The bare plot of Black Heaven does leave something to be desired, though. Don't expect any great twists, deep characterization, or huge revelations. However, I feel, that's one of the coolest things working for the series. As a portrayal of the routine, usual life and diminishing dreams, it does well to stay away from those tropes and still be enjoyable.
What really sold the series to me, though, was the brilliant depiction of Japan's rock scene. The show reflects on the decline of what rock once was as well as the uprising of more contemporary music in an interesting way, manifested through the main character. In fact, Oji comes to personify a sort of social commentary on the Japanese, showing how easily dreams are deferred for a salary-man's job. Several times throughout the series, characters are nagged back into reality, leaving us with the question of what's more important. This all works to make the message of staying true to oneself and following up on your dreams even more potent.
My major gripe with the show is that, despite being a show focused on music, only a few songs are actually used throughout the duration of the anime. Sure, they're -cool- songs, but it'd be interesting and refreshing to hear something new in a show that's about rocking out.
All in all, the anime is worth the time invested. It's a somewhat ecchi and slow-paced show compared to others, so I wouldn't reccomend it for someone who hasn't seen many series. However, fans of late 90's/early 2000 era anime, music-nerds, and anyone who's up for a glimpse at a solid portrayal of Japanese society should enjoy this a good bit. What's there to lose? Go for it!
