12012 - Aitai kara...
12012 continues to experiment with their softer side.
As the third part of their monthly consecutive release campaign, Aitai kara... continues what Taiyou began in terms of 12012 experimenting with a softer, more pop sound. The Limited B edition of Aitai kara... includes the titular track, as well as new songs HERO and Shigure. After listening to the two singles of their release campaign, one begins to wonder what direction, exactly, is 12012 trying to take in testing out this softer approach to their music - and also whether or not they’re choosing the right songs to show off as the main event (i.e. the title track of their singles).
Like the case with Taiyou, Aitai kara... has a rough start; it's not even a stumble, the title track falls flat on its face. Wataru has a distinctive voice that can be utilized to great effect in sentimental ballads (butterfly from the CYCLONE single is a wonderful example), but set against a rather cheesy classical piano arrangement, Wataru’s vocals are done no justice in Aitai kara.... The lyrics are cliché and even a little bit nauseating at points...the song title is also completely unmoving.
Next is HERO, a much-needed departure after the overdose of sugar and fluff that is Aitai kara.... The song starts off with skipping guitar riffs before launching into a groovier, louder beat. The instrumentals mesh together to create a motivating groove that’s appropriate for a song entitled HERO - overall, however, the song is slightly above average at best and nothing very fresh compared to 12012’s other B-sides.
Unfortunately, the strongest song of the release, Shigure, is only available on the Limited B edition of Aitai kara..., which means after the stock of the B editions are sold out, fans will have to settle for the regular edition, which contains Aitai kara..., HERO and an instrumental version of Aitai kara... that only re-emphasizes the stale sentimentalism of the song. Shigure has the edge, emotion, and catchiness that 12012’s earlier works had, while still feeling new. Wataru’s vocals are convincing in their message, and there is a nice balance between the guitars, bass and drums to further enhance the song. Sadly, Shigure can’t do much to save the single.
Change is inevitable; while it’s wonderful that 12012 is trying out new styles, they need to choose wisely and pick something that works, one that will appeal to both new and old fans. Quite frankly, fluffy ballads like Aitai kara... might alienate the old fans who appreciated 12012 for the dark and edgy madness that they were first known for. The cliché sound probably won’t win many new fans because how many more lovey-dovey ballads does one need? That said, Aitai kara... is a forgettable single lacking the energy and edge that characterizes 12012.
