BAND-MAID 'Start Over' | Wave Potter Reaction

[@WavePotter]

Original Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n32YpIWoiKp2h5I Vladimir Chupin Video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3jciKiLopWGf6M ↓ Make Your Own Requests Here↓ JOIN PATREON: www.patreon.com/wavepotter SUBMIT FUTURE LIVESTREAM REQUEST! tinyurl.com/ms7xcdxc

btw, are you streaming on Friday?

[@WavePotter]

@ yes! I’ll schedule it soon

[@frankandre4385]

I don't see any controversy... It's just " Band Maid doing Band Maid things." And doing them better than anyone else. It was brutal, sincere, and hilarious honesty from Saiki ! I love it !

[@JazzFatcho]

Band members said they wanted a song that could be sung in karaoke. Kanami said "Sure". As a result, a song like DARYL HALL AND JOHN OATES, which is POP but cool, was created.

[@RahimRahmat]

I remember this song! This is the reason the last set of words for "Rinne" was "Shut Up!". Many claimed that Band-Maid had gone over to the poppy side, and "Rinne" was their reply. Once I learnt that backstory, I understood that when Band-Maid wants to do a pop song, they will do a pop song, and their detractors can just go f*** themselves (as the last line of this song also clearly implies 😂).

[@stevehall5128]

One of the things I really love about this is the ascending run at the end of the piano intro. I think most people would have extended that all the way to the beginning of the verse, but Kanami, in classic B-M fashion, puts in an unexpected "breath" before they take the plunge.

[@gordonuyehara3562]

A lot of people have said they dislike the video. The obvious displeasure is from the out-of-genre perception. It shows their flexibility for sure. They played it more recently than Vladimir's video but I can't recall when but I remember watching it online. MISA is a very creative player and always in the pocket and why this band has a lot of groove.

[@VladimirChupin]

They played it at the Third Online OKYUJI on December 13, 2020, that's probably where you have seen it. Later they have uploaded it to BAND-MAID Prime. I hate the MV of "start over," to be honest. That stupid girl destroying her room and her life is a very painful thing to see. Of course, BAND-MAID gives a powerful positive message here, and I was thinking a lot about it since then. But throwing out such tantrums still leaves the scars. Although Saiki's final phrase about "be borne again" implies that you start your relationship as fresh as if you are a completely new person, and all the old scars are obliterated. I would wish I could be such a kind of person... I always say that Miku is my role model. I think it's her credo, to be always positive and never have a grudge against anyone. I pray every day that I may be at least ten per cent as spiritually developed as her...

[@gordonuyehara3562]

@@VladimirChupin Okay, tnx.

[@gordonuyehara3562]

@@VladimirChupin Okay, tnx. Spiritual development is a path that is often two steps forward and one step back.

[@GaryHolloway-810]

Yep we all know what Sai-chan says at the end to those that said "Start Over" was too poppy. GO SAIKI GO!!!!!

[@JuanSan66]

Funky maids!!. I would love to hear a full song from Kanami on the piano. She has that delicate sentimental touch that makes the notes hit your heart hard. If you have seen the piece of YOLO that she plays on the piano or Daydreaming two hands with her sister you will know what I mean. This song is fantastic.

[@interstellardave]

The look on your face for the first minute or so was priceless! Very different sound for them, but so good as we would expect. Personally I want more piano from Kanami in the future… and maybe Sakai (I think she plays).

[@MaartenT]

Saiki is learning the piano (and I think the acoustic guitar) as far as I know. I don't think she is at all up to speed to play it live yet, but who knows in a couple of years. Kanami managed to learn the guitar to Miku, so I am sure she can learn the piano and the guitar to Saiki as well if needed (I am sure Kanami is more than willing to learn anything to Saiki).

[@Greish-esquire]

MISA and Akane are both Very good Pianists 😁

[@VladimirChupin]

@@Greish-esquire Yes, MISA, Akane and Kanami are all playing piano since they were three, but they are all busy on stage doing other things 😍 So, it would be interesting if Saiki plays the piano and sings in the future, like Freddy Mercury did.

[@surfingasongwave]

Listen to the way the piano is miked and recorded at 6:26. That echo is *_so_* evocative.

[@airlinesecret6725]

They played it during one of their Covid live shows and made my day also did Dont let me Down !

