Ayumi Hamasaki Sekai

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-   -   [Koda Kumi] The 146th Thread - The New Album is epic. I bought a copy, how about you? (http://www.ahsforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=112517)

kotora 23rd January 2012 09:45 AM

The 146th Thread - The New Album is epic. I bought a copy, how about you?
 

The Koda Kumi Thread


http://img815.imageshack.us/img815/8327/kodakumi3.jpg

P r o f i l e

Stage Name: Koda Kumi / 倖田來未
Real Name: Kouda Kumiko / 神田來未子
Birthdate: 13 November 1982 (Showa 57)
Blood Type: A
Hometown: Kyoto

Hobbies: Shopping, Goods.
Favorite Sport: Squash
Favorite Type of Music: Hip Hop
Favorite Dish to Cook: Niku Jaga (Beef and Potatoes)
Favorite Saying: Ikkai ichi e (Once in a lifetime chance)
Favorite Colors: Purple and green
Favorite Season: Summer
Favorite DVD: Haneru no tobira
Favorite Brands: D&G and H・A・K
Favorite Food: Okonomiyaki, 100% Fruit Juice, Perrier
Favorite Japanese Artists: Toshinori Yonekura, Sukima Switch
Favorite Western Artists: Christina Aguilera, Nelly, Pink, Pharrell Williams
Something She Can't Be Without: Love
Favorite Part of Her Own Body: The "kori kori" of her waist.
Something Often Unexpected: 'No smoking & no alcohol'
Something Unacceptable: Lies and deception
Special Ability: To be able to talk until her voice goes hoarse.

N e w R e l e a s e s

10h Album
「JAPONESQUE」
Release date: 2012.01.25



4 editions:
■ CD Only
■ CD+DVD (musicvideos)
■ CD+2DVD (musicvideos+ Live Best+former album CMs)
■ Limited Edition (B4 box, 32 pages photobook+other goods)

【DISC 1:CD】19 tracks
01.Introduction
02.So Nice
03.Boom Boom Boys
04.V.I.P. feat. T-Pain(Album Version)
05.Slow feat. Omarion
06.Brave
07.Everyday
08.IN THE AIR(50th sg「4 TIMES」)
09.You are not alone(Acoustic Version)
10.Interlude
11.ESCALATE
12.Love Me Back
13.No Man's Land
14.愛を止めないで(51th sg「愛を止めないで」)
15.KO-SO-KO-SO (50th sg「4 TIMES」)
16.Lay Down
17.Love Technique
18.Poppin' love cocktail feat.TEEDA(50th sg「4 TIMES」)
19.All for you

【DISC2:MUSIC VIDEO】17 tracks
01.Poppin' love cocktail feat.TEEDA(50th sg「4 TIMES」)
02.Boom Boom Boys
03.No Man's Land
04.V.I.P. feat. T-PAIN(50th sg「4 TIMES」)
05.KO-SO-KO-SO(50th sg「4 TIMES」)
06.Lay Down
07.ESCALATE
08.Love Me Back(Album Version)
09.So Nice
10.Slow feat. Omarion
11.IN THE AIR(50th sg「4 TIMES」)
12.Everyday
13.Love Technique
14.You are not alone(Acoustic Version)
15.愛を止めないで(51th sg「愛を止めないで」)
16.Brave
17.All for you



52nd Single
「Love Me Back」
Release date: 2011.11.30

4 editions:
■ CD Only
■ CD+DVD
■ CD+Goods / Original oversized pouch (mu-mo Limited Edition)
■ CD+Goods / Original oversized pouch

[CD]
1. Love Me Back
2. Say Her Name
3. Love Me Back (Andy Price Remix)

[DVD]
1. Love Me Back (Music Video)
2. Love Me Back (Making Video)
3. a-nation 10th Anniversary for Life Charge‣Go! ウイダーinゼリーライブ映像
M1. め組のひと
M2. Bling Bling Bling
M3. Poppin' love cocktail feat. TEEDA



Credits: Tsubasa, Kingdom, FinalFayth, Corvina, do it again, Cherrim
Picture Credit: kaledkalil


Please continue the discussion.

~StarCatcher~ 23rd January 2012 09:51 AM

:-D thread title is so .... funny :D:D love it.

I bought one,too=)
Can't wait for it HMV says it's in transit=)

MissElin_ 23rd January 2012 09:57 AM

Interesting title. Betten than the latest one that was quite...

But, yes I did thanks for asking.~
Still no news from YA or CDJapan. Just processing. Can't wait for them to send my copy. I'm refucing to download this time and I'm already way too excited.

Ai no Kage 23rd January 2012 09:58 AM

^ The first press edition is still available at HMV? With obi, digipack and clear file?

PattyMcPat 23rd January 2012 10:00 AM

Anyone else see scans of the album anywhere yet?

Benikari47 23rd January 2012 10:37 AM

The PV for ESCALATE is so fierce, i love it.

krauterol 23rd January 2012 11:12 AM

Love me back ~album version~ best PV of JAPONESQUE, and one of the best in years!! *.*

Bad Wolf 23rd January 2012 11:55 AM

I feel like I'm a total anomaly but I don't really like Kuu's PVs ;; I mean, I haven't watched much and the idea that each song on this album has a PV is really freakin' cool but I haven't really gone out of my way to watch all her videos so far. The ones I did see I found a bit meh, but I think it's because they were her fun songs. Fun song PVs tend to not be really in depth lol. But even stuff for her ballads just didn't do much for me.

I'll probably give these PVs a shot just because of how much I love JAPONESQUE, but we'll see.

And yay for a more coherent thread title.

kotora 23rd January 2012 11:57 AM

I am so glad that she is working with Mr. Blistah again. However, I just don't understand the PV for this song. I dislike the graffiti poppin' out at the background. It is so not match the whole PV..

