Reviews written by tcwgirl
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Natural (First Press Limited Edition) (Japan Version)
1 people found the following helpful
April 14, 2006 It Comes Naturally to MINMI!MINMI hasn't produced a bad album in her career yet, and "Natural" is no exception! The Reggae meets Soul-R&B feeling that past MINMI albums and collabs gave is mixed up this time around with a big-band sound full of trumpets. If you like the artist bird, then this MINMI album might be perfect for you to start off with. Track 2, "Nishiazabu Densetsu" is an upbeat clap-your-hands sort of Pop/Trumpet-fused/minimally reggae-influenced song that isn't inspiring, but it hits the mark somehow. The 3rd track in the bunch, "Summer Time," reminds you of being at a carnival with drums and salsa-inspired rhythms in a quick-paced dance circle. Again, MINMI tries something new here with a bit of Afro-Caribbean samplings, too. One of my favorite relaxed tracks is "FRIENDS" because not only are the lyrics nice "Let's hold hands, my friends, right here and right now. It may be a coincidence that we're livin' in the same times, but this is also our destiny..." In addition to that, Ryo the Skywalker, PUSHIM, MOOMIN, Shounan no Kaze, and more come in to add flavor on this 'classical' reggae track and bring a laid-back feel. Dance tracks like "Are yu ready?," "Are yu ready (remix)," and "YO WELL" (which tries to be a bit reggaeton) spice up a predominantly R&B MINMI album. The rest of the tracks aren't particularly dance, so if you love a laidback MINMI sometimes, this is definitely up your alley! Track 7 "Shinjuu no Namida" is a light reggae, flute/drum track that has a bit more KENTY-GROSS rapping than MINMI's singing, but it's hot, so I'll let it pass. Track 8, "Ajisai," sounds like an old recording from the 1930s with a live jazz band and sole tinkering piano, and while I am not a fan of that sound (DOUBLE tried that on her "Life is Beautiful" album), it works for this song. If you loved the 1990s R&B with its exaggerated pumping beats and easy-to-follow rhythm, then "Superstitious" and "Coconuts Flavor 97" are great. There's absolutely nothing Reggae about these songs, and they're not particularly MINMI either. Coming to a close, "Aila" is a standard Soul-reggae fusion with a strong emphasis on the light sound of drums (some tin, I think). But the best song on here, in my opinion, is "Natural!" No wonder the album is titled after this! It definitely borrows off some recent American hip-hop songs for its beat (which has been slowed down, and stripped a bit--or "chopped & screwed" perhaps?), but shines on its own when MINMI raps on it, and sings softly in the chorus. Overall, this album has a bit of everything, and I'd highly recommend it for that reason alone. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Nanairo no Ashita - Brand New Beat / Your Color (SINGLE+DVD)(Japan Version)
Nanairo no Ashita - Brand New Beat / Your Color (SINGLE+DVD)(Japan Version) DVD Region 2
(7)Our Price: US$23.25Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:2 people found the following helpful
April 14, 2006 Not Entirely Brand New, ActuallyBoA's signature bubblegum-pop sound anything but "Brand New Beat" in her new double A-side single, "Nanairo no Ashita ~ Brand New Beat / Your Color." The leading track single on here will make diehard old-school-BoA fans rejoice because this is the sugary sweet stuff they love, but others like myself might not be as impressed. Forget her songs like "DO THE MOTION" "Quincy," or even "Kimi no Tonari de," the jazz/orchestra/funk is gone on this single. "Nanairo..." capitalizes on the "cute BoA" despite our being told countless times within the past year that she's created a new style and moved on--it is the anti-"OUTGROW" album. Well, we can only suppose that record sales could not justify that move to a new sound, hence "Nanairo." It's not entirely a bad backward step, but it isn't exactly a show stopper if you own any of BoA's previous singles or albums either. The second single on here, "Your Color," is another typical 'strong' BoA ballad in which a majority of the stronger or higher notes are sung through BoA's nose giving a nasal quality to an otherwise powerful song. The background music isn't very creative or inspiring, making it almost entirely forgettable...especially with the standard love ballad lyrics. Still, it's a solid package; and when combined with the DVD promotional video for "Nanairo" (possibly one of the best cute and upbeat dance videos for BoA since "Milky Way"), it is bound to become a temporary favorite for many new BoA fans as well as old. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Someiyoshino (Normal Editon)(Japan Version)
Someiyoshino (Normal Editon)(Japan Version)