[@45banshee]

Ahh the other "controversy" song cause of the nature of the lyrics written by a guy. Its that controversial I dont think

[@VladimirChupin]

@@45banshee Yes, they played it at the Third Online OKYUJI on December 13, 2020. How time flies... Don't let me Down was never a controversy 😂Yes, people are shocked when they realise what the lyrics are about, but after all, BAND-MAID is a rock band, and we expect some kind of openness and sincerity on their part, do we? 😍

[@theohof2204]

Nothing wrong with this tune - absolutely nothing. It's different, yes; but that is the hallmark of this phenomenal band - keep the listener alert and in suspense. Never a dull moment: that's the ladies' motto. And they always deliver.

[@edwardallen4051]

Love this song proving yet again that Misa and Akane are the best jazz rhythm section around today ( may just be me). Luscious vocals from Saiki and Miku and Kanami although taking a step back in this one plays some really nice stuff underneath the vocals for the last minute.

[@maidiac4607]

Just Band-Maid doing band-maid-stuff - always enjoyable!

[@benjpr5395]

I discover them during UW era so here is what I read about the "controversy". I think most of the controversy is because of the MV, also it was their first release after World Domination and my understanding is that the "fans" who wanted them to redo WD over and over thought they were selling out and was going the pop direction they hate just for the sake of hating it... If they ever listened to the B-side (screaming) they would have already known they were just doing whatever they wanted to do... Anyway not my favorite even if I really like MISA and Akane in it but the hate is just pointless and only by a small (yet very audible) part of the fanbase.

[@armynurseboy]

Exactly. People want bands to stay in a little box that the fans are comfortable with. Like you said, they wanted WD over and over and over.

[@VladimirChupin]

@@armynurseboy "start over fresh" 🥰🕊

kanami has told she tried to write as much of a pop song she could

[@interstellardave]

Yep, and there’s nothing wrong with a pop song that still has great musicianship. No half-assing it happens with the Maids! If they do a pop song, it’s a great pop song.

[@VladimirChupin]

She was afraid she was going too hard and heavy in her music 🥰 As if there is something wrong in it 😁

[@jan-ovepedersen5764]

Thank you Wave for reacting to Start Over. It's not hard rocking, but still a very good rock pop song. The composition is great, and one more thing; Kanami is just as good on the piano as she is on the guitar, and she is awesome on both 🙂

[@grahamreed8774]

Not so sure about the vid, but can never get enough Jazz/Rock fusion- Akane leading the way. You're right, so tasty, especially the brief use of ride bell.

[@Bodneyblue]

Like the way Miku and Saiki are facing and looking/singing at each other.....It's like.." we are one/we are together on this"...Nice!

[@Hogie-iv8bd]

I think this is a great song. I just love how they can write and play any and all genres, and mix them together in any combination, and still have every song be excellent!

[@FaoLafini]

Oh.. the classic '...I don't give a F#&@!' in the end🤣

[@sixtofive]

The ironic part about this single was the B side track Screaming that was released with it. At that time the pair were the most pop and then the heaviest songs of their catalogue. I enjoyed both for very different reasons. Start Over really has some nice jazzy composition elements that are impressive when you dive deep into the layers. Definitely check out Screaming if you haven't already, and for a laugh look up the cover art from that single.

[@kurt8084]

Love this song, especially the closeups of Saiki and Miku. ❤

[@phaeron]

Saiki's 'greeting' to all the grumblers out there just never gets old. 🤣 Even that they are said to have become too soft, they have a musical answer. 🤘🏻

[@MaartenT]

That ending reminds me of some punk songs that are very radio friendly until the last verse where they curse a lot so it can't be played on the radio. I believe NOFX has a track like that that is actually titled in that vein. Also, their musical answer is their b-side of this single (Screaming).

[@rakjr6]

There was a rumor their agency made them do a karaoke song but it looks like they wanted to do it. A karaoke song wouldn't have a guitar solo. Some people just dislike the video, some think the song is too poppy, and some panicked because they thought this was their new direction. But the B-side on this single is "Screaming", Not a pop song. Somewhere I saw an interview with the French actor in the MV. He had worked with Band-Maid's manager before and the manager wanted him for this MV. The actress is an American. They both work in Japan in commercials,, TV shows, etc. The actor mentioned that his girlfriend at the time knew Akane, Akane seems to know everybody.

[@MoonmanRedux]

There were complaints that they'd 'gone soft' from some people who clearly resented any move away from pure hard rock. Personally I love it.

[@makmiskell3733]

Thanks Wave! The song is fine.

[@DAVID-io9nj]

I wish they had a couple more songs with this groove, bouncy feel.

[@VladimirChupin]

I would say Wonderland is a successor to "start over."

