audience, and now I am happy to be able to share this song with everyone at okyuji. At the okyuji, Kobato plays the acoustic guitar and I play with fingerpicking, using the single and front pickup, until we get to the chorus. I hope the song gives a warm feeling to those who listen to it for the first time on the album! 11 - Go easy This song was produced at about the same time as Unleash. It is a song with a different taste from Unleash, in which we pursued a sense of speedy-feeling that is typical of BAND-MAID. I included the melody at the beginning of the intro so that everyone can sing along with it, so please remember it ♪ We have performed it a few times at okyujis! The short guitar phrase in the speedy-feeling intro and the short phrase in the B melody are my favorites because they are fun to play ♡♡ 12 - Toi et moi A strong riff that is typical of BAND-MAID and a bit dark song. I thought this kind of song was essential for the album, so I created it! I decided on this pattern of riff, after redoing the riff with several patterns, and to go along with Kobato’s shout at the beginning, I place an image of guitar shouting as well. For the guitar solo, I made a phrase that is easy to copy and fun to play on guitar as well, so please try it out/ 13 - TAMAYA! I like a heartrending feeling, so I added that element♡, and wanted to do a song that can be danced to at the okyuji!, so I created it with the image of okyuji carefully in mind! The lyrics are also great because they are exactly the kind of lyrics you can dance to, and the title is too original and great! Let me tell you this for people overseas, In Japan, when we see fireworks (sky rocketing fireworks), we shout out "TAMAYA〜" to it. I would love to know why Sai-chan chose this name for the song!! 14 - Get to top SAIKI-sensei told me, “Actually an instrumental song was needed for the album”, and this was the last song I wrote for the album! The previous instrumental "from now on" was a dark rock song, so this time I wanted to go in the exact opposite direction, with a brighter melody line... I imagined the song to have like “a sense of excitement watching a circus?”or making people's heart popping. Also, I made a show time for Kobato's guitar solo, I hope you look forward to enjoy the part at okyuji as well! At any rate… it's a song that keeps everyone busy.
Memorable still hits hard in the very best way possible. Especially as I was at 4 shows in 2022, it was written partially for me. And 20,000 of my closest friends Po! It still means a lot to all of us.
Wonderful Video as always, really appreciate all that you and your intrepid team do for the entire community. As for a favorite song on the album I like all of them, but the stand out of the ones that we had not previously heard has to be "Forbidden Tale" followed by "Tamaya!". Once again thanks for all that you do.
Thanks Ohrenje and Kasper, once again you've shown just how great this band is and how they are all getting better and better with each new song. Kanami has shown herself to be one of the best composer working today and Saiki's vocals have continued to improved year after year. MISA is writing more complex and interesting parts and Akane, as usually, is just a beast behind the kit. Finally, own little pigeon has shown what a great showman she is, putting together one of the best rock bands, learning guitar, writing moving lyrics, doing all the PR for years and now, probably, the head of MAIDIT. Altogether, an amazing ensemble of talented women, creating some of the best rock music in many decades. Thanks again Ohrenje for reminding us of that.
Sir, once again, you out did yourself. Thank you for sharing such wonderful EPIC NARRATIVES highlights. As with most BAND-MAID recordings, I feel like I am on a water slide starting out slow and speeding up until ending up fully submerged in the wonder and genius of Kanami and the rest of these five magnificent personalities whose amazing talent keeps growing. Thank you, Ohrenjie.
I cannot remember a band that manages to evolve and yet keeps the basics of brilliant songwriting and imagery in every song. They have an album of ideas in each song. They play a genre of music called Band Maid Music. The album is already up there with the very best. Almost an angry dismissal of doubt for the future. A promise of better things and more effort. Yet keeping in mind and song the connection to the past. I first called it a very grown up album. But it is more than just a collection of great music. But a story of the past, the present and the future. As for the best song on the album? Well pick a mood and then pick a song. Then for that moment that is the favourite song. ........As always a wonderful, informative and entertaining Video. Thanks.
