[review] HEAVEN single - Ayumi Hamasaki Sekai
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Old 9th September 2006, 08:24 AM
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Raleigh Raleigh is offline
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Release Title: HEAVEN
Singer Name: Ayumi Hamasaki
Release Date: 14.09.05
Record Label: avex trax
ISBN: AVCD-30842/3
Debut Ranking: #2

Ayumi Hamasaki’s 37th single “HEAVEN” was released on the 14th September 2005. Apart from being Ayumi Hamasaki’s 3rd single for this year, it is also the theme song for the highly anticipated movie “SHINOBI -heart under blade-”. Ayumi has been working onto this single for months prior its release due to its importance, making it a highly anticipated release for her fans.

The cover of “HEAVEN” is quite simple; nonetheless it’s rather striking to the eye. It is completely in black and white and makes use of the chiaroscuro technique, which is the technique of using light and shade in pictorial representation which can also be observed during her promotional video. Hamasaki seems to be keen to convey a simple and yet beautiful message within this single simply with the use of feelings.



1. “HEAVEN”

The first track is the ending theme song for “SHINOBI -heart under blade-” and is highly acclaimed to be the Japanese version of “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion. Hamasaki starts off with soft yet forlorn vocals, gently blending into surreal background music. However the background music gradually picks up along with Ayumi’s vocals growing more powerful until the chorus breaks in and all the emotion built up is heard in the chorus. In the end the song dies down slowly as it had started off with in the beginning.

The arrangement of this track is quite different from her typical ballads that she has released in the past. It starts off with the verses, then a bridge, and the song ends with the chorus. The hint of traditional musical instruments also adds to the appeal of this ballad.

This ballad is simply moving beyond words. It’s as if the listener can feel the story as the song progresses. “HEAVEN” is a rather soulful ballad with an ethereal touch and a fitting ballad for such an awaited movie. “HEAVEN” definetely is one of the most powerful ballads Hamasaki has ever released. Hamasaki has managed to combine her polished vocals with moving lyrics.

The simplistic concept from her single’s cover is recurrent within the promotional video too. We only get to see Hamasaki singing and a train passing by with the dead passengers. Despite of having a rather plain video, the emotions within this song still seems to manage to convey itself in a less glamourous manner.

Rating: 5/5



2. “Will”

This track is to be simply put stunningly unique. It’s so different from Ayumi’s past releases and is a clear portrayal of her vocal improvements through the years especially the clarity and maturity in her voice. The traditional Japanese instruments, the synthesizers, and the acoustic guitar combined altogether are reminiscent of enka music combined with unearthly background music. This song is rather soothing yet melancholic in the same time, and the emotion only seems to build up in the chorus yet it does have a lot of allure to it.

“Will” is also the background song for Panasonic’s latest product; the Panasonic Lumix FX-8 in which Ayumi appears in. Also interesting to note is that CREA and DAI composed this song, CREA being the code name for Ayumi. It’s impressive to see how she still manages to compose fresh and original melodies.

Rating: 5/5



3. “Alterna” Orchestra Version

Alterna was a passionate track in itself. However I really do believe that the Orchestra Version does portray it in a new light. The orchestra version blends with her voice delineating her bitterness in a haunting manner.

Rating: 4.5/5


4. “HEAVEN” Piano Version

The piano version is less passionate and moving than the original version. Ayumi’s voice is a little overwhelming compared to the mellow piano in the background. However it is still rather soothing, elegant and emotional while leaving the listener with a poignant feeling. It’s quite the perfect ending to a passionate single.

Rating: 4.5/5



Conclusion

Overall I do believe this is a well rounded single which does live up its expectations. With six tracks full of emotions, passion and magic, this is the perfect winter single of this year. Hamasaki has successfully combined strong vocals and emotional lyrics to make this single well worth its’ price.

Overall Rating: 5/5




1. HEAVEN “original mix”
2. Will “original mix”
3. Alterna “Orchestra Version”
4. HEAVEN “Piano Version”
5. HEAVEN “original mix- Instrumental”
6. Will “original mix – Instrumental”



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Edited by AHS Staff
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Last edited by Raleigh; 15th September 2006 at 12:59 PM.
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