24 posts tagged “album”
Sitting down to review this album I find myself lost for words. But I will try my best to convey my thoughts on this album, even though this album really is just so hard to talk about. I just want to put the title then in the main body put "it's awesome" and leave it at that!! I am... is the first time that Ayu would compose her own music, under the name CREA as well as write all the lyrics. It was her 4th Studio ablum released on 01.01.2002.
The album opens with the title track, I am... . the song is slow relying on the interesting overlaying of many sounds and electronic effects. I love how the song changes, builds up and down and incorporates so many different sounds. A steady beat goes throughout the song, and for the chorus the song suddenly becomes a loud rock affair with Ayumi belting out the powerful lyrics "listen closely I'll keep screaming until you understand". The song has a raw and bitter feeling: it is packed with alot of emotion and power. It's brilliant.
Even though the album has only just begun, a short interlude opening run fits in neatly between I am... and the next track connected. It's short and sweet- building perfectly to Connected. Connected is a short but powerful club number. It's by Ferry Corsten so you know it's gotta be good. It's a dark futuristic sounding trance number, with a heavy beat and stunning encorporation of Ayu's vocals. I love the short sentences, which somehow manage to convery so much in so few words. As I said, it's Ferry Corsten- who really knows how to make excellent trance songs.
The album takes a turn for the worse with UNITE!- a rock number with the familiar Ayu touch (piano, electronic sounds etc etc). Technically, the song is awesome and packed with emotion and power. The instrumentation is just awesome. For me, I find it dull. I don't even know why, but there's nothing about this song that truly grabs my attention.
Moving onto evolution, a classic Ayu song. It starts with that familiar tune, an ethereal piano with Ayu's voice floating ontop. Immediatly the song grabs your attention. Then it builds up to be a faster, darker rock song. It' got such a sense of urgency to it. The song sometimes has a pop feel to it, sometimes it's more a rock song. Throughout it all are some pretty unique sounds and an underlying edge to it. In short: it's pretty awesome.
The album goes back to the "meh" tracks with Naturally. Like UNITE! I think it's more due to personal taste. The song has a bit of a rock feel to it, and I really like all the effects in the song. The instrumentation is really good. It's a very strong, catchy track. I find it pretty boring though.
Then it's the powerful rock song NEVER EVER. Childish twinkling sounds and synth start the song, before Ayu's vocals come in giving a very bittersweet feeling to the song- it's very sad in a way. Then the chorus kicks in and it's full blown rock, gone are Ayu's reserved vocals and she's belting it out "If you had one wish- what would you wish for?". Still that rather sorrowful feeling and that constant childish sound in the background- a beautiful contrast. The song has very sweet feeling to it in a way contrasting to the otherwise bitter atmosphere. However overall the song is incredibly powerful with amazing lyrics, isntrumentation and just so much emotion. One of Ayu's best.
still alone was one of my first Ayu songs, and though it's very beautiful I don't like how drawn out the chorus is. The instrumentation is very pretty, got that same childish sound going on that NEVER EVER had. The song has a very sad sort of feeling to it, and I really like parts of it. But the chorus just makes it feel boring and dragged out.
Daybreak follows, and it's rather uplifting starting with that kind synth before breaking out into the upbeat sunny instrumentation. Still got that darker, rockier edge to it. Ayu gives a wonderful vocal performance throughout too. But the highlight of this song for me is the chorus. I just love the feeling of the chorus, and how both instrumentation and Ayu's vocals blend so perfectly. The song has such a great feeling to it. I love how it varies, how the texture changes and all the diffferent dynamics. I just find it so beautiful- it's very upbeat compared to the slow, forlorn still alone too.
A short interlude ties Daybreak and M together. Taskinlude doesn't present anything new Ayu-interludes wise with slight dance beat to it, a bit an ethereal feeling. You get the point by now.
Another Ayu great- M is next. Personally I have very mixed feelings on the song. Yep, it's a signature Ayu song and one of her most well hand. On one hand it's really pretty. On the other it's pretty OTT, standard OTT ballad sorta thing like Voyage is. The song has the whole piano string thing going on, the quiet verse slowly building up to louder stronger chorus. It's pretty awesome but not a song that I really like.
The solo version of a song is born follows and it's very very very long but somehow there's something pretty hypnotizing about it, it's slow but soothing with wonderful relaxing instrumentation and sweet, sincere vocals from Ayu. It's a very pretty song.
Then it's the first of the Inuyasha tracks and one of my favourite Ayu songs- the beautiful Dearest. This song is so familiar now I don't even know how to describe it. I'd say the instrumentation is very beautiful and Ayu gives such a lovely sincere vocal performance. I love her "ahs": especially at the end. The lyrics totally stand out too- and make the song into a romantic and hopeful love song. It's incredible. The song has such a great feeling to it. It's just so pretty!!
no more words follows. I remember watching the Inuyasha movie and I wasn't really wanting to cry much at the ending, then this song came and it just created such an atmosphere that I couldn't help but shed a couple of tears. This is simply one of the most beautiful songs. I adore the orchestral instrumentation, tinged with a traditional Japanese feeling to it. Ayu gives a gorgeous vocal performance, and I love the rythmns of the words- creates very interesting sound. The lyrics I will always remember- "If this world were split into winners and losers, I'd rather be a loser." It's a deep and complex song really. Either way it's absolutly stunning. Definitly sounds like a movie ending though, it's long with that dramatic feeling and a blend of sorrow and hope leaning more towards hope and moving forwards etc etc.
Then the album ends terribly with a horrible rendetion of Endless Sorrow and the even worse Flower Garden. Pity.
The album incorporates many different sounds, genres and is laced
through with some pretty experimental stuff. Hamasaki Ayumi really
presented something very unique, something extremly interesting with
this album. Sometimes I find it's not the best album to listen to for
listening sake, but I find technically it's amazing. One of Ayu's most unique and interesting works to date. Some personal favourites found on this album too : ) I must also say wow- it's amazing she can write lyrics and music this incredibly powerful. Reminds me of why I love her so much- because she is so incredibly talented to play such a big part in her music!!
So I started reviewing LAST ALLIANCE and then put off their latest album, the sum being slightly disappointed after hearing it (I didn't download before I bought it- just pre-ordered it. I love LAST ALLIANCE this much :D ). This is LAST ALLIANCE's 4th album released in June 25th. This album has alot of new material and for some reason ALWAYS ON MY HEART didn't make it o_0 Which is bad as that makes another single I'll have to buy caus' I kinda like the song!! Alot of people complain about lack of new material on albums, but I like it when there's all the A-sides and B-sides- means less money I spend!! Anyway, the album does include each single from "Signal004" through "Drag On," the track "Katahiza no Yogore" from "Always in My Heart," and more for 12 songs total.
The album opens with the fast and gritty Change by 1. As you can expect from LAST ALLIANCE there's good intrumentation, and vocals. The song has some very interesting rythmns to it too and I like all the different variation that goes on in the song. A good opening.
Next is Proud of Scar. The opening with just the guitar really sets the pace, fast and frantic before breaking out into the full instrumentation to be a very dark and gritty number. The chorus is realy wierd how he uses his voice, and he pronounces "proud of scar" a little wierd but overall it's pretty cool. The song has a really good feeling to it, and of course it's technically brilliant.
Then it's Mujuuryoku ONEWAY SHUTTLE. This has a very quirky opening with some very interesting rythmns throughout the song. Halfway through the song that instrumentation totally changes too, which is very startling almost like a new song, before it goes back to the norm- this is quite an interesting effect. The has a much more upbeat feeling compared to Change by 1 and Proud of Scar but not without a bit of en edge. I love the verses where the vocalist takes on that really good tone adding a good feeling to the song. I love the use of the voice distortion too, and how they overlay two vocal parts at times. The backing vocals are slightly annoying, but not out of place. This is a fast and upbeat song with a bit of an edge to it. Really fantastic techinically and brilliant to listen to.