Thanks for the amazing fan service @Ohrenje and Kasper Michaels 💜🕊, Po! "Epic Narratives" is ... well EPIC! 😎 My favorite song is "Frobidden tale" followed closely by "The one". 🕊💜
The songs already released earlier in the year are just Band-Maid awesomesauce! The six new songs are so tightly integrated and complex, it's going to take a Tokyo minute to assimilate. But I already love Forbidden Tale, and especially The One. 😉🤘 btw - We should all wish a "Good Luck" to Band-Maid's new self-run management company: Maidit, Co., LTD! Will they managing other bands, boost Cluppo and Maiko projects, or tour more internationally? Or maybe they will expand their business interest to other sectors of the music biz outside of Band-Maid. I believe Kanami wants to get more into composing, scoring and production. And as for Miku and Saiki, the sky's the limit for what they'll want to do in merch, fashion and art, etc.. Thx, Ohrenje!
Great video! Really digging this album. One neat thing about the structure of Forbidden Tale is that Part #2 (2:51) and Part #5 (3:13) actually feature the same melodies (Saiki's vocal and Kanami's octave part). They obviously sound really different within the overall musical context--#5 has a brighter 'major' feel due to the harmony and backing vocals. Very cool compositional device.
From Japan: Thank you for introducing the new album. The short videos with lyrics show the charm of each song. They are all different and all good. And they are positive and uplifting. Some people lament that they don't have the best songs, but many of the songs have their best moments. It got even better at the live show in Hakata. Their songs evolve every time I listen to them since their release and every time they play them at their live shows.
Thank you so much Ohrenje-San. or should I say Sensei. I always look forward to when you bring something together about our Maids. This album hits on all emotion for me. I can't get through it without a tear. No matter how I'm feeling. Not because I'm sad. But because I'm so happy for them and such amazing music they serve to us. The next chapter has begun, and you are an essential part of it for many of us. My fav is The One right now, but Letters to You is getting lots of play lately. And Toi Et Moi is just dirty. (Someone didn't say Moe Moe.) ぽ
I love the new album! I also sincerely wish the best for them as they embark on their new company! I love the play on words!☺️ They can count on me and the rest of the fans for our loyalty and support!
Thanks again to Kaspar, Orenje and crew! As far as EN, this is my type of Band-Maid: varied, not afraid to evolve and challenge (and yet stay unmistakably Band-Maid). I'm still in repeat mode, hearing new things with each listen, so favs on hold atm.
It's hard to pick a favorite, but of the new songs I'd say The One and Toi et Moi are my favorites, but Forbidden Tale is pretty great too. Of the older songs I like Shambles best.
The more I listen to the album, the more I like all the songs, even those that seemed average to me at first. But The One, Forbidden Tale, Toi et Moi, Letters to You are my favorites. Thanks Ohrenje.
Which song is my favorite? I’ve always retorted - my favorite song is the Band-Maid song I’m listening to now. But, from Epic Narratives a growing favorite is Forbidden Tale with all its’ musical changes in style. That Band-Maid could craft the music to create this perfect song is simply amazing!!! However, how can I not love, and appreciate, Memorable (a song to Band-Maid’s fans). The more I listen to Epic Narratives more songs will stand out and become new favorites. Thank you for the time and effort in creating this video it is always appreciated.
Apart for the easy joke of "Epic Narratives is epic", i get the feeling that this album is the culmination of the post-pandemic B-M period. To me it feels like a series of trilogies that starts with the "humble beginnings" era (Maid in Japan, New Beginning, and Brand New Maid), continues with the "domination" era (Just Bring It, World Domination, and Conqueror), and now it's finally complete with this "post-pandemic" era (Unseen World, Unleash, Epic Narratives). So what's in store for the future?, i don't know... but right now i'm just focused on enjoying this absolutely phenomenal new album with so many awesome songs that i can't pick just one TAMAYA! has hooked me quite a lot in the last few days, i will say that lol
Well done (as always), thank you all for all your hard work, dedication and contributions to the Band-Maid community, it is very much appreciated and enjoyed. Thank you.
Wonderful video, something about the lyrics of this album for every song just seem to weighty and significant! It may change over time, but Forbidden Tale will likely be the fav of the album, and one of my all time fav songs forever.
The album is epic and that’s not because of the name I loved it I know I would love because of the singles then I got to listen to the rest of the album only to find each track that I hadn’t heard yet was bangers one after another 10/10 the maids made something special 🤘🏻🫶🏼🤘🏻
Wow this was great! Thanks. Many great songs on this album can’t really pick just one but I do love TAMAYA!, Shambles, Forbidden Tale, Brightest Star, ok this is getting ridiculous 😂 pretty much love the whole album🖤🤘🏻
Hi Ohrenje et all. I'm looking forward to watch the video this evening. The album Epic Narratives is EPIC, Band-Maid is absolutely correct in naming the album that way. Thank you in advance for your effort creating interesting Band-Maid content. Greetings from Norway 🙂
Same voice for Miku-chan in Brightest Star. She just sang it in a lower key in Yokohama. Usually, that's how it goes with singers in Live situations--they sing lower.