(2)Our Price: US$12.99Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:March 1, 2006 Another Interesting Domoto Tsuyoshi Release!My first experience with Domoto Tsuyoshi's voice on solo was with "WAVER" released for the drama, "Home Drama" a few years ago. It was a bit classical rock mixed with an interesting alternative pop edge that made it enjoyable. His follow-up album to that, "[si:]" was also just as great and enigmatic with electric guitar, trumpets and other instruments I can't possibly name. This time around under the identity of "ENDLICHERI*ENDLICHERI," Tsuyoshi brings more of his strange-but-amazing rock style to "Someiyoshino" (Yoshino cherry tree). The title track not only has the interesting lyrics you'd expect from Tsuyoshi, but also a slow, painfully sweet pace that accompanies his distinctive voice. If you already like Tsuyoshi, I don't have to explain this to you--if you're new to his style, it's similar and different at the same time to how he sings in KinKi Kids (another reason he has probably chosen a new name to get rid of his Johnny's boyband image). This is definitely a moving, slow song which uses the image of cherry tree petals to symbolize his love and the confusing pain of one's impermanence. Indeed, this is no Pop fluff song. The second track, "Nurenezumi" (Soaked to the Bone) is a rock meets accordion/trumpets-from-Italian-circus-esque track. It's more upbeat than "Someiyoshino" but still has his signature mark all over it. It's creative, but if you don't like hokey-pokey sounds, this one might not be for you. It's nothing amazing to me, I feel like I heard it on his last album. Closing up all of this is "Blueberry," a song which seems like a tribute to big city nightlife in the 1970s. Again, the quirky band sound exists but with an even faster pace than "Nurenezumi" as Tsuyoshi seems to try some more 'R&B soulful' talk-singing, disco-esque, scat rendition of his own style. This single is aimed at everyone, but his best effort lies in "Someiyoshino" where his unique style really shines. Overall, this single is amazing, and it's a great prelude to his March 1st album! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Girl 2 Lady (Japan Version)
February 25, 2006 Great Voice--Bad Execution.Arashiro Beni's voice from the first time I heard her single "Here Alone" struck me as one with great potential. When I heard her full album last year, "BENI," I knew that this girl had a LARGE amount of potential with the right production and the right songs. Unfortunately, little of that has come to fruition with her sophomore album, "Girl 2 Lady." With mostly mediocre single releases last year, Arashiro Beni didn't break any new grounds and though I managed to see her in a few advertisements for handbags and on the cover of a fashion magazine or so, I think it's fair to say that they are not selling the best part of Beni--that's not her looks, it's her VOICE. Sure, we could argue that some of the top sellers in Japan are gorgeous and young, but we would also be negating MISIA, one of the most influential R&B and Soul singers in Japan. To me, Arashiro Beni had that potential but keeps missing her mark. This time around, "Girl 2 Lady" is half-filled with mediocre, ubtle jazz tunes or hackneyed Arab-esque repititions that do little to compliment her pretty and high range voice. Everything sounds like her most famous two singles, "Here Alone" and "Infinite." Granted, they're some of her better songs on this album, but why buy it if I already have it? Some of the better tracks are "Heart 2 Heart," "Into the Sky" and "SECRET LOVER" (which is EXACTLY the same as one of her debuting singles, "Infinite"!!!). I can only hope that she does more than talk-sing on any future releases. "BENI," the first album really showed she can sing, and "Girl 2 Lady," only shows she's gone from Singer 2 Boring Performer. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
CRY NO MORE (Japan Version)
February 22, 2006 Not bad!"CRY NO MORE" is what a voice like Nakashima Mika's was MEANT to sing, period. It starts off like a classic gospel song with strong humming and a soulful, jerky piano, but leads into Mika singing mid-tempo until she reaches the climax of the chorus of "I don't wanna cry no more!" This is definitely for those who love gospel and jazz-fusion songs. If you liked "Amazing Grace," then this will also be for you. It's a sad, but powerful song with piano, trumpets and Mika's booming voice. The second track, "BLACK&BLUE" is entirely different. If you loved anything from the NANA Movie soundtrack or Mika's typical upbeat songs, this song is yours! It's got a rock edge meets pop-punk feel. The only thing that ties this in with "CRY NO MORE" is the trumpets. I imagine myself in a 1950s poodle skirt when I listen to this song, it's got that sort of impact, haha. This is a nice single, but you do get the feeling that without the music video, the strength of this single decreases. To truly understand "CRY NO MORE," I'd suggest watching the music video as well. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Keep Tryin' (Japan Version)
