Having taken their namesake from what Japan is usually referred to as in the anime series Code Geass, Area 11 are a very interesting stable. This English band pretty much came up with their own sound dubbed 'gaijin rock'; the act's style borrows inspiration from Western rock and pop traditions - namely post-hardcore, alternative, and what might as well be synthrock - with lyrical themes heavily referencing East Asian culture. The musicianship on All the Lights In the Sky is normally concise and thorough, with the keyboards courtesy of frontman Sparkles* (yes, that's his name) standing out the most. While the songwriting in a sense feels tawdry and a little uncomfortable at parts, Area 11 revel in the cheesiness and merely go for broke, culminating in the listener ending up having a gay old time. Whether you're a manganime junkie or otherwise, this studio album has enough aspects to keep you from staying trapped down in the underground. Recommended picks: "Euphemia," "Shi No Barado," "The Strays," "Heaven-Piercing Giga Drill," and "Bousouzoku Symphonic"
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