Pafait [CD+DVD]

"Parfait" by Candy Kiss is the most original and innovative Japanese idol album of the past few years! All of the songs on the album are previously unreleased, although some have been performed live in the months perceding the release of the album. The album is set up like a Japanese radio braodcast with an opening "Interlude" that introduces the three members of the group. They talk about the next three songs you will hear: "Luna no Sasayaki", "Odotte Utatte Waratte Idaite" and "Hot Summer". The third song is partially sung in English. Another interlude follows with the girls talking about their album and YouTube channel! Then the next three songs are briefly discussed: "Chotto Dake", "Open Arms" and "First Love". "Open Arms" is an extended mix of their live version, and "First Love" is a ballad sung by Ruri Yoshizawa and Kotoko Fukushima only. A third interlude follows with the intros for the next three songs: "Bara no Maho", "Kanashimi no Burning Love" and "to Ai Shita Hito". "Bara no Maho" is a flamenco song, something Candy Kiss haven't done before. Haunting keyboard intros are used for the next two songs, both of which are among the most beautiful songs Candy Kiss have recorded. This album is simply perfect in every way. The vocals from all three girls, including the current leader Ryoka Oguchi, are achingly beutiful! Candy Kiss are, quite simply, amazing beyond words! The songs are mature pop songs sung by a group that is ever moving forward and evolving into the perfect idol group! "Parfait" will rank high among my favorite Japanese idol albums forever! The DVD included with the album is 54 minutes long and contains interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, live performances and a studio music video for "to Ai Shita Hito". The credits give thanks to former members Maya Sakurai and Kaede Shimoda. I've never seen an idol album (or idol company) that acknoledges graduated members. This is something else that makes this album different.