When considering which Bang Dream/Bandori bands are worth inclusion here at Dead Rhetoric, it seemed time for the violin-led rock act of Morfonica to have a bit of time in the limelight with the release of their second full-length album in Polyphony. For those unfamiliar, Bang Dream is a mobile game in which many of the bands included feature real life concerts with their seiyuus at the helm of their in-game character’s instrument. The standout of Morfonica is that of violinist Yashio Rui (voiced by Ayasa, who also plays in the symphonic metal/rock band East of Eden in a similar role), which drives their sound in a uniquely symphonic route.
While those who follow the mobile game, or at least the group’s released singles, Polyphony isn’t going to showcase much in terms of ‘new’ content, but that’s more or less expected from much of Bandori at this point. What it does do, is collect another group of colorful tracks from the band that showcases the different aims of their sound. The new track, “Polyphonyscape,” opens the album and feels like a good way to introduce new fans to their sound. It’s a sprawling, epic cut that leads with it’s standout and playful violin work from Ayasa, features a soaring atmosphere that swells at the chorus, augmented by some driving riffs and galloping drumwork that gives the band some solid footing. Vocalist Kurata Mashiro (voiced by Shindou Amane) has a charismatic voice that lifts the melodic end and is a perfect blend with the sweeping and elegant sound of the music behind her.
The music keeps the violin-forward approach regardless of the track, and it’s what unifies the sound of Morfonica. From the holiday-themed “Merry Merry Thanks” that gallops with spirited violin and riffing, from the synth-heavy waltzing of “Tilika Monica-lila” to the cheery soaring sounds of “Sonorous,” there’s never a lack for hooks as you move through the release. To highlight a few favorites, there’s the more frenetic “Tempest,” which emphasizes a urgent tempo and low bass rumbles, as well as a truly moé usage of gang vocals at the chorus that gives it a certain charm to contrast the more visceral dynamic behind them. “Secret Dawn” is a more moody and atmospheric cut, with some absolutely stunning violin work that all but dances around the music at points, coupled with a beautiful chorus. “両翼のBrilliance” is another more uptempo song, with an energetic burst of violin and classical guitar riffing with playful bass sprinkled in, among some more atmospheric moments to give it some even greater textures. Lastly is the very melodic “Angel’s Ladder,” which uses some more melancholic strings despite it’s sometimes driving tone, and has one of the more soaring and catchy choruses on the album as a whole.
If you are in the mood for more elegant symphonic rock with impressive violin work throughout, Morfonica provides a thrilling experience. Polyphony draws you into it’s fantastical soundscape and captures an intricate yet upbeat feeling that’s sure to earworm it’s way into your brain. While it doesn’t hit quite as hard and heavy as other Bandori acts like Ave Mujica, Roselia, or Raise a Suilen, Morfonica has a special sound all to their own that grab some open-minded metal fans as well and this is a great starting point for those new to the act.