While there are some excellent songs on this album it feels like a step backwards to me compared to Unseen World (masterpiece). It is a bit lightweight in places, I really don't like the collabs ( I'm not a fan of The Warning and I don't really like it when Band-Maid sing in English too much) and even the instrumental is nothing we haven't heard before. I tend to prefer their heavier and more complex stuff. I hope they come to UK soon as we have been waiting a long time.
You pronounce the german word "Magie" the wrong way. For english speakers, it's pronounced like Mah - gee (with gee like in gear or geek). I would assume you would like to pronounce the songs of your favorite band like they are meant to be. My favorites are Shambles, Brightest Star and Letters to you.
Epic Narratives, as a whole, still hasn't grabbed me yet, with regards to the songs I haven't heard. I feel this one is going to take a while to grow on me....... if it does at all.
With a few exceptions I think the album is pretty mid and didn't push the band forward. The only song that will do something different for them is "Show Them" because is a collab
➡ Which song from "Epic Narratives" is your favorite?
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The One (assuming we’re counting only the newly released songs). But Forbidden Tale is right up there too. They’re all fantastic, really. I need to live with it some more but this may be my all-time favorite B-M album, and that’s really saying something. Thank you for your great content, Ohrenje!
Way to early, Po!......give me about 6 months.....🕊️
Brightest Star, po! Kobato4ever!
Brightest Star for me. Let's go Kobato! Po! Love the DVD from Day of Maid. We get to see Kanami give Miley from Smiley Time YT channel her guitar pic at the very end. Epic
The One
Ohrenje and Team Ohrenje and Team Ohrenje and Team! "Thank You"
About the seven parts ("songs") in "Forbidden Tale", that's what I said in the MV comments: this one single song would be a whole LP side for some of the greatests bands. Except they did it in less than 5 minutes!
Great video montage for "Tamaya!"
I think it's an excellent album. We don't give enough importance to the fact that it's different from the rest, but at the same time it's perfectly recognizable as theirs. Until now, each of their releases has had the courage to propose something new, with all that it entails in recognizing and accepting theirt evolution as a band.
Each album contains at least one exceptional gem and for me this one has Forbidden Tale, a song on par with their best compositions. Here we are for 2025!, I'll follow them wherever they want to take me.
Completely agree, especially with your last sentence.
I'm taking my time with this album..I think this album is probably B-M's most sophisticated musical serving and I'm chewing slowly, loll. I was never big on favourites with B-M , this band has really been one big weird exploration for me...I'll just leave it at that for now..I love the whole album, each song is to me, a treasured gem, I'm happy to still be alive to enjoy it. Arigato Ohrenje! ARIGATO, BAND-MAIDDDD!!! 😊❤
This is my new favourite album. Guitar tone seems to sound richer.
Vocals and lyrics show so much maturity. Band-Maid isn't just about instruments, or rhythm section.
They are all telling "Epic Narratives" as one.
I have so many new favourites, but Forbidden Tale, just makes me think, feel and resonates with me. But The One is just as amazing. Each song has different charm that appeals to me. An incredible album.
The songs on Epic Narratives are EPIC. I'm very much looking forward to see Band-Maid play the songs on the album live. I saw a few of them at the day of maid and they were great. If I have to pick only two; my favorite songs are Forbidden tale and Tamaya, but all songs are great. I love Band-Maid so much that my eyes tear up from thinking about them, listening to them, or seeing them play live. Saiki is the master of transferring emotions thru her singing, and Band-Maid are masters of the same by playing their instruments, truly an amazing band of maids 🙂
Here's what Kanami said about Epic Narratives, song by song.
"Here are the introductions of each songs, and my translation of them:
01 - Magie
I was conscious of “Hard riffs and hard guitar solos are essential for BAND-MAID!” … But the chorus was created with the image of everyone jumping up and down and dancing ♡. The riff makes full use of slides, which is surprisingly difficult. I'd be happy if it becomes a standard song that people get excited about when they are at okyuji. But, who already have heard it at okyuji, how do you think? Comment by Saiki: "The song is growing into a song that we can get excited about together at okyuji. I did wrote the lyrics with the okyuji in mind. “Magie" is a German word meaning "Magic”, and why did I choose magic? At okyuji, I feel like "The moment when body and mind naturally move, it's as if I'm under a magic spell.”
