Morning Musume – Brainstorming/Kimi Sae Iraba Nani mo Iranai April 18, 2013

Track Listing

1. Brainstorming
2. Kimi Sae Ireba Nani mo Iranai
3. A B C D E-cha E-cha Shitai (Limited A, B, C, and Regular B only)
4. Tokimeku Tokimeke (Limited D only)
5. Itsumo to Onnaji Seifuku de (Limited E only)
6. Rock no Teigi (Regular A only)
7. Brainstorming (Instrumental)
8. Kimi Sae Ireba Nani no Iranai (Instrumental)

1. Brainstorming

So I’m so amazingly surprised with the first A-side of the single, Brainstorming.  It’s like Tsunku took what he did the last couple of singles and meshed them altogether and this came off with an extra sprinkling of badass lol.  Just like all the singles from “One Two Three/The Matenrou Show” to now, it’s an electro fest but this song has a some electric guitars in the background giving it that special kick.  The members seem to stand out more, especially Masaki, Haruna, and Ayumi as they all have some lengthy solo lines, but everyone else gets the same treatment as they did in “Help me!!”.  There’s just something about this song that just makes Tsunku’s saturation of electropop seem so perfect!!!  Yeah, one of my favorites so far this year!

2. Kimi Sae Ireba Nani mo Iranai

Moving to the other A-side of the single, Kimi Sae Ireba Nani mo Iranai is more of the electroness that Tsunku’s been drawn to but this song is a bit more strange for me.  I mean the different ideas aren’t as bizarre like in “Brainstorming” but there is just something about the song that seems a bit more leaning towards the Platinum era songs.  Add in Tsunku’s ~2000 people on the dancefloor~ and I’m just a little bit weirded out haha.  Though Ayumi gets a nice lengthy part while everyone just kind of lays back here.  Not bad of a song, but after “Brainstorming”, this is a bit disappointing.

3. A B C D E-cha E-cha Shitai

The B-side sung by all the members is even more electro goodness, actually a bit more trance in certain areas.  I really liked the song because it has a lot of interesting solo lines but there’s a lot of staccato lines in the song and repetition, but it sort of works given the situation.  It’s a really catchy song and surprisingly one of the better B-sides the group’s done!

4. Tokimeku Tokimeke

The other B-sides are split into groups this time being youngest to eldest and that sort of thing.  First up is the older girls which are: Sayu, Eripon, Fukuchan, Ayumi, and Harunan.  Their song is also in the veins of the other synth-heavy tracks and of course Tokimeku Tokimeke is pretty good.  Add in the voices that mostly are kind of in the range of good to meh, plus most of the voices are under some auto-tune soooo.  It does remind me a bit of “A B C D E-cha E-cha Shitai” because of the synths found in, but this has a bit more filling!  It’s a pretty cool song as well!  Definitely the better of the two split tracks!

5. Itsumo to Onnaji Seifuku de

The remaining girls, Riho, Zukki, Sakura, Maachan, and Kuduu get the other song and it’s a song that doesn’t sound like it fits the single because it doesn’t have anything to do with electronics much.  It’s kind of like “Seishun Domannaka” but not as peppy.  I mean with Masaki and Haruka getting most of the lines that’s good…but this song just doesn’t fit on this single period!  Sore thumb of a song!

6. Rock no Teigi

You might be wondering, what about Reina?  She’s a part of this group right?  Yes, as this is her final single Tsunku gave her an original song as her graduating present (because they were dumb enough to not give Aika or Gaki their own song).  Even though the song has the work rock in it, it’s not really one but more of a synthed up track (sort of like “Brainstorming”).  I had no problems because the song is energetic and has power unlike Ai-chan’s solo track >.>.  It’s quite a cool track to go out with and Reina sounds great in the song.  Definitely a fitting track to say goodbye with!

As this is Momosu’s 3rd single (and possibly the last before an album), Brainstorming/Kimi Sae Ireba Nani mo Iranai is definitely the best the era had to offer.  I mean the leading tracks were both pretty good, but Brainstorming was SOOOOO good and surpassed both “Wakuteka Take a chance” and “Help me!!” by a huge amount.  Kimi Sae Ireba I would say is a moderately good A-side as well kind next to the previous tracks.  As for the B-sides, they’re all good except Itsumo to Onnaji Seifuku de where it just felt out of place for the single.  I can’t wait to see what’s on board next for the group ESPECIALLY since Reina is leaving after this single (makes me thing Riho and Sakura are gonna take charge).

Morning Musume – Help me!! January 25, 2013

Track Listing

1. Help me!!
2. Daisuki Dakara Zettai ni Yurusanai (Regular A only)
3. Happy Daisakusen (Limited A, B, C, and Regular B only)
4. Aishuu Romantic (Limited D only)
5. Watashi no Dekkai Hana (Limited E only)
6. Nani wa Tomo Are! (Limited F only)
7. Help me!! (Instrumental)

1. Help me!!

So we kick things off with the A-side and just like the last three singles, we return to robo-musume land with Help me!! (which isn’t a call out to “Resonant Blue” mind you!).  I have to say, Tsunku seemed to have found his niche for the time being because with each electro track he pulls out, they get better and better.  This song is also significant because it’s the first time we hear Sakura Oda and she actually kind of got the Aika treatment for her debut (has two lengthy parts to herself and she sounds great!).  Though it seems like this song sounds like three/four seperate ideas clashing because the verses, Sakura’s solos and Reina/Riho slow parts, the bridge, and the chorus don’t really seem to connect very much, but the song is still pretty damn sweet otherwise.  Great way to kick the year off for Momusu!

