Takako Minekawa - Maxi On download free

This was a difficult release to enjoy, but once I gave it a few listens I really fell into it. The song structures tend to stray into strange compositions, and catchy melodies are not a priority. It also carries something of a darker side of her work; fans of Fantastic Cat may not find this release all too cute and appealing in the sense of other electronic Japanese female artists/groups. Minekawa really is in her own world, and this maxi, which is sort of her 5th and final major release, is very necessary for dedicated fans. The US release is important too, with the additional track, which I really like. Still, overall I feel the musicianship is a little below her usual standard, and while she does try some new things it does take some time to get into, though some tracks still seem a little flat, especially in the mixing. I give it a just 4 stars.