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sutekinanijinoiro
Guest
I think that's a Taiwanese version though. For those who don't mind, I think this is a good way to save some money :)
Kalafina in Budokan 28 February - 01 March 2015
- Thread starter Kugayama
- Start date
I think that's a Taiwanese version though. For those who don't mind, I think this is a good way to save some money :)
instrumental part in hikari no senritsu flute + strings is really nice too. It's only 40 seconds but I loved it (I think it's new)
Hikaru in moonfesta? couldn't be worse I suppose. nope ARIA is.
listen to Keiko's part in Manten. goodness me, it's so bad. I just pictured the strings to get over it.
I prefer the previous live Numquam vincar I think.
I like the overtures.
Hikaru in moonfesta? couldn't be worse I suppose. nope ARIA is.
listen to Keiko's part in Manten. goodness me, it's so bad. I just pictured the strings to get over it.
I prefer the previous live Numquam vincar I think.
I like the overtures.
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Cerise
Guest
Just marathoned both blurays all day.
BEST. LIVE. EVER.
Just…oh my goodness…this was like a religious experience… I still can’t even begin to imagine how Hatouchan and bevan must have felt to be able be there in person, if just the video version is giving me the biggest fangasm of my life! Seriously guys, it's all well and good to judge by the audio but it really, really is not the same without the visuals, I think. Especially because, as reported, the lights and background screen animations were amaaazzziiinggg.
I've been a bit distracted from Kalafina and Kajiura recently because of life and stuff but this just brought me right back into the fold. I don't even know how it is possible that they can make me love them more and more each time I think I've reached my maximum amount of love for them.
Here's my type-up for Red Day
Warning, my reviews almost always have a ridiculously positive bias. Erm, I guess my standards probably aren't very high but also I base my enjoyment of performances often on a lot of other things than just the singing (which of course is still important, but even then, I am an easily impressed person XD). For example I love watching the expressions on their faces, the movements and gestures they make, the lights, the way they look at each other and at the audience...if intense fangirling type things annoy you then probably be aware that I do a lot of that...I don't mean to, I just love them more than is probably healthy for my sanity... 
I'm going to post my review (well…more like intense fangirling diary) for Blue Day a bit later after I'm done. But TL;DR - by my standards, everything was near perfect. The lighting was amazing, the atmosphere was electric. Hikaru was so goddamn adorable and awesome, her slipups didn't detract from how much I enjoyed everything. Wakana was on fai-eeerrrrr, I am so proud of her I cannot describe it other than to say that my chest swelled with so much emotion I thought I might explode from happiness. And Keiko has quite potentially changed my entire sexual orientation with the sheer force of her charm lol. So damn smooth.
Aaaarrgghhh I love them so much!
I'd take a bullet for their smiles.
BEST. LIVE. EVER.
Just…oh my goodness…this was like a religious experience… I still can’t even begin to imagine how Hatouchan and bevan must have felt to be able be there in person, if just the video version is giving me the biggest fangasm of my life! Seriously guys, it's all well and good to judge by the audio but it really, really is not the same without the visuals, I think. Especially because, as reported, the lights and background screen animations were amaaazzziiinggg.
I've been a bit distracted from Kalafina and Kajiura recently because of life and stuff but this just brought me right back into the fold. I don't even know how it is possible that they can make me love them more and more each time I think I've reached my maximum amount of love for them.
Here's my type-up for Red Day
misterioso
No complaints here, an awesome strong start. Didn't notice anything wrong with Hikaru, Keiko was business as usual, Wakana was on point. Would have liked more power on the "sora wa aoku takaku" part and the verse after that but those are quite high and I think she did a decent enough job hitting those notes. Loving the dressesssss! Also DEM STRINGS.
Te to te to me to me
Keiko didn't sound as deep as she usually does (I'm guessing it's the 'cutesy' tone that's been referred to), but that didn't bother me. Not when I'm so preoccupied with DAT DANSU. Oh gaaaawwwwd
So cute yet so cringeworthy at the same time!! A secret part of me actually loves these moments for the glorious entertainment factor *is kicked* Once again, the strings. Gorgeous. The lanterns on the screen backdrop were also pretty cool.
Fantasia
Third song in and I still don't think Hikaru is doing that awful. In fact, to me she's doing pretty damn good. Maybe it's the fact that I'm listening on speaker rather than earphones so maybe I'm not hearing any massive strain in her voice? Either way, I didn't really hear anything wrong with her, apart from being a bit more shouty than usual (but not off-tune…at least as far as I can tell). I do enjoy that they put in movement and formation changingand yes, kaladansu, it goes well with the music.
Lacrimosa
Really great!!! I haven't seen/heard a live of this one in recently, but it was awesome! Seems like Hikaru doesn't sing the "canta mia", as Wakana sang it for both this and, if I recall, also at Japan Expo. Sorry, I can't say much about Keiko because she is kind of just perfect and awesome on every song? Hahaha. I'm so proud of Wakana, she did fantastic on this, went from the low notes in the verses to the higher notes in the chorus very well and without any obvious signs of struggling/straining.
Kagayaku sora no shijima ni wa
Hikaru why you always gotta be so dramatic? The strings and the flute were absolutely divine, makes me wish they had the full strings for all their concerts :'(
My favourite part is still always the bridge. I got shivers multiple times, and I think Wakana sang her part at the end even better than she used to. Still not hearing anything majorly wrong with Hikaru though. I thought her half of the song was really good!
ARIA
Yup, I could see in this one that Hikaru was a bit shaky. The verses were shaky but the choruses sounded fine to me. She did strain a bit in the middle of the song, but overall I think it was still fine. It was more on-tune than their early performances of ARIA. Wakana and Keiko were really good, rockin' the backup.
believe
The live of this song is better than the studio, mainly because Wakana rocks my socks off in the live. She sounds much more effortless and powerful. Girl's on fire in this live! The jellyfish on the screen were pretty. Hikaru and Keiko were also really good. Couldn't really pick up anything wrong here, it was just extremely enjoyable.
