Hello, Arama! Japan readers and welcome to this week’s installment of #1 Song Review! Last week saw Arashi defeat RADWIMPS. RADWIMPS is back again this week, facing off against two newcomers. Find out what various staff members thought of the songs that topped the physical and digital charts this week and share your thoughts on them too!

Oricon #1: EXILE THE SECOND – WILD WILD WILD (Recochoku #13 / iTunes #18)

Ronald: This is like the KPop song I never wanted to hear. A generic EDM track accompanied by mostly shouted vocals. And WTF is going on with NESMITH’s voice? He is singing like he’s trying to shout out a balled up sock in his mouth. I honestly would’ve enjoyed one of the Johnny’s or 48 acts in this spot over this turd. How did this even get to #1 without cracking 35k? How did the other 2 members of the idol triumvirate let his happen? 0/10

________________

Recochoku #1: Seiko Matsuda – Bara no You ni Saite Sakura no You ni Chitte (Oricon #6 / iTunes #7)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNH3MI_efMc

Ronald: A meeting of icons results in an emotional, heartfelt ballad that has a timeless feel to it. Seiko Matsuda’s new single was written, composed, and arranged by YOSHIKI of X JAPAN. Their collaboration turned out well. YOSHIKI’s track is polished and Seiko’s vocals are a great match for it. There’s an elegant restraint to her vocals. She tries, but doesn’t overdo it. 7.5/10

_______________

iTunes #1: RADWIMPS – Zen Zen Zense (movie ver.) (not released physically / Recochoku #2)

Ronald: Same review as before: I’m not really feeling this. It’s OK, but it’s just that: OK. This could’ve been made by a bunch of other bands. There’s nothing really special here that is grabbing me and making me pay attention. Frankly, I’m bored by this song. 5/10

_____________________

Ronald’s Rank:

1. Recochoku #1: Seiko Matsuda – Bara no You ni Saite Sakura no You ni Chitte

2. iTunes #1: RADWIMPS – Zen Zen Zense (movie ver.)

3. Oricon #1: EXILE THE SECOND – WILD WILD WILD

_____________________