[@kisaragi075]

I want karaoke songs for women. Some people don't like hard songs. This song is an opportunity for them to step into the world of BAND-MAID. That's what SAIKI wants to do. BAND-MAID's strength is its breadth. Some may not like START OVER, but with the perfection of the song and the stylish performance, everyone will love it!" . .

[@radioraffa]

It was released in 2018. The "I don't give a F*ck"and middle finger at the end was to prevent it to be completely poppy. The album artwork shows a middle finger with a rubber hand giving the peace symbol on top of the finger.

[@omneil]

Nowadays, anything you do can be controversial. But these ladies. Can do everything. I’m sure they all are multi instrumental. I had read some where that Konami started on the piano. Good reaction. More please.

[@VladimirChupin]

Yes, Kanami started on the piano somewhere at the age of three or five, the same as MISA and Akane, who also played brass instruments later. Akane even contributed her slide trombone part to a recording of her friends' ska band.

[@Kissthetoad321]

No guitar solo but piano solo.😁Just a good song. Every Band Maid song has a reason to exist.

[@toolheadjr.4140]

This is a prime example of why I like Band-Maid so much. You have a song like 'Start Over' on your playlist then next is a song like 'ISSR.' Thanks Wave and I couldn't resist reading the comment you mentioned at the end. A bit cringe but it is what it is 😆

[@robcapuano1994]

It was controversial because it's a pop rock song. Some fans panicked that they were getting soft after World Domination. I think they explained that they wanted to write a karaoke-friendly song because Band-Maid songs are notoriously difficult for Japanese people to sing in karaoke. Kanami also said she was having writers block at the time and asked for ideas from the other members. Since many musicians have praised the song over the years, most of the complainers have switched to the music video, since its a story with foreign actors. I think it's a great video, because I like story videos, but to each their own. To balance this pop rock song, the B side of the single is Screaming.

[@sjnix7044]

"Since many musicians have praised the song over the years, most of the complainers have SWITCHED to the music video." No no no. It was and always has been, primarily about the video. I really don't want to see Avril Levigne and Chad Kroger fight in a Band Maid video.

[@robcapuano1994]

@@sjnix7044 In July 2018 there were plenty of fans that didn't like the song. I'm happy more of them like it now. As the for the video, like I said, to each their own.

[@DartJedi]

I am so glad you reviewed this one. This is one of the songs that got me hooked on BM. Hearing their usually genre and then finding this pop ditty. I liked everything about it. One of the songs that proves that the ladies can do more than meets the eye/ear. I do not know about the controversy if there is any, and don't care. I like it. If you have ever been in a love-hate relationship, or at leash one where you never seem to 100% be on the same page and the sparks are (very) rough, but then things go back to normal, and then around again, and again you totally get this song.

[@jan-ovepedersen5764]

MISA MISA MISA MISA 🙂 I love it when MISA leaves the root and go out on her owen little tour, and she does so all the time. It's so creative, and it's supporting the rythm and the vocals as well.

[@rocotocloc]

I wish all pop music sounded this freakin great, enough said

[@weilima9316]

They played it for Christmas/ December concert in… 2020? Definitely one of their online concerts. Kanami added a new intro and it sounded really Christmasy… I remember loving that version.

[@VladimirChupin]

They played it at the Third Online OKYUJI on December 13, 2020, yes.

[@mickyart]

Funny thing about the controversy ... The cover image for this release (in 3 different versions) had one hand with a stick middle finger and on top of that fingertip, another little hand doing a "V" sign... "Start Over" was actually one out of a randomly chosen Band-Maid songs I ripped out of KZbin to check them out once again... after some years back having stumbled upon "Thrill" that didn't thrilled me that much and actually made me think "Naaah, Japanese ladies in lace doing hard-rock..." and dismissed them. This time I wanted to have a proper listen and got a short number of songs to loop for a while in my headphones while working. So I got "Thrill", "Bubble", "Start Over", "REAL EXISTENCE", "Secret My Lips", "Dice", "Don't Let Me Down", "Blooming" and "The Non-Fiction Days". The one that got me to stop working and listen to over and over was "REAL EXISTENCE" but I started loving Band-Maid so much for these songs alone, that I just had to rush and buy all I could get my hands on... "Start Over" is not on any of the albums, it's "just" a single, so I had to buy that one too, I really love this song from day one. Unlucky me, by the time I wanted to get the special edition (the dark blue one) it wasn't available anymore or was being sold by a few hundreds. So I got me the "normal" edition... still very happy with it... besides the song, it comes with "Screaming" on it too. So, yeah, "Start Over" is actually one of my "closed-to-the-heart special Band-Maid songs" and will always have that special flavour to be one of those that made them grew so much in me to become truly "The ONE" fav band.

