^StrawbariSnowAyumi, I edited my post above
Calico, yes, I agree she has always been steady. I never did say that her music post-Secret has been terrible or awful. Just that it has only been good enough. And I want more than that. I do think she might be past her artistic peak, and has settled into a comfortable place with regards to her music. Oh well, maybe she'll prove me wrong with an enka-inspired album. Or something with only Japanese instruments. Or just her and a piano.
By the way, I think Honey is one of the best songs I've ever heard, and it's probably her most life-affirming song. I don't know why people assume that I prefer Ayu when she is writing sad music? I think it's a fallacy to say that her past music is depressing overall. The only album that resulted out of a deep depression really is Guilty. She's always displayed a range of emotions. Independent, July 1st, Voyage, Angel's Song, Bold and Delicious, Replace, Moments, Greatful Days, Unite, Audience, Fly High, these are all joyous songs, I love them all, and I think she has yet to match any of them with her recent output.