Calico 23rd January 2012 12:22 PM

Haven't bought one yet, but since I live in Japan I plan on picking up a copy (probably used just to get a bit of a price help) before heading home in the spring.

I really like the album, but since it's long I could live without the cutesy songs (I don't like her cutesy songs all that much. I like her club/rock songs, then some of her ballads, but that's about it) but thus far in my one large listen I like it a lot.

Gustavopc 23rd January 2012 12:27 PM

The thread title should be "I have a JAPONESQUE copy, maybe u 2?" :laugh

Oh lord, LMB is even more awesome now, the story version actually makes sense! Just made me love the single even more!

tenshi no hane 23rd January 2012 12:32 PM

More official lyrics are starting to pop up~ I translated Everyday:

Everyday (translation)
Spoiler:
Everyday

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear

I feel I can speak freely now
There are things I want to tell you
I placed the words in this song
You always support me
But I also want to be there for you

When you feel scared
Let’s talk about dreams together
I’m sure you can walk happily
You’re like family to me
I always care for you

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
Oh oh oh...
Because we’re always together
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear
Oh oh oh...
I want to laugh with you

On days when I can’t
See you smile like a child
My heart aches badly
You’re a fighter
You’re attentive to those around you
Maybe you need some rest?
Talk to me, I’ll listen

I’ll hold you when you feel sad
That place always becomes warm
Because it’s a place full of love (love you)
Because I’m always by your side

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
Oh oh oh...
Because we’re always together
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear
Oh oh oh...
I want to laugh with you

Flying on your shining love, go way
Let’s go and catch new dreams together
Because though the wind may feel a little cold at night
There is always a new sky waiting the next day

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
Oh oh oh...
Because we’re always together
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear
Oh oh oh...
I want to laugh with you (x2)


Everyday (kanji)
Spoiler:
Everyday

Everyday 悲しい時も
Everyday 雨の日でも
Everyday 雨上がって
Everyday 晴れた時は

今だから素直に言えそうな気がする
この曲に乗せて
伝えたい事があるんだ
いつも いつも
私ばかり支えてくれて
私もあなたの力になりたいんだ

君が不安になるなら
一緒に夢の話を沢山 話そう
きっと楽しく 歩いてるはず
家族のように always care for you

*Everyday 悲しい時も
Everyday 雨の日でも
Oh oh oh...
いつだって一緒だから
Everyday 雨上がって
Everyday 晴れた時は
Oh oh oh...
ふたりで笑ってたいね

子供の様に 笑う姿が見れない
そんな日には私も
とても切なさ感じる
頑張り屋さんだから
周りに気を遣って
疲れちゃったのかな?
話なら聞くよ

君が悲しいなら 抱きしめてあげる 
いつだって そこは暖かい場所になる
その愛のある 場所だから love you
どんな時も側に居るから

*repeat

君の輝く想いを乗せて go way
まだ見ぬ夢 一緒に掴みに行こう
少し風が冷たく感じる夜も
明日また 新しい空が
待っているから

*repeat x2

Gustavopc 23rd January 2012 12:41 PM

Oh god, these lyrics are so sweet, I imagine Kuu singing this to Kenji :heart Thanks for the translation!

~StarCatcher~ 23rd January 2012 12:49 PM

Very Sweet and empowering. Could be ment for fans, Kenji or maybe her Baby.

ayu_ready? 23rd January 2012 01:19 PM

my friend will buy me JAPONESQUE while in Japan :luv2

ESCALATE PV is full of energy! it's been a while since I wanted a dance-only PV, thank u Kuu :)

Love Me Back is certainly the BEST story PV in ages, and kakkoi :)
and off the album!

happiholic★ 23rd January 2012 01:22 PM

I actually prefer the single version of Love Me Back. More Kuu, less other stuff.

I actually like the thread name, and the pic used is old and she looks like a ganguro, but I like it, too.

Lee^ChaN 23rd January 2012 01:37 PM

LOL what a title :laugh

ESCALATE PV is fierce~ Jungle.. long time no seeee~
NM'sL PV simple & dark.. Love this!
Love Technique is well cute..
Lay down is kinda boring..
LMB Album version :heart
Slow pure love

still waiting for Brave & Everyday (i possibly won't like it)

xLuna&1LOVE 23rd January 2012 01:45 PM

@ Vivi preview from the last thread.

Those are really pretty looking pictures. I cannot wait to see them in HQ.

se7entheaven 23rd January 2012 02:18 PM

I still don't understand the hype about BOOM BOOM BOYS. I can't like it...the rest are fine but this.

Corvina 23rd January 2012 02:59 PM

JAPONESQUE promotion trucks:
http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/4989/1201233.jpg
http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/9506/1201234.jpg

Thansk to Ilovekuu at JPC

MissElin_ 23rd January 2012 03:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by se7entheaven (Post 2807063)
I still don't understand the hype about BOOM BOOM BOYS. I can't like it...the rest are fine but this.

Well that's how taste works. But I love it because of the 3-part-chours. :heart

setsuka 23rd January 2012 03:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lee^ChaN (Post 2807041)
LOL what a title :laugh

ESCALATE PV is fierce~ Jungle.. long time no seeee~
NM'sL PV simple & dark.. Love this!
Love Technique is well cute..
Lay down is kinda boring..
LMB Album version :heart
Slow pure love

still waiting for Brave & Everyday (i possibly won't like it)

would be nice if you gave links to where to watch NML and Lay Down

all her pvs are uploaded here

http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/g1cLS13_EZw

except all are password blocked:tired

maze 23rd January 2012 03:39 PM

what a flawless album. Kuu, I'm so proud of you :heart
please make the Japonesque tour in 2013 or my life won't be completed x_x

hottest asian artist.

kotora 23rd January 2012 03:39 PM

I am glad you guys like this thread title. Next time the title will be "Koda Kumi is epic in many levels, don't you think so?"