Keep Tryin' (Japan Version)
(16)Our Price: US$13.99Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:February 22, 2006 Obviously Hikaru Kept Tryin'...and it's great!"Keep Tryin'" is a breath of fresh air for fans who've been gotten sick and tired of Utada Hikaru's one-track single releases lately. Instead of just another remix of the title track, "Keep Tryin'" comes at you with another flavor in its second track, "WINGS." For the price offered here, it makes no sense to get the Korean Version, but that's just my opinion! An affordable Japanese Version Single? I'm all for it! The feeling of "Keep Tryin'" is definitely very pop and strays completely away from the melodic, techno, and abstract feel of recent past singles like "PASSION" and "Be My Last"--and it is does well in Hikaru's old genre, but it's nothing to write home about. Still, the lyrics are upbeat in which Hikaru beckons people from all walks of life--moms, dads, brothers, waitresses, etc.--to keep on trying and hang in there, the better days are yet to come, etc. etc. The backing track for "Keep Tryin'" reminds you of something you could've heard from her "SAKURA Drops" or "Addicted to You" days, but the tempo and her voice alone definitely make this a 2006-relevant modern track. To pay tribute to her R&B side, Hikaru brings us "WINGS" in which she makes you reminisce about the good old days of "Final Distance," "DEEP RIVER," "Automatic," and "Can You Keep A Secret?" For 2006, she's given "WINGS" a hip-hop meets country flutes and light drums feel that is mid-tempo enough to chill out to, and upbeat enough to sway your hips in beat with. This single is definitely aimed at people who loved the "old Hikki." She not only hits all of the semi-high notes in "WINGS" but she adds a passive passion to its lyrics. The whole feel of "WINGS" is 'urban' and it showcases her broad range. The karaoke track for "Keep Tryin'" is also pleasant and I recommend it over the original, actually! All in all, fantastic single that makes a Hikki fan long for another album...soon! Keep tryin', Hikki! I'll be in line to buy it! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Itchy Heart (DTS Version) (US Version)
1 people found the following helpful
February 9, 2006 Entertaining!!!If you're a Sean Lau fan (I only came to know him through the film, "Driving Miss Wealthy," which I saw in 2004), then this is a must! If you like comedy that has some sense, but is a bit quirky, this is DEFINITELY for you. I was giggling and nodding along with this movie that is meant for an audience that likes slapstick humor done tastefully. Sean Lau clearly owns the screen in this film, and his co-star romance interest is very cute, but doesn't bring a lot of presence to the film for me. Still, the supporting cast (his ex-girlfriend Bing and his wife) and situations are ALL very entertaining! This movie might be geared at people who are out of their teens because much of the humor is about life following "settling down". Still, the romantic scenes are cute and the funny scenes are VERY chuckle-worthy. Towards the middle of the movie, I felt like it started to lose focus, though. STILL, by the end I was convinced I'd purchased a movie worth watching again and again--even if it was just to see Sean Lau act hilariously in widescreen, crystal clear, television-glory! (A note about the DVD itself: casing is standard and nice; no booklet; menu is hard to read with a small font on my 20"inch flatscreen TV; audio is 9/10 in sharpness) Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
2 people found the following helpful
January 25, 2006 Indeed, a Hero.This being my first time listening to Leehom Wang, I can't sing his praises based on previous albums--but let me sing them for this album! I'd nearly given up listening to anything innovative and fresh in Chinese, the CPOP scene was horribly repetitive and unoriginal. Wang amazingly mixes R&B and Pop elements with traditional Chinese instruments and sounds for a sweet trip down groove lane. I don't even know where to begin to tell you how great this album is. Someone who can actually sing with beats that are worthwhile listening to? Things that seem so hard to find anymore in the R&B come quite naturally to Wang, apparently. My favorites on this golden album are probably, all equally wonderful--so they're not listed by favor--, Track 2 "Mistake in the Flower Field" shows Wang's amazing vocal range and soulful voice over a slow backtrack mixed with pretty and haunting traditional Chinese opera, Track 8 "Brothers" blends funk and rap for a nice bob-your-head track. But no worries, Wang even has ballads on this album to slow it down with, "Kiss Goodbye", Track 6 "Big City, Small Love", and Track 7 "The First Morning" in which he produces a somewhat generic CPOP sound, but still shines. Some of the better tracks feature Rain (track 5) AND up-and-coming Lim JeongHee who both add a lot of Korean soul to this album that is uncomparable for any other artist I've seen in the CPOP scene. Track 1 "Beside Plum Blossoms" has a simple rap and light synthetic rap beat that is enjoyable, but easily tiresome. Still, Wang does a remarkable job and has made me interested in more of his works. If you love R&B, CPOP or both this album would be the best thing for you to listen to! I'm still amazed I hadn't listened to Wang Leehom sooner!! He has redeemed my faith in Chinese-singing R&B artists, haha. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Boa Single - Everlasting
