Straightener was one of the earlier Japanese rock bands that I listened to. I did lose a little interest in the past year for the group when I started exploring more Korean music, but Creatures is the seminal sound of the group and showcases their distinct sound.

They carry a different tone than other Japanese rock bands, favoring a little heavier sound while maintaining a rock theme in their music. Creatures sits among their better albums. The band does create good ballad types songs, but they really show their abilities with rock songs.

Rock fans need to listen to this album because of all the layers of the music. It’s an impressive return to 2010.