(Yeah, sorry as you can tell from my raving reviews on every song I am very easily pleased hahahaha)
moonfesta
Nice to see the KALADANSU return, I was beginning to miss their adorkable moves XD Best rendition of moonfesta, way better than the 5th Anni WOWOW and even Consolation, I think. Hikaru again, I couldn't really see/hear any problem with her. Wakana surpassed her previous performances of this song. And Keiko…was just Keiko! Perfect.
neverending
Hikaru was awesome in this one. To me, at least, she sounded really comfortable, and this song's studio version is one of my favourites for her voice. THOSE STRINGS <3 There was just one or two "la's" at the end that Wakana sounded a bit shrill on but it was such a tiny nitpicky thing it didn't really affect my enjoyment of the song. Again, Keiko is just good always lol
Hikari Furu
Ever since finding out that Wakana finds the beginning of Hikari furu really difficult and that it was the song that she felt could restore her confidence, I have a newfound appreciation for that first part. Every time they sing it now, inside I'm rooting so hard for her. I think she did a fantastic job on Hikari furu, it was better than the Consolation live. There was a bit of shakiness in the second half of the beginning but other than that it was amazing. I'M SO PROUD OF YOU WAKANA. And then Keiko's godlike voice during the middle of the song where they all overlap…and the swelling strings (have I mentioned how much I LOVE THOSE STRINGS)…and that powerful drumming…let's just say emotions were running pretty high between my friend and I watching. I felt indescribably touched in the last few lines with Wakana finishing off the song. I'm glad she and Kajiura tried so hard to get through this one, because I think she succeeded admirably.
(Again, didn't really pick up anything wrong with Hikaru. Some shakiness, but they all did have a shaky moment or two in this one. Still didn’t mean the performance wasn't incredibly beautiful)
Hikari no Senritsu
Perfect!! Loving Rie Akagi's flute solo for this one, I think I like it more than Consolation live's. Keiko's lines in the middle were glorious, any time she holds a note the shivers of pleasure reach my very bones. Didn't really hear any major problems with Hikaru, either. She was shaky on that one line in the last few verses, but I think she usually is anyway in lives of this song, to varying degrees, since it's originally a Wakana line.
FBM Insturumental: When the fairytale ends
Watching this makes me think they really need to release those YK instrumental lives some day. The strings and flute together are just amazing. Sakurada's keyboard is so very pretty. Not much to say for this one, I just sat back and basked in the music and enjoyed it heartily.
Fairytale
Beautiful! I prefer the way Hikaru sings 'Sayonara' in a lower pitch like this one compared to the way she used to do it, and it seems more comfortable for her too. The lighting was really amazing at the beginning, the spotlights being used really effectively. Did chuckle at the different poses they made though. Hahahahaha. Also wondered why Hikaru and Wakana were posing together whilst Keiko had to pose alone. The one with Wakana pointing at something in the air to Hikaru had me cracking up. Anyway, the song! Fairytale's been performed magnificently before, and this time was also amazing. Favourite part is still the kajiurago and the Keiko-Wakana part after it ('yume ni mita eien wa…etc.')
oblivious
Second best performance of oblivious after the 2009 one (the one where they were dressed like brides…I don't know if they can ever top that performance of oblivious, it's just so great). The added strings just made it all the glorious. Wakana sounding a little more like her old self, which I liked. Hikaru sounded normal to me here, she always does strain a bit with the kajiurago parts at the beginning so I didn't think it was a big deal but she did the "ahhhh's" totally fine for the rest of it. Keiko is business as usual, no complaints in that department.
Kyrie
Definitely best performance of Kyrie since Red Moon live, either on par with or better than that one. I'd have to rewatch both of them to choose. Hikaru did sound a little strained but there were also moments like that in Red Moon, After Eden and Consolation lives. Wakana sounded great, her best Kyrie since Red Moon, and Keiko did as she always does. Rocked everyone's socks off. XD
consolation
ALL THE YES to the girls doing most of the kajiurago parts! I was surprised by how much backing track they cut out! But I feel like the three of them singing together in the beginning was much more impactful and dramatic. Best live version of Consolation I've heard, even better than Consolation from the live tour Bluray. Wakana, I am so glad you’ve improved so much over the last year or so. And I think she covered for Hanae's parts extremely well. Bravo! Hikaru was also awesome, got a bit shouty and excited in the last kajiurago but I didn't notice it very much because the atmosphere was so pumped up! I dunno, it kind of fit? XD
Keiko is always good…I'll mention her because I feel bad only talking about the other two…but seriously, what else can I say about Keiko other than she always hits her notes perfectly and in general just has nothing I can really criticise about??? XD
Ongaku
It's so hard picking the best performance of Ongaku because they are all so awesome, not necessarily because of the singing but because of all those on-stage antics and just watching the girls have the times of their lives. This was so much goddamn fun to watch. Hikaru is ridiculously cute when she rocks out, jumping across the stage. Keiko is a BOSS. SO COOL. Korenaga headbanging is the greatest thing ever, totally shredding it. Hitoshi was also so cool. And I tell you, Wakana NAILED her solo. I was waiting for them to do the jump at the end, but they didn't! Ah well, it was still so much fun!
Yume no daichi
Peeeerrrfectttooo. Better than Consolation's one. Those strings and Akagi's flute make me weep for joy. Hikaru was amazing. Wakana handled her high notes really well, making me love every single live Yume no daichi even more than the studio version. Keiko's final 'hatenakuuuuuu' had me eargasming as usual from here to the freaking land of twilight. That voice is a gift from the gods, I swear.
Eden
Another song I have so much newfound appreciation for after hearing about Wakana's troubles with it. I think she said she practised it to the point that she could sing it fine anytime, and I can totally see it. I thought After Eden live's was flawless, but this one is also pretty damn perfect. I would even say the middle part with the overlapping voices is even better than After Eden's because it sounded like they'd removed or quietened the backing track so it was mainly just the three girls' glorious voices layered over one another. Hikaru was a bit messier than usual, not off-tune, just a bit shouty. Again, didn't really affect my enjoyment. This was actually a really heartwarming performance, watching the girls walk around the stage and interacting with the audience. Keiko is charm and animal magnetism personified.