[@gunkymonkey4407]

I don't know about the controversy but I personally really like this song. I like every genre of music and find enjoyment even in slower and more POP centered songs. Hopefully you will get a chance to go to the Detroit concert, that's the one I'm going too.

[@kevinlane7555]

I love this song

[@Parker--]

Some people find it controversial because it is very pop, but it seems the biggest controversy is the music video. If being a pop song doesn't bother someone, then it's the best pop song. It's far from my favorite, but I find it enjoyable. Some people dislike it because it's pop and while I disagree, to each their own. Other people say the song is fine but then they complain about the music video. To me that is more absurd than disliking the song IMHO, because it's a pop song about a relationship in turmoil. Yes, it's cheesy, but that's the point! The music video perfectly fits the song. Just like Warning! MV or Endless Story or Daydreaming's MVs are incredibly on point or cliche to the point of almost being parody and cheesy but in a fun way, so is this one. That's the biggest "controversy;" people thinking the music video is too accurate to the genre and subject matter.

[@Metal_Auditor]

I didn't realize there were still Band-Maid songs you hadn't heard.

[@HaroMatsuRestarted]

If I remember correctly, Akane mentioned in a interview that, this is the first song that she did not use any bass drum in a song.

[@VladimirChupin]

I think it was PAGE 🙄

[@HaroMatsuRestarted]

@@VladimirChupin Oh, was it🫢

[@VladimirChupin]

@@HaroMatsuRestarted It was in her interview to Rhythm & Drums Magazine, April 2020 issue: - Track 1 Page is an impressive song with programmed sounds and electronic drums. Akane: That was a new try. In that song, I recorded the drums without hitting the bass drum, and then overdubbed programmed drums. That was really fresh, and I felt a possibility of expressions the rhythm can achieve.

[@HaroMatsuRestarted]

@@VladimirChupin Thanks for confirming. I stand corrected 😕

[@WavePotter]

Interesting.. Thanks for sharing that!

[@Greg-om2hb]

I haven’t seen this in a long time. I enjoy their more traditional Pop sound here. I think there might be controversy regarding the fate of the fish.

[@VladimirChupin]

It was born again, as you can see in the video itself 🥰

[@philproffitt8363]

They do what they want...and they do it effing well. That's why we love 'em. (Most decent rock bands do killer slow jams...a treat for you Harry: 'Entre Nous' by Rush...if you don't know it)

[@DavidMISAMISAMISACook]

MISA MISA MISA!!!!!

[@Bodneyblue]

There is a short video interview with the male actor in the video..He's French...Talks about the making and the ladies.

[@Muzicman2112]

I think the video signifies a metaphor as to what Kanami was going through at one point in her career, apparently, she had a bit of writers block! The band, mainly, Saiki, pulled together to encourage Kanami, the last line in the song came during a time when everyone labeled Saiki, The Ice Princess! Nevertheless, Start Over was born!!

[@armynurseboy]

I like the song. It was controversial because A) people didn't like the video (I thought it was just fine), and B) because people don't like when bands play songs out of the fan's comfort zone. People complained it was "too poppy" and they don't like "poppy" things, so they didn't like the song.

[@Kevin6059]

Most people just don't like the video, although there is a faction of the fandom that doesn't like anything soft or poppy. To me, a good song is a good song although I'm so biased that I'm probably more open to stuff when they do it rather than anyone else. This would definitely be in the bottom ten percent of Band-Maid songs, but I would not turn it off or skip it if I'm listening and it comes on.

[@MaartenT]

I generally don't like a lot of soft/poppy songs including a lot of Band-Maid's more ballady songs, this one is fine with me once I got used to it. I honestly would put this over some of their ballads including a couple that are fan favourites, it's at least not cheesy sounding to my ears. But I can totally see why some people wouldn't like it, it is very different compared to a lot of their other tracks.

[@Kevin6059]

@@MaartenT 👍

[@VladimirChupin]

@@MaartenT I think this experiment with "start over" is what led Kanami in the end to compose Wonderland, which is much more popular. It has the same weird rhythm structure, something from the jazz domain. There are other pairs like this, for example, The Dragon Cries/"flying high." Many people don't like The Dragon Cries, but it was clearly an experiment which led Kanami to compose "flying high." At least, that's how I perceive it.

