author: naukhel

Johnny's Jimusho duo unit Tackey & Tsubasa may not have as many releases per year as some of their contemporaries do, but when they do release a single it tends to be a highly enjoyable, lasting affair that easily stands the test of time. SAMURAI became yet another single for the duo that entered the charts at number one; their last single of 2007 doesn't disappoint.

SAMURAI itself starts off strong, heavier than you might expect from a Johnny's group, with simple but effective guitar playing coming through strong as the backing track. The song itself is fast and involved with a relentless pace, and the overall effect is - like many of the duo's previous releases - an extremely complex track. The addition of brass and synthesized accompaniment make for busy background support, but as it often is with Tackey & Tsubasa, the vocals hold the whole thing together nicely.

After such an explosive start, the single segues into the first of two solo tracks, Takizawa Hideaki's Yakusoku~Flowers Song~. The song gives a strange feeling, as it is very laid back, driven by simple vocals and fluffy guitar riffs. After the sheer power of SAMURAI, it makes a startling contrast. The two solo tracks are two parts of the same whole, running the same length at just over four minutes each and sharing the same refrain of "bye, bye, bye" in the lyrics. However, where Takizawa Hideaki's lyrics are more upbeat, Tsubasa Imai's solo Yakusoku~World Wing~ feels a lot more solemn and toned down.

Of the two solo songs, Tsubasa Imai's is probably the track more worthy of recognition, with its reverberating guitar backing that builds up into a more varied crescendo. The vocals are also richer.

The regular edition of SAMURAI contained a fourth track, HIMEGOTO. Another fast-paced song with an explosive opening, the track is perhaps a little too much on the busy side instrumentally. However, the vocals are nice and the harmonies enjoyable and clear, making HIMEGOTO above average for an optional B-side.

All in all, there's nothing to be disappointed about in this single. Every song has charm of its own without sounding too similar, and the catchy title track will keep you coming back for more time and time again.