Berryz Kobo – Motto Zutto Issho ni Itta Katta/ROCK Erotic (Review)

J-Pop Reviews

Berryz Kobo
Motto Zutto Issho ni Itta Katta/ROCK Erotic

Review by Kelly-Mae Matt

NekoPOP-Berryz-Motto-Zutto-Review

Motto Zutto Issho ni Itta Katta/ROCK Erotic is the fifth Double A-side single from Berryz Kobo, and one of the more impressive releases from the group this year so far. With a mature sound and an impressive arrangement that is sure to catch the fans’ attention, and a few outsiders as well, this is one of the most original and interesting singles to come out of this group in a while. I think that this is a sound that Berryz Kobo should venture into more, because it works for the group like a dream.

The two feature songs of the single both show a mature approach to the group in two completely different ways: the first song featured is a moody, heartfelt piece with lyrics that enhance the sadness of the song, whilst the second track is more up-beat, but mature in the cool and enticing lyrics. ROCK Erotic is playful in tone as well. It reminds me heavily of Ren’ai Hunter by Morning Musume, but really brings out the playfulness in Berryz Kobo without having to sound childish or cute. Both songs are strong and very enjoyable, and work well together.

The coupling songs, titled “I’m so cool!” and “Koisuru Technique” are, however, rather underwhelming. “I’m so cool!” from the Limited A, B, C and Regular editions is a poppy, cute affair that really doesn’t suit the title, and shows off the playful and childish side to Berryz that they were known for when they were younger (and a sound that they usually venture into even now). This is the better of the two coupling songs, but it sounds rather like a S/mileage song and seems a bit young for the single and group, especially given the cool tone of the rest of the discography.

The second song, “Koisuru Technique”, is only available on the Limited D version, and it’s a rather generic and boring composition when compared to the two A-side tracks. It has a simple sound to it that may be rather enjoyable for some, however it’s far too toned down and has very little energy to offer.

Motto Zutto Issho ni Itta Katta/ROCK Erotic is a nice enough single, but the B-sides fail to impress. However, with two rather strong enjoyable A-sides, I doubt the B-sides really matter if that is all you want to buy the single for.