Track 4 is Sabaku to Gensou, a very dark and moody song. The opening is quiet before it builds up becoming very angry and loud. I love the dark feel to the song. There's a fantastic instrumentantal near the end too, and the bridge that follows where the vocalist is smothered is pretty cool. The bridge I don't like how loud his breathing is, sounds like he's gasping desperatly for breath but I guess that's what makes the atmosphere in a way. Good thing it's short with that ending because it would definitly become boring if longer and withpout that much needed variation.
Katahiza no Yogore follows, starting with some really quiet and atmosphereic instrumental quickly, franticly building up to be very loud and strong with that angry edge to it. The guitar part is so damn awesome- I love how the one guitar sounds so delictate compared to the rest of the song- and the song is so in your face after such a peaceful opening- really grabs your attention and holds it. The vocalist sounds so angry too. I love how much he puts into it, his ad-libbing at the end is pretty cool to. Ah...this song has so much attitude to it. Really awesome. Loud, angry and fast with a slight softer edge to it- like the reverse of so many of their songs which have a sort of angrier edge but are really soft.
Then comes PERFECT GAME. A pretty upbeat song with a rather rebelious feel to it. Despite being technically brilliant, can't help but feel the song really drags on at times.
Yureta Byoushin is next. the song opens with quiet guitar and vocals only. The song has a pretty messy, but in a good way, opening before it all comes together and the song really begins. It's still got that odd disjointed feeling to it, gives it an interesting feeling. A pretty sweet and relaxing song. Got such a beautiful, laid-back feeling to it and I love all the different dynamics to it. The song is very soft with a much sadder feel compared to alot of the songs presented so far. I love this side of LAST ALLIANCE though. Their songs like these are always very emotional and with a very subtle power to them.
Track 8 is Lonesome World- a laid-back meloncholic song. Nothing new presented nor for me to say but still very nice. Gotta love the title ; )
Drag On follows. I love the use of the voice distortion on the verses, and how the vocalist is kind smothered by the loud instrumental- before the instrumentation drops and his voice becomes stronger and clearer. The voice and the instrumentation really blend well- both strong and loud in their own right. A fast and meloncholic song with a bit of an angrier edge. The song has a really great feel to it. Awesomenes :)
Next up is WORLD IS MINE, another fast and edgy song. Got a really cool instrumental. I hate it when they shout "world is mine" though. The rest of the song is kinda cool but those loud shouty vocals let the whole thing down.
the album is nearly over with Ameagari ni Graffiti. This opens with such a beautiful guitar part, really gentle. The song builds up to incoporate the rest of the instruments, and it's still quite soft and laid-back. The song has very pretty instrumenation, some very interesting rythmns and I also love the vocals. Both come together for a wonderful laid-back meloncholic number with a bittersweet feeling to it. A very pretty song with alot of emotion in it.
Lastly it's Gunjou Kurage, a very gentle guitar part and soft vocals start the song, slowly building up to be a bit of a fast and grittier number. The song has a great hopeful feeling, appropriate to end the album.
So my thoughts. This will be long : D I pre-ordered the album and the packagaing is absolutly gorgeous.
Like Epik High pieces part one- all cardboard and fold out. I love the cg art. Rather
nice. I was disappointed ALWAYS IN MY HEART wasn't on here though. Furthermore, Tears Library and Me and your borderline both had a very sad feeling
to them, very soft. Compared to Underground blue which had a very angry
sound to it. the sum has the same angry sound that Underground blue
did. Which sorta bad because I prefer their softer, some may say slightly more powerful and emotional stuff but
nvm. The album started loud and angry, toning down at points for more meloncholic numbers at points. I think technically it's brilliant as always though some of the songs were more the sort you put on and relax to, they don't really hold the attention well enough to be able to listen to them on their own. I don't like how some of the songs seem to follow the same formula, just tweaked a bit and presenting new emotions etc. I really don't like how on this album a few of the songs seem to sound the same so it gets a little boring. There wasn't really stand out numbers, like on Me and your borderline there were Akai Hana and Gray end- just for example. There were some great songs though, like oneway shuttle. Also, I do like the use of silence and dynamics on the album. Alot of the tracks had really quiet or silent moments, often halfway through the song- creating an interesting effect. And some of the songs had other interesting effects like odd synth I think, and a bit of voice distortion. As I said technically it's fantastic stuf and it's not bad to listen to (apart from WORLD IS MINE) but compare it to some of their more powerful albums like Tears library and Me and your bordelrine and it pales. Slightly dissapointing personally, but still a pretty good album. It pains me to have to rate a LAST ALLIANCE album so low, but really....this album was pretty boring at points : (
To everyone in the UK who may have gotten your results today- congratulations! Hope you all got what you wanted : ) And now onto yet another Ayu review! Haha. There isn't much else I want to review right now. Perhaps more Arashi coming soon as well as some other stuff. You knows. Back to the album and this is Ayu's 7th album released on 2006.01.01. This was my first Ayu album alongside memorial address.
The album opens with the strange Bold & Delicious, suitable only for when you are at your most hyper (and don't give a damn about the opinions of those around you) otherwise it's annoying as hell. Points to ayu for trying something new, but this may be a little too out there!!
Next is STEP you, a pop rock number filled with attitude. This is a fantastic pop rock number, loud and catchy. Ayu sounds great, and I love her ad-libbing. The use of voice distortion for the bridge is pretty cool too. There are some fantastic effect used in the song, combining beautifully with the instrumentation. That backing voice is a little wierd, but it fits in. This is such a strong and powerful song- the type of song you just wanna put on louder!!
Then it's Ladies Night, a rather odd track which still carries the same loud, in your face attitude as STEP you. The electronic beat and distortion is definitly pretty cool and gives a very unique sound to the song. Love the backing vocals too. This is a fun electronic track with pop-rock and Ayu influences. The only thing I have a problem with is that it does on gone quite a while, it kinda drags in a way. Oh and have fun guessing what Ayu says in english : )
The beautiful rock number is this LOVE? follows. I adore this song with every inch of my being. I just think of Ayu in that ridicuclous outfit fiving the most beautiful performance of this. The song is about jealousy, but not really the angry sort. More the sad and bitter feeling of knowing you can never be with someone, as they love someone else. It's a very very powerful rock track, with gorgeous instrumentation and Ayu sings it with all of her emotion. The "woahs" are just so bitter, and so powerful. I love the incorportation of those synth sounds, they really add to the overall atmoshphere of the song. It's a very powerful, very emotion and moving rock track.
another rock influenced song wiht the title track (miss)understood. The song is pretty meloncholic at first, building up to another angry rock track. The song is packed with alot of emotion and Ayu anger. I adore the rock instrumentation and the dynamics of the song. Another powerful track packed with attitude.
Next up is Alterna, that one where she says stuff you to the music industry. One of my first Ayu songs, and still one that drew me towards her music. The song opens with strings slight synth and Ayu's distorted vocal's before bulding up to be a powerful rock track combined with synth and various awesome effects. Who can forget those "heys?". A powerful and angry track. I just love that chorus and the overall feeling of the song is so rebelious, so confident and so...just awesome. Only Ayu could have a song like this, and I mean lyrically too.
Track 7 is In the Corner, another synth string based number but in a totally different way. There's still that rock sound of the album, but using alot more synth and effects and the violins are pretty prominent: to make a soft pop rock number sorta like a ballad. This is a very pretty song with beautiful instrumentation and good vocals. Got a nice feeling and is lovely to listen to.