Mune no yukue
A performance on par with or perhaps even better than Consolation's live. I think Keiko didn't seem to do little improvs like she did in Consolation, but I'll be damned if her voice isn't still like liquid pleasure in your ear. Hikaru was perfect. I absolutely agree with the person a few posts before about Wakana's descending "ah-ah-ah" after "the river of life" lines. They aren't obvious but when you do notice them there' something about them that's just really beautiful. The harmonies were ON POINT. Shivers all around.
Alleluia
A fittingly magnificent end to a magnificent concert. Whoever managed to get those strings for Budokan needs to be given a promotion and they need to have these strings with Kalafina forever. PLEAAAASE. Keiko's singing is frickin' amazing. There are absolutely no words to describe how much I loved it. I love it when Keiko just belts her heart out. Hikaru was perfect. Wakana was perfect. Everyone and everything was perfect. I cried. My friend cried. My burning desire to see Kalafina and Kajiura live in person one day is amplified x1000000000.
Also how cute was Wakana stealing Keiko's microphone at the end when they were waving to the audience. URGH. LOVE. THEM. SO. MUCH.
Documentary of Japan Expo 2014 in Paris
They are so cute. I can't say it enough. My adorable girls.Even though you're all older than me. Keiko interacting with two little girls, patting them on the head and going "kawaii". The girl who was crying while getting her autograph and was given words of comfort by Wakana (I so feel you, fellow crying fangirl!). And the three of them roaming the streets together. Couldn't understand a word but I just love watching them interact, it makes feel ridiculously warm and fuzzy inside.
Oh wait, I just remembered in one of the songs (it might have been Eden) where Keiko was being all chivalrous and gentlemanly, and bowing to the audience. Then she bowed to Hikaru, and then to Wakana, who curtsied in response as she walked past
*Cerise faints and enters a comatose state, where all her dreams are that one moment replayed over and over again*
Where is the technology for me to tattoo a gif of that onto my body lol
No complaints here, an awesome strong start. Didn't notice anything wrong with Hikaru, Keiko was business as usual, Wakana was on point. Would have liked more power on the "sora wa aoku takaku" part and the verse after that but those are quite high and I think she did a decent enough job hitting those notes. Loving the dressesssss! Also DEM STRINGS.
Te to te to me to me
Keiko didn't sound as deep as she usually does (I'm guessing it's the 'cutesy' tone that's been referred to), but that didn't bother me. Not when I'm so preoccupied with DAT DANSU. Oh gaaaawwwwd
So cute yet so cringeworthy at the same time!! Fantasia
Third song in and I still don't think Hikaru is doing that awful. In fact, to me she's doing pretty damn good. Maybe it's the fact that I'm listening on speaker rather than earphones so maybe I'm not hearing any massive strain in her voice? Either way, I didn't really hear anything wrong with her, apart from being a bit more shouty than usual (but not off-tune…at least as far as I can tell). I do enjoy that they put in movement and formation changing
Lacrimosa
Really great!!! I haven't seen/heard a live of this one in recently, but it was awesome! Seems like Hikaru doesn't sing the "canta mia", as Wakana sang it for both this and, if I recall, also at Japan Expo. Sorry, I can't say much about Keiko because she is kind of just perfect and awesome on every song? Hahaha. I'm so proud of Wakana, she did fantastic on this, went from the low notes in the verses to the higher notes in the chorus very well and without any obvious signs of struggling/straining.
Kagayaku sora no shijima ni wa
Hikaru why you always gotta be so dramatic?
The strings and the flute were absolutely divine, makes me wish they had the full strings for all their concerts :'(My favourite part is still always the bridge. I got shivers multiple times, and I think Wakana sang her part at the end even better than she used to. Still not hearing anything majorly wrong with Hikaru though. I thought her half of the song was really good!
ARIA
Yup, I could see in this one that Hikaru was a bit shaky. The verses were shaky but the choruses sounded fine to me. She did strain a bit in the middle of the song, but overall I think it was still fine. It was more on-tune than their early performances of ARIA. Wakana and Keiko were really good, rockin' the backup.
believe
The live of this song is better than the studio, mainly because Wakana rocks my socks off in the live. She sounds much more effortless and powerful. Girl's on fire in this live! The jellyfish on the screen were pretty. Hikaru and Keiko were also really good. Couldn't really pick up anything wrong here, it was just extremely enjoyable.
(Yeah, sorry as you can tell from my raving reviews on every song I am very easily pleased hahahaha)
moonfesta
Nice to see the KALADANSU return, I was beginning to miss their adorkable moves XD Best rendition of moonfesta, way better than the 5th Anni WOWOW and even Consolation, I think. Hikaru again, I couldn't really see/hear any problem with her. Wakana surpassed her previous performances of this song. And Keiko…was just Keiko! Perfect.
neverending
Hikaru was awesome in this one. To me, at least, she sounded really comfortable, and this song's studio version is one of my favourites for her voice. THOSE STRINGS <3 There was just one or two "la's" at the end that Wakana sounded a bit shrill on but it was such a tiny nitpicky thing it didn't really affect my enjoyment of the song. Again, Keiko is just good always lol
Hikari Furu
Ever since finding out that Wakana finds the beginning of Hikari furu really difficult and that it was the song that she felt could restore her confidence, I have a newfound appreciation for that first part. Every time they sing it now, inside I'm rooting so hard for her. I think she did a fantastic job on Hikari furu, it was better than the Consolation live. There was a bit of shakiness in the second half of the beginning but other than that it was amazing. I'M SO PROUD OF YOU WAKANA. And then Keiko's godlike voice during the middle of the song where they all overlap…and the swelling strings (have I mentioned how much I LOVE THOSE STRINGS)…and that powerful drumming…let's just say emotions were running pretty high between my friend and I watching. I felt indescribably touched in the last few lines with Wakana finishing off the song. I'm glad she and Kajiura tried so hard to get through this one, because I think she succeeded admirably.
