Hello, Arama! Japan readers and welcome to this week’s installment of #1 Song Review! Last week saw Keyakizaka46 defeat back number and Aimyon. back number and Aimyon are back this week, facing off against a newcomer. Find out what Ronald thought of the songs that topped the singles charts this week and share your thoughts on them too!

Oricon Combined #1 / Billboard Hot 100 #1 / Oricon Physical #1: Kanjani8 – crystal (not released digitally or for streaming)

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Kanjani8 in band mode is the best version of the group and this song proves it again. It’s giving me a mixture of last decade and Sakanaction during one of their poppier moments. 7/10

Oricon Digital Singles #1 / Billboard Download Songs #1: back number – HAPPY BIRTHDAY (Oricon Combined #8 / Billboard Hot 100 #5 / Oricon #18 / not available for streaming)

Same review as before: At first listen, this is like a non-Christmas version of their song “Christmas Song.” Also, the vocals sound quite different, as if they have a new frontman. They’re a lot softer than usual. The song is decent, but it’s nothing new. 5/10

Oricon Streaming #1 / Billboard Streaming Songs #1: Aimyon – Marigold (Oricon Combined #10 / Billboard Hot 100 #3 / not in the Oricon Physical top 50 / Oricon Digital Singles #6 / Billboard Download Songs #6)

Same review as before: This is actually somewhat enjoyable. There is a nostalgia to the song that brings a sense of comfort. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but it is quite pleasant. 6.5/10

Rank:

1. Oricon Combined #1 / Billboard Hot 100 #1 / Oricon Physical #1: Kanjani8 – crystal
2. Oricon Streaming #1 / Billboard Streaming Songs #1: Aimyon – Marigold
3. Oricon Digital Singles #1 / Billboard Download Songs #1: back number – HAPPY BIRTHDAY