Ma, get the certificate! Gokigen Teikoku have only gone and done it again. They were my album of the year in 2017 and here they are again taking the top spot in 2018 too. “Stand up” saw the group cap off a very turbulent year on a high note, which I think was needed after several member departures and the stalling out of their soon to be resurrected sister group project. You guys can scream bias at me all you want but this album has been getting played every day since it came out and it’s my go-to choice if I need something to pick me up. It’s a shame Gokitei haven’t caught on more in the West yet because they have the music and personality to get a lot of interest in my opinion. Shirahata Ichiho is one of the most underrated lyricists in the scene currently and her ability to get exactly the right producer for each song is impressive. Also impressive is her goal of a Budokan performance in 2021. If it was anyone else I would be skeptical but as she’s shown over the past few years Ichiho’s willpower can make anything happen. Full Review
| Limited Edition [w/ T-shirt]
