beni
-
Content Count
2780 -
Joined
-
Last visited
-
Days Won
3
Posts posted by beni
-
-
-
^ It's great seeing so much activity still flourishing on here
I hope everyone has been well.
-
To celebrate our little Gothic princess' return, I have dived back into her discography, and based solely on my preferences, have composed a list of what I believe to be her best songs, ranked. From the best to the very best. This list will go beyond Nana's quite minimal PV/single works, since there's so few, but won't be expanding across her projects outside of her solo works from 2002-2009 (Loveless and THE TEENAGE KISSERS). There's just too much perfection on this tiny palette as is! Covers have also been blacklisted due to it not being original, solo material.
Check out the 'KEYWORDS' to make your searching easier to suit your own taste. I hope you find something to enjoy of hers!
Who is Kitade Nana?
Kitade Nana (北出菜奈) is a Japanese rock artist. She is affiliated with BIG APPLE and signed under Sony Music Entertainment, and has even released albums in both the United States and Europe. She debuted in 2003 with the single "Kesenai Tsumi", which was used as the first ending theme to Full Metal Alchemist anime. She has followed this with many other tie ins, from the anime Jigoku Shoujo ("Tsukihana") and drama opening to anego ("Kiss or Kiss"). After the release of her debut album, she had started wearing and representing gothic lolita fashion, and started modeling for magazines such as CUTiE, and companies from BABY to her favourite brand, THE STARS SHINE BRIGHT. Though her popularity began to dwindle after this time, she continues to garner a loyal fan base due to her status as a gothic lolita model.
The honorable mentions
赤い花 (Akai Hana) - Red Flower - B-side to Utareru Ame. A simply addictive and memorable pop tune.
刹那の絆 (Setsuna no Kizuna) - Bonds of a Moment - B-side to SUICIDES' LOVE STORY. Just as popping as Akai Hana!
悲しみのキズ (Kanashimi no Kizu) - Scars of Sadness - 7th single, was the theme song of PS2 game Fullmetal Alchemist 3: Kami wo Tsugu Shoujo. Simple yet effective.
eighteen sky - The closing, ballad track from her debut album, "18 -eighteen-". Gorgeous.
サイレン (Siren) - Image song for the Japanese releases of the Canadian cartoon series, Ruby Gloom. Released under the pseudonym of Ruby Gloom. Her best energetic number!
HOLD HEART - 4th single, and has a really old school flare. The music will get stuck in your head after only one listen.
The Top 10
10. 神様ひとつだけ (Kamisama Hitotsu dake) - My One And Only God
Key words: Dark, atmospheric, quiet verses then sudden/loud choruses, brooding, emotional
Quote"Kamisama Hitotsu dake" is my first entry for many reasons. What I had hoped to achieve with this list is to get new listeners for Kitade, and create a discussion point for current fans of hers.
Also because I love this woman.But the point is that "Kamisama Hitotsu dake" is easily one of her hard tracks. And for her gruff voice, she pulls it off so well. It's a pity she didn't create many other similar songs, but that's why this one is so important, because it's really all we have of this dark and heavy sound. I feel like this is a very trustworthy 10th position to introduce newcomers to her because of the sound and her look, as she was already very much into the gothic lolita style now, and it's one of her edgy songs. I find this most suitable when introducing her to MH.The way the song progresses also must be noted on. From the very edgy opening, to the quieter, almost ambient verses then suddenly transitioning into a rocking, dramatic chorus is simply breathtaking. And combining this with Kitade's already distinctive breathy yet nasily tone brings this storybook to life. And on the comparison to a storybook, "Kamisama Hitotsu dake" does this storytelling so well. Kitade's exceptionally brilliant lyrics create a story of escapism and fantasy, like it's literally pulled out from a fairytale. All in all, as soon as you get to the final verse, you'll understand what I mean by the progression and storytelling. With Kitade's hauntingly emotional vocal work and almost chaotic yet somber music score, "Kamisama Hitotsu dake" is the perfect starter to this countdown and displays all of Kitade's best attributes.
