Yoshida Minako - RECONSTRUCTION

RECONSTRUCTION is an apt title for the mini-album that contains remixes of Yoshida Minako's favourite songs from throughout her career.

The first remix, the so'called “Sound Of Urban London” remix, is of Ongaku no mahou. It sounds more like Chicago jazz and is presumably only interesting for hardcore fans of that genre because of its obstinate sound setting, which includes a steady saxophone and a male voice speaking. Most others should quickly skip that track and listen to Fragment. This song reminds of the good old midi soundbites of the very first video games and should be interesting to all nostalgic people. The following Gogo no koibito is a bit sluggish at the beginning, but increases in time; and an atmospheric vocal setting accompanies the groovy jazz beat.

Similar in composition, but more R&B in style, is the “Rubber Street Remix” of Gifted. However, the pace is so leisurely that it comes close to sending you to sleep, and the beat is very droning. Minako tries some high pitched vocals, which sound very distressed because of her natural deep voice. Very unexpected and funny is the next remix of Ongaku no mahou: a funky electro beat, trumpets, a whistle and a slightly robotic voice make you lust for more. Damn Man Goin’ is fairly similar to the previous song, and ten it's time for the last song on the mini-album. The dark sound, changing volumes and the extremely rock mood might make you wonder if you are still listening to the same CD or not. Compared to the other tracks, this dynamic song is out of place.

You have to listen to RECONSTRUCTION several times before you can understand the charm of the songs and their effects. But, because every song falls under a different genre, those who like a broad range of music will probably like it best. However, Fragment (Screen Of Amber Remix) and Ongaku no mahou (Urbanstar Remix) might be crowd pleasers for all!