Hello, Arama! Japan readers and welcome to this week’s installment of #1 Song Review! Last week saw Arashi defeat SEKAI NO OWARI and Yonezu Kenshi. This week, we have two newcomers facing off. 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 / Billboard #1: Hey! Say! JUMP – Precious Girl / Are You There? (not released digitally)

https://vimeo.com/224801370

Ronald: Over the past year or so, I’ve developed something of a soft spot for Hey! Say! JUMP’s singles. This however isn’t one of them. When I heard the intro, I thought I was in for a treat, but instead I got a trick. This is just the typical Johnny’s stuff that I don’t care for. It lacks spark, anything unique to really grab me. The reminder of the intro that pops up every now and then in the song is the best thing about it. 4/10

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Recochoku #1 / iTunes #1: BUMP OF CHICKEN – Kinen Satsuei (not released physically / Billboard #3)

Ronald: BUMP OF CHICKEN is one of those acts that I don’t actively seek out, but when I do, I normally like what I hear. This is no different. There is a nostalgic feel to this, like it’s from an 80s movie or something. I also like how the vocals are upfront, and the music sounds as if it’s coming from another room. I like the deceptive simpliticty of the song, but when the synths come in, it’s a nice touch that I honestly didn’t need, but welcomed. It added to the 80s feel of the song. 8.5

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Ronald’s Rank:

1. Recochoku #1 / iTunes #1: BUMP OF CHICKEN – Kinen Satsuei

2. Oricon #1 / Billboard #1: Hey! Say! JUMP – Precious Girl / Are You There?

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