comparisons

Inspired by the peer comparisions at Ayu-Vogue, this is my personal list of bands that are comparable to DAI, or have invoked references to DAI by music fans. Think of this as a "If you like DAI, you might like..." set of recommendations.

the industry peers

moumoon
moumoon can really surprise you. They embrace a new musical style even more frequently and intensely than DAI. Their debut "Flowers" had soulful, jazz sound. Then "Evergreen" brought the duo into rock ballad territory. "Do you remember?" starts out folk and delves back into energetic rock. More recently, moumoon has settled on a light, positive style that is the image of summertime. Both Tomiko and Yuka have extremely versatile voices and a penchant for English lyrics, though Yuka has better pronounciation. The moumoon has another connection to DAI in that it was Dai Nagao brought them over to Avex from a small indie label. And Dai knows how to spot good talent.

Tokyo Jihen
Tokyo Jihen, or Tokyo Incidents, is the band of former solo artist Shiina Ringo. That should immediately tip you off that their music is good. Shiina's voice is nasal but strong. She's simply a unique character and her vocals reflect the quirk of this edgy, worldly woman. Furthermore, Shiina has surrrounded herself with some of the finest musicians around. They're able to create a catchy, forceful sound while still showcasing individual talent. If you're a fan of DAI's more festive post-reunion tracks, then you'll definitely enjoy Tokyo Jihen.

the young trios

           
GIRL NEXT DOOR, day after tomorrow, & Ikimono-gakari

DAI is frequently referenced when fans are discussing GIRL NEXT DOOR versus day after tomorrow. These are two groups that the general jpop public seems to view as rivals to DAI's legacy. Their styles are different from DAI, but the three member set up invokes comparisions from fans regardless. Both bands consist of one female vocalist, one male keyboardist, and one male guitarist. day after tomorrow's music tends to be similar to DAI's older material, but it's stays close to mainstream pop and the lead singer has chipmunk-like voice that is not compatible with many types of songs. GIRL NEXT DOOR is more oriented towards dramatic pop-rock, with some odd ventures into upbeat, cute songs. GND may not be able to capture a variety of genres, like DAI does easily, but they try and show growth with each single. In a battle between just these two, I would say that GIRL NEXT DOOR wins.

Special mention should be given to Ikimono-gakari. The indie band created in high school has a perky, happy rocking sound that can greatly vary in tempo. They never seem to fall into the high octane category that some epic DAI songs do, but Ikimono shows great range while still sounding uniquely like themselves. Ikimono's use of unconventional instruments, like the harmonica and tambourine, reminds me of Dai Nagao's innovation. Additionally, Ikimono has a simplistic and easy-going image, that sometimes borders on whimsical, much like DAI. Of the three young bands mentioned, I choose Ikimono as the closest thing to DAI's "younger sibling."

the surprises

SCANDAL
I know, this is really pushing it. On the surface, DAI and SCANDAL are utterly dissimilar. DAI likes Aeromith and Bob Marley, while SCANDAL likes Sum 41 and Disney stars. DAI is effortless with their image, while SCANDAL adheres to their school girl motif. Compared to the veteran members of DAI, SCANDAL girls are amateurs with only half of DAI's maturity and experience. However, it struck me that both had humble beginnings earning the affection of their fans. While DAI was introduced to each other though the agency before embarking on their 100 street live streak, SCANDAL took it a step farther as they all met in their high school years, formed the band, and played every weekend in the local park as an indie band, before getting signed. Furthermore, de facto leader Haruna has a distinctive, husky voice that carries the band. They lack the confidence, self-knowledge, and musical refinement that DAI does, but that's because they're young. If they keep smoothing out the rough edges, make good business choices, and keep their heads down as they increase in fame, SCANDAL may go far.