[@MaartenT]

@@VladimirChupin Wonderland is high up there with my favourite Band-Maid tracks actually. I never really noticed the similarities but I agree that it is jazzy. I personally don't hear it as much on this one although I have seen others mentioning that it sounds like smooth jazz. As far as the Dragon Cries goes, I am ok with that track by itself. It has a great solo section and while I am not blown away with the production on it (or on the whole album), I think it's fine. I can see the similarities with flying high as well. It is always cool to hear the experiments, there is no doubt in my mind that Screaming is what got us a lot of their current sound starting from Unseen World. It was the first song I have by them where she uses that harmonizer to that degree.

[@lurkmerchant]

I love the intro, then from 8:00 mark where the sound gets more layered and dence towards the piano outro. Otherwise I don't see anything controversial. Even the last words fit in the lyrical context. It's very relatable and realistic as a love song. Not romantic not sexual. I didn't know the full lyrics until you read out the translated version. But in the original lyric there is no "deep relationship" seem to be mentioned. It's more like the inexplicable desire which stays present regardless of what happens at the emotional level. I'm so sick of him, so sick of this relationship sometimes but well, I long for him let's admit it...so...be born again.

[@mattdhorstman]

So most of the "controversy" that I referred to comes from: A) People thought this was too pop, and a change in direction after WORLD DOMINATION. Although the B-side to this single is "Screaming" so I'm not sure how they could think that. B) It's a much simpler song than they are capable of C) The M/V I love this song, I never skip it. I think it's just another example that this band can do anything and it would sound good. I also like the M/V concept, showing a relationship in reverse, so I don't get the hate there either. Great analysis as always, I'm happy to check this one off your list. Which is here by the way: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1iCZhW63TasvYMBP4thXDSRQKe2Ojpf2d6rDh8UoRzBU/edit?usp=sharing

[@frankandre4385]

Damn, Wave...I'm only 20 min from the Detroit venue and can't make it. If I had known I would have tried to set you up. I don't have tix and will regret it for a long time.😢

[@frankandre4385]

I'd point the Maids to the Motown Museum and Saiki towards the antique locomotives at the Henry Ford Museum. Our own Tiger's baseball team will be in Kansas City at the time. Misa will have her pick of dozens of hometown brews !

[@MCLHEF]

Did you notice that it's the same piano that is featured in Memorable?

[@MCLHEF]

Sorry, I went back and checked and it is NOT the same one. Similar, but not the same. Sorry!

[@VladimirChupin]

@Frank Sengatti The piano they show in Memorable MV is a broken one 😁 They show the keys, and they all broken. I think they have rented a piano of the same type at a stage props agency, and probably they wanted it as a reference to "start over." Just my speculations, of course.

[@tinyhato]

I virtually facepalm when people say Band-Maid sounds like...whatever, typical J-Rock, classic rock, 160 other bands. But the experience of listening to 100s of people's reactions to Band-Maid and other bands over the past few years has convinced me that people don't just like different music, they actually hear things differently. I don't mean that a guitar to them sounds like a harpsichord or a ski lift or something. But if you can't hear what sets Band-Maid apart from, for example, Fall Out Boy even in a song like "Dice" then we aren't hearing the same things. On the bright side it's made the effusive love of a lot of traditionally worshipped bands and artists make a lot more sense.

[@GaijinPaul]

Guy in the video, interview about working with BM, Ohrenge kzbin.info/www/bejne/noS6eJl3j8yGq68

[@frankgonzalez4853]

that's right, Saiki refuses to get rid of her water fowl. she don't give a duck :)

[@MaartenT]

Hmm, I thought she didn't give a buck, but I guess same difference.

[@seizetheday5008]

I thought she didn't have a puck.

[@frankgonzalez4853]

@@seizetheday5008 i didn't know she played hockey. well she can cross check me anytime lol

[@seizetheday5008]

@@frankgonzalez4853 AYE!!! Ice Queen!!! LOL!!!

[@glo2068]

i don't mind this song and I thought the MV looks pretty good :D

[@Davey-Boyd]

Hi Wave! The song isn't controversial. A lot of people don't like the video part with with the two models. It's a great song in my opinion.

[@psul42]

Some few, but vocal, folks wanna pigeonhole the pigeon and her gang into a exclusively hard rock and act all butthurt when Band-Maid dares to stray. I know they have discussed the backlash against 'Start Over' in interviews so I imagine they saw alot of criticism on Japanese Twitter etc. Well its a great song. Not my favorite but if I had 100+ favorites its silly. I really like the piano 'stabs' thoughout. I'd like Kanami to feature piano like that again, but in their usual harder context. That would be neat.

