The beginning of success for TOHOSHINKI (DBSK).
The fifth Japanese single, Rising Sun / Heart Mind And Soul was released in two versions in April 2006. This review is of the CD-only version.
The first song, Rising Sun, is a very famous song in Korea and the Japanese version is definitely not disappointing. At the beginning of the song, we can hear a swinging rhythm, which is punctuated with very good electronic effects. Then the very poignant sound of the drum joins in and we are immersed in this pop song before Micky Yoochun's voice begins. The other members follow and we discover very quickly, and with pleasure, that this song is a mix of different rhythms and tempos.
Then we can hear Xiah Junsu's soft voice, which is in contrast with the chorus. It's Micky Yoochun and the leader of the group, U-Know Yunho, who are singing the rap parts. Their voices are strong and the atmosphere seems to be nearly raging. The vocal demonstrations are amazing, especially the vocals sung by Max Changmin and Hero Jaejoong. Rising Sun is certainly one of their most aggressive and powerful songs. The rhythm is constantly changing, for example towards the three minute mark the tempo slows down and suddenly the pop effect is emphasized. In addition to this, there is a soul element which shows another aspect of the song. This passage takes approximately 40 seconds and the initial song continues but more powerfully than before.
Rising Sun, which was a real success, is followed by the song Heart, Mind and Soul, which is totally different; a slow rhythm, soft lyrics. This ballad is well known by TOHOSHINKI's Japanese fans, all the more so as the title is the same as that of their first Japanese album. The sound of a piano creates a sweet atmosphere as the different members of the group are singing, and Hero Jaejoong's soft voice can be heard a lot. Towards the end, Xiah Junsu takes over and the group sings the last chorus in unison. A real declaration of love for the fans.
In Heart, Mind and Soul's a cappella version, the voices start with a light rhythm and show TOHOSHINKI's voices without instruments. It's a real pleasure.
Their fifth Japanese single is very promosing and contains various styles of music in these two songs, which are totally different. Through this contrast we can discover the vocal capacities of the group. TOHOSHINKI's members seem to be determined to prove that they are able to perfectly execute all possible styles of music. During the videos, the fans will be able to see an interesting interview and the Rising Sun clip, which show the members of the group in a different style, and there is even a little bit of humour in the clip.
