I said I would put up the runners-up for rotation 28, top 20 pop songs. It's a little late, but here you go. =)
회상 - Fly to the Sky (Hwesang/Recollection)
This song is a remake of a song called "December" by Turbo. You can listen to the original from the MV on YouTube at the link below.
December - Turbo
As much as I love Turbo (pretty much just because Kim Jong Kook is in it, haha), I have to say I prefer FTTS's version of this classic. FTTS minimalizes and modernizes the accompaniment, putting more emphasis on the vocals. It's still sweet and poppy, but doesn't have that same old-school boyband sound as Turbo's version did. I have to say that Kim Jong Kook's voice sounded a bit too high and thin in Turbo's version, whereas Brian and Hwanhee's voices lend the song a fuller, thicker sound.
Make U Wet - KAT-TUN
An aggressive, sensual song by KAT-TUN. It’s addictive, gritty, and energetic. Their voices are wonderful - at times rough and deep, at others smooth and light. Unfortunately, I found it a bit overly sexual, as the title may suggest. The lyrics are also a bit distasteful, eg. "You ridin' on me? Feel good.". I didn't think they were that bad (partially because I couldn't really understand what the English portions were supposed to be) until I read the translated lyrics.
Play My Song - Lee Min Woo ft. Tiger JK
This song was definitely very close to making it. A confident, sexy song with Latin influences. The English rap verses are kind of a turn-off because the lyrics are just laughably random - eg. “I’m hungry for real like a poor man, I cook your grill like George Foreman, y’all welcome like ya standin’ on my doormat, I’m being cynical of course man” - uh, okaaaay then. Other than that, a great, extremely catchy song.
Step and Go - Arashi
I wanted to avoid putting too many typical, sugary boyband pop songs into the rotation, which is probably why Step and Go didn't quite make it. Besides, these boys already made an appearance in the list with truth at an impressive #9. Step and Go is jazzy, upbeat, and danceable, fairly consistent with the rest of their material. The line where they sing, We gonna step and go! is just cute.
飄移 - Jay Chou (Piao Yi)
An gritty, bass-heavy, dark pop song by Jay Chou. I just love the beat and hip-hop influenced arrangement. This song was used for the movie Initial D.
Show - A'ST1
Okay so I have no idea what happened to these guys, because after releasing their first maxi-single, they just disappeared. Which is a shame, because I actually really like them. They came in at #12 on the list with Funky N Roll Tonight. Show is similar. Lots of synthesized brass, plunky, danceable arrangement, and smooth vocal work. It's poppy and cheerful.
Labels: A'ST1, Arashi, Fly to the Sky, Jay Chou, KAT-TUN, Lee Min Woo
rotation 28 [top 20 pop songs]
Saturday, March 14, 2009 posted at 5:05 PM
Wait a minute, wasn’t this top 10’s? Since I decided to merge all the languages together, I also decided to extend the list to 20 songs. I made an original list to choose from, which had 35 songs (which itself started out at 29 and kept growing as I thought of more songs that deserved to be added, haha), and I simply couldn’t pick just ten. Well, more songs for you guys, right? Since it was pointed out to me that my top 10 ballads rotation was all-male, I’ve done my best to encorporate some female artists as well - although, admittedly, it is still male-dominated - I’m picky about female artists, okay?
Also, the runners-up for this rotation will be posted at a later time. It's been too long since I did such a big rotation.
This rotation really took a long time to prepare, so please comment or at least leave a rating! Thanks to all those who do.
#20. Paparazzi - AJOO ft. Younha & C-LUV
A catchy, extremely danceable song by AJOO. I have to admit, I really like AJOO except for his latest song. Although his image keeps changing, from sweet, innocent boy to a more mature, sexy look, then to his latest eyeliner-obsessed image which, as you can tell, I’m not a big fan of. Anyways. Paparazzi is a fun, poppy listen. It’s not particularly innovative or original, but it’s a good song.
#19. 痴妹與王兩 - Xiao Yu
Gritty, tough, and aggressive. Xiao Yu’s voice is dripping with an easy, slick confidence. It does get repetitive and a little generic, but it makes for a nice occasional listen.
#18. D.D.D. - Koda Kumi ft. SOULHEAD
I’m not really a fan of any of the big female j-pop stars - Ayumi Hamasaki, Koda Kumi, Amuro Namie, Utada Hikaru, etc. but out of them, Koda Kumi is probably my favourite. D.D.D. is energetic, confident, and fun.
#17. Scream - JUNE
An upbeat club number, Scream just begs for another listen. Addictive, catchy, and complete with smooth, slick melodies that JUNE brings to their best. It almost has a bit of a disco feel to it at times, yet is undoubtedly modern.