Boa Single - Everlasting
(5)Our Price: US$9.99List: US$13.99Save: US$4.00 (29%)Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:January 20, 2006 Everlastingly a Chart-TopperBoA gets it right with this Korean release of her Japanese single, "Everlasting" in 2006. This single makes all of the right impressions in both Japanese and Korean--but even moreso in this Korean release. Having not released a ballad as emotional and as captivating as the winter release of famous single, "Merikuri," BoA makes a fine attempt with stronger vocals, more sweeping violins and percussion, and a lot more heart. Where "Merikuri" missed the mark, "Everlasting" strikes the target straight on. Making a good decision to leave the weak and somewhat uninspired "soundscape" alone for the Korean version, we get "Seulpeum eun Nomchodo (People Say...)" (Even if the sadness overflows [People Say...]). A sexy R&B track that starts off with a nice funky, mid-tempo beat. BoA's voice slides in a bit breathy, but soon picks up the sweet and yet somehow strong vocals we came to appreciate even more on her 2004 album "My Name." Her vocals don't necessarily blow this song away, but they blow "soundscape" out of the park! This B-side alone is reason enough to get this CD! It has the Jazz R&B feel that sophisticated R&B-lovers respect BoA for, and enough of the sweet, K-Pop-oriented BoA that old and new fans alike can enjoy. As you'd expect, the classical version of "Everlasting" is magical and sounds perfect for any live performances; be it cello or violin, this classical version speaks volumes. You might also notice that BoA hits her notes with more UMPH on the Korean singles, and though a lot of it sounds from the gut and nasal, you love it. To put it simply...Definitely one of my favorite singles since "DO THE MOTION!" Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Hitori Asobi (Japan Version)
Hitori Asobi (Japan Version)
(5)Our Price: US$34.25Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:December 27, 2005 A Strong EffortShibasaki Kou's sophomore album effort is strong, but it doesn't provide the punch that "Mitsu" did. There is subtle mix-up in flavor from electronic pop-ballads, upbeat jazz ballad, big band jazz ballad to the traditional ballads we enjoyed by Shibasaki. However, her vocals don't provide the goosebump-inducing feeling that we felt in previous singles like "Tsuki no Shizuku" (Moon Dew) or "Ikutsuka no Sora" (Skies). Shibasaki Kou goes through her best on this album very quickly on sentimentally sweet or languid tracks like "Sweet Mom," "Glitter," "Awase Kagami" (Opposite Mirror/A many-angled Mirror) and "Jikkoku, Jugo-ya" (15 Jet Black Nights). Indeed, these are by the most original and intriguing tracks on this entire album. "Wakate Creator" (Young Person Creator), "Graybee," "memory pocket," "Fushizen na Kuuki to Kajitsu" (Unnatural air and fruit) all sound alike in their electronic, punk-pop infused flare. They're uninteresting and do nothing for Shibasaki's high voice which sounds as if she's simply whining. "strange space" is another unimportant song in which one wonders whether or not new musical material has been presented to the artist as she belts out high notes which almost go out of her range over cymbals, drums and a very "downtown exclusive lounge" piano. For tracks that break the mold, try the slightly rock "Nureta Hane" (Wet Feathers) in which the music is moving, but Shibasaki Kou's voice isn't; but at least it's better than the nasal, almost-Ayumi-mocking "Wakate Creator" song. If you wanted to hear something slightly new with synthesized back-ups and flat vocals over a VERY pop sound, try "Renai Kansen Keiro" (Love, Source of My Infection). Overall, this album is a hodgepodge of similarly-produced and themed songs which never break out of the mold. It's nice to listen to, but all of it can be considered just that--nice. Nothing besides "Jikkoku Jugoya" sticks with you in that fantastic Shibasaki Kou way. "Glitter" and "Sweet Mom" steal the spotlight making the rest of this album simply a buy for true fans, in my opinion. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Star (Japan Version)
