Welcome to this new series where I will be sharing music videos and live performances from some of my favourite artists. This series is designed to introduce you to artists from across the globe and hopefully help you to discover your new favourite artist/song.
I wanted to start off the series with Da-iCE, a Japanese dance-vocal group formed in 2011 consisting of members: Taiki Kudo, Toru Iwaoka, Yudai Ohno, Sota Hanamura and Hayate Wada. I first discovered Da-iCE's music when watching 'The Case Files of Jeweler Richard', a Japanese anime with the group providing the end theme song 'Only for You'. As Da-iCE consists of two vocalists, I initially thought the group were a duo until I watched their music videos on YouTube. Before Da-iCE, I had fallen out of love with pop music and was predominantly listening to heavy rock/ alternative bands. That was until I listened to Da-iCE's single 'Fake Me Fake Me Out'. This song blends jazz/J-pop with Fujihara Satoshi's (Official髭男dism) melodies producing intriguing instrumentation that complements the four-octave range of vocalists Ohno and Hanamura.
I honestly think this song is so underrated; as a standalone single, the track features incredible choreography, styling and is generally entertaining to watch. After watching this, I started to delve into Da-iCE's BET album and previous work. Since hearing 'Only For You', I have become a real fan (6面) of their work; and as someone who loves music, I can tell that each member loves what they do and that their success is a result of their hard work. The group have also released covers including a version of Ariana Grande's single 'Into You'. Da-iCE fans will know that the music video for 'Into You' is truly something else (watch it below).
What I love about Da-iCE is the variation in their work; it ranges from heartbreaking ballads like '恋ごころ' to heavier sounds with rock influences like their recent single 'Kartell'. I wish I had discovered their music sooner, but I am glad that international support is starting to grow due to their recent success.
Did You Know?.... "Da-iCE fans call themselves 'rokumen' or '6面' meaning the sixth side. The five members each represent one side of the dice, with the fans completing the sixth side. The 'a-i' within the group's name means love in Japanese."
So what are their best live performances? Well, it is hard to choose, especially since the group have a career spanning a decade. However, I have linked some of my favourite performances that I believe showcase their talent and charm. I hope that more people will open up to J-pop and that Da-iCE will continue to grow in popularity and visit the UK soon!
1. 'Revolver' taken from their latest album 'SiX'
2. '恋ごころ' taken from their album 'NEXT PHASE'
3. 'DATE' taken from their EP 'Paradive'
4. 'I Got Your Back' taken from their album 'Every Season'.
5. 'Sugar High' taken from the EP 'Tonikaku Hey'
6. 'Blackjack' taken from the album 'BET'
Do you listen to Da-iCE and have a favourite song you want to share? Let me know by commenting under the Instagram post or send in your suggestions through my Instagram story! Remember to like, share and save the post and follow my Instagram @conversationswithkeiko for more reviews!
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