#16. 넌 나의 노래 (You're My Song) - Dong Bang Shin Ki
Wrong Number originally held this position, because I guess you could kind of consider this song a ballad, but I just love this song too much. This is definitely, by far, my most listened to track off of MIROTIC. I was expecting one of their more upbeat songs (eg. Mirotic, Wrong Number) would be the most memorable, but it ended up being You’re My Song - an absolutely gorgeous slow pop track. The melody is beautiful by itself, but the boy’s vocals and harmonizing really bring it to another level - at times vulnerable and at others strong and hopeful. I love the piano accompaniment too.
#15. In My Bed - Rain
Being one of the first k-pop artists I listened to, Rain had to show up somewhere on this rotation. Anyways I’m not sure what he’s up to now, but I think he really needs to return to music. His latest album Rainism didn’t really leave much of an impact on me. This song is from his fourth album, Rain’s World - a smooth, slightly downtempo, R&B influenced number. His unique voice is perfectly accented against the relatively minimal but steady arrangement. A memorable song that has a lot of replay value.
#14. 통화 연결음 (Ring Back Tone) - Sunnyhill
I never get sick of this song. This group is made up of 3 vocalists - two female, one male. Their male vocalist was supposed to be a member of Battle. I absolutely love their female vocalists. Both have airy, light voices that sound absolutely wonderful. A peaceful, calm, sweet song.
#13. Letter - BRIGHT ft. K
I’m not a fan of girl groups as a general rule, but I absolutely love BRIGHT. Just the opening lines, in absolutely stunning harmony, should tell you that these girls are something different. A light, breezy, relaxing song. K’s sweet voice fits in perfectly with BRIGHT’s vocalists. Like I mentioned, the harmonizing in this song is just beautiful.
#12. Funky N Roll Tonight - A’ST1
There had to be one cheesy, boyband, bubble-gum pop song on this rotation. Complete with a nonsense English title, A’ST1 delivers a sugary, fun track. Bright, upbeat horns, paired with feel-good guitar chords that are then taken over by a keyboard. Twangy, thick bass, sweet poppy vocals, easy-to-follow melodies. Nothing particularly original, but well-executed.
#11. Get Chu! - AAA
A summer-y, upbeat song. Cute, playful, and light-hearted. It’s a feel-good song, plain and simple.
#10. Always Online - JJ Lin
I just bought the album this was from, Sixology. <3 A really good song to wind down to - it’s relaxing but not too slow, with faint R&B influences in the beat and bass. JJ Lin’s voice is smooth and melodic.
#9. truth - Arashi
A dramatic, memorable song with a pushing string accompaniment competing with the rich piano arrangement. I really think this is one of Arashi’s best songs. It has a bit of a darker feel than most of their material but is uptempo and energetic, and at times hopeful. Complete with a gritty electric guitar solo about halfway through, truth definitely shows another dimension of Arashi.
#8. One - Epik High ft. JiSun
An electronica-infused song that is just beautiful. Ji Sun’s light, airy vocals fit the slightly haunting air of the song perfectly. Although this song is a lot more mainstream from Epik High’s older releases, I still liked it. It has a dark edge to it, but at the same time is hopeful and energetic.
#7. 거짓말 (Lies) - Big Bang
I loved this song when it first came out. I think I listened to it so much that I got kind of sick of it, and it’s been a while since I revisited it. IMO, this song really defined their electronica-infused style. The sweet piano melody, although repetitive, lends colour and contrast to the verses, really bringing the song to another level. The chorus is wonderful.
#6. 어쩌다 (How) - Brown Eyed Girls
I really hate how every song from every artist of whatever this company is starts off with this weird robotic voice saying “play this sound” or “brand new sound” or something like that. Anyways. Brown Eyed Girls is one of the few female artists to make this rotation, and pretty far up on the rankings too! How is infectiously catchy and fairly quick in tempo, but the vocal work maintains its depth and emotion. the girl’s voices are sweet but not annoyingly so. Although there is some faint synthesizing, especially in the harmonies, it’s not overdone. The rap verses give a playful, light touch to the song.
#5. 星空下的吻 - JJ Lin
Kicking off energetically with a heavy beat and quick verses, the song then transitions beautifully into an airy, melodic chorus where JJ Lin’s voice simply soars over the arrangement. I love the contrast between the two moods - the angst of the supporting verses, and the beauty of the chorus.
#4. Bump - Lee Min Woo
A straightforward uptempo track, active and aggressive. Min Woo’s latest solo album disappointed me because it lacked the fire of his older songs - such as Bump, from his 2nd solo album. It cools down for one verse, with melting melodies and smooth vocal work, but other than that, never loses its energy and intensity. Min Woo’s strong, slightly rough voice is a perfect fit for this song.
#3. Passion - Se7en
Ah I remember being so obsessed with this song. This song really got me into Se7en. His voice is rough and powerful, bordering on a bold aggressiveness. Slick, sensual melodies paired with harsh accenting gives the song a sharp edge. The beat and arrangement definitely takes its influences from American music, but it’s so catchy and driven. Definitely a song you could dance to.
