Kana Nishino – If (a J!-ENT World Groove CD Single Review)

Kana Nishino’s 12th single “If” features three different collaborations, but each collaboration is well-produced, well-sung and for the most part, keeping things consistent with Kana Nishino’s quality releases.  Another recommended pop single from Japan’s young singer/songwriter!

ARTIST: Kana Nishino

CD SINGLE: If

LABEL: SME Records

CATALOG #: SECL-891

DURATION: 13:01

RELEASE DATE: August 4, 2010

BUY THIS CD SINGLE from cdjapan.com:

if / Kana Nishino
Kana Nishino
or YesAsia.com

  1. If
  2. I’ll be there
  3. Beautiful

Fantastic! That is my first impression after listening to Kana Nishino’s 12th CD single “If”. Featuring three tracks that can each be a primary single track, that’s how well-produced and how good these tracks are! In fact, the single reached #1 on the RIAJ Digital Track Chart Top 100.

Like previous CD singles, Kana Nishino writes the lyrics to all tracks featured in “If” and also collaborates with different producers for each track.

The single kicks off with a mellow medium tempo ballad titled “if” which is used as the theme song for the animated film “Naruto Shippuden 4: The Lost Tower” and also for the commercial campaign for Recochoku. A catchy track with a pretty solid chorus and I just like how the song transitions to the upbeat chorus. Catchy, addictive and pretty awesome arrangement from Giorgio Cancemi.

The second track “I’ll Be There” is another mid-tempo track with awesome vocals from Nishino and cool beats and also a catchy chorus. A very cool pop song from Jonathan Rotem, Lolene Everett and Nasri Atweh. Another solid track on the single!

The third track is a surprise as it’s very catchy, upbeat pop song. I really dig the track and it’s also a track that features a lot of English lyrics which Kana does a great job pronouncing and singing. Awesome track produced by HIRO for Digz, inc.

The CD booklet features photos of Kana Nishino and lyrics to the three vocal tracks and production credits. Also, an insert promoting her website and an insert for the “Naruto Shippuden 4: The Lost Tower”.

Overall, “If” is another awesome CD single for Kana Nishino and lately, each single have been consistent in quality production, awesome vocals and a diverse. This single once again shows us how this young pop star is definitely one of the shining talents in the Japanese music scene! If you are a fan of Kana, “If” is highly recommended!

BUY THIS CD SINGLE from cdjapan.com:

if / Kana Nishino
Kana Nishino
or YesAsia.com