罪と罰とアングラ (tsumi to batsu to underground) (Crime & Punishment & the Underground)

Mitsuru Matsuoka's song "罪と罰とアングラ (tsumi to batsu to underground) (Crime & Punishment & the Underground)" delves into the darker aspects of human nature and society. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that paint a picture of a world where deceit, guilt, and the struggle for authenticity are prevalent. The opening line, "おまえの罪を数えろ" (Count your sins), sets a tone of judgment and introspection, urging the listener to reflect on their own wrongdoings and the lies they live by.

The song's references to fallen angels and the underground suggest a descent into a morally ambiguous or corrupt world. The phrase "偽者になり下がる" (becoming a fake) highlights the theme of losing one's true self in a world filled with deception. The repeated line "You want to love, you want to love, you never" underscores a sense of longing and unfulfilled desire, perhaps hinting at the difficulty of finding genuine connections in such a world.

The character of the "fair lady in underground" symbolizes someone who hides their pain behind a mask, living an unbalanced life. This imagery is reinforced by the mention of "ボルサリーノとジョーカーと" (Borsalino and Joker), which could be interpreted as symbols of duality and the hidden aspects of one's personality. The song's chorus, "It's angura (yeah)," emphasizes the underground or alternative nature of this existence, suggesting a subculture or a way of life that is outside the mainstream.

Matsuoka's musical style, often characterized by its rock influences and dramatic flair, complements the song's themes of inner conflict and societal critique. The use of vivid, almost surreal imagery invites listeners to explore their own perceptions of sin, punishment, and the masks they wear in their daily lives.