9. 遺留品 (Iryuuhin) - Instant
Keywords: Ballad, sentimental
QuoteThe first out of three songs from the one single to be covered completely on this ranking, this is a B side to "Kesenai Tsumi". It being her best ever release of hers, it can't be denied how brilliant of a single this is, with the sentimental ballad "Iryuuhin" helping it out. A song I'm sure plenty of us can relate to, and is also a common theme in her music, of lost love. In case anyone else is also substicale to lyrics, this song has some of the best poetry:
"Even now whispered words and your warmth linger. There's too much oxygen when you're not in this room. / Even now mingled sighs and kisses linger. The temperature is too cold when you're not in this room." How could this not tug at even the hardest of heartstrings!?
... This is just the start of one brilliant single.
8. 泡沫 (Utakata) - Transience
Keywords: Unique (for Kitade), build up, ambient until dramatic climax
QuoteB side to Utareru Ame, this is the most beautiful of Kitade's music. Without contest. For those of you who know of songs like Plastic Tree's "Andro Metamorphose", you can compare to such songs that have an extremely steady, ambient like buil up but then burst and transform into almost a completely different song. In fact both the two songs are very similar! This is another of Kitade's efforts which is completely outside of her typical writing and style, making for a totally undeniable impression.
7. Alice
Keywords: Ballad, typical Kitade but disguised as cute and sweet
QuoteWhat Kitade actually has very few of, is ballads. And surprise, surprise, almost all of them are knock outs! You would see "Alice" as track 6 on her debut album, "18 -Eighteen-". Being the only slow ballad number of the album itself, you wouldn't forget it. Nor can you even when going over her discography. Undeniably joyful and relaxing are understatements for this song. And yet, it's still as sentimental as she usually does thanks to her writing. But the pleasantry of it actually sounding almost like an idol song is what makes it stand out against her discography. It's hard enough picking only a few songs out of her debut album, but this being possibly her best ballad, it couldn't miss this spot.
6. 鏡の国のアリア (Kagami no kuni no aria) - Aria of the Mirror Land
Keywords: Heavy, macabre, slow yet dark build up/tension, extremely rocking and jaring/haunting vocal and musical work, unique (for Kitade)
QuoteThis being the B side to "tsukihana", which is an impressive song as is, "Kagami no kuni no aria" really pushes the envelope. Completely out of ordinary for her, this track is the definition of gothic and dark if ever Kitade attempted it. Take this as the opposite of the earlier entry of "Utakata". The verses are so very creepy with Kitade's almost monotone and lengthy delivery, then the dramatic, emotional chorus. I can't help but think that this is one perfect for MH.
5. (月華) tsukihana - Moon Flower
Keywords: Anime, theatrical, emotional,
QuoteAnd look what the
Hell GirlDevil brings in! Yes, it's the previous track's title track, "tsukihana". This was very much my top track of Kitade's when I first discovered her. So very fitting to the anime, Hell Girl, it was involved with, and completely flawless with its PV too, "tsukihana" is complete magic.4. Fake
Keywords: Oldschool (pop)
QuoteNever has a song screamed "THROWBACK!" so hard. From the cheesy insertion of the techno between verses, and even cheesier lyrics, "Fake" sounds so 90s, it's almost a guilty pleasure. And yet, everything about the song is still absolutely fantastic. Track 9 of debut album "18 -Eighteen-"
3. SUICIDES LOVE STORY
Keywords: Emotional/dramatic, ballad
QuoteAnother early favourite of mine when I first got into Kitade, "SUICIDES LOVE STORY" is everything I adore in a ballad. The breathy, high notes, the climatic chorus, the bittersweet lyrics, the painful vocals, everything just works.
