About the albums chart, I was severely dissapointed by every album except Secret and Black Cherry. Plus I have only listened to like eight 2006 releases. So I'mma skip to the singles.
My favorite j-pop singles of 2006!
1. Utada Hikaru - Keep Tryin'
One of the best Utada songs ever, it's unbelievably good. Every part of the track works. Plus the lower-than-usual expectations really worked for Utada. The essence of joy.
2. Koda Kumi - Koi no Tsubomi
The first Kumi song that really seemed something to me. Plus the alternate version on the CD single was simply outstanding. With a killer video too.
3. Ayumi Hamasaki - BLUE BIRD
The two main tracks were awesome, but the remixes stole the show. BLUE BIRD has endless replayability, but I can't say the same about Beautiful Fighters.
4. Ai Otsuka - Yumekui
This song is so uplifting and loud and cheery! The melody is very strong too, the strongest among Ai's 2006 releases. The B-side was also pleasant.
5. Koda Kumi - 4 HOT WAVE
This single probably had to much hype to begin with. It still turned out great, but none of the tracks live up to the quality of
Koi no Tsubomi.
Ningyo Hime, maybe.
6. Ai Otsuka - Ren'ai Sashin
A simple, elegant and beautiful song by Ai. It's strong yet vulnerable, quite a masterpiece. Perfect for quiet early mornings. Ai's most subtle song to date.
7. Yuna Ito - STUCK ON YOU
So very catchy and lovable. Unfortunately it kind of flopped badly. This cheerful song is really something. Plus Yuna's flawless English adds to the appeal
8. Olivia - WISH / Starless Night
A surprise for me, I never expected to like Olivia's style of music. Melody-wise, this is the easiest song to get into, compared to her other releases of 2006.
9. Koda Kumi - Yume no Uta / Futari de...
Another overhyped release, both of the A-sides sounded too similar. However, it still has a good melody, arrangements too. And an amazing remix of Yume no Uta.
10. Bonnie Pink - A Perfect Sky
I hardly knew about her, but thanks to kurisista, now I love her music. This single was very different from the music she used to make. And it's fun too!