Janne Da Arc’s Enchanting Selection of Masterpieces ~Melodies of a Charisma~

The HandsJanne Da Arc

Joan of Arc – The Hands

After the breakup of Chicago legends Cap’n Jazz, the band Joan of Arc was started in 1995 by the group’s central figure, Tim Kinsella.

With the exception of Tim, the lineup has essentially been fluid; within the Kinsella family, his younger brother Mike Kinsella—known for American Football and Owen—has also taken part.

If you dig into the comings and goings of the members around this circle, it starts to feel like a family tree of emo’s history, so if that interests you, definitely check it out.

Joan of Arc, however, is a band with a musical identity distinct from so-called “emo,” often discussed alongside post-rock and experimental/electro-acoustic scenes.

Their work can be challenging and, to be frank, not exactly straightforward; that tendency became more pronounced with each release.

Even so, their 1997 debut album, A Portable Model Of …, introduced here, strikes a miraculous balance between experimentation and a unique pop sensibility, making it highly recommended for first-time listeners.

Tim’s freaky melodies, floating electronic tones, and ensembles that depart from traditional rock formats weave a sonic world that, if anything, feels stylish when heard now, well into the 2020s.

It may seem hard to approach at first, but once you grasp the depth of these sounds, your world will undoubtedly expand.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

FREEDOMJanne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – FREEDOM

This song, which the band tackled with their first self-produced approach since their indie days, leans into a liberating American rock vibe.

The crisp guitar sound and yasu’s soaring high-tone voice weave a melody that can only be described as breathtaking.

It conveys the protagonist’s cry to break free from tedious routines and constraints and to spread their wings as their heart desires.

Released in March 2004, the track became the band’s first to break into the Oricon Weekly Top 5, peaking at No.

4, and it’s also included on the classic album ARCADIA.

When you’re ready to shake off the status quo—or when you’re on a drive with the wind in your face—this song is guaranteed to blow away the pent-up haze.

Dear my…Janne Da Arc

Janne da arc – dear my… (only audio)

With lyrics that unfold in gentle words as if speaking to a lover, the bass leads the rhythm, shaping an overall soft tone.

It’s a song that seems to whisper, “It’s okay to cry,” gently staying by your side, and makes you feel ready to keep doing your best again tomorrow.

Lunatic GateJanne Da Arc

Lunatic Gate / Janne Da Arc(cover)

This song, sung in strikingly high tones that you wouldn’t expect from a male vocalist and delivered in rapid succession, tells of a secret relationship with a mischievous, devilish woman.

Confounded by the difference in her daytime expressions, the narrator’s desire to know her more deeply swells, and he conveys that longing melodiously.

ACID BREATHJanne Da Arc

ACID BREATH

A track that opens their fifth album, ARCADIA, released in 2004.

It is actually about anonymous internet message boards, and the lyrics are laced with biting irony.

Combining a complex, progressive rock–like structure with their signature sense of speed, it’s a song brimming with Janne Da Arc’s distinctive style.

AGEJanne Da Arc

AGE

No one will call it just “visual” anymore!! This is a gritty rock track—like an anthem of teenage years—that’s a staple at the men-only live event “Otokojiri Night.” Every man should be able to relate to the lyrics, which depict the justice and inner turmoil of youths biting back against the contradictions of adulthood!

ROMANC∃Janne Da Arc

[Tried Singing] Janne Da Arc / ROMANCE [career]

It’s a single released in May 2004 by the visual kei rock band Janne Da Arc, which reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Incidentally, the jacket features a photo of Aya Sugimoto’s eye.