So my copy of the Agitated Screams of Maggots single came today, so I finally got to hear the song in full.
I really like it.
As much as people have been complaining about how all Diru has been making lately is loud and screamy Western-style metal, I really have to say that's true for the most part. However, you need to look past the surface. Yes, it's loud and growly and angry but... listen closely. Kaoru and Die are still weaving incredible harmonies underneath all the chaos, and I'm afraid no one is bothering to really listen. It's the same deal with Clever Sleazoid; there are so many great-but-subtle guitar parts in that song that get buried.
I guess it's okay to pine for the days of Missa and Gauze, but it's completely unrealistic to expect the guys to go back to that. If you ask me, Diru has been going in this direction ever since they wrote Zan.
Oh yeah, another great thing about Maggots (and Clever Sleazoid and Ryoujoku no Ame for that matter) is the production. My biggest complaint about Vulgar and Withering to death was that the drums were mixed too low and sounded really muddled. The last three singles tell me that they're wanting to showcase Shinya's new and aggressive style; everything is crisp and clean.
And the live version of Obscure is great.