LOVE LETTER is an album anyone would be willing to accept.
Immensely popular in the Japanese music scene, Otsuka Ai continued the 'Love series' by releasing LOVE LETTER, her fifth studio album. It's filled with her trademark moving ballads and catchy, light-hearted pop-rock, along with a few surprises.
First and regrettably is the title track LOVE LETTER. Out of the entire album, this is the only song where Otsuka Ai’s voice sounds too strained. Although the composition is still undeniably beautiful, this is a rather disappointing start to an otherwise charming album. Rocket Sneaker however, is a bright, happy song with more vigor. It’s catchy and impulsive, and with a delightful key change towards the end, what is not to like?
The third track on the album is Bye Bye. It’s refreshing, with quick piano playing throughout, but then comes Kurage, Nagareboshi, a melancholic song with exquisite, distinct oriental backing that will move even the toughest of people. Otsuka Ai hits every single note, peaking on a high F sharp that you might expect to be piercing shrill - but instead it comes out pleasantly as a breathtaking vibrato. This is most definitely one of the highlights of the album, and every second is to be savoured. Continuing the ballad format is Ningyou; the fragile melody and soft strings exude vulnerability and sorrow.
Kimi Fechiis a soulful track creating a similar ambiance to that of OnexTime as they both contain a jazzy element. It is exceedingly easy to remember the chorus and sing along. Drastically different from the previous piano-led tracks is Creamy & Spicy. It’s upbeat and deliciously carefree, with an attitude that screams out ‘whatever goes.’ Although the vocals are not at its best, you wouldn’t really notice because you’ll be caught up in the rhythm. Creamy & Spicy is just the track for dancing in the bedroom, whereas Do☆Positive captures a rock'n'roll feel that’s perfect to listen to on the beach. The song itself feels rather cliché and isn’t really suitable for Otsuka Ai’s vocals, however, it’s a great effort by Ai and it is bound to get you dancing to the groove.
‘Minimalistic’ and ‘experimental’ are the key words that come to mind when describing 360°. It’s ponderous, with a mysterious feel provided by echoing vocals, piano discords and unusual note intervals. Don’t be surprised if you hear a remix of this played in clubs in Japan or beyond!
Shachihata employs the use of a big-band and boasts class, soul and style. Otsuka Ai's low vocals are surprisingly ideal on this track, and it contains a rather quirky bubbling vocal dive. Next up is a snazzy number with constant syncopation. Although the pace of OnexTime is not particularly slow, and its rhythm is in strict 4x4 bars, it’s a song that will get you to lay back and relax. Smooth backing vocals and heavy strings make it somewhat dreamy.
More suited as the opening track is Pocket, a sweet, romantic love song. It commences with a beautiful, soft piano melody, as many of Otsuka Ai’s songs do. Although the chord progressions are fairly predictable, it makes sure the music does not distract from the vocals. As you progress through the song, the texture is gradually built up; linear guitar is layered on and eventually strings, drums and the electric guitar are added. The build up of texture transforms what starts as a delicate song into one with conviction and confidence.
Lastly, with acoustic guitar as the main backing, is Ai. It’s rustic, giving the undeniable sensation of release and freedom; even more wondrous is how utterly simple but profound the lyrics are. The highlight of the song is when you hear only her unaccompanied vocals. It is purely enchanting, even if Otsuka Ai does not possess the best voice. The ending chorus of ‘la la's with children is just captivating. No doubt this concludes LOVE LETTER with a very favourable impression.
Throughout the album, there is a subtle jazz connection wish diminished chords featured in many tracks. Released in December, the songs can bring sunshine to even the harshest of winters. It’s an album with many gems, and even though there are some minor blemishes, LOVE LETTER will no doubt be enjoyed by fans as well as newcomers to Otsuka Ai’s music.