A short interlude with Tasking. Again synth strings, fast- more frantic and urgent sounding combined with a very heavy beat and some other instrumentation. The guitar part is wonderful. It all comes together for a fast, urgent sounding piece that although lasts a minutes and a half- flies by and leads the album onward nicely.
Then it's the powerful ballad criminal, a firm favourite of mine for two years. This song is just so epic and so haunting. Piano, strings and deep synth combine with Ayu's soft sorrowful vocals, building up to that powerful chorus where she just belts it out and the instrumentation joins her in the total epicness of it all. The dynamics of this piece, the way it constantly changes and evolves, are just wonderful. This is such an emotional ballad, so haunting in it's beauty with very gorgeous instrumentation and Ayu gives a stunning vocal performance. I sound so damn cheesy but man, I love this song!!
Next is Pride, that sweetbox song. I've heard the original and perhaps I'm biased but I prefer Ayu's version. The lyrics are pretty deep, and hearing Ayu sing that one line "I want my pridde" in such a manner whilst thinking of her drenched in rain is just totally epic. This piece is pretty orchestral, once again I love the use of strings to create such a dramatic atmosphere and the piano is nice too. Backing vocals and other effects are used to their full effect, of course. Ayu really sings this in such an interesting way, carrying so much power and emotion in her voice and I love how the instrumentation works with her. This is a very dramatic song, in short it's stunning.
Will follows, and it's a rather interesting piece. The instrumentation, especially that piano and use of electronic sounds is very nice. I really like the chorus, the repetetion is really interesting and Ayu sounds nice going to the higher notes. This song is very pretty and has some very interesting instrumentation. Ayu sounds really good. The use of backing vocals adds a nice feeling too.
The stunning ballad HEAVEN is next, for most people...but though this is beautiful it is not an Ayu favourite for me. The song has some very pretty electronic sounds opening it, giving it that ethereal feeling. I love the way it builds up and evolves- still sounding very soft and ethereal. The song is simple but conveys alot of emotion. Ayu sounds very nice and she really put her all into it. Her adlibbing is very pretty. Pretty as it is, it doesn't do much for me behond being beautiful to listen to.
Another short and energitc instrumental witjh Are you Wake up? It's got a good feeling and it's infectious with it's energy. There's some pretty cool effects used. It is rather catchy too and a bit of a wake up after HEAVEN to prepare us for the next track.
Time for hyper pop with Fairyland. A fast, upbeat and summery tune which is deceiptive by sounding so happy, yet actually having a very sad meaning. The song despite is meaning is a load of fun, however these sort of songs I've never really appreciated.
The stupid, annoying Beautiful Day follows. I HATE this song. It sounds like a rip off of something else and it's just simpy annoying.
The album ends on a good note with rainy day, a beautiful ballad contrasting to beautiful day. The instrumentation is beautiful, and very atmospheric. Ayu gives a nice vocal performance, sounding soft and sincere but of course at times she gives a much stronger vocal performance for good effect. This is a very pretty song and a nice end to the album.
This albums starts brilliantly. There's just so much emotion. Not to mention attitude. Ayu shows a very strong, confident side of herself. The entire album there are some wonderful rock tracks, some ballads, some alternate track..there's so much vareity and for the most part it's done well. With the exception of a few weak tracks this is a pretty awesome album. BUT there are those weaker tracks. Those ones which really leave no impression, which you really can't give a damn about. And in the end I'm not quite sure. The album begins strongly but then almost dies away. Bad tracks sneak in, and suddenly it loses your attention. A shame really- there are some awesome tracks.
This is Ayu's 5th album released on 2002.12.1. This album featured Hamasaki's first use of English, and like I am..., featured more CREA songwriting/composition.
The album opens with everlasting dream, a short and ethereal introduction. It has quite a heavy atmosphere, building up to feel much lighter. I love all the synth, all Ayu's intro's use synth in such a good way. I love how they incorporated Ayu's voclas too, her voice is so light and dreamy. It's a very beautiful piece and a wonderful opening. You can imagien it being like sparkling ice, fitting to the album cover.
Next up is WE WISH, a very upbeat rock song with quite the edge to it. It's quite an awesome track. Ayu's vocals are great, and the rock instrumentation is rather nice. The song is fast and upbeat but still manages to sound bitter and angry. It's pretty cool, but not a favourite. There's something lacking to make it totally awesome.
Then it's Real me, a beautiful song with the worst lyrics. Some seriously seriously shitty lyrics that don't make much sense. I get what she's trying to say, but she says it better later with ourselves. The song itself is pretty cool. It's very dark with alot of attitude. The use of backing vocals is awesome and Ayu's vocals also are just great. The song has fantastic instrumentation, hints of rock and heavy use of synth. It's a very strong track with alot of attitude. I think overall it feels a little dull though. As I said, the later ourselves does this ALOT better.
Free and Easy is next. This took a while to grow on me, but now that it has...wow. It has this wonderful orchestral beginning, which really builds up so much atmosphere. It sounds so dark and forlorn yet so beautiful. I really love the use of airy synth, flute and piano. When Ayu comes in it just builds on the beauty...her soft vocals and gentle adlibbing is gorgeous. What I really hate about this song is what makes the song, the way it suddenly goes from piano to forte for those verses. It's dramatic and powerful...but it's way too sudden. Ignoring that this is a very beautiful and dramatic song with a great atmosphere and lots of emotion. I really do love how much variation goes on in the song, it just makes it so interesting to listen to.
The powerful rock track Heartplace follows. It starts quietly with an omnious beat before the guitars and everything come in. It's a very powerful instrumental. I love it when the strings come in too! This is a very dark and bitter song. Ayu sings this amazing too. Ayu knows how to perform a song, and she really gives this her all. The emotion she adds to this song. The use of backing vocals or overlaying her vocals is fantastic too. Ah and her adlibbing at the end- just makes the song! The lyrics are quite something too "I've come to be able to smile Even when I feel no fun. I wonder if I have changed" But what I really love is the chorus. It's pure rock and I love her english- "we are free to go anywhere we want, yet not free at all". This is a beautiful song. It has a great feeling to it and it's incredibly powerful. Such a dramatic rock song.
Then it's time for a ballad with Over. This is so pretty. It's very soft and sorrowful. The instrumental is very ethereal. The piano part and all the synth is wonderful. I love how it builds up getting more complex, and the way it tones down for the verses yet becomes stronger for the chorus and then when it finally dies away at the end. I think what makes the song though are Ayu's sincere vocals, especially when Ayu sings in the most beautiful tone of voice, so soft and ethereal and so heartbroken she sings "it's over"- and at that point it really gets me. But the entire song is wonderful. Ayu uses alot of english, and yeah it's accented but it's pretty good and it actually makes sense. This song is incredibly beautiful with so much emotion in it. So so pretty and a favourite ballad of mine.
Hanabi is next, and it's another ballad- yet it's totally different from Over. I really love that one sound that goes through it all, combined with all the other instrumentation the song has a great atmosphere. Ayu's vocals take on a very interesting tone, and I think are digitally messed with, to really suit the song and as always she sings it with alot of emotion. This is a very pretty ballad. It's not as dramatic as episode II though, and can drag if you listen too much. A listen now and then and it's very beautiful and filled with alot of emotion. I love the instrumentation, and how it all goes together to create such an interesting sound.
Time for an interlude with Taskinillusion. This one still is pretty soft and ethereal with a strong dance feeling to it and a sense of urgency. It's like a wake up call after such pretty and soft ballad. Once again I love how they incorporate the vocals in there. This is a very pretty instrumental break.
The dance track continues with everywhere nowhere. This has a very experimental start which is pretty random, but sets the scene for this heavy dance track. It's pretty upbeat but with a darker, heavier feeling. The chorus is pretty cool, and carries alot of power. I find the backing vocals slightly annoying though. This song is very fast and filled with alot of energy. The instrumentation is very cool and Ayu gives a good vocal performance. It's pretty cool, and totally catchy. There feels like something is missing though from making it totally awesome.
