Onsoku Punch [w/ DVD, first pressing only limited release]

Cocco has been one of my favourite musicians. In fact, I even had one of her song titles tattooed on my back. But when I heard this for the first time, I was somewhat lost for comments. I have always known Cocco to pen dark, solemn and pessimistic songs. Somehow, she has taken a dramatic turn in her style and presentation, as displayed when she collaborated with SINGER SONGER. Even said so, it is still commendable that she is willing to sing again, as she had once said how she detested the spotlight. And she doesn't bound her songs to any genre, she composes and writes what she feels. Blame me for being biased, but whatever Cocco sings, I will still love it. Can't wait for her full-length album.

This is Cocco's first real commercial solo single in years. Since "Yakenogahara," she had released some solo music and collaborations that weren't widely available (save for her track on the hit Ozaki Yutaka cover album "BLUE"). Then, she teamed up with Quruli and others for the washed-out SINGER SONGER project, her first commercial work in years. With "Onsoku PUNCH," Cocco is officially back as a soloist, and also back with her old band--which makes all the difference. Not only is the fast title track her best song in years, Takamune Negishi's biting arrangement brings on the inherent power in Cocco's compositions. The opening dance beat invariably throws people off, but it just makes the following rock arrangement more powerful. The b-sides are typical Cocco (although the second track resembles "OASIS" from SINGER SONGER's album), so there's nothing to complain about. The PV included on the DVD is alright. The camera spins around Cocco and her band, and there are some shots of Cocco swimming. The camera makes you dizzy, and the PV lacks the overbearing weirdness of older videos like "Kemono Michi." If anything, it's interesting to see how confident Cocco is in it.