Welurru 23rd January 2012 03:39 PM

Love Me Back PV now makes sense :yes

Any news yet on what the lives are on second DVD. From the CM it seems like rather a waste of DVD if it's all Tour stuff.

chocopockymaster 23rd January 2012 03:40 PM

lol I find it hilarious how the pictures of the promo buses were taken in exactly the same place. They must have been parked at the McDonald's close to TR in Shibuya.

Thoughts on JAPONESQUE...

1. Introduction ~JAPONESQUE~: Never have I heard such a flawless intro for an album. It's pretty good at setting the tone for what's to come in terms of the shamisen-sounding strings with a little hip hop beat and a taste of Kuu's enticing vocals. LOVE. And the breath at the end sets the stage perfectly for So Nice. 10/10

2. So Nice feat. Mr. Blistah: I was a big fan of her other collabs with Mr. Blistah…though this was clearly in the same vein, I don't like it quite as much. On first listen I was really not impressed, but the PV convinced me to give it a second try. I suppose I'll keep it around, but I don't see myself listening to it too much. Good thing it's short. 5/10

3. Boom Boom Boys: It's pretty obvious that from the opening notes this is the most perfect girls-going-out party anthem to ever see the light of day…but it wasn't until the chorus hit that I truly knew how much I was going to love this song. I could listen to it forever and not get bored of it. 10/10

4. V.I.P feat. T-Pain: I never liked this song. In fact, I hated it so much that it completely dissuaded me from listening to the rest of 4 Times. As cute as her banshee screams are, this song is terrible. T-Pain makes it worse. 0/10

5. Slow feat. Omarion: I could do without some of the auto-tuning, and I don't really have an opinion one way or another about Omarion's appearance, but this song is catchy as hell. 9/10 (minus a point for the autotuning)

6. Brave: This song is so basic I could only listen to it once, and then deleted it swiftly after. 0/10

7. Everyday: As soon as I heard this song, I started singing 'anytime'. It's like she plagiarized herself. Even the titles are similar. What the hell? 0/10

8. IN THE AIR: I blame V.I.P. for the fact that I didn't hear this flawless summery pop song until the dead of winter. It's catchy, and I'm sure it'll be lots of fun when she comes back to the touring scene! 8/10

9. You are not alone (Acoustic): ….oh, that huge chorus does not bode well. I can get behind the lyrics and the message of the song, but the chorus and the plodding beat just kill me. No thank you. 2/10

10. Interlude ~JAPONESQUE~: Not quite as flawless as its sister track…I could do without the random voices towards the end. Still love it, though. 7/10

11. ESCALATE: I find this song basic as hell. Next, please. 2/10

12. Love Me Back: Another one of Kuu's mediocre singles from 2011. I never found the whole "diamonds, and sapphires, and you, oh my" hook as catchy as everyone else on the planet did. Plus, the chorus is super annoying. DNW. 0/10

13. No Man's Land: I knew this was one of the most anticipated tracks on the album, and it really did not disappoint. I love her hard rock songs like Selfish, Ningyohime, etc. This one seems a lot darker. I LOVE IT. 10/10

14. Ai wo tomenaide: Zzzzzzzzzzzzzz. Not only is this song snooze-worthy and totally unmemorable when placed next to some of her other epic ballads, the placement on the album couldn't be worse. 0/10

15. KO-SO-KO-SO: I can't decide if I love the 80's-esque beat or I hate it. I guess it works. But Kuu, please, one song like this is enough. Please don't try it again. 4/10

16. Lay Down: Normally I can handle Kuu's Engrish, but here it just makes my ears bleed. (Though I got a chuckle out of 'we poppin' bottles".) I don't find the song particularly memorable either…just repetitive, and grating. 1/10

17. Love Technique: There are a handful of Kuu's cutesy songs that I really like, and this definitely just got added to the list. I like! 7/10

18. Poppin love cocktail: This song is a travesty. I can't. 00000/10

19. All for you: I really want to like this song. I do. I love studio live recordings but this one really hurts my ears. :/ I can't decide whether I want to keep it around or not. It's one of the worst produced tracks I've ever heard. Contrary to popular belief, it IS possible to produce a song with this feeling in this environment without sounding like you used your grandfather's half-broken tape recorder. 2/10

Average score: 4/10...yikes.

I have to say that on the whole, the quality/listenability of the album tracks far exceeds the mediocre (at best) singles she released in 2011. Had she left some songs off the album I think it would have flowed better and sounded more cohesive...and I wouldn't have wasted my time downloading 19 tracks when I only really liked 8 of them.

maze 23rd January 2012 03:46 PM

ESCALATE PV is ****ing awesome :heart

damn I need my copy now!!

Princess_Of_Roses 23rd January 2012 03:50 PM

Cdjapan says they shipped my album... Fedex says it will be here TOMORROW before noon..so like 27 hours and its mine (if the weather in oregon/Washington) doesnt slow it down

I saw in the last topic about the Kumi photohop tons of makeup thing.. Well ive actually met her (kamikaze con) I didnt think she had that much makeup on and she still looked good.. (mind you this was like 7-8 years ago.. people changle alot during that time haha) Im not saying she is never changed for covers.. but she does look look that good in person :) i mean i shook her hand I was that close Shes also short O_O she walked past us and she had those Kimono shoes on I(cant for the life of me remember what they are called) and she barely came to my nose..and im barely 5' 6 :)

Ive been good..I havent seen any vids or listened to any more songs! I can wait one more day!