#2. Hero - Shinhwa
What I liked about this song was that, on top of being catchy and lively, it also had emotional value. The beat is fairly straightforward, but infectious nonetheless. Random bit of trivia: at ~2:42 in the track, you can hear someone cough. This song, released in 2002, was one of the first Korean songs that I listened to (and when I listened to it, a few years had already passed since its release). It’s been a while since I listened to it, but it really doesn’t get old.
#1. Okay, so this is where it gets kind of weird. There are two #1 songs.
简单爱 - Jay Chou
Wait a minute, I don't even like Jay Chou. Why are two of his songs tied at first place? Well, as much as I’m not feeling Jay Chou’s latest albums, I really like some of his older work. This is an example of it - innocent, sweet, and genuine. Maybe it’s just because I’ve been listening to these songs for so long that I love them.
髮如雪 - Jay Chou
I love this song. Jay Chou’s voice is just perfect in it, smooth and light - there’s some classical Chinese influences in the arrangement, but they’re not overbearing. I seriously always have some verse or some melody from this song resurface in my head, even if I haven’t listened to it in a long time. Okay, admittedly, the part where it sounds like he’s gargling near the end of the song (around 4:30) is just ... weird. But still.
Labels: A'ST1, Ajoo, Arashi, Big Bang, BRIGHT, Brown Eyed Girls, Dong Bang Shin Ki, Epik High, Jay Chou, JJ Lin, JUNE, Koda Kumi, Lee Min Woo, Rain, Se7en, Shinhwa, SunnyHill, Xiao Yu
So, I just remembered that while postponing my update because of the polls Haruhi put up, I actually completely forgot to update. Thus, I present you with a double update in the same weekend!
Rotation 10 is themed Jpop artists, meaning the songs below are classic examples of Jpop music, as well as artists that are mainly associated with producing Jpop.
As always, please leave a comment when you download!
Otsuka Ai - Sakuranbo
Japanese - pop
This song belongs in my collection of first ever songs. This was my first Otsuka Ai song and I thought it was amazing! Such a happy, crazy, sweet love song! I've listened to this over and over, and it makes me smile every time. It's a true hyper Ai song.
KAT-TUN - No Matter Matter
Japanese - pop
This song always reminds me of the interlude in which they throw souvenirs into the audience during concerts. It's amazingly happy and it's an enourmous showcase for Yuichi's beatbox skills and Koki's rap.
Arashi - Nemuranai Karada
Japanese - pop
I always feel this song was supposed to be somewhere half way between a sensual song and pop xD Or that it's just some slightly failed attempt at producing a steamy hot summernight song. However, as I love Arashi, I love this song, since they're slightly lower voice complement the trumpets really well.
SNoW - On & On
Japanese - pop
I can't promote this singer enough! She's so amazing, it's a shame she's still in college at the moment. Slightly less upbeat than "I'm No", this song has a lot of symbolism, put to a gorgeous arrangement. Highly recommended.
AAA - Q
Japanese - pop
What can I say? This song is full of that typical AAA energy, with lyrics so fast I'm still amazed at how they did it. It's happy, it's fun, it's fast. It's AAA :D
Takacha - Movin'
Japanese - pop
I got this song from my baby sister actually, when she was momentarily infatuated with the anime Bleach. I can't say I've any other music by this group, but this song sounds amazing. I really, really like it. It's a fun antagonist for Orange Range's OP song.
GYM - My Angel
Japanese - pop
Released as an official single for the Women's Volleyball World Grandprix, Golf, Yamashita and Mike come dangerously close to becoming moe~~ I can truly call this song kawaii (and for someone who despises wrong use of that particular adjective, that says something, ne? xD)! So, so sweet!
Kanjani8 - Zukkoke Otokomichi
Japanese - pop
Well, if this isn't the embodiment of Jpop, I don't know what is. Well, perhaps Arashi. At any rate, this is a classic pop song. Happy, upbeat, and truly JE. Recommended ;D
NewS - Sayaendo
Japanese - pop
Another typical popgroup. This song is least upbeat however than their usual, but no less addicting. It sounds like it's been influenced by 1001 Arabian nights, or perhaps Indian music. I really like this change of pace though, it's one of my favourite songs at the moment.
Utada Hikaru - Celebrate
Japanese - pop
And, it a popthemed rotation, the Queen of Pop. At least the Queen I can stand (I really don't like Ayumi ><;)! Celebrate is a happy song, although it has a little more slow tempo. The soft melodic arrangement matches perfect with the soft vocals by Utada. Recommended.
