RAINBOW (Japan Version)

Ayumi Hamasaki is less a singer/songwriter than a full-fledged pop culture avatar. And if one accepts this premise, as I do, reviewing an Ayumi Hamasaki album without looking at her in this light fails to address the big picture. Much like Madonna, Hamasaki signifies something more culturally significant than her peers in the entertainment world, with her music being only part of the package. She has said that she is happy to be viewed as a consumer product, but she also realizes that she is an inspiration and role model for millions of fans throughout Japan and Asia. With her music accounting for around 50% of her label's total sales, and legions of fans hanging on to her every word, Hamasaki is saddled with a tremendous responsibility. She has more than fulfilled this responsibility, giving Japan something that few other people can offer. Ayumi Hamasaki has become a purveyor of dreams.

With recurring themes of freedom, peace, self-belief, and the search for a better life, Ayu's timing couldn't be better. In a country bogged down by 12 years of recession, high unemployment, and an unshakeable general malaise, Hamasaki's music provides solace to a generation that doesn't feel the future holds much for them. The record kicks off with a short, dreamy track in which Ayu delivers the promise "I'm giving it to you / This box of dreams / Everlasting dreams / Everlasting dreams." Strong medicine indeed. The song segues into the second cut, a long, pulsing dance track entitled "We WISH" fueled by equal doses of synthesizer and electric guitar. The upbeat vibe continues on "Real Me," with the pace slowing back down on tracks 4, 5, 6, and 7. Track 7 in particular, the subdued "HANABI," showcases Hamasaki's blossoming composing skills (under her nom de plume CREA), with a key change adding an interesting twist to the subtly hip-hop influenced music. Other standout tracks include the upbeat "everywhere nowhere," the rocking closer "independent," and the beautiful "July 1st," which ping-pongs back and forth between acoustic guitar and a synthesized dance beat underlying a beautiful vocal melody.

Overall, the music and lyrics on "Rainbow" are up the the high standards Hamasaki has set for herself. Undoubtedly, fans will buy this record and will not be disappointed. Additionally, it will serve as an effective introduction for those who have not heard her yet. At the end of the day, however, Hamasaki will not be judged for the music on this or any other album. Rather, she will be remembered as one of those rare artists able to appeal to people at a deeper, more visceral level. An integral thread in the cultural fabric. Let's hope she keeps it up. Japan needs her.

Reviewed by BH