Review by Ryoko

'Countdown Live 2000-2001' was Ayumi's first countdown live concert. Although short (86 minutes), it proves to be one of the best concerts Ayu has done. Her vocals are on point, almost like the studio recording and she performs a lot of songs she has never performed before. If you are a fan of her 'Duty' album songs, I recommend this - because a lot of the album songs she performs here, and no where else. Despite being so underrated, I personally believe that this is one of the most enjoyable Ayu concerts. If you want a good Countdown Live concert, this is probably the best one to choose. I give this concert a 5 because for it being just a New Year's concert, it's excellent.

Sakuranbo-Encore Press- first off, is a great buy for those who didn't get the first press for Sakuranbo the first time around. It's one of Ai Otsuka's most popular songs. It's bouncy and fun, and as many people would say, "sugar pop". It's bound to get you in a good mood. Also on this single are 'Kaerimichi' and 'Momo no Hanabira' (piano version). Both these songs are such a pleasure to listen to. The piano/acoustic version of 'Momo no Hanabira' was simply great. The photobook is very cute by the way. If you love Ai's character Love-chan, Ai's photobooks are not to be missed. I was so pleased with this CD/photobook that I everytime I think about it, I smile. This right here is the essence of 'kawaii' - cute.

If there was a single that truly deserved a 5 in 2005, I think it would be this one. hitomi really outdid herself on the single. The design of the CD is quite nice. The first track, Japanese girl, is very reminiscent of Madonna and 80's techno/dance music - the good ones. The song is very, very catchy. The second track 'Venus' is a cover of the popular song that is often heard in Gillette Venus commercials. Here, hitomi's English could be improved, but nonetheless it's the best cover I've heard of the song so far. This track as well was excellent. The third track was my personal favorite - "there is...~Love Life 2005 version~" This version of a 1999 hitomi rock song is a little more poppy, but I enjoyed this version much more. The song has a bit of a nostalgic, melancholic tone to it, which I thought was cool. This single is so good, it just can't be passed up. If you're into fashion or nail design, I'd recommend getting the version with the nails as well - they're quite pretty! This single, for me, was without a doubt one of the best singles of 2005.