Vis-kei bands are a dime a dozen, so it's no surprise that some of them only last for a short time before dissolving. Formed in 2001 by guitarists Michiru and Misa, Aioria seems to have trouble finding their footing in that turbulent chaos. They managed to release only a handful of singles and one album before calling it quits just one year after forming. However, that single album is better than what many other bands, some that have been around for far too long, could ever hope to produce.
Instead of over the top theatrics and melodramatic interludes, Aioria keeps things focused with catchy songs and driving beats. While synth-heavy at times, the signature speedy harpsichord sounds are kept to a minimum in favor of metal guitar riffs and straightforward Castlevania rock. The backing synthetics simply flesh out the soundscape, adding the appropriately gloomy atmosphere.
Aioria also managed to stay away from the over-the-top vampiric balladry that is (rather unfortunately) so common among lesser visual bands. Obviously they had the "shocking" visual look, but that angle was downplayed in favor of straight-up rock and metal, tempered by romantic overtones. They certainly didn't break a lot of new ground, but they did manage to avoid the many pitfalls that other bands fall into all too easily. They skip the "happy goth" vibe entirely and instead work things back into fast and furious ground before it can veer too far off track.
All of the members have continued to make music since their break-up late in 2002. Drummer Hiroki moved on to play in another vis-kei band D. Perhaps most notable was mastermind Misa moving on to join Babylon, a band that sounds much like a heavier version Aioria. While it's always sad to see a promising young band like Aioria break up so soon after forming, it's reassuring to know that the legacy continues to live on, albeit in a slightly different skin.
Matataki
Members
Sarino - Vocals
Misa – Guitar, Programming, Backing Vocals
Michiru - Guitar
Hiroki - Drums
REN - Bass
Releases
Kirameyuku Shunkan - 2002
Kousai no Children
Fantagia
Rurichou