Corvina 23rd January 2012 03:51 PM

Ok, so far these PVs are on Dailymotion:
Boom Boom Boys
ESCALATE
Slow feat. Omarion
So Nice feat. Mr.Blistah
V.I.P. album version

Love Me Back album version on youku:
Love Me Back album version

No Man's Land and Lay Down are both on youtube, but with altered voice and mirrored. And the colours for Lay Down are washed out.
Take a look if you dare

Oh, Kuu and Omarion are such a great couple! <3 XD
Love the PV, I even was a bit teary in the end, dying together. *sniff*
Love Me Back album version is great and so funny at parts.
No Man's Land is pretty simple, sadly not much different to the preview. Hoped for something more, but atmosphere and setting are great.
Lay Down is indeed a bit boring, but I love her glowing in the dark styling!
I love ESCALATE, it's done so well!

waterballoon 23rd January 2012 03:55 PM

Omg does anyone have FULL HD PVs of JAPONESQUE on Tudou/Youku? If a password is needed, please let me know, I NEED THEM.

BEST ALBUM OF KODA KUMI... thrashes every of Ayu's album since NEXT LEVEL

kaled kalil 23rd January 2012 03:58 PM

I found So Nice demo (I don't have the full song yet) http://soundcloud.com/kaled_kalil/so-nice-demo-short

tenshi no hane 23rd January 2012 04:01 PM

kiのtrumpet@baidu posted all the official lyrics here (look for the 歌词 tag).

Apparently it's "lay down, lay down, and I'll lay down the law" ;)

Corvina 23rd January 2012 04:03 PM

Yeah, just saw it and it makes so much sense, she DOES sing it, just nobody expected that! :laugh

yabieru 23rd January 2012 04:10 PM

Brave is up on jpopsuki :D I wanna see No Mans Land and Lay Down so baaad! U_U

Corvina 23rd January 2012 04:31 PM

Kuu's English pronounciation is pretty well in Boom Boom Boys, No Man's Land and ESCALATE, I did understand most of it without big problems.
Ah and You are not alone as well! There isn't much English to begin with, but it's good to understand, at least for me!
(except the chop chop boom part in ESCALATE and the ding dong in NML, but nevermind, lol)

But Lay Down, wow, those lyrics are bad, her singing it as well.

Another pic of the JAPONESQUEx Ameba special:
http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/492...nesquegame.jpg

Thanks to kumi-flash

ayu_ready? 23rd January 2012 04:38 PM

Lay Down is amazing guys!!!!! :)
Kuu looked so fantabulous with this haircut!she must keep it I'm lovin' it
NO MAN'S LAND IS ****ING EPIC

PS. I LOVE KUU SHE IS THE GODDESS SENT FROM ABOVE :luv2

Princess_Of_Roses 23rd January 2012 04:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tenshi no hane (Post 2807108)
kiのtrumpet@baidu posted all the official lyrics here (look for the 歌词 tag).

Apparently it's "lay down, lay down, and I'll lay down the law" ;)


YAY i can understand some Engrish haha.. I knew she was saying that. My ears are getting accustomed to the words lol!

kumiko.koda 23rd January 2012 04:58 PM

I have to wait until early february to get my copys of Japonesque

from now on I won't watch any new PV's

then I have a few left when my copy arrives

milky_way 23rd January 2012 05:20 PM

I haven't watched any of the new PVs. My copy needs to get here faster. I hate ****ing waiting :cry

bondingo 23rd January 2012 05:21 PM

My copy will be here tomorrow morning. Sometimes living in Japan is awesome :D

kumiko.koda 23rd January 2012 05:22 PM

I think I have to wait 2 weeks until I get my copy

Welurru 23rd January 2012 05:25 PM

Watched up to LMB leak. Gonna save the other PV's for when my copy arrives. Gonna watch Second Session and Kingdom DVD's tonight in preparation lol.

AyuHamasaki01 23rd January 2012 05:40 PM

I'm not gonna watch any of the PVs (okay, I already saw So Nice and Boom Boom Boys) until I receive my copy...

Well, I'll try :laugh

Quote:

Originally Posted by kaled kalil (Post 2807106)
I found So Nice demo (I don't have the full song yet) http://soundcloud.com/kaled_kalil/so-nice-demo-short

Thanks for sharing~

Quote:

Originally Posted by Corvina (Post 2807118)

Another pic of the JAPONESQUEx Ameba special:
http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/492...nesquegame.jpg

Thanks to kumi-flash

Aw this is so cute~ It looks really cool.

Quote:

Originally Posted by bondingo (Post 2807133)
My copy will be here tomorrow morning. Sometimes living in Japan is awesome :D

Oooh I envy you :D

Quote:

Originally Posted by kumiko.koda (Post 2807135)
I think I have to wait 2 weeks until I get my copy

Yeah me too (I think)

Heavenly 23rd January 2012 05:49 PM

If anyone wants a limited or first press edition of JAPONESQUE, Play-Asia still has every edition in stock (perhaps a little bit more expansive btw, and releasing at the original release date [02.01.2012]) :

LIMITED EDITION :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque_...r-70-4hbf.html

CD+2DVD :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque_...r-70-4hbg.html

CD+DVD :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque_...r-70-4hbe.html

CD :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque/...r-70-4hpo.html

happiholic★ 23rd January 2012 06:07 PM

I wanna watch Slow PV so bad right now. I love the song, besides Omarion's attempt at rapping, its a wee bit cheesy. They look good together too. Wouldn't it be such a scandal if Kuu's baby was born and it looked like Omarion XD

Klauser_Bateson 23rd January 2012 06:15 PM

I just checked my order status on FedEx's website. Estimated delivery date for tomorrow. I almost want to skip class just so I can be at home when it arrives.

AyuHamasaki01 23rd January 2012 06:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Klauser_Bateson (Post 2807152)
I just checked my order status on FedEx's website. Estimated delivery date for tomorrow. I almost want to skip class just so I can be at home when it arrives.