02 - Shambles
This song was created during the time when I was the "Riff-Making Machine Mincho-san!!”! The song was ending theme song for the anime "Kengan Asura" Season 2, so I wanted to give it a powerful and masculine feel while keeping the ending theme in mind, so I tuned it in drop D and thought a lot about the riffs. I've performed this song a lot in the okyuji, and when I play this riff, it seems to turn on the switch within me. Everyone loving BPM 180!!
03 - Protect You
Since it is the ED theme for the TV anime "Grendizer U", I was conscious of making it a song with a sense of speed, but not too intense! I imaged a melody that makes you want to sing it from the very beginning, so I hope you'll sing it at the okyuji too! The guitar solo is melodious and technical, and it's fun to play, so I'd love to have you cover it ♡
04 - SHOW THEM
On creating a song together with The Warning, I wanted a type of song that is first time for both of us, when creating a demo. After that, we continued to have meetings online and receiving arranged data from The Warning... and this song was completed after a lot of back and forth! I directed the recordings when they came to Japan, and Danny, Pau, and Ale are all great artists individually. It was really fun.
05 - Forbidden tale
What is “life?", “being alive?” etc, I produced this song with the biggest theme in the history of BAND-MAID. A lot has happened over the past three and a half years. It made me think. What does it mean to live? Is there such a thing as heaven? How was your life like? Were you happy along the way? The proof you lived, If I could represent your life with this song... as such, I included such a message, I created this song in the hope of leaving a song of what I think of “life” is. I did not talk to the vocalist SAIKI about the theme in depth, but the lyrics brought tears to my eyes. Getting to know BAND-MAID and I will be happy if this song will remain in your heart.
06 - Bestie
I had the pleasure of co-writing this song with Mike Einziger of INCUBUS. I never thought I would have this kind of honoring thing to happen, starting at a festival... Mikey is really kind and a wonderful person who naturally makes everyone around him smile. Mikey came and told us many stories and gave us many ideas. And this Bestie was created as BAND-MAID song based on a riff Mikey gave us. I wanted to capture all the fun times we spent together, the respect I have for him, and the warm feelings I have for him in this song.... It became a new song for us as a band, and it helped me and the other members grow as a band! I can't wait to see him again.
07 - Brightest Star
It's been a while since I composed a song for Kobato! I made this song with the theme of "POP me" and hoped to bring out the cuteness of Kobato! I put a Kobato main guitar solo for her to play at okyuji, and in the hope to be happy to perform with her. It's fun to play because of the extra cutting, but it's also a song with a playful spirit that can only be done for Kobato songs! I wonder if any of you have already heard it at okyuji?
Comment by Miku: When I first heard the song, the image of sparkling stars came to mind. I tried to use the lyrics and singing style to compare the light and shadow of the stars in the night sky to human emotions po! It is fun playing the duetting solo part facing with KANAMI Sensei and stimulating po! Note: The title is "Brightest star", not "Ichiban-boshi (first-appearing-star)" po🕊
08 - Letters to you
When we all are working hard every day, there are times when we feel hard, tired, and depressed. At such times, I wanted to create a song that would be soothing to your heart. I wrote this song in the hope that,,, I could write a song that would be soothing to you at such times, and that you could lean on. I wonder if Sai-chan did understand my feelings when she listened to the song? The lyrics made me think so and so touching ♡ Love. I dared to use only one picking harmonic in the guitar solo. I like that kind of thing. (It's a fine taste, isn't it?)
Comment by Saiki: Both warming and heartrending feelings could be felt from the song, and I thought it could link to complex emotions of “people thinking of others”, so wrote the lyrics with feeling of “Writing letters while thinking of the people I want to meet. I hope it reaches everywhere and anywhere riding on the wind.” in mind. I'm glad that I was able to capture the feelings of the composer, KANAMI-chan.