November 30, 2005 Average aiko with a Bit of Something Else?!aiko has never been one to stray too far from her regular sound. "Star" is no different, however, the song starts off promising and with the typically sweet lyrics. Track two, "Chou no Hanekazari" is an upbeat aiko song that reminds you of her earlier work. It's nice, and mid-song she lifts her voice above her normal comfort level, giving a nice ringing song to this mid-tempo, soft rock love ballad. With this single aiko isn't stingy; she gives us a third track that really redeems her in my eyes. The third track, "Konpeitou" is just what I was needing from aiko--a less "been-there" and "done-that" love song that wasn't fast and "cute" but more emotional, slow and fun. This song is all of that. It picks up towards the middle like most of her songs, but it enfuses trumpets with her normal strong drum/plunky piano sound. The trumpets and whining guitar really make this light foot-tapping number worth it. Naturally, aiko's voice is as cute as ever, but it's the first time in the past TWO YEARS that I've enjoyed the instruments so much on an aiko single. She pushes the envelope with this last track, and one wishes it had been the lead single instead! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Dakishimeru (Japan Version)
Dakishimeru (Japan Version)
(36)Our Price: US$15.49Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:November 29, 2005 A Good EffortBoA has been having a lot of negatively received singles in 2005. "DO THE MOTION" was a big gamble, but in the end, it's originality and catchy jazz rhythm enthralled old fans and new alike. The problem with that, of course, was that a new problem was created: subsequent BoA singles' quality are low--and it shows. There ought to be more dialogue between SM Entertainment and Avex Japan because BoA's singles in Japan aren't as popular as they could be. Sure, the entertainment climate is changing, but there's no excuse for average pop music to be so hit and miss like this. On that note, "Dakishimeru," suffers from the same thing Hamasaki Ayumi's "Bold&Delicious/Pride" does--bad conceptualization. The video and single cover have so little to do with one another it's like they are completely different worlds. The cover suggests a ballad, and the video is hardcore, suggestive dance with a red sports car. However, the song's feel is a lot more "BoA-esque" than her previously ill-planned "Make a secret." Young BoA fans in their pre-teens will most certainly love singing this track at karaoke; it has all the elements of a great pop song for twelve year olds. Older fans will be reminiscent of some of BoA's previous singles, but be disappointed in that BoA only truly sings during her chorus. The verses are a bit fast so that they are not sung so much as spoken. Mid-song, she gives that hideous line, "I'm not a girl, but not a woman either." Who is the lyricist of this song? That is all I could ask myself. And though BoA may have exceptional Japanese skills, her accent as she says these spoken lines, "Anata wa ikinari watashi no kokoro ni hairikondekita" (You suddenly entered my heart) is horrible, and a thousand miles short of endearing! Nonetheless, the beat is very BoA, the dance moves to the music video are cute, and the second track "Before you said goodbye to me" is absolutely great. You are willing to forgive the weak moments in BoA's voice because this bigband, mid-tempo love ballad is cute. It's no show-stopper, but it's much better than "Dakishimeru" in originality and song quality. This effort is good enough to cover up that horrible mistake of a single, "Make a secret," but not quite amazing enough to make me yearn after 2006's upcoming single, "Everlasting" for fear of disappointment. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Fo(U)r (Japan Version)
November 29, 2005 A Must-Have CHEMISTRY AlbumCHEMISTRY also released "Hot Chemistry" in January 2005, but I don't think with as many commercial hits as this new album "Fo(U)r." CHEMISTRY often treads the fine line of redoing some of their more "classic" sounds, and that leads to an album that sounds good--just not fresh. That's how I mainly felt about "Hot Chemistry," but with "Fo(U)r" I do not think that'll be the case. With poppy, oddly tempoed and synthesized R&B numbers like "Densetsu no Sougen" (Legendary Meadow) in which the true vocals of CHEMISTRY absolutely shine, and the surprisingly refreshing "Grind for me" and "Here I am" in which CHEMISTRY put some funk back into their R&B. "Grind for me" may sound similar to a lot of Korean or Western R&B, but CHEMISTRY lead this song with a uniquely J-R&B feel that reminds you, actually, of Crystal Kay. Stepping up the game with a more relaxed jazz feel, there's also "Dance With Me" which features a rap from Gaku-Mc, which isn't really amazing, but pushes this regular jazz orchestra number up a notch. Just when you thought that CHEMISTRY would fall back into their typical tripe (they do, especially for numbers "believin," "almost in love," "Namida no Ato" and "Kimi ga Iru"), they give you a soulful, almost gospel-delivered love song, "for." For fans of the gorgeous "Long Long Way" single released some months ago, this album is for you--the originality of CHEMISTRY is released not only on "Long Long Way" but on so many more tracks on this CD. Get this one instead of "Hot Chemistry"--it's a must-have! (On a personal note, I would've preferred the rap on "Grind For Me" to make it a little bit rougher than its current sweetness--something by Verbal or MUMMY-D would've been cool) Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