Labels: AAA, Arashi, cohost: aranka, GYM, Kanjani8, KAT-TUN, NewS, Otsuka Ai, SNoW, Takacha, Utada Hikaru
Rotation 9: Natural Elementals
Saturday, February 7, 2009 posted at 3:57 AM
So, a week "late" as Haruhi decided to rotate early. To my regret, this rotation is small (only 6 songs o_O), as I found out I don't have as much songs that have a title with some kind of natural element in it. I actually have a little over 6 songs, but I decided I was not going to put up songs that I've already uploaded. That would kind of defeat the purpose of rotating, ne?
As a little make-up gift though, I've edited my post that contained my third rotation: the first album of Rie Fu. Rather than a link to MU only, I've now also upped each song indivdually to MF, so that those of you who have troubles with MU can still download the entire album here.
Please remember to comment when you download something.
Arashi - Kaze no Mukou e
Japanese - pop
It's a real Arashi pop song; cheerful, upbeat and, well, poppy xD This is one of the songs of which the combination of the vocals of the guys and the instrumentals give me an instant happy <33
Recommended.
Baby Boo - Shimanuzu Tsuki
Japanese - Latinish
I'm bummed out I lost their album due to a computer crash, because I'm a real fan of this band. This song conjures up a gypsy band around a campfire, making music, singing about the moon. I find it actually quite hard to describe, so just listen to it xD Highly recommended.
B'z - OCEAN
Japanese - Ballad
It's a really slow song, with a nostalgic feel to it. I imagine it's about returning to inaka, someone's hometown. Softer parts are alternated with strong parts, enforcing the nostalgic homesickness feeling.
Gackt - Rain
Japanese - ballad
What can I say? It's Gackt, doing a ballad that is alternated with rock (in the chorus I think). Powerful instrumentals complementing Gackt's voice to make for an aching feel and piano to accompany the soft parts. It's love, love, love!
Garnet Crow - Kaze to Rainbow
Japanese - poprock
Sometimes I feel this song is somehow meant as a kind of raindance incantation, other times I just get cheered up by the song. Whether you like pop or VK rock (ok, it's not that VK, but just to make a point xD), I think anyone could like this song.
Tamaki Hiroshi - Kono Kaze ni Notte
Japanese - pop
Somehow I feel this song isn't particularly suited to Tamaki-san's voice, but that could be the influence of Walk the Line that I saw yesterday (watch it! now!). The song is really sweet and uplifting however, with a fairly fast rythm and fun melody. I love the guitar bridge in the middle <3 It is a real "Cheer up!" kind of song.
Labels: Arashi, B'z, Baby Boo, cohost: aranka, Gackt, Garnet Crow, Rie Fu, Tamaki Hiroshi
Large catch up and make up rotation!
As I’m sure you’ve all noticed, I’ve missed out on a couple of rotations. I apologise profusely, it’s a horrible way to start out the new year. I have a few good excuses, but I won’t bore you with them, as the music is the most important thing here. In this ginormous post I bring you two complete albums and two full feature rotations =D
The albums were picked on my personal taste and on the incredible amount of downloads my uploaded M-Flo songs have had. The other songs were picked on starting with the letter A and song titles with the word summer/natsu. Please leave a comment when you download a song.
Album one: Astromantic by M-Flo This is the album on which the song Vanessa is featured and is the first album in the M-Flo loves … series. This is a favourite of mine, as the album is comprised of music that has a loungy feel to it, but at the same time it’s upbeat and lively. Vanessa is my absolute favourite of this album, as it combines that nice ‘50s jazz music with their main hiphop theme. Other styles featured on this album are pop, electronic and R’n’B. The Third Impact
Miss You [m-flo loves Melody]
Starstruck - "The Return of the Luvbytes"
Vanessa [m-flo loves Bloodest Saxophone]
Way U Move [m-flo loves Dragon Ash]
Get On! [m-flo loves Crystal Kay] Astrosexy [m-flo loves Chemistry
The Love Bug [m-flo loves BoA]
Life Is Beautifuls [m-flo loves Double & Toku]
Cosmic Night Run [m-flo loves Crazy Ken Band]
Reeewind! [m-flo loves Crystal Kay] Uchu No Ouou
Album two: ZUSHI by Kimaguren Songs by this duo were originally featured by Haruhi, but I found them so good I thought I’d upload the entire album. This duo released their first single, Omoi omoi, in late spring or early summer of 2007. This album ranked number one in the last week of July ’08 in the Oricon Charts. The entire album is sweet, breezy and uplifting.
2．LIFE
9． P.S.
10．Omoi Omoi
12．Dame Otoko
13. LIFE ( Smart Sports ver.) STUDIO APARTMENT Remix
14. LOVE CALL(Kimagure ShortEdit)/RYTHEM with キマグレン
Rotation #7: Starting letter A
Otsuka Ai – Amairo Parasol Japanese – Pop A rather mellow single by this usually hyper artist. It sounds very much like the A side of the single on which it was released – Amaenbo, although this is probably more upbeat. I think it’s a quite good alternative to her usually hyper music.