At least you have a good reason to skip class :D

Gustavopc 23rd January 2012 06:22 PM

I wish the shipping company here in Brazil was efficient like that. I'm getting EMS, but the last time it took me two weeks and a half... Good old times when I could buy something on a Monday morning and receive it by Friday afternoon.

AyuHamasaki01 23rd January 2012 06:24 PM

^I know what you mean. I ordered my copy via YesAsia and I have Standard shipping (because the other one is just too expensive for me) and it also takes 2 weeks for the stuff to arrive.
(Well the last time I ordered something was in 2010 so maybe they are faster now, although I doubt it :laugh)

krauterol 23rd January 2012 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chocopockymaster (Post 2807097)
lol I find it hilarious how the pictures of the promo buses were taken in exactly the same place.

hahaha! I second that! :lech

ren'ai 23rd January 2012 10:10 PM

hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooly shizzle!!!

i didnt hear anything except the previews just once and just listened to the whole album now.. holy holy hell! I'm sooooo happy with this album omgg there's not a single track i dislike.. there's alwaays one or two i dont like or hate but not this time omg even the cute songs are so good. Wait.. the only thing i didnt like was T-pain in V.I.P, he was so out of place and unneccessary but atleast we get an extra dance scene on the PV

LOVE LOVE LOVE: ESCALATE, Lay Down, No Man's Land, Boom Boom Boys, Slow feat. Omarion, So Nice (wish it went more places but still good)
LOVE: Love Technique (thought I'd hate it after the preview)
LIKE: Brave, Everyday, All for you

The PVs are sooo good too. Well done Kumi, you just owned my heart and life all over again

happiholic★ 23rd January 2012 10:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ren'ai (Post 2807218)
hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooly shizzle!!!

i didnt hear anything except the previews just once and just listened to the whole album now.. holy holy hell! I'm sooooo happy with this album omgg there's not a single track i dislike.. there's alwaays one or two i dont like or hate but not this time omg even the cute songs are so good. Wait.. the only thing i didnt like was T-pain in V.I.P, he was so out of place and unneccessary but atleast we get an extra dance scene on the PV

LOVE LOVE LOVE: ESCALATE, Lay Down, No Man's Land, Boom Boom Boys, Slow feat. Omarion, So Nice (wish it went more places but still good)
LOVE: Love Technique (thought I'd hate it after the preview)
LIKE: Brave, Everyday, All for you

The PVs are sooo good too. Well done Kumi, you just owned my heart and life all over again

Pretty much me, except Everyday is gowing on me, the litte bugger.

TeamAyu2004 23rd January 2012 10:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Heavenly (Post 2807143)
If anyone wants a limited or first press edition of JAPONESQUE, Play-Asia still has every edition in stock (perhaps a little bit more expansive btw, and releasing at the original release date [02.01.2012]) :

LIMITED EDITION :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque_...r-70-4hbf.html

CD+2DVD :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque_...r-70-4hbg.html

CD+DVD :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque_...r-70-4hbe.html

CD :
http://www.play-asia.com/Japonesque/...r-70-4hpo.html

Which edition has that awesome photo booklet?

Gustavopc 23rd January 2012 10:51 PM

^ The one from the video is from the CD+2DVD, the Limited one comes with a photobook, 32 pages if I'm not wrong, but I haven't seen its pics yet.

Beauty4123 23rd January 2012 11:44 PM

i've watched the PVs for "ESCALATE", "Lay Down", "No Man's Land", "Love Technique" and "Slow feat. Omarion", and they are all amazing! :heart

TeamAyu2004 23rd January 2012 11:45 PM

Ah coolness... Im still deciding if I want to get this, lol...
So the one in the video is nothing special... just the regular CD+2DVD version...
coolness!

kumiko.koda 23rd January 2012 11:46 PM

I can't wait to get my copy so I can watch those PV's

Kana×Shin 23rd January 2012 11:58 PM

where you can watch all PVs? ( ̄▽ ̄)

krauterol 24th January 2012 12:04 AM

I'm addicted to No man's Land, Slow and Love me back (album ver.) PV's! the last one is amazing amazing amazing!

SheFliesHigher 24th January 2012 12:08 AM

Whoever said T-Pain phoned it in on VIP was right. It sounds like a fan just edited him into the song. His part is so short and bizarre. It's almost jarring. Lol.

I haven't listened to the whole album yet, but I just had to make that comment.

happiholic★ 24th January 2012 12:38 AM

I also swapped VIP on the album for the single version on my iPod. I thought, before I heard it that people were probably being fussy. Turns out it really does sound bad.

Gustavopc 24th January 2012 12:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TeamAyu2004 (Post 2807251)
Ah coolness... Im still deciding if I want to get this, lol...
So the one in the video is nothing special... just the regular CD+2DVD version...
coolness!

Actually it's the first press of the CD+2DVD, the digipack is just for the first copies. Kinda confunsing, with this album there's a limited edition and a first press edition for another version :laugh

Heavenly 24th January 2012 01:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gustavopc (Post 2807270)
Actually it's the first press of the CD+2DVD, the digipack is just for the first copies. Kinda confunsing, with this album there's a limited edition and a first press edition for another version :laugh

The first press of the CD+2DVD edition has a great packaging, but the regular edition has a gorgeous cover *.*
http://avexnet.jp/image/disc/RZCD/59/PIL_RZCD-59079.jpg

Welurru 24th January 2012 01:52 AM

What annoys me most with the T-Pain rap is he's famous for autotune. Kumi herself uses autotune to death during the first quarter of the album, then he pop's up unedited.

He should've been autotuned and his vocals layered into the instrumental. Maybe then it would have been tolerable.