Then it's the first pure pop track- July 1st. The song has a wonderful opening and I like the slight edge given to it by the heavy synth and the electric guitar. Overall it's still a pop track, it's very fast and upbeat and filled with alot of energy but unlike alot of Ayu's pop, I do quite like this one. I like the darker feel, and the more experimental composition.
Next is Dolls. This is a very dramatic song with some very pretty instrumentation and a very dark feel to it. I love the dynamics of the song, and the overall feeling to the song. There's something very sad, very forlorn about the song. The feeling of having lost something almost. Either way it's beautiful. Ayu sounds stunning, especially in the chorus- her voice is so soft and sincere, and just...really beautiful. Her adlibbing at the end too...gosh it's stunning.
neverending dream follows, it's a very ethereal and dreamy interlude with some very cheesy but instrumental at times. I think it fits in nicely, however it doesn't sound very unique and it lacks those dreamy vocals of Ayu.
Voyage is next. This one had a short movie used to promote it. It's a very OTT ballad, which still is very beautiful. It starts softly with a music box type thing and then the piano. The strings are just breathtaking. It's got the vocals, the strings and the piano -everything for a beautiful and dramatic ballad. I think it's very beautiful however I do think it's a little OTT. I also think there's nothing really unique about it. Frankly, it's not the sort of song that appeals to me.
Track 14 is Close to you. It's got that dreamy, ethereal synth of all the interludes of the album. Ayu's soft vocals really match that soft and dreamy atmosphere. It changes for the chorus where it actually sounds quite sexy with the whole "oo" and heavy beat. It's very pretty and a decent song. Nothing too special but very nice to listen to.
15 is independent and mixed in there is the bonus track more than (although I've never been able to tell where one starts and the other begins) I HATE the clapping for Independent. Stop with the clapping! Ugh. More than is a very upbeat pop rock number- similiar in style to chorus. Ayu's vocals sound a little strange, but it's got a nice feeling and a cool atmosphere. The chorus...and everything goes down hill. Stop with the backing vocals and the chanting! Rubbish ending.
This is another pretty cool album from Ayu. I felt there were some tracks that were slightly bland and some that were downright annoying but overall it's a nice package. This album has a very dark feeling to it, all have great feeling to it. For some reason though I don't think this is the best thing Ayu has ever done. The album is great to listen to, and I have some favourites from it but overall there's something missing, something preventing it from being too awesome. And there are some bad tracks... some tracks which really let the album down.
If you've not got it by now I'm aiming for the whole review all of Ayu's albums. OK, I'm only going for the studio albums, and her A ballads but STILL. It takes forever though! I've only done LoveAPPEARS, Secret and Memorial Address so far. Anyway, Here is Ayu's Duty. Hamasaki Ayumi's 3rd album released 2000.09.27. Duty is the 22nd best selling album in Japan. It topped the charts, probably broke records...the sort of stuff you'd expect from Hamasaki Ayumi. And for Love appears she was naked, now she's in a cat girl outfit!! XD
The album opens with starting over, a short instrumental piece to set the scene. I like the subtle use of Ayu's vocals. It's a very light and airy piece, and I like the dance feeling to it and use of synth. It's a good opener.
The title track, Duty follows. duty is a rather dramatic song, with a beautiful strings and spanish guitar part leading to the full instrumental- a very heavy beat and some airy synth to create an impressive and darker atmosphere. This is a very beautiful, dark song from Ayu. Her vocals are beautiful, and add to the dark emotion. This song has a brilliant atmosphere and a gorgeous feeling to it. Ayu's vocals are still not at their strongest, but they really work here.
Duty flows nicely to Track 3 which is vogue. This is a pretty cool song with a rather exotic type instrumental. It still got that dramatic feeling that Duty has, that sort of subtle awesomeness about it. The instrumentation is truly beautiful as are Hamasaki's vocals. The backing vocals are very nicely done too. The song can get a little boring though, with not enough variation to make it something truly standout, but it's still very good. Like duty it has a wonderful feeling to it.
Next up is the wonderfully titled End of the World and it's just as awesome a track. It's another very dramatic song, with wonderful rock instrumentation blended with synth. Ayu's vocals are wonderful as always, and she gives so much emotion to the song. This is a pretty dark sounding song. At first the airy sounds in the background with the heavy beat and Ayu's vocals create a very interesting atmoshpere. But the highlight is when it breaks out into the chorus, a rock feel lent by furious guitars and Ayu's angry vocals. The song continues to be bitter and loud. I love the dynamics of it, the sheer power of the song. It's freaking fantastic!
Then things quiten down for the ballad SCAR. There's still a prominent use of interesting synth, combined with a rather nice piano part. It's a very sorrowful, and beautiful ballad. Ayu continues to give a good vocal performance, especially in the chorus where her voice takes on a very interesting tone. The subtle backing vocals work really well too. The instrumental break is beautiful too, I really like the inclusion of the guitar. The whole song just has this great feel to it. I really love the feeling of the song. It's so bittersweet.
Far Away follows. Starting quietly it builds up into another dramatic song with interesting, unique instrumentation. This one thing is that it's not really all that interesting, it goes too long with too little variation and thus it gets a little tedious. The instrumental break is much needed to pick the song up and make it a little livlier. You can really hear th e beginning of some of her later works in that instrumental! Anyway, this is a decent song with rather nice instrumentation however something is lacking to make it truly interesting.
SURREAL is next. The single for SURREAL was released on the same day as the album. The song is amazing. It starts with some distorted type piano and the synth, before Ayu's deep and quiet vocals come in- building up always building up... The song has alot of power in it. There's so much variation and different sounds in this song- it's so interesting. Ayu's vocals are great, they have a strange tone that works really well for the song. I love the rock elements with the guitar and the darker sound to it. This song is tense and dramatic, with a great feeling and alot of emotion presented. It's pretty awesome.
Next is AUDIENCE, which unfortunatly is the first very weak song on this album. It still has the rock element combined with the synth but man, I hate the clapping sounds and overall there's something annoying about this song. I cannot bring myself to like it. It's catchy though and fans of Ayu's more pop sound will probably appreciate this more than I do.
Then it's the very well known Ayu song SEASONS, but a song of hers I cannot like. This song sounds alot like that western song "a moment like this.." You know? I always think of that song, and those old sandals advertisments when I hear this song. It is very pretty and Ayu gives a wonderful emotion to it with her lovely vocals but I can't help but feel there's nothing unique about it at all. It's nice...I guess.
Track 10 is teddy bear: a quiet and emotional ballad. This song...this song is fantastic. The simple, sometimes almost childish piano that is so beautiful combined with Ayu's soft, and so sincere and emotional vocals. This song is pure emotion. The lyrics are stunning too-"When I woke up, I found by my pillow a teddy bear...in place of you." Ayu sings this like she means this and more. She sings this likes she's about to cry. This song is sad, almost heartbreaking. It's so beautiful. A very soft and tender ballad.
The album is nearly done with Key~eternal tie ver.~. A soft ballad with hints of rock. This song reminds me of her earlier ballad, or perhaps it's just become so familiar to me by now. Either way it's not Ayu's best ballad but it is very pretty. I really like how the song builds up in the beginning, and Ayu's "oo" or whatever before the line of the verse. The chorus is extremly pretty though, Ayu sings it with alot of emotion and the backing vocals are used well. This is a pretty dramatic and emotional ballad. It's rather pretty. I really love Ayu's vocals here : )
The album ends with the fun pop rock song girlish. It's not something I really like but it's decent. It's really a very fun and upbeat song. I do like the instrumentation and Ayu's vocals are very nice. It's when it gets to all the...was it chanting? Yeah all those backing vocals and stuff. Totally ruins a good song. It's nice to end the album on such an upbeat song like this though!
