author: Scottie

Takizawa Hideaki and Imai Tsubasa, otherwise known as TACKEY & TSUBASA, have finally released their Venus- follow up to the delight of countless fans across the Asian continent. Released in five different versions (two being Korean), Ho! Summer is the boys’ way of celebrating this year’s long and terrifically hot season.

This duo’s always been about sending out good vibes and this album does not disappoint. From the moment the title track starts, our ears are treated to what can only be described as a summer vacation for the senses.

•01 - Ho! Summer
The title track that is dedicated to everyone’s favourite season. It’s everything one could ask for: a great, catchy song that isn’t too complex but still manages to stray away from the typical drudgeries of pop music. Perfect for catching some rays and stimulating your mind at the same time. It also sports some great guitar playing, as well as some much-needed saxophone. Did I mention the unforgettable chorus and the excellent guitar solo? Not many pop songs have a decent solo, but this one does. It’s short, but sweet.

This song gives everyone an opportunity to enjoy their summer, so flip open a lawn chair, sip on some Kool-aid and relax. This track is gold.

•02 - Taste Me
I love how this one sounds like it’s part of a spy caper soundtrack for the first 15 seconds, before hitting full-throttle and jumping into a funky, “Capcom VS SNK 2” rhythm. Must be those awesome, flair-inducing backup singers. They definitely add brownie points in my book.

I can’t tell if this song is better than the first, but one thing is for certain: it’s another winner that shoots this single to the top of the proverbial “must-have” list.

•03 - Mihatenu Yume
Almost U2 sounding in the guitar department, this song is the requisite pop-ballad. Ambience is the name of this track’s game and it delivers it very well. The acoustic guitar jumps into the mix early on and just adds to the “laid back” atmosphere of the piece, making everything feel very mellow and relaxing. Even though its lyrics scream out “I’m a ballad”, the melody still manages to be energetic enough to please most fans without being overly cheesy or uninteresting to those who enjoy the “happy stuff”.

Just like the rest of this single, this song refreshes the mind and soothes the soul.

•04 - Ho! SUMMER -karaoke-
No point reviewing this one. Suffice to say that it’s pointless for casual listeners, but fun for fans and the targeted Japanese audience.

There you have it. In case it isn’t evident enough, let me recap: this single is a great disc to listen to seeing as its melodies and vocal performances will lift your spirits and relax your mind. An excellent pop single that truly succeeds in its mission of bringing summer to life through musical composition. There really is nothing wrong with it, which just happens to be something rare in the world of pop these days. Strong, original songs power this release, which will surely be considered by many to be Tackey and Tsubasa’s best.