2. Daisuki Dakara Zettai ni Yurusanai

I had to review this because it’s Reg A only and that comes first for me.  This song is a duet between Riho and Sakura and they were given a pretty cool track (even though it’s less busy than “Help me!!”.  As I listen to the song, it’s quite obviously that this pairing wasn’t as thought out as good as like Peaberry or W or even Sayu/Mizupon.  Their vocals do give a really interesting melodic tone, but Riho is kind of overpowering Sakura but that’s to be expected (maybe?).  Though they both sound great in the song and even though the song could have a little more going on…it’s not bad…but eh XD

3. Happy Daisakusen

The actual B-side that features all the members, Happy Daisakusen is a major improvement over their last full B-side, “Love Innovation” by a long shot!  It’s a bit cute and they have a similar tone as their older B-sides which is a nice return to the past.  I also find myself liking the line distribution because once again they go by longevity so it’s Rokkies>Kyuukies>Jyuukies>Sakura (then vice-versa for the second verse).  It’s such an uplifting tune and a breeze to listen to!

4. Aishuu Romantic

Moving onto the rest of the split groups of the single, Aishuu Romantic brings the return of Mizuki and Sayu together again and just like their last track, “Suki da na Kimi ga”, it’s more of Sayumi because I hear her more than Mizuki once again, but they do make a great pair because their cute sound is a little more techno-pop and nothing’s wrong with Sayu being robotic again.  Even though it doesn’t hold a candle to their first song together, but this is pretty solid!

5. Watashi no Dekkai Hana

Our next pairing is oddly chosen Reina, Haruna, and Ayumi for Watashi no Dekkai Hana!  I was pleasantly surprised with this selection because we get a little more going on with two of the more quieter members.  Haruna still can’t really sing well and it clashes with poor Reina who sounds pretty damn good!  What surprised me the most is Ayumi is actually doing the rapping in the song and I’m so happy they found a new rapper because I was curious after Gaki and Aika graduated that they needed to find something like them.  (Plus it gives a chance for Captain and Ayumin to do something together?).  Like the Riho/Sakura track, it needed a bit more life but this is good overall.

6. Nani wa Tomo Are!

The remaining members: Kanon, Erina, Masaki, and Haruka get the last track.  I feel like this group of four is kind of strange grouping because Erina/Masaki are high pitched girls while Kanon and Haruka has the deeper vocals of the spectrum.  Suffice to say, the song is kind of OK…but they could’ve been handed something a little less cheap sounding.  I still think Kanon and Haruka did the best but the other two actually kept up xD.  Mehhh, it’ll have to grow on me lol.

 

 

So was Sakura’s debut single good?  I have to say that this was a step up after “Wakuteka Take a chance” because the B-sides are all-around stronger and plus I didn’t get grossed out by any of the member (looking at you Riho).  Help me!! is badass enough as it is so it’s obvious it was going to be the best track off the single.  Of the B-sides, I liked Happy Daisakusen and Aishuu Romantic the most followed by Daisuki Dakara and Watashi no Dekkai Hana with Nani wa Tomo Are! at the back of the pack.  As it’s the second single of the current era and the next single is Reina’s last…I’m curious to what Tsunku has in store for the girls!

Morning Musume – Wakuteka Take a chance October 10, 2012

Track Listing

1. Wakuteka Take a chance
2. Love Innovation (Regular only)
3. Fuutsu no Shoujo A (Limited A & B only)
4. Daisuki 100 Manten (Limited C & D only)
5. Shinnen Dake wa Tsuranikitoose! (Limited E & F only)
6. Wakuteka Take a chance (Instrumental)

1. Wakuteka Take a chance

Why not?  Robo-musume did great with the last A-side and now we see it again for our A-side here.  Luckily, unlike “One・Two・Three” the line distribution is a tad better with the new members getting longer lines.  It’s still mostly Reina and Riho which I’m used to at this point.  As for the arrangement it does kind of follow the same path the last A-side went which is a little weird to me, but if it worked the first time, why change a good thing.  The only thing I can say negatively about is the auto-tuning here.  It’s heavier here and I’m starting to find myself mixing up vocals (I hope this ends soon because while I like Robo-musume, I would love to go back into natural voice (even if the girls are not vocally stable).  Still, I really enjoyed this song otherwise (especially that intro….ffff so cool!).

2. Love Innovation

As the true B-side of the single (as in all members are present), Love Innovation is kind of a nostalgic trip back to the earlier days of Momusu.  When I saw the title, I kind of thought it’d be a  retread of “LOVE Machine” but I was WAY off on that one.  Sadly, the song is kind of plain and boring to me.  There’s just not enough oomph to really make it pop out…oh well.

3. Fuutsu no Shoujo A

So unlike the last single where three of the songs were split between the Generations, this single has three random shuffle units.  Fuutsu no Shoujo A has Reina, Masaki, and Haruka and good lord is this good.  I wasn’t expecting a darker (almost ALI PROJECT-esque arrangement here).  I was surprised because all three gave a pretty awesome performance though most of the positives comes from young Haruka who seriously at a couple points sounded like Miki 0.o  I just love how unique this song is and how it suited all three gals.  It is my favorite of the three.

4. Daisuki 100 Manten

Our next track has only Mizuki and Ayumi singing and it kind of seems weird to give both these members such a synthy cute song.  Granted, Mizuki has done stuff like this before (Shugo Chara Egg! anyone?).  This song suits her easily because she’s done it before.  Ayumi though sounds like she’s getting better at singing since she isn’t as abrasive and loud like she was in “Seishun do Mannaka”.  The song doesn’t really resonate for me much (but it is MUCH better than “Love Innovation”).  Not bad, but not strong.