(Again, didn't really pick up anything wrong with Hikaru. Some shakiness, but they all did have a shaky moment or two in this one. Still didn’t mean the performance wasn't incredibly beautiful)
Hikari no Senritsu
Perfect!! Loving Rie Akagi's flute solo for this one, I think I like it more than Consolation live's. Keiko's lines in the middle were glorious, any time she holds a note the shivers of pleasure reach my very bones. Didn't really hear any major problems with Hikaru, either. She was shaky on that one line in the last few verses, but I think she usually is anyway in lives of this song, to varying degrees, since it's originally a Wakana line.
FBM Insturumental: When the fairytale ends
Watching this makes me think they really need to release those YK instrumental lives some day. The strings and flute together are just amazing. Sakurada's keyboard is so very pretty. Not much to say for this one, I just sat back and basked in the music and enjoyed it heartily.
Fairytale
Beautiful! I prefer the way Hikaru sings 'Sayonara' in a lower pitch like this one compared to the way she used to do it, and it seems more comfortable for her too. The lighting was really amazing at the beginning, the spotlights being used really effectively. Did chuckle at the different poses they made though. Hahahahaha. Also wondered why Hikaru and Wakana were posing together whilst Keiko had to pose alone. The one with Wakana pointing at something in the air to Hikaru had me cracking up. Anyway, the song! Fairytale's been performed magnificently before, and this time was also amazing. Favourite part is still the kajiurago and the Keiko-Wakana part after it ('yume ni mita eien wa…etc.')
oblivious
Second best performance of oblivious after the 2009 one (the one where they were dressed like brides…I don't know if they can ever top that performance of oblivious, it's just so great). The added strings just made it all the glorious. Wakana sounding a little more like her old self, which I liked. Hikaru sounded normal to me here, she always does strain a bit with the kajiurago parts at the beginning so I didn't think it was a big deal but she did the "ahhhh's" totally fine for the rest of it. Keiko is business as usual, no complaints in that department.
Kyrie
Definitely best performance of Kyrie since Red Moon live, either on par with or better than that one. I'd have to rewatch both of them to choose. Hikaru did sound a little strained but there were also moments like that in Red Moon, After Eden and Consolation lives. Wakana sounded great, her best Kyrie since Red Moon, and Keiko did as she always does. Rocked everyone's socks off. XD
consolation
ALL THE YES to the girls doing most of the kajiurago parts! I was surprised by how much backing track they cut out! But I feel like the three of them singing together in the beginning was much more impactful and dramatic. Best live version of Consolation I've heard, even better than Consolation from the live tour Bluray. Wakana, I am so glad you’ve improved so much over the last year or so. And I think she covered for Hanae's parts extremely well. Bravo! Hikaru was also awesome, got a bit shouty and excited in the last kajiurago but I didn't notice it very much because the atmosphere was so pumped up! I dunno, it kind of fit? XD
Keiko is always good…I'll mention her because I feel bad only talking about the other two…but seriously, what else can I say about Keiko other than she always hits her notes perfectly and in general just has nothing I can really criticise about??? XD
Ongaku
It's so hard picking the best performance of Ongaku because they are all so awesome, not necessarily because of the singing but because of all those on-stage antics and just watching the girls have the times of their lives. This was so much goddamn fun to watch. Hikaru is ridiculously cute when she rocks out, jumping across the stage. Keiko is a BOSS. SO COOL. Korenaga headbanging is the greatest thing ever, totally shredding it. Hitoshi was also so cool. And I tell you, Wakana NAILED her solo. I was waiting for them to do the jump at the end, but they didn't! Ah well, it was still so much fun!
Yume no daichi
Peeeerrrfectttooo. Better than Consolation's one. Those strings and Akagi's flute make me weep for joy. Hikaru was amazing. Wakana handled her high notes really well, making me love every single live Yume no daichi even more than the studio version. Keiko's final 'hatenakuuuuuu' had me eargasming as usual from here to the freaking land of twilight. That voice is a gift from the gods, I swear.
Eden
Another song I have so much newfound appreciation for after hearing about Wakana's troubles with it. I think she said she practised it to the point that she could sing it fine anytime, and I can totally see it. I thought After Eden live's was flawless, but this one is also pretty damn perfect. I would even say the middle part with the overlapping voices is even better than After Eden's because it sounded like they'd removed or quietened the backing track so it was mainly just the three girls' glorious voices layered over one another. Hikaru was a bit messier than usual, not off-tune, just a bit shouty. Again, didn't really affect my enjoyment. This was actually a really heartwarming performance, watching the girls walk around the stage and interacting with the audience. Keiko is charm and animal magnetism personified.
Mune no yukue
A performance on par with or perhaps even better than Consolation's live. I think Keiko didn't seem to do little improvs like she did in Consolation, but I'll be damned if her voice isn't still like liquid pleasure in your ear. Hikaru was perfect. I absolutely agree with the person a few posts before about Wakana's descending "ah-ah-ah" after "the river of life" lines. They aren't obvious but when you do notice them there' something about them that's just really beautiful. The harmonies were ON POINT. Shivers all around.
Alleluia
A fittingly magnificent end to a magnificent concert. Whoever managed to get those strings for Budokan needs to be given a promotion and they need to have these strings with Kalafina forever. PLEAAAASE. Keiko's singing is frickin' amazing. There are absolutely no words to describe how much I loved it. I love it when Keiko just belts her heart out. Hikaru was perfect. Wakana was perfect. Everyone and everything was perfect. I cried. My friend cried. My burning desire to see Kalafina and Kajiura live in person one day is amplified x1000000000.
Also how cute was Wakana stealing Keiko's microphone at the end when they were waving to the audience. URGH. LOVE. THEM. SO. MUCH.
Documentary of Japan Expo 2014 in Paris
They are so cute. I can't say it enough. My adorable girls.
