Probably one of the most prolific bands of all time, visual kei rockers DaizyStripper released their first five albums in the space of a year and a half, and Air, their fifth, was their third in just seven months. What's more amazing is that their music suffered no noticeable decline in quality during this time; indeed, it only got better, while constantly evolving. This album is every bit the equal of its predecessor Siren, but largely ditches its metal elements for more of a pop/rock sound. Right from the start, it's clear that the band mean business as they launch straight into the galvanic "Endless Song." Yuugiri's unique voice is in incredible shape and the song sets the high standard for the rest of the album. The single "Setsubou no Freesia" ("Freesia of Longing") has the perfect combo of musical and emotional heft: guitars roar, drums punch, strings soar, piano twinkles, and Yuugiri yearns atop it all. The lush "Twinkle Snow Twinkle" carries on the timeworn Japanese tradition of the "winter ballad," while "If" is driven by grinding riffage and blasting drums that collapse into a chorus of emotional alt-rock goodness. The album is not without its missteps: the lumpen funk-rap-rock of "Time Killer" sounds like a bad Girugamesh B-side; the one-and-a-half-minute breakneck pop-punk thrash of "The Day After" is fine, if somewhat superfluous; and "Kiss You," complete with fan choir and Disney-esque string arrangement, is mired in cloying schmaltz. There's a formula here which is fairly well-worn: chiming, arpeggiated electric guitar figures; plaintively plucked acoustic; bluesy classic rock solos; quiet/loud dynamics; close-miked drums; and, on "Shine," subtle electronic flourishes. But if the band are treading a familiar path, they're doing it with panache. The open chords and close guitar harmonies on "Aquarium" are reminiscent of prime Pearl Jam or forgotten '90s country-grungers Paw. The choir returns, but this time, rather than being cheesy, it simply adds to the song's emotional weight. It's one of the very best songs among the many highlights on an extremely fine album, which closes on a note of joyous optimism with the soaring "Bremen." It's safe to say that DaizyStripper have perfected the formula; this is simply one of the best oshare kei albums ever, and a must for any fan serious about the genre.