5. Shinnen Dake wa Tsuranikitoose!

So the final song on the single leaves us with Riho, Sayu, Erina, Kanon, and Haruna and it really perplexed me that the weakest singers (sans Riho and Kanon) are a part of this (honestly Sayu could’ve fit in “Daisuki 100 Manten”).  Then I start the song and Haruna opens up and I’m already getting some strange dejavu since it reminds me of “Yuujou ~Kokoro no Busu ni wa Naranee!~.  However the song is really poppy and cute which is amping up the nature of poor vocals here.  Like Kanon sounds the best here (yeah, Riho sounds BAAAAD in this song),  Even Sayu’s weak voice sticks out like a sore thumb while Erina and Haruna sounds the same they have been.  This song just got under my skin and I couldn’t take much more.

 

 

Wow, with how much I enjoyed the last single, the shock of this single actually being poor is just outright scary.  I mean Wakuteka Take a chance and Fuutsu no Shoujo A are really good songs…one being more awesome robo-musume and the latter being this goth track for 3 strong vocalists (Masaki is more stronger if she sung lower).  Even Daisuki 100 Manten can be good in spurts.  HOWEVER, they really dropped the ball on the other two tracks.  After all the great B-sides the group has been producing…Love Innovation is really bad and needed a boost of speed to even make it relevent IMO….and Shinnen Dake wa Tsuranikitoose! was just a trainwreck for the poor vocalists (and to say this is the worst I’ve heard Riho YET!)…..Hopefully Sakura Oda can turn this group around and bring back some sanity here!

Morning Musume – ⑬ Colorful Character September 13, 2012

Track Listing

1. One・Two・Three
2. What’s Up? Ai wa Dou na no yo~
3. Be Alive
4. Lalala no Pipipi
5. Dokka~n Cappricio
6. The Matenrou Show
7. Zero Kara Hajimaru Seishun
8. Ren’ai Hunter
9. Chikyuu ga Naiteiru
10. Namida Hitoshizuku
11. Waratte! YOU
12. Pyocopyoco Ultra

1. One・Two・Three

I think it was a smart decision to let Momusu actually kick things off with the single that bossted them back into popularity in a big way!  One・Two・Three is still an amazing song to listen to and just has all the elements that I was wanting (well maybe not so much on the line distribution).  I love how electronic it can get and hearing Reina and Riho (and Sayu) sing the song gives off a cool vibe.  It still is a shame that anyone besides those three are left with one syllable for the most part…but Ayumi and Masaki stepped out oddly enough ^^.  SOOOOOOO good of a song!  Definitely deserved the sales it got!

2. What’s Up? Ai wa Dou na no yo~

The first new song on the album and first track that we got a preview from, What’s Up? could’ve also begun the album as well because it such a strong intro vibe to me.  I’m loving the fact that I hear Sayu and Mizuki actually come out to the front alongside Reina and Riho who are oddly enough rapping in the song as well.  I feel like it’s refreshing for some reason.  The biggest surprise though is in the last chorus where I hear Masaki sing….dang…she ‘s standing out quite a bit!  I really enjoyed this song a LOT and that’s a surprise to me!

3. Be Alive

Our next track was also previewed earlier since it’s used in the 11th Gen Auditions as the vocal test (while “What’s Up?” is the dance test).  At first the song didn’t really stand out because it started like a ballad and with just Reina and Riho singing it was starting to rattle me out.  Once the chorus comes in, the tune basically turns into “Seishun Collection” 2 because of the similar structure and feel.  It’s all right, but nothing I’d really return to.

4. Lalala no Pipipi

So come to find out, the Rokkies get solo tracks on the album!  Sayu’s is first and of course it’s a lot like “Suki da na Kimi ga” in which it’s electro and sugary cute (and that title really screams Koharu for some reason) *shudders*.  For me I don’t find myself getting into this one like I did with Sayu’s last robo-musume song and I don’t know why…maybe there isn’t much of a hook for me to grab on, but for now this is ok at best.

5. Dokka~n Cappricio

I guess we needed our “OK YEAH!” on the album and we get it pretty early with Dokka~n Cappricio and the energy is pretty much off the wall.  I am curious as to what the lyrics all mean because I hear a lot of ~sexy~ being thrown around.  No, this isn’t Ayamen Japan but this is still pretty feisty.  I’m not sure of who’s singing what but I hear so much Reina in the song for some reason.  Also, it’s the shortest song (a little over 3 minutes).  I also don’t find this song very memorable but it’s there.

6. The Matenrou Show

Oh lord, the mysterious A-side that didn’t get a true PV…or did it?  The song has slightly grown on me after the single was released, but I still feel sorry for the girls that aren’t Riho and Reina because the 8 members get SHAFTED so harshly in this song.  I have to say that Riho’s performance was shaky and I just wished someone else took over her lines.  That is until recently when a short clip of Gaki was singing Riho’s lines (Pachinko tie-in and the fact that the 9th and 10th gen are too young too participate) I really want to hear the Gaki/Sayu/Reina version of this.  The arrangement as I’ve said before sounds a lot like other H!P songs (mostly “Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku”) but I have grown to somewhat enjoy it.  Still my least favorite of the A-sides released for the album.

7. Zero Kara Hajimaru Seishun

After “The Matenrou Show” it’s just strange to come into song.  Add in that I’m shocked to hear Masaki sing first and then Sayu to come after…I wasn’t expecting that at ALL!  It kind of acts as the cute song of the album (even though Seishun do Mannaka” does more for that style.  Then again I think everyone gets lines in some fashion so that’s pretty good to hear, but the song is a slow burner for me.  I’m pretty sure this will grow, but as it stands right now…it’s a little forgettable.