Oh wait, I just remembered in one of the songs (it might have been Eden) where Keiko was being all chivalrous and gentlemanly, and bowing to the audience. Then she bowed to Hikaru, and then to Wakana, who curtsied in response as she walked past
*Cerise faints and enters a comatose state, where all her dreams are that one moment replayed over and over again*
Where is the technology for me to tattoo a gif of that onto my body lol
I'm going to post my review (well…more like intense fangirling diary) for Blue Day a bit later after I'm done. But TL;DR - by my standards, everything was near perfect. The lighting was amazing, the atmosphere was electric. Hikaru was so goddamn adorable and awesome, her slipups didn't detract from how much I enjoyed everything. Wakana was on fai-eeerrrrr, I am so proud of her I cannot describe it other than to say that my chest swelled with so much emotion I thought I might explode from happiness. And Keiko has quite potentially changed my entire sexual orientation with the sheer force of her charm lol. So damn smooth.
Aaaarrgghhh I love them so much!
I'd take a bullet for their smiles.
D
Daiima
Guest
Thank you!
Well, the first Hicchan's verses were kinda like "oh gosh, actually she's really weird – did she had a flu!?"
Then, I got accustomed to it quite easily. She doesn't sound as usual, but that's not THAT bad. Just different. A bit worse, yeah, but even if she wasn't in a pretty good shape, she still made the job. (And I find that Wacchan isn't perfect too....)
Hime_Wakana
I have reached Yuki nirvana
C
Cerise
Guest
^ yikes, I hope I don't raise them too much! I am a very easy to please person compared to most, especially 'round here hahaha But I'm sure you will find them enjoyable regardless. I mean how can you not at least crack a smile whenever they do kaladansu
I didn't mention this before but I loved the dresses they had for both Red and Blue days. I did love the Blue day special dresses more than the Red day ones, though. Totally feeling Hatou and bevan, Keiko was so frickin' badass/hawt with that ponytail and military/navy/commando style jacket, pretty sure she set off a chain of small explosions in the blood vessels in my heart. Hikaru reminded me of an army general on Blue day with that little cape-thing-that-wasn't-really-cape. Wakana reminded me of a Victorian-era witch/sorceress…but like military…a military Victorian witch? Hahaha her coat was really long compared to the other two for some reason.
The gold dresses they wore at the end of both days were stunning. Hikaru's was my favourite, so pretty! That style of dress looked beautiful on her I found those extra whitish loose off-shoulder straps of Wakana's a little strange at first but somehow the more I looked the more she made it look classy and ladylike. Wakana's hairstyle was my favourite, the loose plaited bun and side bangs, going with the classy/elegant look.
Basically, 10/10 WOULD REWATCH FOREVER.
But I'm sure you will find them enjoyable regardless. I didn't mention this before but I loved the dresses they had for both Red and Blue days. I did love the Blue day special dresses more than the Red day ones, though. Totally feeling Hatou and bevan, Keiko was so frickin' badass/hawt with that ponytail and military/navy/commando style jacket, pretty sure she set off a chain of small explosions in the blood vessels in my heart. Hikaru reminded me of an army general on Blue day with that little cape-thing-that-wasn't-really-cape. Wakana reminded me of a Victorian-era witch/sorceress…but like military…a military Victorian witch? Hahaha her coat was really long compared to the other two for some reason.
The gold dresses they wore at the end of both days were stunning. Hikaru's was my favourite, so pretty! That style of dress looked beautiful on her
I found those extra whitish loose off-shoulder straps of Wakana's a little strange at first but somehow the more I looked the more she made it look classy and ladylike. Wakana's hairstyle was my favourite, the loose plaited bun and side bangs, going with the classy/elegant look.storia
Errrrm, it was pretty damn near perfect if you ask me! Hikaru surprisingly sounded less nasally to me than normal, which I liked. Wakana was more powerful on the really high "mitashite" during the chorus, and more powerful in general than she's been in recent performances of storia. The Red Moon live storia has always been my favourite but I think this may be able to equal that performance. Keiko was Keiko. In other words, really good.
love come down
I love how they can sing this song sexily but without being overtly sexual. God, does Keiko's smoulder start bonfires in mah heartJames Blunt reference!. Again, oddly enough Hikaru's voice sounded less nasal to me in this performance than the Red Moon one (which is the previous rendition I remember best…I know they've sung it other times but I can't for the life of me remember them clearly). She carried the song really well, making it energetic and fun.
Natsu no Ringo
The Red Moon live version is hard to beat, because I loved the voice Wakana used so much back then (and this song showcased it so nicely) that with her slightly different voice I wasn’t sure if it would turn out the same way. It's definitely not quite the same because she doesn't sound as rich as she used to and a bit more piercing, especially on the 'fue no ne ga' and 'sono natsu no' lines. That said, it doesn't mean it still didn't sound nice to me, and I enjoyed this song immensely. Hikaru did well on her parts and the part-swapping with Wakana was rather smooth!
Keiko is…uh, really good. Like always. XD
I have a dream
YES. So much YES. The Red Moon live version was nice. This one is absolutely beautiful. Wakana's lower voice is so velvety and soft. I think they took out or quietened a lot of the backing track during the kajiurago part, which I think actually made it better with just the girls singing. But the strings and the flute - oh my goodness. I'm fairly sure they added in extra string and flute parts or something, because it just sounded different, and better. So much better. I mean, I love the original studio verison and the Red Moon live, but this…carried me all the way toliterally seventh heaven.
Hahaha let me laugh at my own joke there Ok I'm sorry for the terrible pun I'll show myself out
seventh heaven
Remember how in my previous post I mentioned religious experiences? I have a dream and this back to back damn near brought me to my knees weeping lol
This was everything I ever hoped for seventh heaven live to be. It was better than Type Moon, better than the 5th Anni Live CD, better than Lisani. The drumming and the strings at the climax were godly. (Thank god Sato didn't do the rather weird drumming in Lisani). All three of the girls honestly did so well in this, they were at their best. Hikaru wasn't nasally, Wakana didn't run out of steam of the higher notes, Keiko started it off beautifully. The ending damn near brought real tears to my eyes. This is my ultimate Kalafina ballad.