Arashi – Asu ni Mukatte Hoeru Japanese – Pop A typical Arashi single – upbeat, happy and poppy. It reminds me a little of Kitto Daijoubu, although this song doesn’t feature Sho’s rapping. It’s also a bit electronic, perhaps more so than their other songs. I really like it though. Happy desu~ <3
ALvino – ARCADIA Japanese – Poprock An electronic song, yet with ALvino characteristics. I really like it, mainly because it seems to step outside the regular rock which ALvino produces a lot.
Ayaka – Ai mo Uso mo Shinjitsu Japanese – Poprock Featuring her strong voice, this song sounds a little darker than most of the songs on her second album. I don’t think the song is as powerful as CLAP&LOVE, but it’s still a really good song.
B’z – Ai no Bakudan Japanese – Rock I think this was my very first B’z song. I can’t even count the times I’ve listened to it. It really is rock music like you’d expect from this amazing musical duo. Upbeat rock, definitely comes recommended.Chachamaru – As Japanese – Rock Perhaps not the first thing you’d think about when you think of Chachamaru, the song is slow and a little mysterious. Near what sounds to me like the chorus, the music becomes really strong, while the rest sounds like a relaxing ballad. Recommended.
Gackt – Another world Japanese – Poprock An upbeat, happy song by this amazing artist with his characteristic beginning. To me it’s the ultimate fusion between rock and pop. Listening to this song brings me instant happiness.
Kanjani8 – Ano kotoba ni Japanese – Pop Another typical JE boyband with a typical sweet boyband song. Although in this case I don’t think that’s a bad thing, it works for Kanjani8. It always brings a smile to my face.
KAT-TUN – Andarusia ni Akogarete (Live) Japanese – Pop I think is from their first concert, and I think the fusion between some characteristics from Spanish music works really good with the rest of the song, which is basically the typical KAT-TUN poprock mix. One of my favourite concert only songs.
Kobukuro – Aoku Yasashiku Japanese – Ballad The minimal volume of the accompanying instruments gives this songs almost an a capella feel, showcasing the harmony of the vocals. To me, the harmony between the vocals and the instruments is the main charm of this song.
Miyavi – Ashita, Genki ni Naare Japanse – Pop I LOVE this song! It’s so sweet, especially compared to some of Myv’s earlier songs. “Spring wind, breathin’ in a breeze” evokes that perfect late spring/early summer day, where the whole world just bathes in the sunlight and all is well. Rie Fu – Ame no Hi ga Sukitte Omotte Mitai Japanese – Ballad Singing of a rainy day, little bells invoke that feeling of the first raindrops on forest leaves on in late spring. This song seems influenced by classical music, with a piano and strings as main accompaniment.
SiD – and boyfriend Japanese – punk Happy happy! This one of the more upbeat songs done by SiD, although it’s nowhere near the hyperness of Smile. Staying within that typical SiD style, I think this song can be put up there with some of the upbeat An Café songs, and other sweet punk like LoveScreamParty by SuG.
Southern All Stars – Ai wa hana no you ni (Olé!) Japanese – Pop/Salsa I couldn’t stop smiling the first time I heard this song. Japanese people attempting Spanish, quite successfully actually, is really entertaining. However, I think they’ve succeeded in giving this song that Mediterranean feel. It’s a real summer song~
Rotation #8: Summer themed
Japanese – Ballad
A sweet ballad with a summery feel to it, with a typical Arashi sound. This song does feature Sho’s rapping ;D “Natsu no namae oshiete..”
Japanese – pop
Rather than their usual hiphop, this song is a really poppy song. It gives you a bit that late night at a tropical island feeling, just hanging out near or on the beach, having a good time.
Korean – pop
Starting out a little sad the song gradually changes to a happy song about the summer, or a summer love. I think, I don’t speak Korean xD It’s sweet and summery and it has DBSK. Win, right?
Japanese – hiphop Rap with a summer sauce. Later it’s a sugary sweet voice prolonging the feeling of a summer night with a potential fling. It really feels like that summer loving. Comes highly recommended.
Japanese – punk
After starting off like a ballad, the song soon becomes upbeat with a punk edge. It’s slower and a bit softer than most SiD songs, but I like it. Unlike the other songs in this part of the rotation, it has no particular summery feel, but it’s a good song nonetheless.
Southern All Stars – Oh Summer Queen
Japanese – pop
The B side of the single I am your Singer, a B side I particularly like. This song has more of a party mood, where the boy dares the girl to come closer etc., rather than a summer feeling. I think this is a cool song. “One two three, now baby come on..”