TeamAyu2004 24th January 2012 02:06 AM

I have to say:
In the Air... I am in love with!
I would love to see this woman live! lol... just another to add to the list that will never happen... :thud

Pieces_of_SEVEN 24th January 2012 02:15 AM

I guess I'm pleased with the album.

My favorites are easily Boom Boom Boys, No Mans Land, ESCALATE, and Lay down.

koumori 24th January 2012 03:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kotora (Post 2807095)
I am glad you guys like this thread title. Next time the title will be "Koda Kumi is epic in many levels, don't you think so?"

:heart

CHE.R.RY 24th January 2012 03:35 AM

I gotta say new album is solid....It's a lot like the style I enjoyed about 3 albums ago. I actually would go as far as to say this album consisted of almost all her styles she's explored over the years :yes.

Zeke. 24th January 2012 04:37 AM

Only new song I LOVE like, can't live without (along the lines of Driving, Get Up&Move!!, Love goes like...) is LOVE TECHNIQUE. No Man's Land I like too but I just don't like her engrish at all. "ROWCOME TU NO MAN'S RAAAAAND!" ESCALATE and Lay Down don't every really take off. ESCALATE is all shouting and no progression during the chorus. Lay Down I was thinking would be my saving grace based off the previews once I previewed ESCALATE but even though it's better, it still doesn't have the power that Driving or the other slam dunk booty shakin' tracks she's had. Boom Boom Boys is alright, but again, the chorus is lacking. Especially that autotuned part - it's boring. Plus the only song on the singles she's released this year that I truly love is IN THE AIR. Two or three new songs that I love woulda made me ok. That's how I am with Kumi's albums - there are usually the 3 that stand out but they are so damn good that I don't care if the rest blow, I'll forget them and move on. The album is of superb production but the compositions... very lacking.

happiholic★ 24th January 2012 04:57 AM

Considering that she produced her last few albums, did she produce this one too? If so, I'm even more impressed.

hsienko 24th January 2012 04:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by happiholic★ (Post 2807268)
I also swapped VIP on the album for the single version on my iPod. I thought, before I heard it that people were probably being fussy. Turns out it really does sound bad.

Whoever thought it was good idea to get T-Pain on that track needs to be fired. It's not the song or the rap, its just T-Pain sucks so hard.

JAPONESQUE = my new favorite kuu album

bondingo 24th January 2012 05:33 AM

YES! It arrived!:

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/6...e052012012.jpg

I have work in less than an hour, so I won't be able to listen to it before then, but I have the DVD(s) to look forward to when I get home :D

Welurru 24th January 2012 07:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bondingo (Post 2807392)
YES! It arrived!:

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/6...e052012012.jpg

I have work in less than an hour, so I won't be able to listen to it before then, but I have the DVD(s) to look forward to when I get home :D

Tell us whats on DVD 2 when you get home, after enjoying the rest LOL.

Lucky. Mines still not even saying shipped (Which I always love. I imagine all my J-CD's come to me aboard a pirate vessel :P).

Minttulatte 24th January 2012 08:31 AM

IN THE AIR's playing in my head now. *_*

Quote:

Originally Posted by tenshi no hane (Post 2807012)
More official lyrics are starting to pop up~ I translated Everyday:

Everyday (translation)
Spoiler:
Everyday

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear

I feel I can speak freely now
There are things I want to tell you
I placed the words in this song
You always support me
But I also want to be there for you

When you feel scared
Let’s talk about dreams together
I’m sure you can walk happily
You’re like family to me
I always care for you

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
Oh oh oh...
Because we’re always together
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear
Oh oh oh...
I want to laugh with you

On days when I can’t
See you smile like a child
My heart aches badly
You’re a fighter
You’re attentive to those around you
Maybe you need some rest?
Talk to me, I’ll listen

I’ll hold you when you feel sad
That place always becomes warm
Because it’s a place full of love (love you)
Because I’m always by your side

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
Oh oh oh...
Because we’re always together
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear
Oh oh oh...
I want to laugh with you

Flying on your shining love, go way
Let’s go and catch new dreams together
Because though the wind may feel a little cold at night
There is always a new sky waiting the next day

(Everyday) At sad times
(Everyday) On rainy days
Oh oh oh...
Because we’re always together
(Everyday) When the rain has let up
(Everyday) And the sky is clear
Oh oh oh...
I want to laugh with you (x2)


Everyday (kanji)
Spoiler:
Everyday

Everyday 悲しい時も
Everyday 雨の日でも
Everyday 雨上がって
Everyday 晴れた時は

今だから素直に言えそうな気がする
この曲に乗せて
伝えたい事があるんだ
いつも いつも
私ばかり支えてくれて
私もあなたの力になりたいんだ

君が不安になるなら
一緒に夢の話を沢山 話そう
きっと楽しく 歩いてるはず
家族のように always care for you

*Everyday 悲しい時も
Everyday 雨の日でも
Oh oh oh...
いつだって一緒だから
Everyday 雨上がって
Everyday 晴れた時は
Oh oh oh...
ふたりで笑ってたいね

子供の様に 笑う姿が見れない
そんな日には私も
とても切なさ感じる
頑張り屋さんだから
周りに気を遣って
疲れちゃったのかな?
話なら聞くよ

君が悲しいなら 抱きしめてあげる 
いつだって そこは暖かい場所になる
その愛のある 場所だから love you
どんな時も側に居るから

*repeat

君の輝く想いを乗せて go way
まだ見ぬ夢 一緒に掴みに行こう
少し風が冷たく感じる夜も
明日また 新しい空が
待っているから

*repeat x2

Thanks for the translation, tenshi! I really appreciate it~ :luv2

tenshi no hane 24th January 2012 09:19 AM

^ you're welcome~

Argh utaten's lyrics differ from those on Baidu at times. Especially the songs that are full of Engrish like Lay Down. I hope someone will quickly upload photos/scans of the booklet so I can see the official lyrics (my copy won't arrive for at least another 2 weeks).

