Known previously as yukueshirezutsurezure, Not Secured, Loose Ends has ties that go all the way back to 2015 within the Japanese alt idol scene. In early 2021, yurushirezutsurezure disbanded but the group was resurrected in fall 2023 with only Mei Yui Mei remaining from the previous line-up along with three new members. This first resurrected outing in Ouroarboros is an interesting one, taking old songs and giving them not only English lyrics but entirely reworking them. The songs are still recognizable, but this far from a case of a mere re-recording of older tracks. With that fresh imbuing of mostly new members singing, the reworked arrangements, and English lyrics, it gives more than enough reason for older fans to revisit the group’s rebirth, as well as an excellent starting point for newcomers.
What makes Not Secured, Loose Ends stand out among some of their alt idol peers, outside of the lyrics, is their particular blend of heaviness and melody. Some songs go for a more visceral, energetic feeling that could almost be argued as metalcore-esque, while others have a darker and more melancholic vibe that many alt idol acts tend to eschew. There’s a glum atmosphere to some songs, such as “Howling Hollow,” that still provide some snarling aggression but also provide a more somber approach with the structure of the melodies and the clean singing. It’s a striking contrast and it gives them a real edge in making the tracks feel more poignant. “Ideology” hits on these ideas too, while still incorporating a higher dosage of electronics – giving it more energy but avoiding that more directly poppy flair. Another thing, intentional or not, that aids in this is the production itself. It’s not as glistening and shiny as many other groups, and the rawness and almost muted nature exudes a more underground sound without coming off as a detriment.
That said, some tracks go all in with the energetic and frantic atmosphere. “Miss Sins” charges with a galloping tempo and urgent riffing as the vocals guide you to a headbangable chorus that’s sure to get your feet moving too. The playful “Lie-and-Black-and-White” builds itself up with some colorful riffing to match the vocal trade-offs and occasional screams that lead into a later explosive outburst and eventual breakdown. Then there’s “Odd Eye” that builds hooks with some snarled screaming and ear-catching but heavy riffing until it veers into more trippy, electronically-laced material with an almost post-metal mood to it.
More moody and atmospheric than bright and colorful, Ouroarboros manages to capture this newest iteration of Not Secured, Loose Ends at a unique juncture. It’s catchy as all get-out like other alt idol groups, but the way they accomplish it feels different in tone and should provide some appeal to those looking for something that’s laced with hooks while being more brooding and raw. While it’s hard to capture the group’s particular bit of idol magic to a tee, it’s safe to say that Not Secured, Loose Ends provide a welcome return that should satisfy fans both new and old. With the emphasis on English lyrics too, one has to hope that their eyes are looking to expand outside of Japan – they certainly have the talent and capability to do so.