Irokui - Sakura Seven

Irokui’s 2009 single, Sakura Seven, commences with the title track of the single floating gently into the ears akin to the first sight of spring amidst snow. It mixes the soft orchestral hums with drums to bring forth a faster rhythm to the song. Armed with a synthetic bass beat that sounds like techno or house music, a billowing breeze of piano and choral vocals mystically layers Yuuri’s smooth voice frothing at the height of the chorus, stretching with open arms towards the second verse. The song enchants as a soft opening number as it proceeds with an enveloping air about it.

Digitalis opens in a powerful manner, fading in exactly as Sakura Seven did and inviting the listener to close their eyes and explore the deeper notions of the song. Consistent guitar riffs and drums bombard the ears as a wondrously heavy tone washes over the body, like truth caught between two lies; bassist Ritsu and guitarist Shuuta bring about these emotions through pure skill.

Like a melting pot of subliminal sound, Sakura Naniiro welcomes a contemporary approach to calypso. It combines elements of traditional Japanese music and easy listening with a very laid-back approach in terms of composition and emotions. The piano wraps its way into the background as Yuuri's articulations yearn for an adventure throughout the duration of the song.

A CD+DVD version of the single was released on the same date, containing Sakura Seven's PV instead of the third track, Sakura Naniiro. Fan’s of Irokui’s earlier work will enjoy this single as much as the previous releases - they do not disappoint.