Mirai
The strings make everything so much better, which is why I love this live version more than Consolation's. Also because I think Hikaru sounds really good in this one, also better than Consolation's. I've never had a problem with the way Keiko and Wakana sing this one so I thought they were also perfect. I definitely prefer the live Mirai to the studio version, it just sounds much more dynamic and alive.
Hanataba
Maybe I'm just running high because almost every single song has surpassed or equalled my previous favourite live versions, but yeah. Hanataba Budokan > Hanataba Consolation live, at least for me. I dunno, I really liked the Hikaru sung this one! It felt more emotional and rich(?) than the Consolation one? Same with Keiko, I felt more moved by the way she sang in this one than Consolation's. The accordion was amazing. Wakana did really well with Hanae's part at the end. Still so proud of her.
Kimi no Gin no Niwa
I generally find most of Kalafina's previous Kimi no Gin lives to be pretty on point. It was the same with this one. The singing matched up to previous lives, didn't pick up anything negative to say about it, and it was better than the previous version that did have string quartet (Animax, I think?) because the singing was better. I liked that Hikaru kept the Lisani style of singing the echoing line 'kako ni shika nai' softly. I do think the 3-person harmonies on this version for the "shizuka ni yorisotte" parts were the best out of all the lives, though. I think they really improved a lot with their harmonies in general.
Manten
My previous favourite was Type Moon manten, so I inevitably compared the two. Keiko was similar for me in both, same with Hikaru. But Wakana was more powerful/emotional-sounding in Type Moon, and smoother in Budokan (and did a better job with the "manten no chorus of liiiiiiife" line) for me, so I'm not sure which one I like better in terms of singing. The strings were absolutely glorious, though, so maybe this Budokan version wins out. They seriously need to be a regular thing at these concerts.
to the beginning
Hikaru and Keiko were perfect, absolutely no complaints there. Wakana did really well sound more smooth and effortless/powerful in the chorus. She got a little shaky towards the end, though, was a bit shrill on some of the higher notes. I think I could tell she was getting slightly tired even though it was still really good all the way to the end. She was sweating a lot, if I recall correctly. But kudos to her for her effort! I admire that more than anything else.
FBM Instrumental: Numquam Vincar
Oh my god. Oh my god. AMAZING. I'm pretty sure Hatou and bevan talked about how epic this was in their reports. The lighting was incredible, it was all so well co-ordinated. The strings, percussion and Korechan on the guitar were so goddamn badass. Can't really give justice to it in words, you've really gotta watch it. It's just a spectacle of sound and visuals.
Magia [quattro]
*cue more incoherent screaming* Never have I related more to the audience. The looks on their faces when the three girls appeared right in the rows was exactly the look I had on mine sitting on my couch watching. That epic walk up to the stage. The girls had such fierce looks. The singing was great, but the real star of the show I think was the strings. It just sounded so much richer…more alive. During the instrumental the dance was so hilarious, though.Learn to swim with Kalafina! Hahahaha.
destination unknown
My favourite part of this live is always the way Hikaru sings that second "DEEEEE-shoooouuuuu". She was so epic, it was a bit messier than previous lives but for some reason I actually enjoyed it more. It kind of fit the mood? Like the atmosphere was much more exciting than previous lives, it just felt like everyone was just rocking out unrestrainedly.
ALSO OH MY GOD THE WAY WAKANA TOOK OFF HER JACKET I ALMOST DIED FOR REAL seriously Wakana I would marry you in a heartbeat, but don't do things like that without warning because I don't think my heart can take it the next time…oh to be in that front audience row to catch that jacket
signal
Best version of signal. Hitoshi did a really nifty thing with his violin during the solo, it sounded electro. Korechan always has the most dramatic solos lol. Keiko and Hikaru were seriously rocking the house down, buoyed by the energy from Magia and DU. They put this part of the setlist together really well, imo. And Wakana's "ah-ah-ah" parts were fabulous. Very powerful. Just perfect. The ending was still the extended one but I didn't feel like it dragged on or anything because there was just so much energy in the air. Loved the way the girls moved on the stage. I'm not sure, because all these songs in succession kind of blurred together, but I think it was in this one they were standing in the middle of the stage, Hikaru had her hand on Wakana's shoulder and Keiko was back to back with Hikaru. Just seeing them stand together like that, the camaraderie between them so palpable…
Ongaku
I know we kind of complained about this being on the setlist twice…but I actually think if they're going to repeat songs, then this one was probably the best choice. It wasn't boring at all for me because every performance of Ongaku feels really different to me because of what's happening on the stage. The girls are always having so much fun and their antics on are a joy to watch. I think this Ongaku might have been even better than Red Day's just because it was still kind of riding the Magia-DU-signal wave of hype. Wakana nailed her solo as usual, I loved the gliss slide thing Hitoshi did at the end of this violin solo, that was cool. And Korechan is such a diva god omg.
heavenly blue
I think I remember @Hatouchan mentioning the transition from Ongaku to HB was really cool. I now know exactly what you were talking about! Oh my goodness, the hype train just doesn't stop. This was pitch perfect, so much better than the studio version. Probably my favourite live of heavenly blue. I don't know what it was, but this one was just different. The feel of it was totally refreshing, a step above. I don't know how to describe it. It just kind of lifted me up into euphoria. I can't imagine what it must have been like to actually be in that audience. It was definitely because of the direct transition from Ongaku without any pause whatsoever, so the energy just snowballed onwards. Oh my stars. Whoever came up with the entire latter half of Blue Day's setlist from Magia > DU > signal> Ongaku > HB was a goldarn genius. GENIUS.
snow falling
A nice song to slow down after the MC. In terms of singing it wasn't too different from any normal performance of snow falling. Keiko was perfect and I like the way Hikaru sings 'falling snow' with the slight pause. I do think Wakana sounded more like she was using her old voice so I loved that. The fuller strings gave it an acoustic sound, similar to the Xmas live, I'd imagine. It was really beautiful and soothing.