Japanese – ballad
A soft song by a very good singer. It’s a good song to listen to with a glass of wine in your hand, sitting on the porch and reading a book. A soft breeze to boot and the night is perfect. That’s what I’d do anyway x)
Japanese – pop
Poppy, upbeat, happy. One of the oldest songs in my music collection, it makes me a bit nostalgic :’) It’s just a good fun song, for a little instant happiness.
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Yes, I ran low on inspiration how to describe songs in this rotation. So shoot me ;D Also, feel free to request any songs and please leave a comment.
Labels: ALvino, Arashi, Ayaka, B'z, Chachamaru, cohost: aranka, D-51, Gackt, Kanjani8, KAT-TUN, Kimaguren, Kobukuro, m-flo, miyavi, Otsuka Ai, Rie Fu, SID, Southern All Stars, Suga Shikao, WaT
Rotation 4 is up!
Already my fourth rotation, I can hardly believe it (^^) Anyway, this is relaxing #2. It's a collection of songs that I particularly like when I want music during my essay writing or studying. There are 14 songs for your enjoyment!
Please comment or leave a shout when you download a song :D
Gackt - Last Song
Japanese - Ballad
This is one of the slower songs of Gackt, that was not on his Love Letter album. I particularly like the combination of his deep voice combined with the feature role of the piano in this song. If you like Gackt, this might be better to simple relax to rather than doing homework. I find it a little distracting =3
Gackt - Kimi ni Aitakute
Japanese - Ballad
Another song that has Gackt's voice and his piano play the feature role. This one seems a little more romantic, whereas the previous song has a more "lost love mourning" feel to it. Again, this could be distracting, so try to pick a good time for listening ;D
Miyavi - Itoshii Hito
Japanese - Ballad
This is one of Myv's ballad, and one that I really like because of the endearing lyrics. I've always had a thing for guitar ballads and Myv is - as most of us will know - a guitar genius. While the lyrics are sweet and the song really is like a ballad, it has retained that particular Myv feel. Highly recommended.
Miyavi - We love You ~Seki wa kimo wo Aishiteru~
Japanese - Ballad
From Myv's Uta Dokusou album. I actually adore the entire album - guitars all the way baby! - but this has to be one of my favourite songs, because of the lyrics. Also the combination of mostly Myv's voice and his guitar make this a particular good relaxing song.
M-Flo ft. Namie Amuro - Luvotomy
Japanese - Electro poprock
This song is less of a ballad than the previous songs and could actually be considered upbeat. However, I feel that the recurring motifs in the songs are rather soothing, hence it's appearance in this rotation. You probably get by now that I'm a big fan of M-Flo, but I really like the way they have teamed up with Namie Amuro. <3
KAT-TUN - I Like It
Japanese - Ballad
Another of my favourite bands make an appearance. This ballad is from their first album and is a really romantic song, even though the lyrics and title may be somewhat ambiguous (^=^). This song could remind you a little of Arashi, as this is still from their JE's poppy phase.
Arashi - Kotoba Yori Taisetsuna Mono
Japanese - Pop
A song that has a kind of melancholic feel to it, I actually like the version sung by Ueda Tatsuya a little better. I guess the single voice makes it stronger for me. However, the lyrics are great as represented by the title: Something more important than words.
Otsuka Ai - Planetarium
Japanese - Ballad
An insert song for the Hana Yori Dango series (season 1) I cannot help but associate this song with Domyoji and Tsukushi <3 style="font-style: italic;">
Rie Fu - Negaigoto
Japanese - Ballad
This is a typical Rie Fu ballad, although more sad than for example Decay. I really like the PV that goes with this song, which unfortunately is not on Youtube anymore. If I recall correctly, Rie stands still while the world turns around her and she sings about her wish.
Chachamaru - Kagero
Japanese - instrumental
From Chacha's solo album, an instrumental song. It's supposed to be featuring Gackt, but I have yet to discover his voice. It's not my favourite song of the album (which is called Naked actually xD), but it's really soothing.
Fujita Maiko - Anata ga watashi no ...
Japanese - folk
Yes, another song by this amazing singer. As from her previous songs, you can deduce that relaxing music is somewhat of her trademark. This is a song I'd like to fall asleep to, however I have to study (>____<)
Kuraki Mai - Winter Bells
Japanese - pop
Actually, this is a Christmas song, but it's that time of year now, so booyah 8D I think this song is actually rather upbeat, but I love to listen to it, especially when it snows! It makes me feel warm inside and gets me excited for the holidays. Now, if a holiday isn't relaxing, I don't know what is.
SE7EN - Ari no Mama
Japanese - Poprock
Also no ballad, but an extremely likable song. Although that might have to do with the singer. He sounds a bit like K, whom I featured in an earlier rotation, although SE7EN might sing a bit more nasal? I don't know, I'm just impressed by the Japanese of this Korean singer and this very good song.
