Perfume - Hits

Perfume is the best known JPop act from Japan, a trio of singers/performers from Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, consisting of Ōmoto “Nocchi” Ayano, Kashino “Kashiyuka” Yuka and Nishiwaki “A-Chan” Ayaka. The group was formed in 2000 (that is freaking 2 decades ago, and they are still together). They are not just known for their vocals but also for their precise choreography accompanied by their futuristic blend of synth-pop, techno, and EDM music composed by  Yasutaka Nakata (Capsule) who also produces music for Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. The group had signed with Amuse, Inc. in 2003. They are currently with Universal Music Group since 2012.

So, what do they have to offer... I discovered Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's music before Perfume, yet I knew Perfume were JPop legends even before that. But did not explore their songs or music. I expected Nakata's style to show more variety here which is exactly what you feel in Perfume's songs. I sampled some songs at random on YouTube and finally ended up with this list of 7 songs below.

Spring of Life (2012) - 4 out of 5 Stars

It's a nice uplifting track with a modern techno tune and pounding beats. Nice vocals to back up the music. Absolutely no deviations from the core tune throughout the song makes it quite a pleasure to listen to and indeed gives you a 'Spring of Joy!'. 

Fushizen Na Girl (2012) - 4 out of 5 Stars

This track is much more mainstream JPop. Noticed it has the infamous KPop Bop making an entry and resonating in the background. Bests are loud and clear. Vocals are nailed perfectly. Beautiful track!!

Dream Fighter (2013) - 4 out of 5 Stars

Another uplifting track with a toned down vocals. Bright & Cheerful music but laden with that Bop effect. The main verse is just pure joy to listen to. Simply brilliant and is the highlight of this track. Nice piano drops. End is little jarring. Without the heavy Bop in places this could have been a 5 Star hit. It has a great core tune and a main verse which I absolutely love. 

Edge (2013) - 3 out of 5 Stars

Very Futuristic by no streach of imagination. Features the NES style 8-bit Tunes merged into the core tune. You literally take a time warp in Space! A remix version of Edge is included in Triangle single.

Magic of Love (2013) - 4 out of 5 Stars

I can sure fell the Magic of Love. This is another brilliant track but apart from the Main Verse it lacks that killer punch to get it that elusive 5 Star rating. The track deviates from its core and derails (which was not needed at all). Can't comprehend why composers mess up the tunes. The vocals again come to the rescue. The trio are excellent and the main verse is fantastic! Music Video is great with superb choreography accompanied by nice cinematography & colorful sets. A complete package.

Pick Me Up (2015) - 5 out of 5 Stars (#1 Hit)

Oh My God!! This is so great! I never imagined to hear an acoustic guitar in a Perfume song infused with all the Techno Electro Pop Bop beats. This is one of those rare one's that stands out of the pack. High, Normal & Low pitch voices nailed perfectly by the members. Track does not deviate at all and is a nice party song to dance to! Oh yeah!

Cosmic Explorer (2016) - 4 out 5 Stars

Another bold track with futuristic pounding beats and classic Euro style techno-electro synths. A much more mellow vocals here, very calming listen. An anthem like main verse. Some 8-bit influences. Track does not deviate from the core tune. Towards the end the members humm the main anthem verse. Be sure to gaze up on the stars when listening to this song!