Takekawa Ai - Tooi michi no saki de / Star

In March 2010, several months after her debut I WILL, Takekawa Ai released her next single Tooi michi no saki de / Star. Apparently her debut single managed to cause such a stir in the Japanese music world that she was asked to contribute the track Tooi michi no saki de as an ending theme to the anime “Inuyasha: The Final Act."

The first impression is often an important one, but for Tooi michi no saki de that impression might be of awkwardness. Instead of the calm pop sound and merry rock tune presented on her first single, Ai chose something entirely different: namely an electronic pop sound. As a matter of fact, it’s a tune that might be more fitting in AKB48’s repertoire, or even T.M. Revolution on a not too hyper day. Still, giving it a chance and listening to it after the initial surprise most definitely pays off. Even though the music is as bubblegum-like as any random song by an idol girl group, Ai’s vocals are fantastic, and it can’t be denied that the song is incredibly catchy.

Next up is Star, which is more of the I WILL caliber. The calmer pop song contains a lot of piano with even staccato, yet subtle reggae riffs are added. It’s soulful too; the backing vocals singing along with Ai in the choruses resemble a small gospel choir. With the English lyrics “how do I pray?” and “let me be a star,” it gets a particularly gospel feeling.

Also included on the single is the “Inuyasha” ending theme version, which is only one minute and 40 seconds long, and instrumental versions of both Tooi michi no saki de and Star for karaoke lovers.

Tooi michi no saki de came as a big surprise because even though the young singer only had one single to her name, it was unexpected to hear such a 180˚ in style. We’re more than curious for new releases, wondering if we can expect more surprises from the talented Takekawa Ai.