Best Album of 2009!

I needed this album. I really needed this. For the longest time now, I've been collecting CDs from all sorts of artists. I didn't realize that I was actually looking for something. Every time I bought a CD, I wasn't satisfied; something was always missing and essentially, music became disposable for me. When Kazeyomi arrived, that changed.

After the disappointing Yuunagi LOOP, and the half-decent 30minutes night flight, I was afraid we'd get another mild or bland album. Instead, Kazeyomi is Maaya's most strong and mature album yet.

The opening track is pure magic. It sounds like it could've come off the Spirited Away soundtrack, but with stunningly unreal vocals. After that, I'll admit, I'm not crazy about the singles. Triangler is a bit too anime-ish; Saigo no Kajitsu is lovely, if a little forgettable; Ame ga Furu is probably my favourite of the singles, but still can't stand up to the album tracks; however Kazemachi Jet is incredibly improved. The original version sounded corny, too anime styled, and basically like a 4 year old scribbling all over the place with a giant green crayon. The album version is a toned-down, much more acoustic arrangement, which gives the feeling of a delightful spring-time romp in a flowery field. Still bright and sweet, but far more palatable.

Now, the album tracks are stunning. Remedy has such a perfect Maaya feel: it's sweet, lite, beautiful, wistful, and still has enough depth to hold you for repeated listens. The first time I heard Remedy, I couldn't stop smiling for how exactly the sound speaks of Maaya. SONIC BOOM could be another classic Maaya track, with more longing and angst. A wicked guitar solo and heartfelt vocals make it quite powerful.

Other album tracks are happy, hyper and cute (Guitar Hiki ni Naritai na, Get No Satisfaction!, Shitsuren Cafe, Peanuts - which houses some adorable clapping!). Ao no Ether reminds me of Maaya's songs Hero or Okitegami, and for some reason Sanctuary.

Now after Saigo no Kajitsu, Colors brings us into a dreamlike state. The song is in soft, slightly muted, ever-shifting water colours for me. A soft sprinkling of silver and rainbow flecks pepper the chorus. It's a very entrancing piece, and provides me with some very clear mental images. It dissolves into the crowning glory of the album: Kazamidori. During my first listen to the album, when Kazamidori got into full swing, I almost cried. The entire album works towards this climax, and it is perfect. Everything: Maaya's voice, sweet and mournful, the rich arrangement coupling the melody is a warm spring day with a chilling breeze. The bridge is heart wrenching in the most pure way. The entire piece stings of the most humble and bare honesty. It's incredible, and sometimes exhausting.

After Kazamidori comes Guitar Hiki ni Naritai na, which is very simple and relaxing. It's perfect as a track to bring you back down to earth, and ease you out of one fantastic album.

Everything about Kazeyomi feels soo right. It is the perfect next step in Maaya's career, and it really sated my hunger for deeply gripping music. A refreshing and rejuvenating breeze. It took quite a while for this album to come, but after absorbing it all, I can't help but think that it is soo rewarding to be a Maaya Sakamoto fan.