White Light / Violet Sauce (Japan Version)
White Light / Violet Sauce (Japan Version)
(12)Our Price: US$13.49Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:November 29, 2005 White Light Shines!After pulling off an amazingly hot, upbeat and memorable album, "Queen of Hip-Pop," Amuro Namie has returned with a winter ballad that is sure to be as touching as last year's lovely, "ALL FOR YOU." Namie has always had a talent for ballads, in my opinion, and she showcases that talent excellently with this release. "White Light" mixes in Namie's love for R&B with her voice, but stays true to a Japanese POP feel with the rhythm throughout. The lyrics are an adorable love song for Christmas, and the beat is steady but lulling as well. When the lyrics speed up occasionally towards the end of a chorus, the song shows its originality. Turning away from that soft, pristine image of a girl promising her love under the white light of Christmas, "Violet Sauce" comes bumping out. "Violet Sauce" may not have an entirely original sound to it, nor is Namie's voice as strong as it could, but this songs begs to be played loudly. Sometimes I feel like as if Namie hasn't put her all into some of her R&B/Hip Hop releases. "Violet Sauce" is almost in that category, but the song is too good for that. Fortunate for this release, "White Light" is the lead single. Japanese people love their Christmas ballads more than R&B/Hip Hop in their mainstream media commercials. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Bold&Delicious/Pride (SINGLE+DVD)(Japan Version)
Bold&Delicious/Pride (SINGLE+DVD)(Japan Version) DVD Region 2
(16)Our Price: US$24.49Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:3 people found the following helpful
November 29, 2005 Good--but not AmazingHamasaki Ayumi has hit her fan audience back-to-back singles this year that either really appealing in originality ("STEP you/is this LOVE?") or the same original fodder ("fairyland" and "HEAVEN"). This following single "Bold&Delicious/Pride" doesn't really lend to either of those categories. Ayu's voice is infused with the power of a gospel choir for the chorus of "Bold&Delicious" in which she sings, "Get a little bit more free!", but still falls short of being mesmerizingly strong because the verses lack a certain umph that an R&B/Pop number like this require. A few bars sound as if she's trying to impersonate a man singing her song, the others are musically "just ok" and not much else. The rhthym is reminiscent of Japanese rock from the 1980s and American R&B/Pop hits from the 1990s. This single might be as controversial as her "STEP you" single, but certainly not as endearing. The music video is also a let-down because it's simply Ayu on the back of a video truck taking very "college filmmaker"-esque video shots and cues. She's dressed gorgeously in a cute, pink chiffon dress with a lovely neutral fur coat; her hair is dark and luxuriously curly. But the video begs for more ingenuity. The cover to this single is misleading, and the DVD's music video concept is a completely different one from the single cover art. I wish the video had been more like the single cover art, actually. "Pride" is an all right single, it's very Ayumi-ish, if anything. It's a strong song with a medium tempo, strong drum and rock feeling without ever going fast. It could, at best, be called a rock ballad. There is little creativity besides occasional moments when the guitar and back-up choir add flavor to this song. Fans of all the "MY STORY" album's rock-infused songs might like this slower rock ballad. Overall, the theme for "Bold&Delicious/Pride" seems to be strength and choir vocals. I must say that I enjoyed Ayumi without the latter... Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Two As One (Japan Version)
1 people found the following helpful
October 7, 2005 Even with Two as One...a bit disappointingI usually like a lot of stuff Crystal Kay puts out, even if it is typical JPOP banter...but this is just boring. You get caught up in Chemistry and Crystal Kay's names, but then you realize that the vocals aren't anything amazing. What makes it worse is that the background music is SO hackneyed and played-out that it makes it harder to differentiate from anything that's come out before.
