Shikao Suga – Yakusoku (a J!-ENT World Groove CD Single Review)

1. 約束
2. 宇宙 [Live]
3. 19才 [Live]
4. ～FAN-KEY-TRAIN リクエスト・トラック～

In Japan, Shikao Suga is one of the most famous Japanese musicians, singer and songwriters. Famous for penning hits such as SMAP’s “Yozora no Mukou”, Chisato Moritaka’s “Tanopo no Tane”, KAT-TUN’s “Real Face” and Arashi’s “Azora Pedal”, he also has a string of hits which include “Hachigatsu no Serenade” (from the anime series “Honey and Clover”), “Nobody Knows” (xxxHolic) and many more.

His 28th single, his first for 2011 features a new track titled “Yakusoku” (secret) and also features two live performances from London when he was there in 2010 for his second concert performance in the UK ala Japan-UK circuit 2010 and also features a fourth request track and as always, showcasing his flair for disco, Motown, psychedelia, house and brassy funk.

The single begins with “Yakusoku”, an upbeat synth pop track and overall a catchy track from Shikao.In fact, the single features Sukao on acoustic guitar and bass.

But possibly the two tracks that a lot of international fans, especially those in the UK probably will be interested is the two live tracks of “Space” (宇宙 [Live]) and “19-years-old” (19才 [Live]) and these were recorded from his UK one-night concert back in Nov. 2010.  With “Space”, the track is a more mellow, acoustic guitar track, while “19-years-old” (Shikao’s 19th single) is a more funky track.

The final track on the single is “~FAN-KEY-TRAIN Request Track~”, a song dedicated to his fans and members of his fanclub, “The Fan-Key-Train”.  The song is an all vocal and piano track with vocals by Shikao.

The CD insert is a double fold insert with lyrics to “Yakusoku” and production credits.

Overall, “Yakusoku” is a single that showcases Shikao Suga’s musical style and how diverse of an artist he is.  While I’m sure there are some fans who wish some other live tracks were included on this CD single release, it’s a pretty enjoyable single.  If you are a fan of Shikao Suga, definitely give “Yakusoku” a chance!

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