A whole new world of J-pop

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YP cadet Joy Pamnani
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YP cadet Joy Pamnani |
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Produced by famed J-pop singer-songwriter Masaharu Fukuyama, who is also in the much-loved Japanese TV detective drama Galileo, Galileo+ is set to please the ears of loyal fans.

The album includes Fukuyama's original versions of several songs from Galileo and renditions of those tracks interpreted by heavyweight musicians from all over Asia.

The most anticipated song is Koi no Maryoku by KOH+, a J-pop band formed by Yukie Yamamura and Fukuyama. The band subtly withdraws as the CD is played. From track six to 12 come a bunch of alternative cover versions delivered by non-Japanese musicians such as K-pop band Kara and Taiwanese singer A-Lin.

For those new to J-pop, this album opens up a whole new world. Fans of the TV series will find joy in familiar tunes.

Rock songs are highlights. The catchy beats make you want to get up and dance. As for the rest, not understanding the language is a turn-off, especially when love songs come up. Although you can somehow feel the blues from the slow-paced melodies, let's face it - heartbreaking love songs without lyrics can't break hearts. Some tracks are also repetitive.

Despite this, Galileo+ is still ideal for both J-pop fans and those who want to discover the world of Japanese music.

YP Rating: 3/5



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