8. Ren’ai Hunter

Here we are at Ren’ai Hunter which as we all remember is Gaki and Aika’s final single and also the change from whatever happened on “Pyocopyoco Ultra” to this song that taps into dance, electro, and a little of dubstep.  I still love the hell out of this song as well almost bypassing “One・Two・Three” and that’s simply because Gaki is there to kick ass!  However, there aren’t solos for any of the girls who aren’t Reina, Sayu, Gaki, and Riho (not even Aika gets a line…).  I still love the hell out of the song and even the dance is charming if not the oddest they’ve ever done lol.

9. Chikyuu ga Naiteiru

Hey guitars! Where have you been all album?  It still has a dance feel to it, but the guitarwork is a nice addition to the song.  It’s kind of like their take on “Dance de Bakoon!” but still having its own identity.  I will say that I hear a lot of Reina again which isn’t really my interest but I will say she sounds different and I’m liking what I hear from her (and with this song I have a little more interest in this rock band Reina is starting).  Plus I’m hearing a little of “What’s Up?” in the area before the final chorus…hm?  Oh and could that chorus be any more dead vocally?  Liven things up ladies!

10. Namida Hitoshizuku

So Reina gets another solo and it’s another ballad it seems which is pretty much a no-go for me but once again…she’s showing improvement over “Ai no Honoo” which is good but the song she was given is kind of bland unlike her last solo.  So it’s like a win/lose situation in a way.  Leave this for Takitty to pull!

11. Waratte! YOU

The final new track is a song left for the 9th/10th gen to deal with and it kind of has a disco vibe, but not at the levels of “The Matenrou Show”.  I’m pretty impressed with the song because it seriously showed the possibilities we can have with the new members (sans Riho).  I actually liked that Tsunku gave them a rather difficult song to sing and they all did pretty well (honestly, I didn’t even hear Haruna though I’m sure she’s in there).  My favorite of the split songs.

12. Pyocopyoco Ultra

Ever since “Platinum 9 DISC” they’ve always ended with the first A-side that started the era out (10 MY ME did end with a different song but that was a pre-existing track and the tune before it was “Shouganai Yume Oibito”).  HOWEVER, I could not fathom why this song had to end the album…it just feels weird and it doesn’t make sense.  What’s even worse is that it wouldn’t fit ANYWHERE else besides the end which is sad.  I do like the song nowadays (if I don’t imagine that BADDDDD PV it got) and I find myself humming the song quite a lot.  This is also the last time you really hear Aika with a solo so take that in mind too.  The song is cute and fun, but weird as the final track.

Tracks Recommended

• Ren’ai Hunter
• One・Two・Three
• What’s Up? Ai wa Dou na no yo~
• Waratte! YOU
• Chikyuu ga Naiteiru

Song of Avoidance

• Namida Hitoshizuku

Morning Musume has definitely changed their sound since “12, Smart”.  I mean Takitty and Gaki left who were their powerhouse vocalists and even Aika too had moments before she left as well.  Now we’re left with the Rokkies and the newbies (and soon the 11th generation).  I would consider this to be the converting album because now they kind of have to get used to these new members and with Reina to be the true powerhouse vocalist she’s left to carry the group on her shoulders.  While this album was all right, it’s definitely a step down from their last, but I’m sure once things get going for the new members, it’ll be back to awesomeness ^_^

Morning Musume – One・Two・Three/The Matenrou Show July 4, 2012

Track Listing

1. One・Two・Three
2. The Matenrou Show
3. Watashi no Jidai! (Limited A & B only)
4. Aisaretai no ni… (Limited C & D only)
5. Seishundo Mannaka (Limited E & F only)
6. One・Two・Three (Instrumental)
7. The Matenrou Show (Instrumental)

1. One・Two・Three

Well what’s there to say about Momusu’s lead A-side that hasn’t been said already from various bloggers round the web?  I like that it was very K-pop friendly to the ears and there’s a good meaning behind basically (don’t bother giving me material things for my affection, just act the way you are).  Now I wasn’t all too impressed by the group’s line distribution, which relegated to just Reina and Riho for the most part while most of the members had short lines (some like Kanon, Haruka, Haruna, and Erina got shafted to just background and one syllable lines.  Add that the song was drenched in auto-tune and you end up with this but I’m not disappointed because this song is really good and prolly the best since the 10th Gen joined.

2. The Matenrou Show

The other A-side (which currently still is unknown if it’ll get a true PV) is unfortunately not as well received like the other A-side.  The good thing is that the auto-tune leaves the building and such.  Then it turns out this is even MORE of a Reina/Riho assault with little input from the other members.  Add in that this song sounds like “Shining Power”, “Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku”, and “Kono Chikyuu no Heiwa wo Honki de Negatterun da yo!” all mashed together and ended up with this and I wasn’t too thrilled with that.  Prolly my least favorite of the A-sides in this era, (Yeah, “Pyocopyoco Ultra” did grow on me).

3. Watashi no Jidai!

The rest of the single splits into three so two singles have a different tracklist.  The first song is sung by the remaining Rokkies in Reina and Sayu and they kind of got a sung that’s quick-paced and synth based.  Now Sayu isn’t auto-tuned which is an interesting decision on Tsunku’s part.  She still can’t really sing but she sings nicely behind Reina’s vocals giving a nice melodic tone.  It sounds like it could be a Petitmoni song for some reason but I liked it for some reason…fast and fun to hear.