TegoMass - Miso Soup
Japanese - Ballad
The last song of this rotation was made by a duet from the boyband NEWS. It's a slow song, but with very high cuteness level. It's rather strange that they're singing about food, but hey. When it works, I don't complain! Also, JE's has come up with stranger things (pink pirate suits anyone?)
Well, that's all folks. I hope you enjoy the music. Please leave a comment when downloading or when something is wrong!
Labels: Arashi, Chachamaru, cohost: aranka, Fujita Maiko, Gackt, KAT-TUN, Kuraki Mai, m-flo, miyavi, Otsuka Ai, Rie Fu, Se7en, TegoMass
皆さん、今日は！ 안녕하세요 여러분! 你好众人!
Hello everyone!
My name is Aranka, but call me Ank. :) From now on, I'll be the co-host of Fashion Scans Rotation. Haruhi and I will alternate weeks in updating our rotation, but as I'll be busy all week and the weekend too I thought you should profit from my rotation double as long!
To kick my career as a rotation hostess, I thought I'd list some of my all time favourites for you.
Please also give a shout out to Haruhi, for doing such a wonderful job on the new layout!
18 songs this time around, enjoy! Comment or rate please, if you decide to download.
A*Ra*Shi - Arashi
Japanese/Pop
This is the debut single of this now almost 10 year old boyband! It's a song that just oozes energy and happiness, giving you the perfect excuse to bob your head in public! This is definitly one of my favourite songs by Arashi, even though it sounds humongously poppy and you can hear all the members have just started their full on musical career.
WISH - Arashi
Japanese/Pop
The theme song to the first season of Hana Yori Dango, this song is lighthearted and sweet. I would almost say it makes you feel fuzzy on the inside, but I think that would be taking it too far. None the less, if you know HYD, you know this song is the embodiment of the plot. Sweet, lighthearted, a little comical and an unrelenting faith in love.
CLAP&LOVE - ayaka
Japanese/Pop&Rock
I don't know why everyone isn't all over this singer, because she has an amazing voice! Her voice is the best compliment to the instrumentals of the song, giving it even more power. The musical harmony of this song is perfect and leaves you feeling empowered, able to conquer the world and able to face your music.
Love me, I love you - B'z
Japanese/Rock
This duo, that has been in business for nearly 21 years, is one of the best bands I know. While staying in the genre of rock, they have a enormous variation in musical style, keeping us all intrigued and waiting for their next release. This is a somewhat slower song, yet it remains upbeat, that's centered around love. Can you hear Tak-san beg?
Kimi ga Oikaketa Yume - Gackt
Japanese/Poprock
Probably the most famous artist in Japan right now, Gackt was my first introduction to Japanese music. I'm always amazed at how he is able to combine two things that seem incompatible - like this song clearly shows. While the lyrics are actually rather sad, the instrumentals sound upbeat and happy af if to say that what's expressed by the lyrics is not the end.
Vanilla (night version) - Gackt
Japanese/Pop+Latin
Now this was my very first Jmusic. Well, not this particular version of Vanilla, but Vanilla nonetheless. This song is actually a slower version of the original, put to a salsa rhythm. Even though Gackt has not a single salsa step in his system, it sounds great, giving the song the sensual feel that matches with its lyrics.
Da Ya Think I'm Sexy - K
English/Pop
The original is by Rod Steward, but I much prefer this version of the song. Perhaps that has to do with my slight preference for Asian men, but I just feel that K sings it way more sexy than Rod. While his English is not exactly perfect, you can easily understand him, while he gives you an idea of his vocal range at the same time.
Bonnie Butterfly - Kinki Kids
Japanese/Pop
I actually heard a snippet of this song from a KAT-TUN concert and fell in love with it instantly. Therefore, I decided to download the original. While I prefer the voices of Akanishi Jin and Kamenashi Kazuya, this song brings me a kind of inner peace and leaves me content and ease. It's a perfect song to relax to.
SIGNAL - KAT-TUN
Japanese/Pop
Now this song has the potential to make it to my all time favourite #1. It's my ringtone and I've learnt it by heart by listening to this over and over and over and over again. The song is cheerful, both instrumental and vocal and I'm just in love love love with the guitar arrangements. Highly, highly recommended.
Real Face - KAT-TUN
Japanese/Poprock
Actually, I lied a little about Vanilla. This song - in PV form - was my absolute very first introduction to Jmusic. Enticed by the voices and faces of this boyband, I started the hunt for Japanese music online, becoming more and more addicted to Japan, its music and its culture. This song is not the album version, which is terrible in my opinion, but the PV version. A rock song that profiles each band member.
