KOKIA - REAL WORLD

Singer-songwriter KOKIA is no stranger to traveling the globe in search of new experiences and inspiration. A large part of her newest original album REAL WORLD was written following a trip to the Tunisian Sahara, and the result is a varied collection of songs spanning the vastness of the desert.

Heading the 14 track line up is Birth, a fitting and very soothing way to open the album. Piano and strings support KOKIA's unmistakable, pure vocals. In the first two thirds the inclusion of a subtle, deep drum beat adds a touch of African vibe to the track. A slowing of the tempo is implemented in the final third which converts the sound to that of a more classical or choral nature. It is perfectly written as an introduction piece and is a good way to open the album.

The following track is much more action-filled. Road to Glory~for Dragon Nest was used as the theme song for online game "Dragon Nest," and the rich orchestral arrangement lends itself to that purpose nicely. It begins quietly with the deep drum beats as in Birth but has a more exotic sound to it: harp, bamboo flute and chimes are layered with classical guitar and strings, building to a crescendo at the grandiose chorus. KOKIA sings all of the backing vocals as well, in a vocal style that is more like traditional Japanese than her classical or pop style. The track is filled with wonder, which is accentuated by the use of her own created language.

With a title like U-CHA-CHA, one might expect it to be an old Cockney musical number. In fact it is a beautifully written piece that seems to soar across the landscape. It is quite simply constructed and has a bit of a Latin feel. Against soft pan pipes, KOKIA begins with some "la la's" and improvisation, which is stated in the lyric notes to be a prayer. The majority of the song is sung without words, which reflects what KOKIA conveys in the few lyrics that are present: even without words or language, it is still possible to communicate one's feelings and perceptions of the world. The chorus is a wordless expression of the "ringing of the heart," and it delivers its message regardless of the listener's native tongue. It is filled with more wooden flute and complex percussion to give it an otherworldly sound, and it leaves a lasting impression. The song was actually written several years before but fits in with the concept of this album perfectly.

Right in the middle of the album is the dream-like DUGONG no sora. The mellow beats, echoing sound and whale-mimicking saxophone submerge the listener underwater. A complex instrumental and choral arrangement give this track depth and a sense of spirituality.

Some less exotic pieces include the title track REAL WORLD and Kimi wo sagashite which are probably the only tracks on the album that can be danced to. REAL WORLD is in stark contrast to the previous tracks as it is an upbeat pop/rock song, making use of more conventional instruments. It's a really positive song with a vibrant chorus. Kodoku na ikimono, one of her digital singles, is a gentle and sweet pop song. While not featuring the same experimental sounds of some of the other songs, it is still a great listen.

More world music influence can be heard in the Middle Eastern themed Saishuu Jouei and the track that most sums up the album, Oto no tabibito. The Celtic sounds of a penny whistle hark back to her KOKIA meets Ireland album, while the bandolin lute adds a South American twist. The track has a haunting, desolate quality about it that links back to the desert theme. KOKIA's vocals and harmonies are perfectly arranged as usual, her voice ringing out like the reverberation of pure crystal.

The second half of the album is dominated by soft piano and string ballads. Watashi ga mita mono, Kono chikyuu ga marui okage de and digital singles single mother and Kimi wo sagashite are all of a similar vein. After the grand and glorious songs presented in the first half, this change of pace makes the album feel slightly unbalanced. However each of these songs, while lacking the spectacle of those such as Road to Glory, is equally well written and performed. single mother in particular is a touching tribute to KOKIA's own mother. The promotional song The woman, which closes the album, is also a very gentle piece. It has a simple tune that is haunting yet peaceful, and is quiet yet speaks volumes. It evokes a sense of isolation, but the sort that leads to contemplation rather than loneliness. The subdued melody of the verse flows and builds towards an emotional multi-layered chorus to round off the album as it began.

KOKIA's consummate song-writing skills and ability to express her experiences really come across in this album. She is well-known for her unique compositions and experimental sound, and she doesn't disappoint here. REAL WORLD is an exploration of sound taking the listener to the four corners of the Earth and a real sensory treat that can't be missed.