Bad Wolf 24th January 2012 09:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SheFliesHigher (Post 2807259)
Whoever said T-Pain phoned it in on VIP was right. It sounds like a fan just edited him into the song. His part is so short and bizarre. It's almost jarring. Lol.

I haven't listened to the whole album yet, but I just had to make that comment.

That was me! I'm keeping the album version on just for laughs because holy crap it really is hilarious, but I definitely enjoy the single version :heart

Minttulatte 24th January 2012 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kotora (Post 2807095)
I am glad you guys like this thread title. Next time the title will be "Koda Kumi is epic in many levels, don't you think so?"

Yes, this should be used next time~ :yes

~StarCatcher~ 24th January 2012 10:52 AM

Ahhhh HMV wrote me an e-mail saying that they need my confirmation that they can ship my order, because the shipping fee is higher than announced=(
So it's not shipped by now=(

Anyone else here with the problem?

Gustavopc 24th January 2012 12:39 PM

^ I had this problem with CdJapan, but it was two or three days ago. I canceled my limited edition there due to the high shipping charge and got a CD+2DVD copy at HMV, but until yesterday it was "In Transit".

Tom Punks 24th January 2012 12:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeke. (Post 2807377)
Only new song I LOVE like, can't live without (along the lines of Driving, Get Up&Move!!, Love goes like...) is LOVE TECHNIQUE. No Man's Land I like too but I just don't like her engrish at all. "ROWCOME TU NO MAN'S RAAAAAND!" ESCALATE and Lay Down don't every really take off. ESCALATE is all shouting and no progression during the chorus. Lay Down I was thinking would be my saving grace based off the previews once I previewed ESCALATE but even though it's better, it still doesn't have the power that Driving or the other slam dunk booty shakin' tracks she's had. Boom Boom Boys is alright, but again, the chorus is lacking. Especially that autotuned part - it's boring. Plus the only song on the singles she's released this year that I truly love is IN THE AIR. Two or three new songs that I love woulda made me ok. That's how I am with Kumi's albums - there are usually the 3 that stand out but they are so damn good that I don't care if the rest blow, I'll forget them and move on. The album is of superb production but the compositions... very lacking.

I agree. The production is kind of what "saves" the album. I like the album a lot, but the composition of half of the songs themselves is not great. ESCALATE and Lay Down have great atmosphere, but their choruses are absolutely snoozefests and kill the songs unfortunately. :(

I also have to point out that I HATE that fade out at the end of So Nice. It's a really cool technique that sounds awesome when done right (like in BoA's Discovery), but it sounds horrible in this song. It doesn't work at all.

Songs I like: Boom Boom Boys, V.I.P., Slow, IN THE AIR, ESCALATE, Love Me Back, No Man's Land, KO-SO-KO-SO, Lay Down
Okay/meh songs: So Nice, You are not alone (Acoustic Version), ai wo tomenaide, Love Technique, Poppin' love cocktail
Songs I hope to never have to listen to again: Brave, Everyday, All for you

~StarCatcher~ 24th January 2012 12:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gustavopc (Post 2807532)
^ I had this problem with CdJapan, but it was two or three days ago. I canceled my limited edition there due to the high shipping charge and got a CD+2DVD copy at HMV, but until yesterday it was "In Transit".

Mine, too then I got an e-mail adn it changed to ready instead of in transit...

Twinkle ! 24th January 2012 01:08 PM

Same here guys , My 4 editions from HMV still in transit :(

~StarCatcher~ 24th January 2012 01:21 PM

That's so ......... -.-

Why noooooow=(

bondingo 24th January 2012 02:00 PM

Just finished watching the music video DVD. It's amazing how good the quality was throughout (pretty much) all the videos. Definitely an improvement over Kingdom's "PV for every song" deal.

However, now that I've heard the entire album through watching all the PVs, I'm a little bit disappointed. It's a solid album, but it has hardly any standout tracks. The production is amazing throughout, but I can't help but feel that barely any of the songs have any real standout melodies or hooks. While I'd say that it seems to be her second most consistent album next to BEST~ss~, I wouldn't exactly rank it her second best at this point. Then again, that's only after the first listen and not in order (since the order on the DVD is by genre). I'm sure it will grow on me with time. At least I can say for the first DVD and amazing packaging alone, I don't regret the purchase.

Also, I didn't see anyone else say it yet, but the second DVD is only 26 minutes long, so clearly it only includes a digest of the lives and not full versions, which is surprising given how often the second DVD on Kuu's albums will have a full-on concert. Oh well, I have so many Kuu concerts that I have most of the performances already, so a digest is kind of a nice way to watch enough to be satisfied, but not be bored.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tom Punks (Post 2807535)
I agree. The production is kind of what "saves" the album. I like the album a lot, but the composition of half of the songs themselves is not great. ESCALATE and Lay Down have great atmosphere, but their choruses are absolutely snoozefests and kill the songs unfortunately. :(

Complete agreement. I was hoping for so much more with ESCALATE and Lay Down :(

tenshi no hane 24th January 2012 02:29 PM

I just watched Love Technique's PV. I love that it's basically teaching you how to get your boyfriend whipped lol

Quote:

Originally Posted by kaled kalil (Post 2807106)
I found So Nice demo (I don't have the full song yet) http://soundcloud.com/kaled_kalil/so-nice-demo-short

Thanks! I was confused by this line in So Nice: "満足させてspot it drives me crazy". I was like wtf is "spot" doing there? But in the demo it's "I like the way you hit the spot, it drives me crazy" which makes so much more sense XD

Earth_maiden 24th January 2012 02:31 PM

Has this been posted before?

http://img381.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/u...isf8s54236.jpg

http://www.noppin.com/portal_ya_deta...on%2Fu39071936

Pics of the limited edition version. Not sure if those extras are just from the seller or are included with it...