4. Aisaretai no ni…

Then we get into Aisaretai no ni… which is sung by the Kyuukies: Kanon, Erina, Riho, and Mizuki.  For all the fans that have been thinking the new girls weren’t getting enough attention, here’s your chance to hear them altogether.  I have to say I really like them all in this song and oddly enough I hear a LOT of Kanon in this song (even moreso than Riho).  As for the song it’s designed as a cool song for the quartet and it works…doesn’t come off as powerful like “Ren’ai Hunter” but it’s memorable!

5. Seishundo Mannaka

Then we hit the Jyuukie: Haruna, Ayumi, Masaki, and Haruka’s song with Seishundo Mannaka which fits to the theme of youthful and it does come off that way.  It’s almost like “Ganbacchae!” meets “HEY! Mirai” but that’s kind of good because Ayumi and Masaki fit this sooooo well.  Haruna is clearly the weak link of Momosu but I’m sure she’ll pick up soon.  As for Haruka?  Her husky voice doesn’t seem to really fit for some reason and sounds a bit like S/mileage’s Akari Takeuchi’s vocals.  Overall it’s pretty nice and summery and I liked that…

 

 

Here we are at Momosu’s 50th single and last for the “13 Coloful Character” era.  One Two Three /The Matenrou Show does have a lot (actually the most of the Momusu singles out there) but they seem to wane a little on the single.  One Two Three, Seishundo Mannaka, and Aisaretai no ni… were the good songs.  The lead A-side was powerful and dramatic and just overall really cool!  Seishundo Mannaka is really the first time we get to hear the Jyuukies totally rule lines and it was a good tune.  Same for Aisaretai no ni…but I loved the arrangement a lot…(plus a lot of Kanon!).  Watashi no Jidai! is OK and I do like the arrangement…but Sayu/Reina doesn’t excite me much.  The Matenrou Show is just kind of there…it’s just too similar to other songs in the past where I just kind of forget it…I guess they’re doing well for themselves without Gaki and Aika.

Morning Musume – Ren’ai Hunter April 10, 2012

Track Listing

1. Ren’ai Hunter
2. Watashi ga Ite Kimi ga Iru
3. Egao ni Namida ~THANK YOU! MY DEAR FRIENDS~ (Risa Niigaki Commerative Edition only)
4. Ren’ai Hunter (Instrumental)

1. Ren’ai Hunter

Oh Tsunku, it seems you have finally (sorta) caught with the times I guess.  What I mean is that Ren’ai Hunter has a little bit of dubstep in the music…not much but it’s definitely noticeable right from the start.  At least it’s as tasteful as it can get because I thought the rest of the song was pretty damn good!  I mean the line distribution is really only Reina, Gaki, Sayu, and Riho for all it’s worth, but they all sound really nice (sans Sayu since her auto-tuned line doesn’t count).  It’s got punch and makes up entirely for “Pyocopyoco Ultra” for sure!  Enjoyed this and sad that it’s Gaki’s and Mittsi’s final A-side T.T

2. Watashi ga Ite Kimi ga Iru

The B-side though sounds familiar to me like it sounds something more for Berryz Koubou or something.  It is a bit more youthful and cute which is a surprise for me and all of the members get lines once again like “Kanashimi Koi no Melody”.  I do like that but Reina seems to continue to power through the song for the most part.  I actually don’t find this song too special IMO and that guitar line almost sounds like a rip of “Jishin Motte Yume wo Motte Tobidatsu Kara”.  Prolly the weakest B-side since “Yamete yo! Sinbad”.

3. Egao ni Namida ~THANK YOU! MY DEAR FRIENDS~

I would’ve been more excited about this if it wasn’t the fact that Gaki already covered this and released it as part of her “Hello Cover” digital album last year.  As this is a song Gaki loves, her version of Ayaya’s (Aya Matsuura’s) Egao ni Namida is a lot more updated and a little more upbeat which is great!  Gaki’s voice sounds really pretty and she definitely did an amazing job here.

 

 

Gaki’s (and oddly enough) Aika’s final single was definitely a big jump after the rather awkward “Pyocopyoco Ultra”.  I felt Ren’ai Hunter was a cool song and showcased Reina, Gaki, and Riho to a great extent even though the other members didn’t do much.  At least they were more important in Watashi ga Ite Kimi ga Iru but sadly the song didn’t stand out beyond that.  At least it picks up with Risa’s solo track (even though I would’ve preferred an original song) Egao ni Namida was a solid cover.  After this single we’re down to 10 members…one can wonder what’ll happen next since our powerhouse singers are gone….maybe get Kanon and Masaki singing deeper better so they can be utilized better?

Morning Musume – Pyocopyoco Ultra January 24, 2012

Track Listing

1. Pyocopyoco Ultra
2. Kanashiki Koi no Melody
3. Pyocopyoco Ultra (Instrumental)

1. Pyocopyoco Ultra

I know I haven’t stated my opinion on anything that revolved around Pyocopyoco Ultra but this is my time to talk bout it hahaha.  I’m all for rejuvenating Momosu after their rather LONG line of solidarity…but since “Maji Desu ka Ska!”, it’s been an odd line though good shift of singles.  When I saw the covers/outfits for the single I was actually shocked because I knew they were dealing with 8 young members and all…but dressing them up like poor allusions to Chocobos was a BAD decision.  Even the elder members were kind of bleh at it.  As for the song, It’s not terrible but it’s definitely their cutest song since “Hyokkori Hyoutanjima” and actually sounds more like a S/mileage tune than a Momosu one.  I will say that it’s nice to hear most of the members get a solo line or two (though Kanon and Erina got royally screwed).  It’s not their worst song but it’s definitely on the low spectrum for me…>.>

2. Kanashiki Koi no Melody

However, I’m loving the B-side of the single and I’m surprised in recent times they’ve been getting better B-sides than A-sides >.>  Even better, all the members get a solo line and it actually works because they put as groups with their respective group like Gaki, Reina, Sayu, and Aika together and the kyuukies and jyuukies.  We also get better sounds from the new members mostly and I have to say Ayumi and Haruka sound great, Masaki has good S/mileage-tinged vocals but it works oddly enough…and well Haruna needs work…in time though…As for the song it reminds me of “Heroine ni Narou ka!” but lighter I think.  Still SO MUCH BETTER THAN PPU.