09 - The one
Actually, I started writing this song as I was suggested “How about write a song to be played at the end of Yokohama Arena?” We didn't actually play it at Yokohama Arena, but I made this song with the thought of “If we were to play it at the end..., if Yokohama Arena was to be the last show, I would have no regrets!“ Nothing may not last forever, but I think the song will exist if the connection between people continues, and I would be happy if this song will connect people for a long time! At the end of the song, I sang the guitar solo ♡
10 - Memorable
I created the melody during the US tour. It had been a long time since we were able to have okyuji with an audience, and I was very happy to see everyone's smiling faces from the stage for the first time in a long time…. I was so happy. I wrote this melody hoping to keep such warm feelings with the audience, and now I am happy to be able to share this song with everyone at okyuji. At the okyuji, Kobato plays the acoustic guitar and I play with fingerpicking, using the single and front pickup, until we get to the chorus. I hope the song gives a warm feeling to those who listen to it for the first time on the album!
11 - Go easy
This song was produced at about the same time as Unleash. It is a song with a different taste from Unleash, in which we pursued a sense of speedy-feeling that is typical of BAND-MAID. I included the melody at the beginning of the intro so that everyone can sing along with it, so please remember it ♪ We have performed it a few times at okyujis! The short guitar phrase in the speedy-feeling intro and the short phrase in the B melody are my favorites because they are fun to play ♡♡
12 - Toi et moi
A strong riff that is typical of BAND-MAID and a bit dark song. I thought this kind of song was essential for the album, so I created it! I decided on this pattern of riff, after redoing the riff with several patterns, and to go along with Kobato’s shout at the beginning, I place an image of guitar shouting as well. For the guitar solo, I made a phrase that is easy to copy and fun to play on guitar as well, so please try it out/
13 - TAMAYA!
I like a heartrending feeling, so I added that element♡, and wanted to do a song that can be danced to at the okyuji!, so I created it with the image of okyuji carefully in mind! The lyrics are also great because they are exactly the kind of lyrics you can dance to, and the title is too original and great! Let me tell you this for people overseas, In Japan, when we see fireworks (sky rocketing fireworks), we shout out "TAMAYA〜" to it. I would love to know why Sai-chan chose this name for the song!!
14 - Get to top
SAIKI-sensei told me, “Actually an instrumental song was needed for the album”, and this was the last song I wrote for the album! The previous instrumental "from now on" was a dark rock song, so this time I wanted to go in the exact opposite direction, with a brighter melody line... I imagined the song to have like “a sense of excitement watching a circus?”or making people's heart popping. Also, I made a show time for Kobato's guitar solo, I hope you look forward to enjoy the part at okyuji as well! At any rate… it's a song that keeps everyone busy.
❤
Very insightful and interesting.
Thank you for sharing this.
Thanks a lot. I didn’t know that I needed this video until I watched it. My favorite songs so far : Protect you and Toi et moi.
I love Epic Narratives ! My favorite song is Forbidden Tale,
Memorable still hits hard in the very best way possible. Especially as I was at 4 shows in 2022, it was written partially for me. And 20,000 of my closest friends Po! It still means a lot to all of us.
Which shows did you get?
@@jimmorrisonisamaidiac LA, SD, Philly and Boston. I got a MISA pick in Philly!
Wonderful Video as always, really appreciate all that you and your intrepid team do for the entire community. As for a favorite song on the album I like all of them, but the stand out of the ones that we had not previously heard has to be "Forbidden Tale" followed by "Tamaya!". Once again thanks for all that you do.
Thanks Ohrenje and Kasper, once again you've shown just how great this band is and how they are all getting better and better with each new song. Kanami has shown herself to be one of the best composer working today and Saiki's vocals have continued to improved year after year. MISA is writing more complex and interesting parts and Akane, as usually, is just a beast behind the kit. Finally, own little pigeon has shown what a great showman she is, putting together one of the best rock bands, learning guitar, writing moving lyrics, doing all the PR for years and now, probably, the head of MAIDIT. Altogether, an amazing ensemble of talented women, creating some of the best rock music in many decades. Thanks again Ohrenje for reminding us of that.
一曲一曲を丁寧に作っているから何度聞いても新しい発見があり心が動かされます
それは演奏だけではなく歌詞にも言えます つまりBAND-MAIDは最高
Merci beaucoup! 🧡
The one is my favorite song on the album. The rest of the songs are all tied for second! I love Epic Narratives!
Sir, once again, you out did yourself. Thank you for sharing such wonderful EPIC NARRATIVES highlights. As with most BAND-MAID recordings, I feel like I am on a water slide starting out slow and speeding up until ending up fully submerged in the wonder and genius of Kanami and the rest of these five magnificent personalities whose amazing talent keeps growing. Thank you, Ohrenjie.