[@ericifune5543]

Smooth Jazz. Almost everyone hated this when it came out, but all those people redacted when real musicians said they liked it. Miku anticipated the backlash, hence her response to those individuals at the end. Kanami, MISA, and Akane are big jazz fans.

[@ericifune5543]

Now all those who redacted use the video as an excuse for their initial response.

[@MaartenT]

I am not at all an expert, but I bought a couple of albums by some of the saxophonists of The Jazz Avengers which are supposed to be smooth Jazz (mainly Ami Nakazono and WaKaNa). This track doesn't sound like smooth Jazz to me personally. It sounds like a pop rock song bordering on pop with some Jazz influences to me. I still enjoy it for what it is, but I am blown away by how many people call it a Jazz track. But again, I might be wrong I own some jazz and fusion albums, but probably don't know enough about it if this is jazz. But it's doesn't really matter at all in the end. Just somewhat surprised. As far as the haters go. I didn't even know about Band-Maid when this track came out, but I am also not a huge fan of the video and wasn't a huge fan when I first heard the track (I don't remember hating on it though, I thought it was just ok). I honestly don't think it matter what people thought when it came out if they learned to enjoy the track after a while. There have been plenty of tracks (and bands) that I didn't like when I first heard them and that have grown on me, it happens. I am still not the biggest fan of Memorable, but it certainly has grown on me from the moment I heard it on the livestream. Sometimes people just need to get used to a track, especially if it's something new or something they generally don't like or listen to. It took me 10 to 15 years to fully enjoy the Avant-garde Black Metal band Ved Buens Ende, I have tried multiple times over that timespan and at one point I put it on while I was grinding out a video game, it finaly clicked and I really enjoy them now a lot. It happens. And I guarantee you that the step of liking "Start over" for a Band-Maid fan isn't as big compared to the atonal singing of Ved Buens Ende (reactor David Heretic gave one of their tracks a 4 or something).

[@SoryIrippedUrHeart]

Nasty lines from saiki....one of the shocking song they have

[@russellpotter7294]

The MV was not that popular and a bit typical of what was going on at the time. Everything had to be literal. But there has been an interview with the actors and they are really nice people, so hard to be too damning. The song is nice and about as controversial as a time check. Not greatly popular because of the MV but a nice, bouncy song that will probably never make anyones top Maid Songs.

[@MaartenT]

It's never been my favourite and it always takes a while for me to get used to when I listen to the track, but I don't hate it (not a fan of the MV though). It also tends to get stuck in my head, which I am not looking forward to because it tends to be difficult to get it out of there (including the ending). I do prefer the B-side "Screaming" though.

[@VladimirChupin]

Yes, that "Listen and Talk" refrain is surely an eye-worm 🥰

[@TomClark-Futoura]

I love Band-Maid's "Start Over" because I'm into great writing, playing and well-constructed songs. But the jewelry store ad MV... not so much. Songs like Daydreaming, About Us, Memorable, Anemone, Endless Story, PAGE, Wonderland, Awkward, Start Over, Mirage, At the Drop of a Hat and Smile can help them more than most of their catalog to become more approachable and widely accepted by the general public. Look at the tens to hundreds of millions of views idol, hip hop and pop receive. You don't have to be hard core anything to bob and weave to a lot of these manufactured, ah... "songs?" I'm afraid the kind of songs I love, Band-Maid, The Warning and Jinjer type songs, will remain a tiny, tiny niche -- like a sea slug in the ocean of teaming pop life. BTW - Start Over sounded awesome in their online live OOJ Concert. And it gets great fan reaction as seen here in Amsterdam: :kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3jciKiLopWGf6M (Fanvid thanks to Vladimir Chupin) Thx, Wave!

[@dougellis8904]

Like with all bands and music, there are fans who want the band to do what the fan wants. So that means , me the fan is the most important thing. So this is the Maids reply. I do not even see any comments about the videro and it's intent. Possibly a toxic relationship and too close to reality just like most fans reaction to The Dragon Cries. The Maids play a song with a statement and the fans are horrified they would embrace such thoughts. My own opinion but Yellow Fever plays a large part in a large part of Japanese female bands fanbase.