 

 

I have to say I kind of wished Tsunku didn’t take the group into S/mileage mode for this single.  I mean “Kare to Issho ni Omise ga Shitai!” was one thing but it didn’t sound like their younger sister group.  Pyocopyoco Ultra is just a slam on the brakes and way too oddball for them.  Like awkward actually.  Kanashiki Koi no Melody though is the MUCH preferred song…danceable and has good vocals and equality for the most part.  Yeah this was an awesome song.  As a whole?  PPU shouldn’t have been promoted (and it’s weird being the opening theme to their math drama)…

Hello! Project Mobekimasu – Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku November 19, 2011

Track Listing

1. Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku
2. Moshimo… (Regular & Limited A only)
3. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring Morning Musume) (Limited B only)
4. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring Berryz Koubou) (Limited C only)
5. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring °C-ute) (Limited D only)
6. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring Mano Erina) (Limited E only)
7. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring S/mileage (Limited F only)
8. Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku (Instrumental)

1. Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku

It’s been a while since we’ve had a last get together with the acts of Hello! Project, of course the last was Bekimasu’s “Makeru na Wasshoi!” but officially was H.P. All Stars’ “ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR ALL”.  Of course times have changed since then and the member count is half of what it used to be.  Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku is their way of saying here’s what we have and of course this song is coming off major losses of Ai Takahashi, Saki Ogawa and to a minor degree Fuyuka Kosuga.  First, I wanna talk about the line distribution.  It’s been said many time through other blogs but I agree that it’s a little unfair since it’s really the main stars so Reina, Riho, and Risa from Momosu, Airi and Maimi from °C-ute, Risako and Miyabi from Berryz Koubou, and Yuuka from S/mileage all get important lines while everyone else just does the chorus (seriously ManoEri got shafted?!?).  The song itself is actually kind of awesome since it’s got a snappy kind of attitude for it and a little bit of English which is good too.  Oddly enough, people have compared the song to Berryz’ “Aa, Yo ga Akeru” and I can see that…but this has a little more brass? in it.  Still, I was kind of hoping for something a bit more out there to show off all the members since minus Berryz, °C-ute, Risa, Sayumi, and Reina were involved with the last “GET EVERYONE TOGETHER shpeal” which would’ve left us with Aika, 9th Gen, 10th Gen (though they didn’t participate in the studio/PV…they’ve done performances on TV promoting it), ManoEri, and S/mileage (plus the new official members, which they were sub-members when the PV was released).  Good song but doesn’t have the longevity that “ALL FOR ONE & ONE FOR ALL” did.

2. Moshimo…

The B-side that is found on two versions of the release actually only have five members participating and it’s one member of each of the five acts involved.  Means Fukuchan, Momoko, Dawa, Nakky, and ManoEri were the chosen ones for this one.  All of us should know that Momoko, Dawa, and Nakky are known for their high squeaky vocals while ManoEri has a little deeper tone but still cute in a way.  I can’t see why Fukuchan got chosen because she doesn’t seem to have a cute voice like them.  My worries happened since it is quite cute of a song…like a S/mileage album song.  I’m kind of meh towards the song since it isn’t my kind of thing but I will say that Fukuchan and ManoEri were the best between the five of them (then again I’m used to the other three as it is…)

3. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring Morning Musume)

On the remaining editions of the single (B-F) there’s another B-side but this one is different since each edition corresponds to one of the groups + soloist that’s in H!P.  The first one is from Momosu and since it’s the first time hearing Kacchoii Uta this will be where I review the song’s arrangement.  Unlike “Moshimo…’s” cuteness galore, Kacchoii Uta has a rockin’ arrangement and it has pretty awesome energy.  I loved that Risa and Riho kick things off!  Actually, every member has lines which is surprising but AWESOME nonetheless, even they have Sayu under auto-tune which isn’t present in any other version of the song.  Weird though is that I get “My Way ~Joshikou Hanamichi~” vibes from this song!

4. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring Berryz Koubou)

Well, now I can be certain that the song’s arrangement has not changed at all which is good and bad but at least we get different vocals!  I will say that Miyabi and Momoko taking first solos with everyone following is quite awesome.  I will say that the deeper vocals from Berryz’ sans Momoko is a nice change and they sound quite strong overall.  I think out of the five, this is vocally the strongest with Momosu close behind.

5. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring °C-ute)

Despite being the group with the least amount of members, °C-ute’s version is quite straightforward and would fit in their discography quite nicely.  Airi and Chisato take the first solo lines and it just goes from there.  Equality was shown throughout and I liked this from them but Momosu’s and Berryz’ were a smidge better.

6. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring Mano Erina)

Unlike the four other versions of the song, this one is slightly different since ManoEri is the only soloist in H!P so her song would be awkward for her as she really is the only one singing here (but she does have backup support but it’s unknown who that is…).  Her version is clearly the weakest of the five but it’s no surprise because the song is meant for groups.  I wouldn’t have minded if she had joined in with °C-ute since they had the least amount of members.  Oh well!