I will give it to them that they tried to add more 'soul' to it than some of her recent singles (especially "Koi ni Ochitara")...but I think it fell short.
Namida ga afuretemo is better (The 2nd track), but her voice seems a little weak and too high. Or maybe that's just how CK sings, and I'm just now realizing it. It'd be nicer, I think, if MISIA had sung these two songs...Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Go ! Younha (Japan Version)
3 people found the following helpful
October 7, 2005 An Excellent Debut Album!Yunna both stuns me and makes me think, "Well, of course it's this good!" when I hear this well-made album. The upbeat ballads, funky remake songs, adorable rhythms, and overall spunk put into this album make it not only a perfect debut album, but good competition for other top female Soft Pop/Pop Rock artists out in Japan (aiko, Ueto Aya, Okuda Miwako, Nakanomori BAND, Sonin, etc.). What makes Yunna so amazing is that her vocals are uncomparable with anyone in her age group or genre! While Nakashima Mika is a POWERHOUSE of vocals in Jazz and Ballads, Yunna is a POWERHOUSE of vocals in Pop/Pop Rock. If you enjoy Ueto Aya's rhythms, but not the weak vocals, then Yunna is for you. If you dig Nakanomori BAND, you'll definitely dig Yunna. Every single song on this album has its merits--that's why nearly HALF OF THIS ALBUM was able to do so well as singles alone! Her famous "Yubikiri" in this Japanese version that appeared originally in the great drama, "Tokyo Wankei," is as touching as ever both lyrically and vocally. Instrumentally, "02. Motto futari de" is not only as cute as any aiko song out there, too--but with Yunna's special touch. With rockout tracks like "06. Himawari", "09. Ashita, Tenki ni naare" and "03. Orange no Hatsukoi", Yunna could very well be a mix of Canadian Avril Lavigne, American Kelly Clarkson, Chinese Stefanie Sun, and Japanese aiko. This album has everything, even a bit of soul on track 11, "Negai wa Hitotsu"!!! Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
Futari (Japan Version)
September 24, 2005 Beautiful Voice, Beautiful AlbumOkuda Miwako's "Futari" (Two of Us/Couple) album is a beautiful journey through her rock ballads and strong vocals. I had been anticipating this album since I heard her theme song for the TV Drama, Yankee Bokou ni Kaeru which was "01. Aozora no Hate." With a hearty voice and rock mentality, alternative pop music makes it debut with Okuda Miwako. Tracks that fall under this category are, "01. Aozora no Hate" (her first leading single), "02. Mugon", "04. Ame to Yume no Ato ni" (Theme song for the drama after the same title, which was perfect, seeing as the lyrics are eerily accurate "I know you will be waiting for me, even if you're not here." As in the drama, Ame's father has died but returns to be with her) and "10. Sakura Chiru Mae ni." She even has her moments of hard, hard rock for tracks like "06. Yume" and "07. Kanashimi ni Oborete" in which she could very well be the female B'z! If you like ONITSUKA Chihiro, you might like OKUDA Miwako! But Okuda doesn't just end with a rock feeling, she shows her raw emotion and talent on the new age jazzy "03. Ame no Oto," and "05. Nichiyoubi no Asa" in which she croons over stringy guitars, "I can never talk with again, never walk hand in hand with you again..." accompanied by a sole violin and what sound to be a set of two small leather drums. Even more depressing and heart-wrenching is "09. Zetsubou no Hate," a piano-accompanied and extremely toned down version of "Aozora no Hate." As if all the energy, anger, and enjoyment have left her voice and soul, Okuda Miwako sings "Zetsubou no Hate" as if she is a different person entirely. It's enough to bring you to tears listening to her as she cries/sings the lyrics. The lyrics may be the same, but the demeanor is so drastically different--it's commendable work.
