TOKIO - SEI SYuN

The third release of the year for Johnny's Entertainment quintet TOKIO is also the theme for lead vocalist Nagase Tomoya's drama, Utahime. The band's two most recent drama tie-in singles, Sorafune and Honjitsu, Mijukumono, were powerful songs with astonishing sales, meaning anticipation for a third hard-hitting single was high.

The single's title track, SEI SYuN, comes in straightaway in a style we've come to expect from the quintet - there's a nice fusion to the backing track and vocals, allowing all the instruments to shine. The brass and strings are particularly nice when they come through, making the track feel more like a complete musical experience than just listening to the main vocalist masking a half-hearted backup track. However, unlike previous offerings from the group, SEI SYuN is perhaps not the best display of main vocalist Nagase's voice or range; at times he sounds slightly whiny and strained. Clocking in at just over five minutes long, the single feels slightly too long for what is, at first listen, not a particularly catchy song.

Kimajime is a positive, light and fun B-side track to SEI SYuN, with fluffy guitar riffs and a light-hearted backing track. It's extremely likable overall, but perhaps not outstanding as it lacks a certain impact. The third offering on the single is Stardust Lover Orchestra, a song that starts off strong and promising. However, after the initial buildup, the vocals are a bit of a disappointment, feeling anticlimactic and at times a little strained. The backing track is generally enjoyable but could have been arranged a little better; we're left feeling like it's a little messy, with no particular instrument at the forefront and no 'hook' to draw us into the melody.

Compared to TOKIO's previous releases of the year, SEI SYuN is average fare. There's not much to dislike, but the punch is lacking. Despite this, the group's 40th single has a simple appeal that will grow on you with time.