Tracklist:
1. Canon
2. Thank You
3. Forever Lullaby
1. Canon
... I was not expecting this. Judging by the name and the theme of the anime this single is tied to, I'd expect a happy, candy song. But in reality, we get something completely opposite of that; a hard, upbeat techno-rock track. The arrangement itself is much more exotic than just mere synths and guitars though, because there are some great jazz-like piano glissandos, and all the different instrumental stunts will not leave you bored. Mamoru's voice is very warm and deep, much like most of the J-Rock vocalists, and also brings to the enjoyability of the song. The only thing I am somewhat concerned about is that the melody is quite catchy by the usual western formula, so it may not be listenable over a long period of time.
Rating: 9
2. Thank You
This is definitely what a shoujo anime OP usually sounds like, being much like <insert American teen star>, but the track was again taken to another level with musical experimentation, even if it's a mix of upbeat pop, R&B and dance. With a very different concept in mind, this is a completely opposite listen to the A-side, and the vocals also got the feature of softness and gentleness that is usually expected in ballads. A certain note of sadness is present throughout the whole song, making it very touching, and distinguishing it from the sea of generic clones of sugar-coated "ballads".
Rating: 9
3. Forever Lullaby
Traditionally, the third track of the single is a very slow song, so I thought this would be filler-ish as most are, but Mamoru is just on a great roll here. The arrangement plays on my weaknesses, my favourite instruments, the violins. They go from dramatic and strong to very soft, and the piano does the opposite, so even if only melody-wise this would still be a great song. His voice is suited to ballads as well - but that's no wonder, since Mamoru Miyano is a pretty famous voice actor too. The song doesn't bring anything especially new, but it's still a great one.
Rating: 8Traditionally, the third track of the single is a very slow song, so I thought this would be filler-ish as most are, but Mamoru is just on a great roll here. The arrangement plays on my weaknesses, my favourite instruments, the violins. They go from dramatic and strong to very soft, and the piano does the opposite, so even if only melody-wise this would still be a great song. His voice is suited to ballads as well - but that's no wonder, since Mamoru Miyano is a pretty famous voice actor too. The song doesn't bring anything especially new, but it's still a great one.
I learned a lesson by listening to this single, which may be familiar to you: Don't judge a CD by its cover (both literally, and metaphorically). There are few successful male anisong artists, and the anime is oriented around very typical shoujo-like themes, so I immediately supposed this would be a flop, but my impression was turned around 180 degrees as I was listening to the songs. My overall rating is: 9
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