[@usagi3919]

From my faulty memory, I believe their record company they had at the time had ties to karaoke, wanted them to do a more poppy song that could be sung at karaoke facilities. The last line sentence was an FU. In fact the single sleeve had them pointing their middle fingers with a peace sign finger puppet on it. There was also a debate of what Saiki was singing which was "Be born again". Some thought "people are gay". Some hated the this video because it was too poppy and having white actors in it. I have no problem with this song, in fact I like it better than The Dragon Cries. The one Band-Maid song I had problems listening to was Corallium. It had this irritating kettle whistle/ screeching sound 3-4 times in the song which I finally got over. It took awhile.

[@VladimirChupin]

We all go through our fights in life... 🕊🤘😁

[@britwill72jp]

Coincidentally, sounds very much like Yorushika, doesn't it? Controversy? Oh, just ignore those who doesn't have ears to listen. Band-Maid just proved that they are diverse and can do anything perfectly on this song. BTW, am I the only one who would like to hear another funky unit with just Misa and Akane? Just like "Cluppo" solo project?

[@VladimirChupin]

I think we all would like to hear the Maids do something unusual, whatever it could be. When they played in different sets at the Christmas Acoustic OKYUJI, we were all very happy. And now Akane and MISA can even sing, they learned vocal techniques while preparing for that Christmas Acoustic OKYUJI. Oh, drum&bass of the best rhythm section in rock... Mmmmm... I'd love to see and hear it!

[@britwill72jp]

@Vladimir Chupin Thanks Vlad. I was just imagining what it would be like if Misa and Akane played with Slash...

[@waynetubr]

I think the controversy is that new fans are expecting BandMaid to "stay in their lane" and play hard rock music only. We long-time fans know BandMaid is a mut-italented band that will not be pigeon hole 😁 in one type of musical jundra.

[@billb.5183]

This song got a lot of flack but I've always loved it. The terrible video didn't help matters any either. They should have just stuck with footage of the band.

[@Parker--]

But it's a pop song about a strained relationship. That to me is like saying, "I like Woody Allen movies except for the squirmy neurotic guy in them."

[@TwinTailSteve]

Hmmm, so.. raise the peace sign on the middle finger... the cover art.. Well anyways MISA never fails to stand out even when it seems like some normal song.

[@VladimirChupin]

MISA MISA MISA!!! 🥰🤘💥

[@fernandoNovo59]

Personally, I find this song great...those vocals are just so fine by both singers...that piano bit in the beginning is super to see...however, that video content by those actors is too corny.....thanks, Peace & Respect from Canada

[@chrisegbertky]

Maybe Saiki's parting comment is Don't like this? I don't give a f@ck

[@mightydegu]

The controversy is over the cringe worthy couple. That's it. Not the lack of a guitar solo, not the spicy end lyrics (and that was 100% Miku's writing, but it certainly fits Saiki), just that cringe worthy couple.

[@sjnix7044]

The video cuts scenes ruin it (at least for me). I have a really hard time separating the video from the song when my first exposure is the video. The Dragon Cries is the same way. It's a character flaw. I will say it is better live (they played it on 2018 on tour) but still not something I would ever listen to intentionally. Also, when it was played live it was an energy KILLER. You could feel the venue cool off. I've softened on it over the years but this and TDC fight for the bottom of the list cross catalog. The idea that, "People don't like it because it's a pop song" is reductive. Maid in Japan is, at it's core, a pop album and it has a ton of fans, me included. Part of it is WHEN it was released as well. On the heals of World Domination it felt like a forced, hard left turn. Turns out this was an intentional shot at a radio friendly song. They are VERY aware that it is a divisive song and have publicly commented as such. All that said, I LOVE the analysis Wave. Nice dissection of things I'd never consciously picked up on.

[@WavePotter]

Thank you for explaining that SJ! Glad you appreciated the reaction. 😁

[@SamuelR007]

After hearing this (again)... The tone of this song really, really makes me wonder if Kanami is The one who wrote the Cluppo music.

[@MaartenT]

Cluppo was obviously written and arranged by Crow, recorded by Crow No. 2 and mastered and mixed by Crow No. 3 as it says in the credits. No Kanami in sight. To be fair, I actually have wondered as well in the past.

[@SamuelR007]

@@MaartenT I have also read that. Maybe since there are multiple Crows.... It's all the other band members?

[@MaartenT]

@@SamuelR007 It is certainly on the actual EP, I own a copy and just found a (slightly too small) picture as well. I don't think the person who mastered, mixed and recorded would be the members. These usually are done by professional music engineers and the mix sounds very professional. As far the one writing and arranging the music, it might have been Kanami. I believe they insisted it wasn't, but there is always a possibility. I do think Miku's guitar playing in the songs might have had influences of Kanami for sure since she has learned her craft under Kanami. The fact that they are called "Crow" means they really don't want us to know unfortunately.

