Song Review: Koda Kumi - Under

Title: Under
Artist: Koda Kumi
Album: Kingdom
Released: January 30, 2008

Review

"Under" is the 7th track in Koda Kumi's January 2008 album "Kingdom." Nothing screams quality like panting and heavy breathing in a song. Mix in some sensual vocals and you got yourself a classy hit. Such techniques are used by highly respectable North American artists like Britney Spears (try "I'm A Slave 4 U"). Amidst the thick sarcasm, there is some truth: the song is a hit. I hate to admit it, but "Under" does sound pretty addictive.

Even if you hate this song, you still have a highly suggestive video. I was pleasantly surprised at how much clothing Koda Kumi wore in this music video. Usually Koda Kumi's clothing starts disappearing as her song speed increases.

You know she's worked up a good reputation when fans expects her to be undressed and act suggestively in her music videos. What would be unexpected would be an innocent Jpop artist like YUI following in Koda Kumi's footsteps. I don't recall seeing YUI's bare shoulders (or shins for that matter) in her music videos. Yes, YUI is the model citizen for high school dress codes.

So what makes this song so addictive? The beats are undeniably addictive as is the chorus. The song does contain synthesized vocals, which I normally despise, but it works quite well in this song. It adds to the urban-style environment that is reminiscent of North American music. Even though her panting is distracting she doesn't keep doing it constantly, so it could be considered artistic. A really desperate justification indeed.

"Under" can get pretty repetitive since it's the same beats over and over again. The lasting appeal wears out surprisingly fast after about 7 or 8 times. I also think this song is too long. The ending is quite lazy when it repeats the same damn tune a million times. Just end it already!

The verdict: "Under" is a guilty pleasure that is good for a few listens

Lyrics

Romaji lyrics for "Under" will be posted when it becomes available.

Metadata

Artist: Koda Kumi
Release year: 2008
Genre: Pop
Song speed: Fast
Dominant voice: Female
Dominant language: Japanese

The Softer Side of Koda Kumi

Koda Kumi is undoubtedly a talented artist who is well known for her urban style music. However, she's always found time to include her softer and gentler songs. I've always been a fan of her slow songs, as I believe that's when her voice sounds the best. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of her faster songs such as "I'll be there," "real emotion," and "Cutie Honey."

I've compiled a list of my favourite slow songs from Koda Kumi. I include the year, title, album/single name, and a music video (whenever the video exists). Enjoy!

2003 Album - grow into one

1000 no Kotoba - Koda Kumi really demonstrates her powerful and gentle voice in "1000 no Kotoba." I'm not sure why there isn't a music video for this absolutely excellent song.

2005 Album - Best ~first things~

Promise - Koda Kumi's voice is as smooth as honey in this song. "Promise" is a really beautiful sounding song.

2006 Single - Yume no Uta / Futari de...

Futari de... - Koda Kumi sings another great sounding gentle song.

2007 Single - Ai no Uta

Ai no Uta - Koda Kumi's super smooth voice is back once again! I really love the chorus in this song.

Last updated: January 13, 2008