2. 瞬間 (Shunkan) - Moment
Keywords: Ballad
QuoteA very personal, almost throwback of sorts selection, "Shunken" comes in second because of the time I discovered it. It's the third and last ballad in the ranking, and is in this exact spot for being one of the first Japanese songs I discovered and adored. I didn't even know it was Kitade for ages until I got into her a couple of years later! Discovered on a random podcast find on iTunes back in 2012, I had it on repeat continuously with a few other anime openings I had no clue about (one being access' Dgray man opening and even ...). What immediately caught my attention was Kitade's rather unreserved vocals against the laid back, gorgeous melody of the ballad. It's very simple, but effective. It's not just because of nostalgia and... sentimental value, but because I still love it just as much as I did then, unlike how "tsukihana" had been bumped down.
1. 消せない罪 (Kesenai Tsumi) ~Ice Cream Tenpura Ver.~ - Unerasable Sin
Keywords: Remix, heavy, 'classic', rock
QuoteThere are so many reasons as to why this song just has to be in first place. This being her first ever released song is one of the main reasons. The song is her most successful hit. It was so popular, Kitade released a slowed down version entitled "Kesenai Tsumi ~raw "breath" track~", and even this remix on her best of release "Berry Berry". With three versions of this track, including the original, "Ice Cream Tenpura Ver/Berry Berry Ver" takes the cake. You could call this the sped up version if "raw breath track" is the slower one. But it has even more than that going for it. As already explained, Kitade rarely ever did anything hard or rough, with only three having such an edgy sound, and this being one of them. It's a real shame, but that's even more reason to sink yourself into these treats even more. The whole track is a rock fest from the start to end, and is exactly how brilliant any remix should be to top the original.
So, have you discovered a new favourite artist? Will you be checking out her old material before she starts releasing again, or are you interested in what she'll be doing now? Feel free to add your comments and discuss! Thank you for reading~
-
Nice. Looking forward to it.
-
So many things to be excited for this year, yay~
-
Terrific news, thank you for this.
-
Fking 10/10, all you really need for any game ad to be a success.
-
Welcome, welcome~ Great introduction, it was a lovely read! Always cool to see someone with more of a mixed bag of music taste. I instantly spotted T.M Revolution, Alice Nine, and GUILD, ehe. Great stuff. Now I do hope you're able to look around the forums and enjoy yourself. For any help whatsoever, feel free to send a message to members with a blue/red name!
kisumi kinbaku reacted to this -
-
Daww, I'm so pleased for them! ;w;
-
2 hours ago, itsukoii said:currently working on my trade off review. i'm nervous because i've never properly reviewed before and this is my first trade off, but i'm actually enjoying myself ;o;
Nothing to be nervous about! In fact, if you're worried about how to write your review, feel free to check out other people's pieces. Otherwise, there's never any need to panic, make it as casual as you'd like! Just keep having fun with the mix and your response(s). : 3
-
Since I now have a PS Vita, I've spent what money I got from Christmas on a few games on sales for the system, since otherwise they're around £35 each outside of this bargain. I got two of them specifially because of seeing them getting awards on game sites I reguarly visit, so first up is Root Letter, which I'm expecting great things from. It being a mystery visual novel, and already knowing how well done and effective they can be, I'm sure the praise this game has is well deserved. That's on the sideline for now, to make way for the other games I got at the same time, one being... Gal*Gun: Double Peace. The other Vita game that got an award for best game this year, I'm completely embarrassed I purchased this in person at my local game store. X'D
My remaining hope is in Senran Kagura: Estival Versus, which I'm actually really enjoying. I'm so surprised with myself. It really reminds me of Musou games. The combat is that repetitive, hack and slash a hoard of enemies in a group, ranging from easy to hard styles. There's 28 ladies to fight with, and there's even a multiplayer mode I'm excited in trying. I haven't even played it that long but
I have many more baes nowI'm already loving it. What a guilty pleasure. And the last game I got is Valkyria Drive.0:53: But.. aren't they sisters?
Yet another possible regrettable buy.
-
18 hours ago, Original Saku said:Yo so how about them demos? NieR Automata and Gravity Rush 2 demos in the same day! Talk about hype!
long story short both demos are just simply amazing, especially the NieR demo. I already knew GR2 was gonna be a great game, no doubt in my mind. NieR on the other hand I had my doubts, but platinum games has totally dispelled all of that with this demo.