So? Overall I shall repeat: Duty is the 22nd best selling album in Japan. And you can totally tell why. This really is a masterpiece. Ayu's albums continue to get better and better. Song for XX was barely listenable, apart from a few standout tracks. LoveAPPEARS had a prominent dance sound and Ayu's vocals had improved. Duty ventures into rock, with a few ballads and some pop. All have a very interesting and unique sound. Damn- you fon't know how fast I typed for some of these songs. This album is special man. Very special. Ayu is continuing to present new and unique sounds with her albums, and her vocals are definitly improving alot too. This is a beautiful album. It's kinda awesome even if I don't like all the songs, I think that overall it's pretty good.
Scans from Japanese Princess and lyrics from Divine Ayu
Changin' my Life is best known through their songs used for Full Moon wo Sagashite. Indeed, between 2.5 and 3 years ago it was those songs that first started my interest in the Japanese pop scene. They don't get alot of attention unfortunatly. Then again all you hear about these days is alan, ayaka and the like *rolls eyes* Anyway, this is their debut album released 2002.07.26. It contains the three singles and their B-sides released beforehand.
The album opens with Myself, the ending and theme for Full Moon Wo Sagashite and an amazing song in it's own rite. It's a powerful ballad that carries alot of emotion. It's hard for me to talk about this song ,which I have been listening to even longer than certain Ayu songs- probably 3 years this song has been with me. Well, it blends alot of synth, a keyboard part, and some strings for a rather beautiful instrumentation. It has a soft, almost ethereal feeling to it. I always think of winter and snow falling ^_^ Myco doesn't have the best voice, but for sure her voice is powerful and presents alot of emotion. I love the backing vocals too. This song really is just powerful. Even the lyrics: "Why why do I love you so much? The answer is so close I cannot reach it" are just really sad. I love how it builds up to the ending, before quietly ending. This song is moving to say the least.
Luv.Remix follows Myself, and it's alot faster and more upbeat. It has a very quirky instrumentation- something that should sound outdated with the use of synth and keyboard but yet...it really doesn't. I really love the constant dance beat and the vibrant string part. The chorus is really strange, with what Myco does with her voice- but it's really cool and adds something very unique to it. I also like the quiet backing vocals. The song has agreat, upbeat feeling to it. It's really great and alot of fun! It does get a little repetetive after a while unfortunatly. I do really love the ending with Myco's soft ad-libbing. Really makes listening worthwhile for an ending like that!
Then it's an album version of Star Dust. This song has a beautiful piano part, with the bass and some strings too. Myco sounds beautiful and her voice carries alot of emotion. I notice her voice sounds a little strained at times, but it's not distracting nor does it ruin the song. Overall It's a very bittersweet ballad, which is soft and gentle making for a very relaxed feeling. I really do like the beautiful instrumentation, especially the piano and synth solo instrumental. It really does conjure up the image of a starry night. The backing vocals this time round are a little distacting, a little too harsh for the song, but that's the only thing that really gets me.
Confidence follows and it's a favorite. It opens with a beautiful piano part, and some wonderful and light vocals from Myco. The song is really gentle, with wonderful keyboard instrumentation. I love how it builds up to the chorus, becoming stronger and well, more confident. A wonderful effect. I also love all the other variations this song goes through, the use of dynamics and the way it builds up and then down is very interesting. This is a beautiful and relaxing song which really, it's just so pretty. As always, it carries alot of emotion and a soft power to it. Like Luv.Remix the ending is something worth waiting for too XD Myco sounds so pretty in this song! The instrumentation is beautiful too.
Track 2 is an album version Embraced love, the B-side to the Star Dust single. Embraced Love is a little odd. It starts badly with Myco sounding a little flat and the thumping instrumentation, and various other parts of it is a tiny bit annoying too. The song first comes off a little flat, a little mediocre. But then comes chorus, which is alot more powerful with better vocals and the song picks up. This is a weaker track, it has some very nice parts and a like the rock edge apparent during and after the first chorus- however the beginning is a bit weak and generally off-putting. Sometimes Myco sounds strained. Her ad-libbing is wonderful though. This song has good and bad points to it. I would say once you get past the beginning, and if you can get used to rather weaker vocals now and then then it is decent. I do like how they ventured into a more edgier song for this. The ending, like the beginning is strange.
Next up is SAYONARAはわたしから (Goodbye from me), the song with very strong vocals from Myco building up to a fast and edgy dance number. Complete with synth, keyboard and backing vocals. I find the backing vocals a little annoying when they suddenly pop up now and then- though they sound quite nice for the "say goodbye" parts. Other than that I like the thumping dance beat, and Myco's powerful vocals. The high pitched Keyboard sound that pops up now and then it rather nice too. Myco's adlibbing at the end is just gold, and I like how the guys end it before it fades off.
Then it's the fast and exciting Focus. The song in Mitsuki's dream episode one of Full Moon ^_^ The song is very fast and energetic, with wonderful blend of fast dance beat and some awesome synthetic strings. The song carries alot of attitude, and mainly alot of energy!! I really love it, it's so catchy and upbeat. It's fun and energetic and it makes me smile alot!!
Crazy for You was the B-side to Luv.Remix and it follows next. The song has much more mainstream pop/RnB feel than alot of their other work. Frankly I think Myco's vocals are really wierd in the beginning, and the heavy beat smothers her in the chorus. It really picks up in the chorus where there's a bit of edgy guitar work, and good use of backing vocals- gives the song a bit of power and an edge. This song is like Embraced love- a bit of a mixed bag really. So I'm forced to say it's no more than decent.
The album is nearly over with Nostalgia, where suddenly the album goes back to relaxing and soft ballads. This song has a very sad and regretful feeling to it. Myco sounds really wonderful and sincere. It's a beautiful and laid-back ballad. That one synth part is a bit strange though! This song reminds me alot of Myself, but a little toned down and more laid-back. The song is very pretty, but it's not outstanding.
Lastly it's an album version of New Future- and it's only 5 minutes long?! New Future's biggest flaw before was that it went on for ages but this is more compact. Either way it's a great way to end an album, being a very powerful song about hope and looking toward the future. It makes me think of Mitsuki :P Anyway, we all know this one right? "Let's sing a song~". Ah...this song must be ingrained in my brain by now. It's a very pretty, very powerful song with alot of energy and hope. Myco gives an impressive vocal performance, and the instrumentation is lovely too.
I love changin' my life, and I have for a long while. For about a year all I'd heard was their best of album, until I found this album of theirs. Changin my life has a strange sound. The keybord, the dance beats and the synth should sound outdated (think abba or disco music)- yet somehow they make it work. Their work can be powerful songs like Myself and Confidence, and upbeat energetic numbers like Luv.Remix and Focus. I think some of these songs are subpar, but there are really some great tracks too that are just awesome to listen to.
Kaya I only just discovered today. I was like "wow...". Kaya's music sometimes reminds me of Kozi, it's really weird but in the totally good way. It draws on alot of synth and electronic effects, creating a bizarre but interesting sound. On the other end Kaya's ballads make me think of Gackt, the same beautiful and orchestral instrumentation, the deep and emotional vocals. Either way, Kaya's music is good. Really good. The cover of this one is wierd, it's a girl and a boy version. It's wierd caus' Kaya suits both! I prefer the boy version, which typically is the limited edition!
Well, this is Kaya's second album and a compilation of previously released material. It was released on 2008.07.16 - my birthday! (that toally makes it even more awesome btw)
The album opens with Carmilla, drawing on synthetic sounds and effects alongside a rather nice violin part that pops up now and then. Also has a noticeable dance beat to it. It's quite slow though , with a very dark and romantic feel to it. Not the best of songs, but a good introduction of what to expect from this album.
