The title "NEXT LEVEL" is anticipating in itself, giving off that unexpected yet exciting feeling making you wonder, "What's to come?"
All of the previous singles were amazing and pretty new for Ayu's style. I sense a whole new direction coming from Ayu in this next album, and in a good way!
"Mirrorcle World" was the ultimate in fresh. It had a minute long introduction of a stirring orchestra; that unique marching beat; the xylophone was mystifying; the everchanging dynamics; the loud, serious rock intervals; the soothing and mysterious bridge; the suspension in her ad-libbing ("wow yeah"). All of it made the song certainly at a new level.
"Life," admittedly, was quite simple. However, I felt the direction she went in was different. It was a perfect song on her tenth anniversary single. I felt like it had that "10 years later, 10 years stronger, still alive" kind of feel/effect.
"GREEN" was completely new. It's been a while since we had that "oriental" sound, hasn't it? Anyway, the lyrics went in a whole new direction as well as the sound.
"Days" seemed like a typical ballad, but I feel something extra special in this track. When I say "typical ballad," I mean it has that "Ayu" style. However, it has that new/2008 sound that makes it, well, new. It was like a classic was revived, or even born. You know what I mean?
"Rule" is indescribable. The tempo is super upbeat, the lyrics are very powerful, the PV is new and different... Totally fits into the possible theme she's going for.
"Sparkle" is hard to judge, but it's quite anticipating as well.
So, YES.
I think "NEXT LEVEL" will certainly be a new direction for Ayu. The next level in her music career.
