Rising Suns: Ringo Sheena's Houjouya

    Ringo Sheena blessed us with a new album this year, and she never disappoints. I have always loved Ringo for her ability to combine various genres into something absolutely thrilling, exciting, and yet smooth and classy. She's a beast at making collaborations (with several featured here). I think you could describe her as a mad genius that isn't afraid to go there and take absolute risks for the sake of expansion of music as a whole. She doesn't know how to play it safe, only how to blow the roof off your house. 

    The first two opening tracks are amazing. Shoutout to "Chirinuru wo" and "Watashi wa Neko no Me." Her vocals here are more refined and less wild. Possibly a reflection of maturity. Though that cattiness (no pun intended) she is known for will shine through every once in awhile. 

    The collaborations are fun. AI features here. And AI has always had a rich vocal technique, but here it's like she's trying to imitate Ringo. I don't mean that in a bad way. I find it so endearing and fun and a great opportunity for AI to let it go and have fun. You can tell they both do. AI's richness with Ringo's eccentricities are a wonderful combination! Ringo just brings out another side of artists and encourages them to reach maximum creativity. (Motions to Nocchi from Perfume being featured on a Ringo Sheena album here). 

    There's so much to love here and obsess over. If you've not checked the album yet, please give it a spin! I don't think you'll be disappointed with these various sweet and savory flavors on your musical palette!

    Also, I'm a sucker for the cat theme of the album. I love it so much!

Rank: S...heena R...ingo(ank)

Recommendation: when you're feeling catty and apple-y.

Standouts: 

    All of the collaborations. 

    Watashi wa Neko no Me