"11. Buranko ni Yurete" is a cute acoustic song that reminds you of what American Jewel was originally like. In the end, track 12, "Futari," after which the CD has been entitled is a symphonic, fairy-like, rising ballad which is as sweet as Hamasaki Ayumi's "MY STORY Classical" interludes, and as vocally enjoyable as Nakashima Mika's ballads.
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Be My Last (CD+DVD)(Japan Version)
Be My Last (CD+DVD)(Japan Version) DVD Region 2
(25)Our Price: US$17.75Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:4 people found the following helpful
September 24, 2005 Utada Delivers--but not muchFinally Utada Hikaru fans can rejoice! Utada Hikaru has come back with another single this Fall. But if you didn't like "Dareka no Negai ga Kanau Koro" (When Someone's Wish is Granted) or "COLORS," chances are you will not like this breathy, weak, and extremely depressing new single, entitled almost ominously, "Be My Last." Hikaru's voice is not only weak and terribly breathy, she sounds as if she really, truly, and honestly does not want to sing. Despite this, there are parts where she simply "harmonizes" out some hums which sound nice. The music video is entirely too depressing, and Hikaru plays an angel-like being who watches over a struggling, arguing--but still in love--couple. In the end, Hikaru gets hit by a car and the ambulance comes to get her as she dies. Perhaps this is what Hikaru wants her career to look like. In love, beautiful, almost perfect. But with conflict. And in the end, an inevitable, quick, pointless death? Though, it ("Be My Last") is notably better than her entire "EXODUS" album, I wish Hikki would at least try to put some effort into her final contracted singles. There is only ONE TRACK on this pathetic release. Diehard Hikki fans should get this; the rest of us might want to wait for her Winter 2005 album to drop. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This) -
fairyland (CD+DVD)(Japan Version)
fairyland (CD+DVD)(Japan Version) DVD Region 2
(68)Our Price: US$23.25Usually ships within 7 daysRelated promotions:1 people found the following helpful
August 5, 2005 Summer Ayumi!Having become a Hamasaki Ayumi fan over a period of about five years now, I've sadly come to realize that Ayumi's work for the past 3 has been on a serious decline in originality. The techno-but-ballad-savvy Ayu seems to be disappearing with the more techno-pop ballads she releases. If you aren't listening to the lyrics, the songs eventually start to blur. "fairyland" is going to take a while to grow on me because it reminds me of too many of her previous upbeat singles in sound, and the lyrics are boring. But so far as the second new track, "alterna," this is TRULY a new amazing song for Ayumi! Picking up where her "MY NAME" album left off with the heavy rock feeling and a 'You think you know me, but you really don't know me at all' attitude, this moderately paced rock ballad mixes all of Ayumi's vocal best with sharp lyrics, impressive electric guitar, and an even more impressive overall arrangement. As the song reaches its climax, the violins and the computer "far-away" effect on Ayu's voice are exceptional. The video is cliche rock stuff, but is appropriate to show you what she is singing about if you do not understand Japanese. If you loved "STEP you" before, then this remix will make you love it even more! The reggae edge that has been fused with "STEP you" is not only perfect, it's shockingly adorable with Ayumi's original vocals! I don't normally dance to Ayumi's music, but this might be my one exception! It's the perfect summer release. The "fairyland" mix is average Ayumi material, but incorporates a bit more House and the usual Techno. Hamasaki Ayumi fans can rejoice that Ayu has returned, and newcomers can enjoy this well-balanced single. Did you find this review helpful? Yes (Report This)
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