I cannot remember a band that manages to evolve and yet keeps the basics of brilliant songwriting and imagery in every song. They have an album of ideas in each song. They play a genre of music called Band Maid Music. The album is already up there with the very best. Almost an angry dismissal of doubt for the future. A promise of better things and more effort. Yet keeping in mind and song the connection to the past. I first called it a very grown up album. But it is more than just a collection of great music. But a story of the past, the present and the future. As for the best song on the album? Well pick a mood and then pick a song. Then for that moment that is the favourite song. ........As always a wonderful, informative and entertaining Video. Thanks.
Thanks for the amazing fan service @Ohrenje and Kasper Michaels 💜🕊, Po!
"Epic Narratives" is ... well EPIC! 😎
My favorite song is "Frobidden tale" followed closely by "The one". 🕊💜
The songs already released earlier in the year are just Band-Maid awesomesauce! The six new songs are so tightly integrated and complex, it's going to take a Tokyo minute to assimilate. But I already love Forbidden Tale, and especially The One. 😉🤘 btw - We should all wish a "Good Luck" to Band-Maid's new self-run management company: Maidit, Co., LTD! Will they managing other bands, boost Cluppo and Maiko projects, or tour more internationally? Or maybe they will expand their business interest to other sectors of the music biz outside of Band-Maid. I believe Kanami wants to get more into composing, scoring and production. And as for Miku and Saiki, the sky's the limit for what they'll want to do in merch, fashion and art, etc.. Thx, Ohrenje!
Great video! Really digging this album. One neat thing about the structure of Forbidden Tale is that Part #2 (2:51) and Part #5 (3:13) actually feature the same melodies (Saiki's vocal and Kanami's octave part). They obviously sound really different within the overall musical context--#5 has a brighter 'major' feel due to the harmony and backing vocals. Very cool compositional device.
From Japan: Thank you for introducing the new album. The short videos with lyrics show the charm of each song. They are all different and all good. And they are positive and uplifting. Some people lament that they don't have the best songs, but many of the songs have their best moments. It got even better at the live show in Hakata. Their songs evolve every time I listen to them since their release and every time they play them at their live shows.
Thank you Japan for giving us Band Maid!!
Choosing favorite songs from this band is always tough. But for now my favorite on the album has been Tamaya!
Thank you so much Ohrenje-San. or should I say Sensei. I always look forward to when you bring something together about our Maids. This album hits on all emotion for me. I can't get through it without a tear. No matter how I'm feeling. Not because I'm sad. But because I'm so happy for them and such amazing music they serve to us. The next chapter has begun, and you are an essential part of it for many of us. My fav is The One right now, but Letters to You is getting lots of play lately. And Toi Et Moi is just dirty. (Someone didn't say Moe Moe.) ぽ
I love the new album! I also sincerely wish the best for them as they embark on their new company! I love the play on words!☺️
They can count on me and the rest of the fans for our loyalty and support!
This was awesome as always Ohrenje-san! Merci Beaucoup! Love the Miku pop-up! 😂😂🕊🕊
I love the entire album. But the two I've been listening to a lot are Forbidden Tale and Toi et Moi.
My favorite songs are "Magie" and "Memorable".
Definitely in my top 3 fav albums by the girls...
What an excellent program! Thank you again for getting us closer to the Maid's music!!!
Thanks again to Kaspar, Orenje and crew! As far as EN, this is my type of Band-Maid: varied, not afraid to evolve and challenge (and yet stay unmistakably Band-Maid). I'm still in repeat mode, hearing new things with each listen, so favs on hold atm.
今回も素晴らしい動画をありがとうございます。Epic Narrativesは新章幕開けにふさわしい才能あふれる傑作です！全曲気に入っていて、毎日何度も聞いています。来年以降のアコースティックお給仕、MiddleSummerお給仕が今から楽しみです。
Exelente álbum, me gusta Shamblers, saludos
Awesome as always, thank you Ohrenje & Kasper. Epic Narratives is just a brilliant album, favorite song??? I love them all.
this is a fantastis album. thanks for the glimpse into the lyrics. Great video O-san!
It's hard to pick a favorite, but of the new songs I'd say The One and Toi et Moi are my favorites, but Forbidden Tale is pretty great too. Of the older songs I like Shambles best.
This is my ＃3 fav album at this moment.
"Toi et moi" and "The one" are tied at my #1 spot.
