When compared to the length of Queen Bee’s history as a band, I’m quite a latecomer to their fandom. Super Memorial (超メモリアル) celebrates fifteen years of music, but it feels as if they’re just getting started. The band released my favorite song of last year and vocalist Avu-chan produces my favorite group of the moment (Ryugujo, who just celebrated their own anniversary). If this new track is any indication, there’s no need to worry about future output.
Often, artists fall back on obvious tropes when it comes time for a celebratory anniversary single. We either get the drippy, fan-service ballad or the inspirational pop anthem. Super Memorial is neither, choosing instead to harness Queen Bee’s tireless energy into a hybrid rock/dance track that feels like a natural summer standout. It’s chant-heavy in a good way, encouraging listener participation as Avu-chan bounds through the melodies with passionate glee. These melodies cycle around themselves like a dog chasing its tail, giving the track an almost incantation-like charm.
My favorite aspect of Super Memorial is the production, which pulses forward with plenty of drive. Choral elements open the track with a a theatrical punch and from that point on the beat rarely wavers. It’s a stomping celebration, like a rollicking wedding reception after all those pesky formalities are out of the way.
Hooks
9
Production
9
Longevity
9
Bias
9
RATING
9