I have to admit, I’d never heard of CHARAN-PO-RANTAN until they did that collaboration with former SKE48 member Matsui Rena in 2016. Even after I found out about them the idea of an oddly dressed musical duo backed by an accordion was still a little bit of a mental block, and this coming from someone who listens to Idol music. I’ve been getting on board the CHARAN-PO-RANTAN slowly but surely though and with the release of “Toritome Nashi” I think I’m now a fully paid up member. The music is just too fun not to enjoy this group, even if they are still pretty eccentric.
“Susume, Tama ni Nigetemo” was definitely a turning point, with some not so subtle similarities to Ska music in places that obviously resonated with me due to my tastes in Western music. CHARAN-PO-RANTAN aren’t afraid to mix in lots of different genres, as seen in songs like “Sweet as sugar” or “Mayuge Dance” with their synthesizer wubs and rapping respectively. Folksy, more acoustic leaning music more your thing? Then “Yume Bakkari” and “Tsuki” have that for you too. A personal highlight for me is “Otakebi” featuring Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra. Damn is that a great song with tons of character and fantastic composition. Why are you still reading this? Go listen to this mini-album right now!
Buy on Amazon JP: Regular Edition
| Limited Edition [CD+DVD]
Buy on CDJapan: Regular Edition | Limited Edition [CD+DVD]
