Amano Tsuki - Gomoku narabe

Following in the footsteps of previous singles Chou from November 2003, Koe from July 2005 and Zero no choritsu from July 2008, Amano Tsuki has once again contributed a theme song to renowned videogame series "Fatal Frame". It features alongside four more brand new tracks on her latest mini-album Gomoku narabe. Released on October 1st 2014, with this release, the artist also wanted to commemorate the five years she has spent working under the name Amano Tsuki.

The album begins with Torikago ~in the cage~, the aforementioned theme song to new "Fatal Frame" game, "Zero ~Nure garasu no miko~". This deep and very emotional track about a birdcage kicks off with the sounds of piano and acoustic guitar. One after another, electric instruments, drums, strings and then Amano's vocals join the ensemble. At six minutes, Torikago ~in the cage~ might seem pretty long at first, but due to the shifting dynamics and the varied instrumentation, as well as Amano's outstanding vocals, the song proves very entertaining. If anyone would like to decide for themselves, they hazard a look at the trailer for the game, in which Torikago ~in the cage~ is featured.

Compared to the first track, Swimmy is a pure and lively rock & roll number that invites the listener to dance. This entertaining song is followed by the somewhat calmer Pablov. Unique in this lounge-esque piece of music are the trumpet and piano in the background. Only during the refrain is there a change in pace and volume.

Hana to mitsu is a special kind of ballad. Compared to the previous titles on the album, Amano Tsuki's singing becomes very childish - it's almost as if you're listening to some sort of lullaby. Special as well is it's running time: Hana to mitsu lasts less than three minutes, making it the shortest track on Gomoku narabe. The mini-album then ends with dreamy rock ballad Zeitaku na hibi.


I have to confess that I haven't followed Amano's music since she resumed her musical activities, but the chance to hear a new composition of hers for "Fatal Frame" revived my curiosity. In the end, Gomoku narabe proved to me that Amano Tsuki remains a talented singer and songwriter and has created some very diverse and entertaining new songs here; my personal highlights being Torikago ~in the cage~ and Zeitaku na hibi. I look forward to hearing more from her in future.