7. Kacchoii Uta (Hello! Project featuring S/mileage)

S/mileage’s closes the single out since they were the last group brought together.  Now saying that °C-ute’s version had the least amount of members is true, but S/mileages really only had Yuuka, Kanon and Dawa for the most part and that is a little sad, but the other four members at the song’s creation were still sub-members.  That being said, the cute vocals work but only to a degree and I like the groups more. 

 

 

While I liked the idea of bringing H!P together once again for a single, only three songs to me stood out the most.  Of course the lead track, Busu ni Naranai Tetsugaku was pretty impressive and shows off what the girls sound like today for the most part even though a little of the music borrows ideas from previous H!P songs.  Moshimo… was kind of a bust but it’s clearly because they brough in the squeaky cute vocalists for that and it just didn’t connect.  As for the 5 versions of Kacchoii Uta, only Momosu’s and Berryz’ were great.  The other 3 were just ok and nothing better.  I will say…I wonder how it’d sound if all 5 were played simultaneously…..OMG YES! lol

Morning Musume – Summer Night Town November 11, 2011

Track Listing

1. Summer Night Town
2. A MEMORY OF SUMMER ’98
3. Summer Night Town (Instrumental)
4. Summer Night Town (First Live Version) (12cm only)

1. Summer Night Town

It’s only been one single and we’re already adding new members to the group.  I’m happy that after their debut single, Summer Night Town was more upbeat and has a lot more punch.  It was strangely enough more urban pop but slicker.  Now about the new members: Mari Yaguchi, Kei Yasuda, and Sayaka Ichii…they literally didn’t do much in this song (all it was was major backups like the ~for you~ parts).  Of course between the other five members, it was still a Nacchi party which isn’t bad because it wasn’t too much.  I will say that, this song was pretty damn cool for its time and I still enjoy it today even though it is vocally sloppy but still strong.  Let’s not forget there is an English version sung by Coconuts Musume as well!!!

2. A MEMORY OF SUMMER ’98

As the single’s B-side (which is funny since it’s the first new B-side and the only one not on “First Time”).  A MEMORY OF SUMMER ’98 is pretty interesting in the fact that none of the second generation is present for the song >.<  I liked the strings-based arrangement with a bit of acoustic guitar to make it pop out.  It’s funny though, all the members except Nacchi have solo lines in the song which makes up for the fact that she sung a lot in the A-side.  Still, it’s basic but it’s a pretty song and is one of my favorite B-sides the group has since done.

3. Summer Night Town (First Live Version)

Of course, like I’ve explained on “Morning Coffee”, the first 8 singles were re-released in 2005 and each single had a bonus track on it.  Summer Night Town got a live version when it was still promoted it seems.  I like the arrangement here since it felt like it had more punch and funk which always works.  They sound good live and the audience had a fun time as well joining in with the second generation parts!

 

 

The group’s second and final single for the “First Time” era, Summer Night Town is definitely the better one between this and “Morning Coffee” but of course the latter is well-known as the group’s debut.  The second generation did get the shaft, but I have a feeling that they were a last minute inclusion because they aren’t present for A MEMORY OF SUMMER ’98.  Anyways, Summer Night Town was pretty good since it’s the group’s first urban-y tune and it worked TBH.  The B-side though is where the single shined the most and showcased the original 5 members quite well (even though Nacchi so got shafted here).  Still, impressive single!

Morning Musume – 12, Smart October 18, 2011

Track Listing

1. Give me Love
2. Only you
3. Silver no Udedokei
4. Suki da na Kimi ga
5. Kaiketsu Positive A
6. Kono Ai wo Kasanete
7. Kono Chikyuu no Heiwa wo Honki de Negatterun da yo!
8. Kare to Issho ni Omise ga Shitai!
9. My Way ~Joshikou Hanamichi~
10. Otome no Timing
11. OK YEAH!
12. Maji Desu ka Ska!

1. Give me Love

I guess that Emo Musume haven’t left the building just quite yet.  Give me Love definitely has that sound that they’ve had in their last couple of eras which is getting tiresome, but at the same time since this is essentially the only one on the album I can deal with that.  I really like the feel of the song no doubt and the it’s funny that Takitty, Reina, and Riho are taking leads in this song while other members kind of slide back a bit.  It’s a good opening track and all, but I was impressed by the previous album openers.

2. Only you

While this is a little more of Emo Musume being the second A-side released in the era, Only you is the group’s most serious A-side as well.  I still find myself thinking that this is an unorthodox kind of tune because of the different time changes and interesting way dealing with the verses.  While it retains the same main members: Ai, Reina, and Riho (with an auto-tuned Risa along for the ride).  I still enjoyed the song but one thing that bothered me (as it did for other people was the whole ~ell for you~…I still wonder if it was intentional since Takitty and Reina pronounced it like that.  Otherwise, great A-side.

3. Silver no Udedokei

Like most MM albums we split off into smaller groups starting with Silver no Udedokei which has Reina and Riho partnered up.  I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that it is in the R&B style which sometimes works with the group, sometimes not.  Sadly, this is one of those not so much times.  Reina oddly sounds good to me hear but Riho kind of sucked in the song because she was either singing too loudly (and out of character) plus her vocals were way nasally in spots.  After a while this rapping starts and learned that Risa and Aika took to the rapping and they both did well (Aika more IMO).  Song kind of just fell flat for me after a while and Riho didn’t exactly get better here and at almost 6 minutes…that’s just too much.

4. Suki da na Kimi ga

Next up is a Sayu and Mizuki song and it fits Sayu quite a bit since it’s more synth and electro-pop than previous songs on the album and while I found it amazing, it seems this tune has no solos.  I will say that Sayu is singing over poor Mizuki but they sound great together.  Beyond that I thought this was pretty much enjoyable throughout and they sound great together (but next time I wanna hear more Mizuki!).

