In celebration of
Kimaguren’s fifth anniversary, we travel back to one of their earliest releases. Originally released in 2007 as an indie mini-album and then in 2008 under Universal Music,
LIFE offers a carefree, positive attitude towards life with light reggae influences and uplifting lyrics.
LIFE is upbeat, mixed with light pop/rock and light reggae influences. The vocals in the title track are near rapping speed.
The melodic line “higher, yeah yeah yeah” uplifts listeners, driving them to feel motivated.
Gekkou yoku borrows the main melody of
LIFE but slows down the tempo completely. The track is very easy-going, using a light beat played on bongos and an acoustic guitar. The song creates an image of lying on the sand, near dusk.
Tokoshie (unplug ver.) is a different take on the original version of
Tokoshie. The original version that was featured on the indie release of
LIFE relies on a laidback beat and electric organ with an extra melody in the background while the unplugged version strips this away, turning the light reggae track into a slower piano ballad, replacing the electric organ line with soothing piano. Unexpectedly, both versions are pleasant to hear for opposite moods.
The 2008 single includes an instrumental version of
LIFE.
Over three years later from its initial release in mid-May, 2008, the single
LIFE is still a good listen. The three tracks bring out a carefree attitude from the duo and the title track
LIFE remains one of
Kimaguren’s most remembered songs.
If you are outside of the US, you can reminisce and view
LIFE (PV) here . If you are in the US, then a lower quality version of the PV can be viewed at this
link.
