This is the 7th album from Bonnie Pink, a.k.a. Kaori Asada. In Japan she's a sustained, prolific pop artist. In America, well... she doesn't even have a distribution deal. After listening to any song on Even So, it's hard to understand why her music hasn't spread oversea; it's pure pop, completely accessible but far from lifeless, the kind of stuff that would sell millions in an ideal world. I'm guessing the lack of attention in the US is at least partly due to the language barrier, as most of these songs are sung in Japanese. But still, what the hell? If incoherent death metal barking can slip into the mainstream, why can't sugary sweet Japanese pop? A question we should all be asking ourselves.
Despite the predominantly Japanese verses, Asada does slip into the English
vernacular from time to time. When she does, it's usually speaking to pop music's ubiquitous "you": "When I hold you in my arms/ all the secrets are revealed/ When I hold you in my arms/ It's warm and cold like the ocean." All I can say to that is, yes Kaori, hold me in your arms. Ok, so things get a little too sweet at times. Such campy lines can usually be forgiven though, on account of Asada's delivery. Her voice is fairly straightforward and devoid of any unnecessary histrionics, yet powerful enough to get the point across. It blends seamlessly with the compositions, making for some entertaining verses, even if you don't know what the hell she's saying.
The big detractors on Even So are the occasionally predictable songwriting mechanics ("Ocean," "I just want you to be happy") and the cookie-cutter production. Each instrument is clear and precise, taking up as much space it requires, but all the edges are soft. If there was a more liberal use of reverb, or really any distinguishing 'sound' here, the recordings would have been given some much needed character. As it is, most of the songs fall flat on their face after repeated listens. Despite any complaints, Even So is still a fun record. So if Britney Spears is too plastic for you and the Flaming Lips are just too experimental, check out Rubber Soul, then look into Bonnie Pink.
1. Private Laughter
2. Ocean
3. New Dawn
4. 5 more minutes
5. The Answer
6. I just want you to be happy
7. Mint
8. 1.2.3.
9. Last Kiss
10. Walk with you
11. Jinsei Game
12. Bedtime Story