Also found a pic of the clear file:

http://img375.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/u...mzlu320876.jpg

http://www.noppin.com/portal_ya_deta...n%2Fb131608565

ayu_ready? 24th January 2012 02:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeke. (Post 2807377)
I like too but I just don't like her engrish at all. "ROWCOME TU NO MAN'S RAAAAAND!"

:laugh
Kuu's engrish is always so engrish. :)

Love Technique PV is absolute kawaiiness :luv2
No Man's Land PV is so epic, I can't get over it. the music & video is smth Ayu could have done, but Kuu did it amazingly. okay, I'd like the PV for Duty off Duty to be like that :D

someone said about album being bad because the sound is old & not-innovative, well, let's us take a look at Ayu's production whoever was saying anything positive about it, in 2011 with FIVE & others it's been extrememly not-innovative. what surprised me was the poor & cheap production, sound, arrangement & recording. Kuu did it much better

bondingo 24th January 2012 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ayu_ready? (Post 2807583)
someone said about album being bad because the sound is old & not-innovative, well, let's us take a look at Ayu's production whoever was saying anything positive about it, in 2011 with FIVE & others it's been extrememly not-innovative. what surprised me was the poor & cheap production, sound, arrangement & recording. Kuu did it much better

I don't think anyone in this thread would be tasteless enough to actually claim Ayu's been better recently than Kuu in any way :laugh

Ayu's videos have been crappy and the songs aren't any better. At least Kuu's videos are always good and the songs are always at least worth a listen, even if they aren't always amazing.

kakumei 24th January 2012 04:23 PM

PB preview, click for larger:
http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...a/th_b01-2.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...a/th_b02-2.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b03.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b04.jpg
http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b05.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b06.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b07.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b08.jpg
http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...dra/th_b09.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b010.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b011.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b012.jpg
http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b013.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b014.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b015.jpg http://i1218.photobucket.com/albums/...ra/th_b016.jpg

Corvina 24th January 2012 04:39 PM

The photobook looks amazing, thank you! :heart
Her eyebrows are actually painted, somehow I liked the idea of the raw natural look better, goes better with traditional japanese. :laugh
Would have loved some backgrounds here and there, but it's great either way.

Quote:

Originally Posted by tenshi no hane (Post 2807465)

Argh utaten's lyrics differ from those on Baidu at times. Especially the songs that are full of Engrish like Lay Down. I hope someone will quickly upload photos/scans of the booklet so I can see the official lyrics (my copy won't arrive for at least another 2 weeks).

Ah, really?
And I was sursprised yesterday by reading some of them (e.g. new zero in NML, cause I swear she clearly sings new hero).
I'm excited to read the real full lyrics then!
Lay Down may not be that bad like I thought. :laugh

Yumsushi 24th January 2012 04:45 PM

The second DVD is only 26 minutes long? hmm. That sucks. I thought it would have full performances.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ayu_ready? (Post 2807583)
No Man's Land PV is so epic, I can't get over it. the music & video is smth Ayu could have done, but Kuu did it amazingly. okay, I'd like the PV for Duty off Duty to be like that :D

someone said about album being bad because the sound is old & not-innovative, well, let's us take a look at Ayu's production whoever was saying anything positive about it, in 2011 with FIVE & others it's been extrememly not-innovative. what surprised me was the poor & cheap production, sound, arrangement & recording. Kuu did it much better

I'm not going to defend the atrocity that was Five in any way, but I thought you said you didn't like comparing artists?

kakumei 24th January 2012 04:47 PM

it is new hero, the baidu lyrics appear to be made by ear (and a bad ear at that), lots of mistakes from looking through my booklet.

Corvina 24th January 2012 04:49 PM

I'll never trust baidu again then, cause I thought they were from somebody having the album already. Thanks again!
Would you mind doing some photos of the lyrics? I really wanna have the real ones!

milky_way 24th January 2012 04:53 PM

I thought I saw some booklet scans on baidu :shrug

kakumei 24th January 2012 04:56 PM

^ the lyric postings? no they made them into jpg's so no one could easily copy and paste them, but they are not booklet scans. they even mess up some names in the song credits.

AyumiAi 24th January 2012 05:14 PM

the packaging of this album is stunning!

ayu_ready? 24th January 2012 05:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bondingo (Post 2807586)
I don't think anyone in this thread would be tasteless enough to actually claim Ayu's been better recently than Kuu in any way :laugh

Ayu's videos have been crappy and the songs aren't any better. At least Kuu's videos are always good and the songs are always at least worth a listen, even if they aren't always amazing.

well, I didn't mention PVs or anything, but at least arrangement & recording quality that have been very poor of Ayu recently

OMFG WHY THIS WOMAN IS SO AMAZING? I luv the photobook :love

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yumsushi (Post 2807623)
I'm not going to defend the atrocity that was Five in any way, but I thought you said you didn't like comparing artists?

Yes, I don't, since I follow too much of them and love them all :innocent

kaled kalil 24th January 2012 05:20 PM

The photobook is stunning, I wish I could afford this but it's too much expensive for me.

I'm surprised with the 'store promo' of JAPONESQUE, it seems pretty nice (credits: baidu):

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q...1f3b2979f4.jpg http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q...1b0ff43b8f.jpg

ayu_ready? 24th January 2012 05:22 PM

^ so many posters! lol

Corvina 24th January 2012 05:28 PM

Wow, that's amazing promo, but also pretty aggressive! :innocent

All for you PV:
http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/ux4qmr8zoQQ/


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