Next track is Walkure, and sounds like a dance tune to me. Reminds me of a certain genre of dance music I've since forgotten, but it's got that fast, heavy and darker feel to it. Rather interesting song. I do like the dance feel to it yet at the same time it still retains that darker undertones I've come to expect of Kaya's music, that sort of underlying hints of sadness or regret. Awesome song really. Kaya really has a wonderful voice which really brings out alot of emotion in the song.
Then it's my first Kaya song, and a favourite, the strange but awesome Paradise Lost. The song starts with deep plucked string part, immediatly conjuring up a feeling of (twisted) faerytales and the feeling of marching. Backed by a frantic synth instrument, which continues throughout, it all combines to have a very urgent and twisted, darker, feeling. The instrumentation is wierd and experimental, drawing on alot of electronic sounds and effects, but at the same time it creates a very interesting feeling. Kaya's vocals are distorted in the verses, and still slightly for the chorus. There is effective use of female voice too. Overall this is a dark and strange song, but it's really really cool.
Track 4 is the beautiful funerary dream, and unfortunatly it's limited edition only! Sucks. The song itself is lovely. It has a bit of a dance beat to it, with that high piano part that you'd expect from an older song (pre-millenium). Ah..but of course there's alot of other synth and effects mixed in, giving a very interesting feel. It's like a ballad, with that sort of emotion presented through the instrumentation and Kaya's beautiful and heartfelt vocals. The epic use of Strings (obviously fake but still as good) alonside the piano at points is truly moving. A rather beautiful song, and quite relaxing to listen to. Got a very regretful feel to it.
Psycho Butterfly is next, starting with a light and airy instrumental before developing into a much darker song, reliant on synth and effects..and strangely it has a bit of a dance beat to it, almost a dance song underlying the darker synth and more sorrowful vocals. Talking of vocals, Kaya's vocals are beautiful and emotional. Despite everything I've said, the song has got quite a soft and gentle feeling to it, with slightly darker and sadder undertones. A really good song. The ending is very interesting too, with the repetetion and then dying away till it's only that light and airy instrument. Very effective. I think pyscho butterfly, that sort of contrasting image, is rather fitting to the overall feel to the song...
Masquerade follows, starting with a violin part, building to include more strings and finally becoming an alternative tune, with heavy use of synth and effects. It's got quite a jazzy feel to it actually, and I quite like the rythmns and the distorted/keyboard strings. It's strange how in the chorus it suddenly feels like a pop number! It's got that upbeat feeling of a pop number, the rythmn and feeling of a jazz piece, and the rest is electronic and alternative with a bit of darker edge. A strange but interesting song. I don't find it amazing, but it's decent.
Epicurean is track 7. I hate the take off opening, but the heavy dance feeling to it is pretty cool. The song goes through alot of variation, gives very different feelings at times. It's got a very dark feeling to it, and sometimes sounds a little sleazy (?!) yet other times it sounds perfectly innocent and upbeat. The screaming or whatever is a little strange too as some of the other effects. Alternate but in that awesome way, and it still has that dance feel to it like alot of the tracks. It's quite cool.
Then it's the stunning ballad, Silvery Dark. I even twittered this, I was that wowed by it. The song combines a beautiful piano part, some strings and with alot of synth- giving it a soft and dreamlike quality fitting to the image created by the title. Kaya gives a very emotional, not to mention beautiful vocal performance. The song is sorrowful, and very beautiful- driven by Kaya's wonderful vocals. There's alot of dynamic changes and variation, the song constantly builds up and down. This song is definitly moving. Like when you listen to Gackt, you stop and you listen and you feel so moved by the beauty and emotion of the song. Wonderful- an epic ballad.
Next up is Kasha -shining flowers-, which has a very grungy dance feel to it. It's fast and electronic with a more upbeat feeling to it. I really like the fast and gritty dance instrumentation, combined with a guitar part of sorts and Kaya's pretty awesome vocals. A good track. A bit of a pick up after silvery dark : )
Track 10 is Rose Jail, another gritty dance tune in the light of Kasha or Epicurean. It has a sleazy feel to it, the whole smothering of Kaya's vocals and the way he reaches up to the higher pitches, with the backing vocals- sounds like breathing.. hmm. I won't tell you what it really makes me think of XD His voice is downright wierd at the ending, sounds fucking crazy. The screaming and everything... Once again, I won't tell you what it really makes me think of XD
Second to last is Glitter Arch, and it's got that old feeling to it with the heavy, computer generated feeling. Well, it's got a strong dance beat, fast as well, with use of other synth. It's actually rather upbeat and happy- quite a hopeful feeling to it whilst still retaining that darker edge to it. A very nice track.
The album ends with Hydrangea. The song sounds quite creepy at first, but the flute and that other instrument gives it a rather traditional Japanese feel. It's very soft and quiet, Kaya's soft almost whispery vocals are stunning. The way his voice builds up power at the end, and the emotion he presents- it's stunning and quite moving. The song has a very soft and relaxing feel to it- it doesn't make major changes or build up an incredible much. It is quite ethereal, hypnotizing yet dramatic feel to it. A great ending, very soft and relaxing way to go. :P
Overall, I'm impressed. This is quite an awesome album, it's all quite alternative and can be quite elaborate with the use of synth and electrnic sounds- yet the album has a good feeling to it, and I like all the different sounds and stuff presented. I also liked how it was like dance music, yet at the same time not. It was alot more interesting, and very creative. Tracks like Paradise lost were downright experimental though, in the coolest way. Kaya has beautiful vocals too, and that always helps. Rather awesome album. I should have pre-ordered this when I pre-ordered Tohoshinki!
Hey! I return after a short break from reviewing. This month (yep, it's already August) there's alot of brilliant new singles coming out! I've already heard Onitsuka's and it sounds beautiful, looking forward to 12012, Despairs Ray, plastic tree and Chemistry life goes on. I prefer to do album reviews these days, apart from 12012 probably where I'll review the single : ) So...I'm still reviewing older stuff. It feels strange calling this album old, as I can still remember waiting for it to come out. I adore the album, there are some crappy tracks but there are some beautiful ones too. The photobooklet is photoshopped, as my family had great fun pointing out, but absolutly stunning and it suits the mood of the album- beautiful, dark, myusterious with splashes of bright diamonds and light. Um..yes. I also got a poster with this album, which became the first Jpop poster on my wall. Took all my courage to put it up and keep it up, but I can still look up and see Ayu every day now <3 On to the review!!
This is Ayu's 8th album released on 2006.11.29.
The album opens with Not yet, a very ethereal and synth based piece blending beautiful electronica with Ayu's vocals. It's a powerful and catchy opening, with lots of power as it starts of quiet building up to a soft trance dance track- Ayu's vocals distorted and blended into the gorgeous electronica. A wonderful and unique song. Reminscent of loveAPPEARS but at the same time, taking a whole new route.
then it's until that day... continuing on in the same light as Not Yet, except alot more gritty and rockier with strong guitar riffs and heavy drum beat besides the electronica, distorted backing vocals which pop up now and then and Ayus sometimes distorted, sometimes wordless vocals. The wordless bits are beautiful, and I adore the chorus too. It's still just as beautiful as Not yet and justpowerful, packed with alot of emotion. It's a strong and more rebelious track, downright angry much like alterna or STEP you.