5. Kaiketsu Positive A

Yay! another song that features all the members together and every member gets a good amount of solo lines.  It kind of moves just like “Maji Desu ka Ska!” with line distribution, but I felt they were allowed to have a little more attitude with this song which is great because I swear the two songs have the same build almost.  I liked hearing more of the 9th Gen show their pipes…(not so much Riho, because she really stretched her vocals too tight on one of the swooping notes and kind ruined that).  Still not a bad group song, but it is a little much like the first A-side of the era.

6. Kono Ai wo Kasanete

Of course we get a Ai/Risa song (luckily the last one at that lol).  Of course it comes of as something sappy but I guess that’s supposed to be because Ai and Risa are the only Gokkies on this release.  It does turn into a more happier “Silver no Udedokei” minus the rapping and such.  I think “Ano Hi no Modoritai” was a much better representation of the two elder members IMO.

7. Kono Chikyuu no Heiwa wo Honki de Negatterun da yo!

Then comes the most of the 3rd single starting with the primary A-side.  Not gonna lie, I was quite impressed with this one the most out of the era but I’m not sure why.  I love the disco vibes that harken back to a great time for Momosu and of course the line distribution is seperated between Ai, Reina, Risa, and Riho which might be a bummer to the fans but it’s a good list of singers since they sang great.  It’s fun but not overloading on it or making it cute like two of the other A-sides of the era.

8. Kare to Issho ni Omise ga Shitai!

Since “Kono Chikyuu…” does end into our next track, I’m not surprised they would keep it that way.  I love this song for some reason and it might be from the lulzy PV that this song went with or the fact that Takitty is shafted towards the back and letting Sayu take the reins along with Reina.  I also said that they’ve been missing genki from their songs for a LONG time and while “Maji Desu ka Ska!” was a good start this was much MUCH better.  It’s silly but honest and I adore that about this tune and while some people might be wary seeing as Sayu leads and isn’t on auto-tune, she’s not that bad and fits the atmosphere to a T.  Probably my favorite of the A-sides.

9. My Way ~Joshikou Hanamichi~

I’m not sure what to think of My Way to be honest.  It seems so weird to have something that’s upbeat and kind of rockish, but I can see this being popular live more than on the album to be honest.  Also, it’s really awesome to see that Fuku-chan actually get the first line of the song ^_^.  Also lulzing at Takitty only really getting two words in the sense of a solo line 4 times and all the members get more than her LOL.  Otherwise beyond the verses the rest of the song is all of them singing and that’s a lot of time singing together.  Overall, it was nice but definitely an album track and not worth to be an A-side.

10. Otome no Timing

The final split off song is between the rest of the members that didn’t get a solo which are Aika (I guess her rapping in “Silver no Udedokei” was null), Kanon, and Erina.  I really want Aika to sing less cutesy songs because of the last couple albums she’s had the cute ones and she doesn’t sound good (not even her solo in “Platinum 9 DISCO” was that good for her).  I will say that we get to hear a lot of Eripon and Zukki and they do cute well but likewise especially with Eripon, I don’t wanna see this cute side to them as much because it feels forced IMO.  Yeah, not a great track here.

11. OK YEAH!

Did anyone else felt like the beginning of this song sounded like “Hand made CITY” from the “Kanashimi Twilight” single?  Yeah the call and response shindig really reminded me of that B-side so much.  I’ve seen people relate the song to Parapara and DDR and I can agree with that because it has a fast pace and quick synths thrown throughout.  I will say the line distribution is really left for the 5 oldest members with Riho on like 2-3 lines haha.  It’s alright, but after a while it kind of gets forgetful and just annoying in some places lol.

12. Maji Desu ka Ska!

I really would like to know why the producers chose Maji Desu ka Ska! to close the album, it just doesn’t seem right nor does it even work as a closing song despite this being the Kyuukie’s debut A-side.  I don’t think I’ve ever mentioned it before on the single review but I really hate the girls laughing and having fun as the intro of the song and even moreso on the album…Pass that, I feel that this is a pretty fun song to listen to and line distribution is pretty much equal but it’s still a Ai/Reina hog-fest.  I mean some people dislike the song nowadays, but I still feel like it’s good and better since it was the first time we got to hear the new girls so it’s special for that haha.

Tracks Recommended

• Kare to Issho ni Omise ga Shitai!
• Kaiketsu Positive A
• Only you
• Suki da na Kimi ga
• Kono Chikyuu no Heiwa wo Honki de Negatterun da yo!

Song of Avoidance

• Silver no Udedokei

Momosu’s 12, Smart album was a bit of a curious one for me just like “Fantasy, Juuichi” I was curious to the fact that were they gonna focus on the group or more importantly the fact that Eri, Junjun, and Linlin were graduating.  Here, it was more of were they gonna pay attention to the Kyuukies or Takitty graduating.  Luckily they did the former which is nice because we still haven’t had a full grasp on what they sound like and they did better hear (maybe not Mizuki since she was covered up by auto-tuned Sayu).  Still the songs where everyone was together were pretty much great stuff and they let Takitty lead a few new tracks while others were more equal line distribution.  Sadly, the songs with two or three members failed for the most part (cept the Sayu/Fuku-chan duet).  They lacked a lot and some of them sounded BAD.  Oddly enough I wonder what’ll be next…their powerhouse singer in Takitty is gone and we have four new members in Haruna, Masaki, Ayumi, and Haruka.  I’m really curious where Tsunku will take the 12-nin now after this album!