The more I listen to the album, the more I like all the songs, even those that seemed average to me at first. But The One, Forbidden Tale, Toi et Moi, Letters to You are my favorites. Thanks Ohrenje.
Thanks! 🍺😁🤘🏻🕊️
Great video Ohrenje!!!
Thank you good sir!
Another great video from the man himself 🤘😎
Which song is my favorite? I’ve always retorted - my favorite song is the Band-Maid song I’m listening to now. But, from Epic Narratives a growing favorite is Forbidden Tale with all its’ musical changes in style. That Band-Maid could craft the music to create this perfect song is simply amazing!!! However, how can I not love, and appreciate, Memorable (a song to Band-Maid’s fans). The more I listen to Epic Narratives more songs will stand out and become new favorites. Thank you for the time and effort in creating this video it is always appreciated.
Good video and Mr. Casper has a great voice. I actually thought it was computer generated. LOL
The one
Gracias, muchas gracias!!! Thanks!!
Apart for the easy joke of "Epic Narratives is epic", i get the feeling that this album is the culmination of the post-pandemic B-M period. To me it feels like a series of trilogies that starts with the "humble beginnings" era (Maid in Japan, New Beginning, and Brand New Maid), continues with the "domination" era (Just Bring It, World Domination, and Conqueror), and now it's finally complete with this "post-pandemic" era (Unseen World, Unleash, Epic Narratives). So what's in store for the future?, i don't know... but right now i'm just focused on enjoying this absolutely phenomenal new album with so many awesome songs that i can't pick just one
TAMAYA! has hooked me quite a lot in the last few days, i will say that lol
Well done (as always), thank you all for all your hard work, dedication and contributions to the Band-Maid community, it is very much appreciated and enjoyed. Thank you.
Wonderful video, something about the lyrics of this album for every song just seem to weighty and significant! It may change over time, but Forbidden Tale will likely be the fav of the album, and one of my all time fav songs forever.
I still think brightest star or Magie are my favorites
Magie
The album is epic and that’s not because of the name I loved it I know I would love because of the singles then I got to listen to the rest of the album only to find each track that I hadn’t heard yet was bangers one after another 10/10 the maids made something special 🤘🏻🫶🏼🤘🏻
It’s currently Shambles and Bestie and enjoy the fact this will change for me next week!
🤘🕊️🦍🥷👸🏻👀PO!
Wow this was great! Thanks. Many great songs on this album can’t really pick just one but I do love TAMAYA!, Shambles, Forbidden Tale, Brightest Star, ok this is getting ridiculous 😂 pretty much love the whole album🖤🤘🏻
❤The One is The One❤
MAIDIT❤💙💚💛💜🙏🙏🙏🙏
Yay!! Can't wait Po!
Hope in the near future it will mean western distribution, hopefully their will be distribution in the US.
Hi Ohrenje et all. I'm looking forward to watch the video this evening. The album Epic Narratives is EPIC, Band-Maid is absolutely correct in naming the album that way. Thank you in advance for your effort creating interesting Band-Maid content. Greetings from Norway 🙂
KURROPO!!!!!
Same voice for Miku-chan in Brightest Star. She just sang it in a lower key in Yokohama. Usually, that's how it goes with singers in Live situations--they sing lower.
❤awesome😊!
I can't pick one favourite, sorry
where did u get that go easy live?
While there are some excellent songs on this album it feels like a step backwards to me compared to Unseen World (masterpiece). It is a bit lightweight in places, I really don't like the collabs ( I'm not a fan of The Warning and I don't really like it when Band-Maid sing in English too much) and even the instrumental is nothing we haven't heard before. I tend to prefer their heavier and more complex stuff. I hope they come to UK soon as we have been waiting a long time.
You pronounce the german word "Magie" the wrong way.
For english speakers, it's pronounced like Mah - gee (with gee like in gear or geek).
I would assume you would like to pronounce the songs of your favorite band like they are meant to be.
My favorites are Shambles, Brightest Star and Letters to you.
歌詞のダイジェストからBestieを抜いたのは何故ですか？
Why did you remove Bestie from the lyrics digest?
Epic Narratives, as a whole, still hasn't grabbed me yet, with regards to the songs I haven't heard. I feel this one is going to take a while to grow on me....... if it does at all.
With a few exceptions I think the album is pretty mid and didn't push the band forward. The only song that will do something different for them is "Show Them" because is a collab
The one