'TERMiNAL' by Da-iCE (Album Review)

Japanese dance-vocal group Da-iCE delivers TERMiNAL, their latest album that leans heavily into disco-infused dance production, showcasing the group’s shift in creative direction. Now over a decade into their career, the group demonstrates a hands-on approach to their craft, with all members contributing to the writing and production—something that helped shape their previous album ‘MUSIAM'.

For longtime fans of Da-iCE (myself included), TERMiNAL will remind listeners of their ‘Bet’ era, channelling similar stylistic choices in production while pushing their sound forward. The group has consistently proven its versatility across collaborations and releases, refusing to be confined to a single genre or style. This willingness to experiment and keep their distinctive twin vocals at the forefront of the group has become a defining characteristic of their discography.

Standout tracks ‘Try&Groove’ and ‘That you know?’ feature production from member Taiki Kudo of Claquepot, infusing his signature R&B and hip-hop production which flourishes amongst the warmth of Ohno’s vocals and punchy melodies of Hanamura’s distinctive strong falsetto. The album is dynamic and varied, honouring their past work whilst signalling a new creative direction that is more experimental involving all members in the writing and productionof the album. Listen to 'TERMINAL' in the link above or hear the album in full on my Spotify Reviews Playlist (link in bio)