To be honest, I don't feel disconnected with Ayu at all, a lot of her [recent] songs still appeal to me! Lyrically and composition wise. Take (don't) leave me alone for example, I totally understood where she was coming from because I've felt the same exact way myself! Sometimes you get sick of people but you still don't want them out of your life. Also untitled ~for her~ touched my heart because someone who was a major part of my life has also passed away a few months before the song came out. I personally STILL feel a connection to Ayu. So I guess it's really a matter of taste and personal relavence.
Also, I don't understand why people don't like her all-out concerts. I love the fact that it's theatrical and over-done xD; She obviously puts a lot of effort into them. Plus, who wants to watch someone just stand there and sing <_<;;; Maybe it's because I haven't seen her older ones, but I don't think Ayu does "simple" concerts (anymore...) because she's not a "simple" artist. She's AYU hahahaha
And even though I know her vocals aren't the most spectacular right now, I love her for trying. I love her for continuing to go on because if I were in her position, I don't think I could do it! A lot of my Japanese friends think she's strong and admire her because she continues to sing, she continues to give us more. She's obviously giving us all she's got still, and it's not like she can't improve. I just don't think there's been enough time for her to adjust really... It's like, "Okay, I'm deaf in my left ear" and then it's CDL 07-08, a few TV appearances, AT08, a-nation, CDTV, recording new song, AT08 AGAIN.... I know she loves to work, but I think when she finds time to adjust, she'll sound better. I won't give up on her
