Every Little Thing - Atarashii hibi / Ougon no tsuki

Though they just put out both a single and a full album this spring, Every Little Thing is back with another single for the summer. After a decade of making music, the duo still emits a feeling of newness through the original melodies that appear in their songs. Both tracks on this single are inspiring pick-me-ups, and Mochida Kaori's piercing vocals are as engaging as ever.

The album opens with Atarashii hibi, a song that's bursting at the seams with uncontainable energy. Right from the start, the song's message of hope is carried in the intro's brisk, encouraging violins and peppy beat. The violins remain the main attention grabber throughout the song, along with vocalist Kaori's clearly sung lyrics. Sure to pick you up no matter how low you are, the winding, unpredictable melody line results in the listener hanging on to every word: 'I want to see the dream of tomorrow, to seize it, to engrave it, to embrace it.'

Ougon no tsuki is a heavier number, driven by bass and guitar. But with the addition of a keyboard, some violin and chimes during the chorus, it's a mixture of cute pop and rock. Kaori continues to hit unusual notes, taking us on an unpredictable journey with her words about what's really important: the people you love.

The instrumentals included are also rich enough to stand on their own and the bright, inspiring messages are transmitted through the music even without lyrics. Ichiro's guitar is especially active in the second song, offering the listener a specific part to follow even when the violins aren't there. All in all, this is another excellent single from ELT that's sure to resonate in the hearts of those who hear it.