Love me after 12AM - M-Flo ft. Alex (Clazziquai)
Japanese+English/Hiphop
I'm a big fan of the M-Flo ft. songs. This one features Alex, from the Korean band Clazziquai. It's a relaxed song, almost bordering on lounge music I think. Alex' voice and his impeccible English match perfectly with the instrumentals of this Japanese hip hop duo. While I haven't quite figured out what's up with the 'after 12Am', I certainly wouldn't mind complying =3
Vanessa - M-Flo ft. Bloodest Saxophone
Japanese+English/Hiphop+swing
I can't stop listening to this song! It's from the ASTROMANTIC album and it combines that '50s swing with 21st century hiphop, leading to a unique and addicting combination. If you've liked the SOIL & PIMP Sessions songs Haruhi has uploaded, you'll probably like this song aswell. It comes highly recommended.
Asterisk (full version) - Orange Range
Japanese/Hiphop
I still have no clue why you'd name a song after a kind of punctuation mark, but hey. These froods are so cool it doesn't matter. I'm always amazed by the speed of the chori. I can't see how they get it all done and NOT drop any syllables. It's the opening song of the first season of Bleach, which I think it suits perfectly.
Venus - Tackey&Tsubasa
Japanese/Pop
While I'm sure we shouldn't read too much into their names, this song is tacky. It's so wrong it has become genius XD Download the song, listen to it, find the video on Youtube or something and emerge yourself in one of the tackiest, yet funniest, song out there.
Sora Fune - TOKIO
Japanese/Rock
Theme song of My Boss My Hero, I never realised that the main star of the series was also the vocalist of this song. Tomoya Nagase has a very powerful and masculine voice, excellent for the music genre TOKIO produces (hard rock). I love the electric guitar that has a center feature in the song, powerful and skillfully played.
Darling - V6
Japanese+English/Pop
Theme song of the dorama Kimi wa Petto (You are my pet), this too is a sweet, soft song. It's a little contradictary with the plotline of the series, but it fits perfectly with Matsumoto Jun's adorkable character Momo. I think the song also has a kind of homey feel to it, which is probably why it was picked to be this series theme song.
Feel your Breeze - V6
Japanese+English/Pop
Theme song of the first Gokusen season, this song is all about empowerment. The instrumentals, the vocals, everything. I think this song could be Yankumi's personal theme song. I love how the refrain is sung mostly a capella by this boyband, without loosing the power of the message that the song tries to convey.
And yes, I do have a little obsession for Jdoramas. Now download D< ;D
Labels: Arashi, Ayaka, B'z, cohost: aranka, Gackt, K, KAT-TUN, m-flo, Orange Range, Tackey, TOKIO, Tsubasa, V6
Just a small update. I've uploaded 2PM and Arashi's latest releases. If you've noticed, I've started uploading on MediaFire. Hope that doesn't cause problems for anyone.
I also have Younha's 2nd album and SHINee's first album, I may upload one or both of them later if I have time.
Uploaded Requests:
` 01. Love Today - Taru
Korean | Pop/Electronica
2PM - Hottest Time of the Day
Korean | Pop
` 1; 10점 만점에 10점 (10 Points out of 10)
` 2; Only You
` 3; Angel
` 4; 10점 만점에 10점 (Old School Ver.)
` 5; 10점 만점에 10점 (Inst.)
` 6; Only You (Inst.)
Whereas 2AM is supposed to be more focused on vocals, JYP's latest creation, 2PM, is more dance-oriented. Upbeat and in-your-face, 10점 만점에 10점 is mediocre. Vocally weak, while JYP's songs are usually at least catchy, it lacks much power or originality. Only You takes more of an R&B influence. While I understand that they are meant to be focused on dance routines, it makes listening to the music without watching the routine a bit of a bore. An overpowering bass beat unfortunately drones out much of the vocal work. Angel stood out a little more to me - lighthearted, fun, and poppy, to me it is definitely the strongest song on this single. The old school version uses synths in place of the original instrumental which makes their singing sound even weaker. As you can probably tell, I wasn't too impressed with this single. 2AM's single was much more memorable to me.
Arashi - Truth/Kaze no Mukou e
Japanese | Pop
` 1; truth
` 2; 風の向こうへ (Kaze no Mukou e)
` 3; スマイル (Smile)
` 4; truth (オリジナル・カラオケ)
` 5; 風の向こうへ (オリジナル・カラオケ)
` 6; スマイル (オリジナル・カラオケ)
* Tracks 4-6 are instrumentals.
Not being a big fan of Johnny's Entertainment/ J Storm groups, I was surprised that I quite enjoyed this single. Truth is catchy and has an almost dark feel to it set by the static-filled electric guitars. The piano accompaniment adds a nice touch. Definitely one of Arashi's better songs. Kaze no Mukou e takes a much brighter tone, a light-hearted, summery song complete with acoustic guitars. A nice contrast to truth. Smile completes the single, another laid-back, fun track. Catchy, but not overly memorable. Overall a solid single, truth was definitely my favourite track.
