/jp/ - Otaku Culture

>>18450250
I'm more conflicted regarding the two albums. Granted, the first album wasn't recorded singularly as a "first album," as these tracks were supplementals to the greater Sakura Gakuin project, yet that also has to be taken into consideration.

The first feels like an experimental gimmick that is none the less enjoyable. Instances of reggae, dubstep, and hip hop highlight the throw-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks nature of the project's creation.

The second definitely has that "oh wait, we're a thing now?" vibe to it. It exists post being noticed by the world. It was necessary to be more focused. Not "selling out," nor "dad rocking," just more focused. I don't hold it against the writers or producers for the change with the wider audience in mind - I would do the same. The last time a Japanese artist made it on western top 100 lists was in the 1970's, I believe. From their perspective, I can understand being flattered by being invited to the table and responding as such.

Regarding the second album itself, I don't think the throw-the-baby-out-with-the-bath-water attitude is undeserved. There is some good stuff on there. In fact, my complaint would be that it doesn't change enough. GJ and Amore are Onedari Daisakusen and Akatsuki over again, for example. "Similar while lacking," I believe is a fair criticism, but to call it a sudden downward turn is unfair and unreflective of the second album.