symphonia
Yeah, I've always loved the live version of symphonia more than the studio version ever since its After Eden live rendition. I still do. Because Wakana's voice is leaps and bounds better in this than it was in the AE live I enjoy this one so much more. There's a lot more power. And Keiko just absolutely nails that opening. God, the shivers down my spine when she holds those notes. Hikaru was perfect too, the "tamerai no izanai…" line she sings at the beginning sounded much better to me than previous lines. Symphonia always makes a really fitting end-ish song. Also I think Rie Akagi added in some extra flute, which was lovely. It gave the song a really pretty finer touch in some places.
red moon
My favourite red moon has always been the one from Red Moon live. I appreciate this one too, because all the girls were spot on, hitting all those notes, but it just seemed to lack some of the energy in the Red Moon live. It wasn't as tumultuous and passionate, which was what I loved about Red Moon's version. That said, it was still really good. Hikaru was great, Wakana was smooth, Keiko was powerful. Seemed to lose a bit of control on the last kajiurago bit and go a tad shouty, but it was really powerful.
And I really just can't get over those strings. They really added to this song, gave it more a throbbing/pulsating feel. The strings just made a lot of songs seem so much more alive and dynamic.
believe
Yah, we also complained about this one getting repeated. I did not mind Ongaku at all and tbh I didn't really mind this one being repeated either, though it wasn't as exciting as Ongaku. I actually may kind of love the live version of this song, but feel a bit more meh about the studio recording. The girls really bring this song to life for me in the live version, Hikaru and Keiko sound so much more energetic driving the song forward and Wakana is more powerful on the chorus live. I think I remember being super impressed by Korechan in this one.
sprinter
Ahhh, so uplifting! A really fitting song to end the setlist with. Hikaru started off fine but got a bit breathless towards the middle and end, like in her part right before the dramatic pause and 'sekai no hate made' (I've noticed it does happen a bit in quite a few of their sprinter lives recently, so I'm guessing this is a more difficult song for her). And Keiko was grabbing waists left, right and centre, I think. If I recall correctly, that is. It might have been on Red Day also, during Ongaku. Anyway, Keiko just grabbed people and was charming as heck. And Hikaru was being absolutely adorable as usual, running up and down. The strings really added to this one too. I think they cut down on the backing track as well so you could hear Wakana much more clearly doing the background singing. This was a great sprinter, but I think I still like Type Moon's better, actually. That one always leaves me with warm fuzzy feelings inside.
However, I will never tire of watching the girls do that pointing thing. With every point I fall in love even more.
Loved the cute moments as they were saying goodbye to the audience, Keiko running like a madwoman to the greet the right side of the audience. And then comically pushing Wakana from behind as they were walking back down to the left side, with Wakana pretending to fall over the railing. And then Hikaru, the last one to leave the stage, doing one final jump and fist pump before she disappeared from view. God, I love these girls.
The Documentary of LIVE THE BEST 2015 “Red Day” & “Blue Day” at Nihon Budokan
In no particular order, just typing what I remember from it.
The girls walk around in these soft brown snuggies. Hilarious footage of them rehearsing their dansu, especially the Magia Learn-to-Swim one. Cute Hikaru even practicing while they're walking down the hallways, and Wakana practising in the background while Hikaru was talking to the camera. Kajiura-sensei was spotted in the room when they did their mai-ai-ai thing but for some reason didn't join in, instead was watching on with a smile. Keiko just sitting on the floor of the part of the stage that jutted out into the audience looking up at the ceiling before being joined by a staff member. They talk over some things to do with the concert, I presume, then Wakana and Hikaru join and they all kind of just sit/crouch on the stage with papers scattered around the place discussin concert stuff probs. They also rehearse their special Magia entrance and practice moving around on stage (a lot of Keiko directing the other two, it's sweet XD) The FBM are also really funny, Jr. making funny faces and gestures behind the girls as they walk down the corridor talking into the camera. Oh, and the pile of hands for the mai-ai-ai ritual was huuuuge. Hahahaha. They had to fit in all those string members, the FBM, Rie Akagi and Accordion Dude (name escapes me…Yoshiaki?).
I watched through the credits and discovered they not only had a choreographer credited but also a 'Dance Instructor - Izumi'. Hahahahaha!
It's funny that these are "The Best" Blue and Red because for me, at least, a lot of the songs were indeed the best live versions so far. I know not everyone would agree and I probably was a little high from excitement and hype, the guest musicians and the sick lighting. Who knows, maybe if I rewatch the concerts in a more tranquil mindset later on I'd feel a bit differet about them. Regardless of all that, on this first watch I really, really enjoyed both these concerts, more than any other Kalafina bluray, and the amazing kinds of feelings and emotions it brought I find well worth the money I spent, ridiculously expensive shipping and all.
Stay awesome, Kalafina! I'll definitely make my way to a live one day!Please wait for meeee
Errrrm, it was pretty damn near perfect if you ask me! Hikaru surprisingly sounded less nasally to me than normal, which I liked. Wakana was more powerful on the really high "mitashite" during the chorus, and more powerful in general than she's been in recent performances of storia. The Red Moon live storia has always been my favourite but I think this may be able to equal that performance. Keiko was Keiko. In other words, really good.
love come down
I love how they can sing this song sexily but without being overtly sexual. God, does Keiko's smoulder start bonfires in mah heart
Natsu no Ringo
The Red Moon live version is hard to beat, because I loved the voice Wakana used so much back then (and this song showcased it so nicely) that with her slightly different voice I wasn’t sure if it would turn out the same way. It's definitely not quite the same because she doesn't sound as rich as she used to and a bit more piercing, especially on the 'fue no ne ga' and 'sono natsu no' lines. That said, it doesn't mean it still didn't sound nice to me, and I enjoyed this song immensely. Hikaru did well on her parts and the part-swapping with Wakana was rather smooth!