The fast Startin' is next, continuing with the heavy electronica songs. This one blends electronica, and pop rock for a fast and fun track. I hated this at first but it really grew on me, it's so catchy! By the time you hit the chorus you're kinda hooked. The song is still pretty powerful with Ayu belting it out and the hints of rock with the guitar, much like until that day... but the lyrics talk about believeing in yourself and having confidence. I love the adlibbing at the end
The album delves into gritty rock for 1 LOVE, which is very dark and angry- and who doesn't think of the PV when listening to this? Immediatly images of pole dancing Ayu pop into my mind. The song itself is awesome. Very angry and powerful, with Ayu belting it out with all her emotion and a fantastic soft rock arrangment. It's dark and gritty and makes you think of underground pole dancing clubs. Excellent song. Looking at the lyrics it's actually not as angry as it sounds, more about the importance of love and wanting to be loved.
Then it's the slow and gorgeous It was. I read so many reviews stating how boring this track was, and was surprised. Personally this is one of Ayu's most unique and beautiful ballads. The soft instrumentation filled with synth, breaking into rock in the chorus is very powerful and effective- it adds alot of power and emotion to the song. The distortion of Ayu's voice in the verses, compared to the chorus where the distortion drops and it's just Ayu sounding beautiful and emotional is a wonderful contrast. It's a soft, sad and very beautful song. I adore the contrast presented in it and the way it constantly changes, if only slighlty.
An interlude is next with LABYRINTH, an ehtereal instrumental filled with twinkling sounds and synth which fits in nicely between It Was and Jewel. It's a mood lifter after It was, building up to the romantic and hopeful Jewel whilst still having a darker edge. A beautiful and Bittersweet little instrumental that fits nicely.
Then it's the pretty ballad Jewel. The song opens with pretty piano part, building up as the song progresses but still
momentum is the typical winter ballad, the piano nstrumentation and the synth and everything giving alot more winter vibes than even Jewel. It's like a winter edition of say Fairyland! OK I won't take the piss too much. It's a fairly pretty, very dramatic ballad and Ayu gives a lovely vocal performance. The PV was very nice too. It's not as good as secret or Jewel, but it's still pretty and nice to listen to. The guitar adds something unique and interesting to it.
another interlude, the beatiful Taskinlude which starts with a pretty music box sound then explodes into hard rock- this could make such a good song : ) The interlude itself is beautiful.
Then it's the annoying Born to be...which I tried to love but couldn't. The whole overly dramatic feel to it, the chanting and the whatnot just irritates me not end.
Another annoying one with Beautiful Fighters. This one I have mixed feelings about. On one hand, the distorted vocals of "beautiful fighters" and the whistling and clapping or whatnot is annoying, on the other if you take it for what it is- a cute pop song about girl power I suppose it's alright.
BLUE BIRD is the fairyland of Secret. It's a fun and summery tune, which sounds hyper and happy but actually the lyrics are really sad. The PV is the dancing on the beautiful white sands, all happy happy. It's nice.
Kiss o' kill is an amazing experimental rock track. The song opens with children singing and a piano before introducing Ayu and the organ. The organ, synth and Ayu's forlorn, bitter vocals give the song a dark and nightmarish feel. The lyrics too are beautiful. It's a powerful and emotional track. I was drawn to the title, which in a kiss me kill me way I suppose is Kiss or Kill. Or in engrish manner- kiss of kill? I wonder. Anyway, This has become a personal favourite of mine, for it is quite simply amazing. I adore the instrumentation, and Ayu sounds amazing.Check out her performance of this too.
Secret ends the album off, as a pretty and sorrowful ballad. It's absolutly stunning with wonderful instrumentation, especially the synth and the accoustic guitar part and the strings. Ayu comes in and her voice is soft and filled with so much emotion- continuing to give a wonderful vocal performance the whole way through. I adore the chorus, it's beautiful the way Ayu reaches up the higher notes and the instrumentation with the accoustic guitar, the strings... it's just so heartbreakingly beautiful and so emotional. You can feel the sorrow and regret conveyed in the song. Everything about the song is perfect. A wonderful end to a brilliant album.
I've not listened to the album for a while, but I'm reminded of how much I love it. It's a mature album where Ayu really shows another side of her, like all her albums always present something new- something a fan could hate or love. I love this side of her, I love the powerful rock tracks like Kiss o' kill and It was, the soft rock ballad. I adore the ballads like Secret and Jewel. It's a very powerful album with lots of emotion. The photos for the album, the PVs- the entire package was well thought out and all came together brilliantly. There are some bad tracks on the album, but the number of good tracks really overpowers them. A beautiful album from Ayu and one of my personal favourites.
Kaira is Kaira Gong's first and currently only album released on November 11th 2005. the album was later repackaged and sold in July 2006. Kaira Gong is a singer I only knew of through the song "Cannot Let Go" on the Tokyo Juliet OST. That song had bad lyrics, but a beautiful arrangement and Kaira sounded beautiful. thus I'm happy to have stumbled upon her album! Oh and there's some interesting info over at wikipedia about her.
The album opens with 再一次擁有 (Possess Once More), a gentle ballad with a stunning piano part and sincere, beautiful vocals from Kaira. The song is soft and sorrowful- and did I mention beautiful? There is a beautiful piano part as well as subtle use of strings. The song slowly builds up with instruments, growing louder and stronger. Kaira's voice is pure and emotional- the use of dynamics perfect. A wonderful start to the album.
The next track 想不想自由 (Don't You Want Freedom?) is soft and accoustic with a darker feel to it. Kaira puts alot of attitude to her voice, giving an impressive vocal performance that adds great atmosphere to the song. The song is reminscent of a certain song, or genre that I can't remember- but it sounds familiar! Haha. That's bad to say that in a review but you'll know what I mean if you hear it. It's another beautiful and relaxing track, more upbeat and bitter than the first. Judging by the title, you can tell why Kaira sounds so bitter.
Track three 遠遠在一起 (Together Far Away) is another piano based ballad. There's fantastic use of strings, particulary cello too. The song is more hopeful than the sorrowful 再一次擁有 but is just as beautiful. The song has a much stronger arrangment too. It's laid-back though with wonderful instrumentation and Kaira sounds amazing, of course. The bridge is absolutly stunning, and the way it builds up to the bridge and the last chorus before dying away is very powerful.
歷險記 (Diary of Adventures) is the next song. A soft and laid-back but bittersweet song, with a gorgeous instrumentation- particulary the piano and strings and deep bass instrument. Kaira gives a strong vocal performance, I love it when she reaches up the higher notes and the dark rythmns of the verses and the bridge. Her voice is pretty ethereal, and gives a gentle feel to the song.
Track 5 opens with some warped instrumentation, continuing to build up to a upbeat, more pop-like tune. 十字路口 (Crossroads) is comparable to 想不想自由 with the same accoustic, particulary accoustic guitar arrangement and strong vocals filled with attitude from Kaira. There's a few backing vocals but they are placed well and don't deteriate from the song. It's another nice track. I love her adlibbing : )
We're halfway through the album with 白鴿 ( White Dove), a sad sounding ballad. The soft ostrinato at the beginning lends an ethereal feel, as do Kaira's soft and beautiful voice. The song builds up, retaining the sad and slow feel to it. Kaira's voice continues to be absolutly beautiful, filled with sincere emotion. It's a stunning song, similiar to alot of the ballads here with the piano and strings however it doesn't feel the same, nor am I bored. Instead I really feel the emotion of the song and it moves me. I think so far the album has been beautiful, the songs retain the same arrangements yet each still manages to be unique. Kaira's vocals really shine too, she has a stunning voice.
But the album isn't over yet! 如果你真愛我 (If You Really Love Me) is the next track, and though it's a ballad it is stronger, and the strings prominent right from the beginning. I really like the cello part to this, it's adds a rich sound to the song. This is another beautiful and emotional ballad, stronger and less sad than 白鴿 but with it's own beauty and emotion nonetheless.
