The recent Hosoe discussion in the Xenosaga thread prompted me to make this little poll.

For those that have heard both albums, in which do you believe that he has done the best work ?

For me....

Under Defeat has some catchy melodies, some slight jazzy sections, and the guitars don't go overboard. The exclusive arranged CD actually featured live guitar segments which really gave a whole new taste.

Ibara is all about guitars/synth and drums... it's quite packed with each track having some very pleasant sections and the arragements are amazing.

It's hard to say which is better here... they're pretty much equal, but Under Defeat wins for having more variety in its music.

Thoughts ?

Discuss.

My vote goes to Ibara, definitely. The styles are different, for sure, but the synth-rock of Ibara hit home. I'm a sucker for Hosoe's stylings, but this was a side of him that I've never heard before. Some of the songs are a little cheesy, but that doesn't bother me. Robot #28 is awesome, as is the rest of the disc.

But don't get me wrong. UD still rocks ass.

I haven't heard Ibara, but I will say that Under Defeat is definitely the best thing I've heard from Hosoe in ages.