[@VladimirChupin]

@@MaartenT Miku's guitar on "hatofull" is amazing, but I would not say it resembles Kanami's style. Well, maybe in the "shredding in the background" idea, but it's not a style, it's a compositional idea. I'm very glad Miku decided to have a solo project while she had free time during the pandemic. In BAND-MAID, her guitar playing is completely obscured by Kanami, and Miku never had a chance to show what she can do as a guitarist during the studio recordings. But she's a very good guitarist, as we can see now. Her guitar playing as "cluppo" is superb. She's not a shredder, but her playing is very soulful.

[@MaartenT]

@@VladimirChupin The question is if she played the guitar herself or not on the EP. I have to believe that she did as she should be able to play the the guitar parts on that album with how much she has improved, but it's always a question with produced albums, especially on the more produced side (like Pop is) of the music spectrum. And even though I do believe she played it herself, that EP is very produced and they could have very well let an other "Crow" play it. But I agree that it has been good for her. She clearly likes the J-pop style with her being in an Idol group back in the day and I think it's always a good idea to let artists do their thing with side-projects. Yes, it might give them less time for the band, especially when all bandmembers start doing that, but it is also a way to reset their mind and not get stuck in the same type of music. There are musicians in some metal bands (especially drummers) who tend to play on records of 20+ different bands as session musicians over the span of their career even when they have a full-time gig with their main band. It helps developing their skill (especially when they play different genres), it brings new eyes on their main band and it can reset their mind. I am all for it. And even though I am not a huge J-pop fan myself, I do listen to the hatofull EP from time to time, it is certainly enjoyable.

[@lewissmith4123]

The song has really grown on me over time when I listen to it but the video is so off putting especially at first for me anyway. Miku wrote the swear word at the end for Saiki to sing as she said the lyrics she wrote were so 'mushy'

[@jameswelsh598]

How can you claim to be a Band Maid fan, and you haven't even heard their songs

[@WavePotter]

You're saying people can't be a fan of a band until they've heard every single song? They have a 112 songs. Should people deprive the maids of merch and ticket sales because they haven't heard all 112 songs which makes them not a fan? Your logic makes no sense to me. 😂

[@jameswelsh598]

@@WavePotter No buy everything you can afford, but listen to their music...I think they have 120+

[@MaartenT]

@@jameswelsh598 Being a fan as a reactor can be tough. No more "real" first-time reactions when you have heard everything by them either. They also generally have to listen to a LOT of different bands and edit and upload all that stuff + their daytime jobs, there is only so much time in a day. Not having heard everything by a band doesn't make you any less of a fan. There are plenty of bands that I am a fan of that I haven't heard everything by because I prefer to own the albums on CD and those can be a pain to find (especially for Japanese bands, a lot of them are out of print). Wave has traveled to multiple venues to catch them live last year, talks about them almost every week on the Guyjin Guys podcast and obviously as a reactor he potentially exposes them to a new audience. That's more than a lot of fans do. I have heard all of their songs, but I don't come even close to all that other stuff.

[@technopsychobedlam]

It's just not that interesting a song...not something I am used to with BM

[@bishopsteiner7134]

I mean the CW Soapy video elements are kinda mediocre tripe..and the song itself is more J-Pop than J-Rock, so some took it as Band Maid going commercial. Which to me is funny since IMO about half of the pre Alone era stuff was pretty Poppy. Anyhow, it got people annoyed, and to the best of my understanding, the "going soft" allegation directly led into Kanami writing Rinne, and Saiki adding the "It's sink or swim.... SHUT UP" at the end of it. I always laugh when people try to say that Miku and Saiki, et all don't write lyrics addressing this stuff, when it's obvious when one reads the lyrics to Manners and Warning that they do exactly that when the mood strikes. the song itself is fine, IMO. The video... less so. But some people still cry "POP SELLOUT SONG!" about it.

[@VladimirChupin]

I always thought that RINNE is about a Japanese horror movie with the same name. I even watched it, and yes, it seems like Miku's lyrics make a lot of sense when applied to the main character in that movie. The girl there is not fighting the circumstances at all, she just goes down immediately when the strange things start to happen, ending up in a mental hospital. I think Miku was very much irritated by that attitude of complete surrender since her motto is "Never Surrender."