一天天 ( Every Day) is a sweet ballad, with a nice accoustic guitar part. The song builds up the chorus, where it really shines. Kaira really sounds beautiful with the soft vibrato and the way she hits the high notes. The song sounds bittersweet and it's filled with a tender emotion. It has a lovely instrumentation and Kaira sounds so wonderful. Another stunning track! I love all the variations it goes through.
The album is nearly over with 起初只是朋友 (At First, We Were But Friends) starts quietly, dominated by Kaira's reflective vocals. The song builds up, becoming a sweet uptempo ballad with a happy atmosphere. The accoustic guitar part is really nice, as are Kaira's vocals (as always :P)
Then the last track, 思念 (Longing) a soft ballad to end the album off. Much like the first song, this one is piano based. Kaira's vocals really shine, leading the song forward and filled with so much emotion. Midway there is some beautiful strings introduced too. This is another beatiful track, and an appropriate end to the album.
This album is soft and emotional. It's a beautiful and relaxing to listen to, with soft laid back songs, more upbeat attutude filled ones and then some stunning sincere ballads. I first heard of Kaira through the one song she did for Tokyo Juliet, and was amazed by her beautiful voice. This album is a further showcase of said beautiful, absolutly stunning voice. I cannot reccomend it enough. It bugs me though because she reminds me of something or someone, the way she sings and the arrangment of the songs. I cannot place it though! Sorry (_ _) The album is beautiful though! You should really listen if you want something relaxing to chill out to.
LAS VEGAS is Onitsuka Chihiro's fourth album released on 2007.10.31 . It was her first in two years of hiatus, and her first under Universal. The album is a selection of the best of roughly 20 songs that she composed during her two year hiatus. The album has a theme of travel; which is why Las Vegas (somewhere relatively far away from Japan) was chosen for the title of the album. This title had been decided on since around about Sugar High's release to be the title of the next album in chronological order.
The album opens with the beautiful Sweet Rosemary, a slow and calming song reliant on stunning vocals from Onitsuka and wonderful instrumentation- a lovely accoustic guitar part building up as the song progresses. It's a sweet and romantic song, I think it's about love- or accepting that love is over and love is now gone. I think. It's a beautiful song nonetheless. I love the adlibbing bits to it. It's a beautiful song, a wonderful opening to the album.
The second track is Bad Trip, a darker song contrasting to Sweet Rosemary. It has a dark, almost bitter sound to it. The song is entirely in english, and despite a slight (and expected) accent, for the most part it's understandable. It's a simple sounding, but emotional song driven by Onitsuka's beautiful voice, and nice instrumentation- piano, strings and some percussion too. The piano part is certainly the highlight. It continues the beauty that Sweet Rosemary first presented.
蝋の翼 (waxen wings) follows Bad Trip. The song is quite upbeat, less calming than Sweet Rosemary and lighter than Bad Trip. The song is about the emotional high of being in love, drawing on the story of icarus as a symbol- "I’m flying
on waxen wings/ up to the sun, no matter how far, if I’m with you/ That they melted and I fell, what a great feeling/I’m not waiting for what’s next/ If I’m with you". What to say? It's another beautiful song.
Track 4 is 僕等 バラ色の日々 (our rose colored days), a beautiful almost sorrowful song. I want to post what the song represents, so here: "[..] is meant to give the image of rose petals swirling about. The Theme of the song is resignation and despair in the face of the fact that rose-colored days cannevre last--and yet, to seek those days over and over represents hope" I think for sure you can picture the PV, a girl running desperatly seeking...searching for the "rose colored days"- swirling rose petals, the sweet smell after the rain has faded etc etc- the song conveys alot of imagery. It's a beautiful song, with stunning instrumental based on piano and strings, and of course wonderful, emotional vocals from Onitsuka Chihiro. I love the ending with the "ah" bits, Onitsuka conveys her emotions of hope contrasting to despair perfectly. In short, this song is amazing and very moving. Did I mention the wonderful lyrics too?
The album changes abruptly when amphibious starts, introducing a far rockier sound. It also has alot of swearing in it, which is enough for me to be turned off. I don't mind swear words, but it automatically means I cannot listen- not with the family around. I do like the overall sound to it, it's not bad but it is out of place and the swearing.. just really offputting.
Then LAS VEGAS goes back to the piano based-ness with MAGICAL WORLD, an album version of course. A song about human warmth <3 Like alot of Onitsuka's song it's a beautiful, piano based song with wonderful and emotional vocals from Onitsuka. There's something about the song I don't particulary like, but it's still very pretty.
Track 7 is a A Horse and a Queen. I love this song, it is very relaxing and laid-back with a more upbeat sound contrasting to darker lyrics. Onitsuka sounds beautiful, and I like the instrumentation- especially the saxophone and piano parts. I wonder what she means by "I just kneel to bright ditch down" though ^_^
Next up is a new version of the B-side to 育つ雑草 (pulling weeds), Rainman. The opening is a little cheesy, over the top like a movie theme but it tones down to the familiar repeating piano part and sweet vocals from Onitsuka. I must say, there's something I like about this alot more than the original. The instrumentation is very quirky, matching the lyrics and adding something interesting to the song: I like the overall feel to it. It's an upbeat and hopeful little song- which still remains beautiful and relaxing.
After Rainman is Angelina, named after Agelina Jolie. It's another beautiful song, with wonderful piano and string instrumentation and gorgeous vocals from Onitsuka. The lyrics are beautiful, and hopeful- "I'm not dead/not yet". I love the different dynamics to the song, the way it builds up then builds down then builds up again to finally fade away, as well as the emotion Onitsuka presents. It's very beautiful and powerful song. The cello/viola part is love <3
The second to last track is BRIGHTEN US, I really do not like the relgious connations and hymn feel to it- at all. Even though Onitsuka's voice is beautiful like always, I really have no love for religious themed songs.
The album ends on the beauitiful everyhome. The song is just piano and Onitsuka, but it is incredibly powerful and very moving. Similiar to say, 僕等 バラ色の日々 is has a feeling of hopelessness and despair, of simply "going on" with hopes and dreams, that are never realised. Onitsuka said she wrote this whilst watching Forest Gump with the sound off- and I wonder what the song wants to really convey. Anyway, I love how the song builds up, how it starts quietly and climaxes for before calming down again. The lyrics are stunning, "I'm sure they've continued blaming themselves for not snapping out of their dreams" for example; and Onitsuka sounds beautiful, giving an impressive vocal performance. The piano part is also stunning, and compliments her voice perfectly. They blend together to create a beautiful and moving song- a wonderful one to end the album on.
This album took a while to grow on me, but when I did eventually fall for it I fell hard. I think it is a very beautiful album, remiscent of her older albums but also presenting a new sound in many ways. I find with the expcetion of Brighten us and Ampibious it could have been perfect. However the swearing in Amphibious is not appreciated, and the more rock sound to it sounds out of place. If 育つ雑草 wasn't placed here, then why should a track like that? Brighten us, well I don't like the religious connations to it. Otherwise the album is absolutly stunning. wonderful to put on in the background as you are chilling out. It is so beautiful, and so relaxing. I was very glad that Onitsuka Chihiro released something like this after 2 years of hiatus, proving she's still as great as she has always been.
Overall: 10/10 (Amazing, highly reccomended)
and yes, I did write far too much ; ) I really love this album you know? It moves me alot. Quite a few of these songs make me feel like I could cry. This is my second favourite album from her, or atleast it's got alot of my favourite songs from her on it. But then, I really adore Onitsuka Chihiro and she has such a powerful voice. So that's why you'll see "beautiful", "wonderful", "stunning" etc alot. :D The cover and album booklet are stunning too. I love the setting, and the cover the border and placement of words looks very nice. Lastly, Lyrics and stuff from here
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J-rock music reviews Updated: Oct 19, 2009
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