Hello, Arama! Japan readers and welcome to this week’s installment of #1 Song Review! Last week saw Sandaime J Soul Brothers defeat Utada Hikaru and Spitz. This week, we have a blast from the past facing off against two newcomers. Find out what various staff members thought of the songs that topped the singles charts this week and share your thoughts on them too!

Oricon #1 / Billboard Hot 100 #1: Hey! Say! JUMP – White Love (not available for streaming or download)

Ronald: Everyone knows I have a soft spot for Hey! Say! JUMP. This song is just ok though. It’s not as sappy as it could’ve been, which I’m glad about. But that being said, it doesn’t really grab me, it doesn’t make it pay attention. It’s just nice. A sentimental filler single for this era that fits in for winter. 5.5/10

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Oricon Digital Singles #1 / Billboard Download Songs #1: back number – Mabataki (Oricon #5 / Billboard Hot 100 #2 / not available for streaming)

Ronald: A nice, sentimental song that fits in well for the Christmas season. It actually reminds me of lot of back number’s “Christmas Song” due to the arrangement, the bells mainly. It’s very lush, heartwarming even. 6.5/10

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Billboard Streaming Songs #1: DAOKO x Yonezu Kenshi – Uchiage Hanabi (Oricon #148 / Billboard Hot 100 #10 / Oricon Digital Singles #6 / Billboard Download Songs #8)

Ronald: Same as before: This is basically a Yonezu Kenshi song featuring DAOKO. I have my problems with Kenshi, and they’re evident in this song. While listening to this, all I can think of is a rehash of a The Chainsmokers song. But I will say that DAOKO’s voice has improved. I listened to one of her albums a few years ago and I had to stop it a few songs in because her voice literally gave me a headache and made me want to vomit. I don’t have that issue now! However, I’m a bit lost as to what her point is. She was a rapper, and now she’s trying to be a popstar? I don’t get it… 5.5/10

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Ronald’s Rank:

1. Oricon Digital Singles #1 / Billboard Download Songs #1: back number – Mabataki

2. Oricon #1 / Billboard Hot 100 #1: Hey! Say! JUMP – White Love

2. Billboard Streaming Songs #1: DAOKO x Yonezu Kenshi – Uchiage Hanabi

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