MUSIC: This is the One (2009)

2009
UTADA

I can immediately say one thing: this might be the one.

The undeniably famous Utada Hikaru boldly ventures once more as Utada and it seems like she means it this time. This is the One sounds completely different from Exodus and for that matter, it almost sounds nothing like the JPop artist Hikki.

Of course, the album does feel familiar. The first track, On and On, sets the mood of the album the way We Fight the Blues eases you into the Heart Station. The difference, however, can be seen in the entire production. Utada is very American RnB with lyrics to match.

While Hikki sings about staying gold and celebrating, Utada is kind of flirty and bold. Perhaps Utada Hikaru realized that there is little connection with the audience if she keeps singing songs like Kremlin Dusk.

Tracks like Devil Inside have been replaced with the likes of Apple and Cinnamon. The beats are simpler (but not dumb and repetitive) and the lyrics are definitely catchier.

Automatic Part II immediately caught my attention mostly because I wanted to see how different it was from the unofficial part I. Utada clearly wants to set herself apart. She even immediately follows it with Dirty Desire and Poppin‘ to drill the idea into your head.

There is a lot of effort in this album and while Exodus has been criticized as self-indulgent, I feel the urge to call this album almost superficial. But it is an album that is aiming for the mainstream. It is pop and it is superficial. If I were to judge it as that, it succeeds. It is a good record. Fun to listen to.

With proper promotion, this album will go places Exodus couldn’t.

FINAL RATING:
[4] out of [5]