Nice, demo discussion~
I have been waiting so long for Nier Automata. It has literally everything I want in a game. The looks of the character designs are what I've always wanted to see and imagined in my own head, and the music is absolutely stunning as expected. The gameplay is even more enjoyable than I was expecting (give me that robot companion in every game please!). I'm really looking forward to seeing its release.
I have yet to check out anything Gravity Rush related, since I want to get the first game whenever that's cheap enough. Right now I'm spending what I can on sales for Vita games, and GR is on my to get list as soon as possible.
-
This is beyond crazy at this point. :/
R.I.P.
-
I'm out during the day on Friday, but would prefer that instead of Saturday or Sunday due to it being Christmas Eve and Christmas day. Would we be making this a whole day session, or would we rather have it at a slotted time? The usual time, maybe?
-
Thanks for responding guys! <3
I'm fine with any day this coming week, feel free to post here what day is best for you and we can make it official once more. : D
Delkmiroph reacted to this -
I'm so sad I couldn't attend that latest themed session! Is anyone else up for doing that same theme (favourite songs from 2016) next week? ;;
Delkmiroph and Hakoniwa reacted to this -
Nice, I had no idea you did. I didn't suspect PS4 at least. Everyone I know seems to play it on either the PC or Xbox.
So the offer still stands if anyone wants to play together. I'm on it throughout most of the day, so just send me an invite or message (gotta friend me first though). Find me as "dokurohana".
-
33 minutes ago, Zeus said:...so you mean people aren't a fan of Amy Schumer's sense of humor?
^
Is there anything else needed to be said?
-
Still addicted to Overwatch, although I admit I'm a bit upset with myself on missing out on the immediate, intense Final Fantasy XV loving. Still, I'm enjoying a heck of a lot of hours on Overwatch, and going through having fun and making the most of each and every hero I randomly manage to become good at. First it was D.Va, then Reaper, and now Sombra and Symmetra. I have high hopes in what else Blizzard will implement for the game, praying and hoping for a campaign mode some day maybe, or at least a movie. Super excited for more maps and heroes at least!
-
^ I find this surprisingly good.
kasyo to my liking! Your converting is working on me now.
-
Wonderful review. I have yet to listen to the release because I'm iffy about how much I'll like it. I love RADWIMPS and Noda's first album, but the recent MVs have yet to captivate me. But I must admit "Water Lily" is growing on me (Just love that "From Beehives to Water Lillies" line you did) now that I've returned to give it another listen now, and I have a feeling I'll also dig all the songs you wrote at the bottom as the highlights. I may have to revisit that website on more occasions too. THAT was entrancing. Reminds me of Namie Amuro's Golden Touch. Thanks for reminding me I still need to give it a listen, and for making me enjoy "Water Lily" even more!
-
Don't think we have a mobile games thread, and what good timing! I was always put off with playing games on anything but the consoles such as PlayStation and DS. Recently started using my PC and laptop to play games like visual novels, and because of that shift, I then started using Google Play on my mobile and now it's taken up all my space on the phone! It's a change but it actually feels nice that you can just take it out whenever and get to it (as long as you have battery life, u r g, and internet connection~). I can see why most people play on their mobiles now. I'm guessing tablets and that are just as popular now? My one fear is that we'll mostly be getting games on these platforms (I was so surprised at how many things of my own interest is in the Google Play store), because I feel only certain kinds of games look good enough on it and are worth playing. I'm also so iffy with trusting mobiles as is, what with data usage (Pokemon Go conspiracy theories is scaring the heck out of me).
-
Since we already have a thread/team for Overwatch on PC you can find right here, I thought it wouldn't hurt to gauge interest for a PS4 one since I've gotten pretty addicted to it now and noticed a few friends I have here on PS4 usually come up online recently.
Returned from the dust (O.O ! )
in Introductions/Goodbyes
Posted
Welcome back, Linh-san. I should have mentioned your avatar/profile pic set here, lol. Hope you've been well.