Keiko is…uh, really good. Like always. XD
I have a dream
YES. So much YES. The Red Moon live version was nice. This one is absolutely beautiful. Wakana's lower voice is so velvety and soft. I think they took out or quietened a lot of the backing track during the kajiurago part, which I think actually made it better with just the girls singing. But the strings and the flute - oh my goodness. I'm fairly sure they added in extra string and flute parts or something, because it just sounded different, and better. So much better. I mean, I love the original studio verison and the Red Moon live, but this…carried me all the way to
Ok I'm sorry for the terrible pun I'll show myself outseventh heaven
This was everything I ever hoped for seventh heaven live to be. It was better than Type Moon, better than the 5th Anni Live CD, better than Lisani. The drumming and the strings at the climax were godly. (Thank god Sato didn't do the rather weird drumming in Lisani). All three of the girls honestly did so well in this, they were at their best. Hikaru wasn't nasally, Wakana didn't run out of steam of the higher notes, Keiko started it off beautifully. The ending damn near brought real tears to my eyes. This is my ultimate Kalafina ballad.
Mirai
The strings make everything so much better, which is why I love this live version more than Consolation's. Also because I think Hikaru sounds really good in this one, also better than Consolation's. I've never had a problem with the way Keiko and Wakana sing this one so I thought they were also perfect. I definitely prefer the live Mirai to the studio version, it just sounds much more dynamic and alive.
Hanataba
Maybe I'm just running high because almost every single song has surpassed or equalled my previous favourite live versions, but yeah. Hanataba Budokan > Hanataba Consolation live, at least for me. I dunno, I really liked the Hikaru sung this one! It felt more emotional and rich(?) than the Consolation one? Same with Keiko, I felt more moved by the way she sang in this one than Consolation's. The accordion was amazing. Wakana did really well with Hanae's part at the end. Still so proud of her.
Kimi no Gin no Niwa
I generally find most of Kalafina's previous Kimi no Gin lives to be pretty on point. It was the same with this one. The singing matched up to previous lives, didn't pick up anything negative to say about it, and it was better than the previous version that did have string quartet (Animax, I think?) because the singing was better. I liked that Hikaru kept the Lisani style of singing the echoing line 'kako ni shika nai' softly. I do think the 3-person harmonies on this version for the "shizuka ni yorisotte" parts were the best out of all the lives, though. I think they really improved a lot with their harmonies in general.
Manten
My previous favourite was Type Moon manten, so I inevitably compared the two. Keiko was similar for me in both, same with Hikaru. But Wakana was more powerful/emotional-sounding in Type Moon, and smoother in Budokan (and did a better job with the "manten no chorus of liiiiiiife" line) for me, so I'm not sure which one I like better in terms of singing. The strings were absolutely glorious, though, so maybe this Budokan version wins out. They seriously need to be a regular thing at these concerts.
to the beginning
Hikaru and Keiko were perfect, absolutely no complaints there. Wakana did really well sound more smooth and effortless/powerful in the chorus. She got a little shaky towards the end, though, was a bit shrill on some of the higher notes. I think I could tell she was getting slightly tired even though it was still really good all the way to the end. She was sweating a lot, if I recall correctly. But kudos to her for her effort! I admire that more than anything else.
FBM Instrumental: Numquam Vincar
Oh my god. Oh my god. AMAZING. I'm pretty sure Hatou and bevan talked about how epic this was in their reports. The lighting was incredible, it was all so well co-ordinated. The strings, percussion and Korechan on the guitar were so goddamn badass. Can't really give justice to it in words, you've really gotta watch it. It's just a spectacle of sound and visuals.
Magia [quattro]
*cue more incoherent screaming* Never have I related more to the audience. The looks on their faces when the three girls appeared right in the rows was exactly the look I had on mine sitting on my couch watching. That epic walk up to the stage. The girls had such fierce looks. The singing was great, but the real star of the show I think was the strings. It just sounded so much richer…more alive. During the instrumental the dance was so hilarious, though.
destination unknown
My favourite part of this live is always the way Hikaru sings that second "DEEEEE-shoooouuuuu". She was so epic, it was a bit messier than previous lives but for some reason I actually enjoyed it more. It kind of fit the mood? Like the atmosphere was much more exciting than previous lives, it just felt like everyone was just rocking out unrestrainedly.
signal
Best version of signal. Hitoshi did a really nifty thing with his violin during the solo, it sounded electro. Korechan always has the most dramatic solos lol. Keiko and Hikaru were seriously rocking the house down, buoyed by the energy from Magia and DU. They put this part of the setlist together really well, imo. And Wakana's "ah-ah-ah" parts were fabulous. Very powerful. Just perfect. The ending was still the extended one but I didn't feel like it dragged on or anything because there was just so much energy in the air. Loved the way the girls moved on the stage. I'm not sure, because all these songs in succession kind of blurred together, but I think it was in this one they were standing in the middle of the stage, Hikaru had her hand on Wakana's shoulder and Keiko was back to back with Hikaru. Just seeing them stand together like that, the camaraderie between them so palpable…
Ongaku
I know we kind of complained about this being on the setlist twice…but I actually think if they're going to repeat songs, then this one was probably the best choice. It wasn't boring at all for me because every performance of Ongaku feels really different to me because of what's happening on the stage. The girls are always having so much fun and their antics on are a joy to watch. I think this Ongaku might have been even better than Red Day's just because it was still kind of riding the Magia-DU-signal wave of hype. Wakana nailed her solo as usual, I loved the gliss slide thing Hitoshi did at the end of this violin solo, that was cool. And Korechan is such a diva god omg.
heavenly blue
I think I remember @Hatouchan mentioning the transition from Ongaku to HB was really cool. I now know exactly what you were talking about! Oh my goodness, the hype train just doesn't stop. This was pitch perfect, so much better than the studio version. Probably my favourite live of heavenly blue. I don't know what it was, but this one was just different. The feel of it was totally refreshing, a step above. I don't know how to describe it. It just kind of lifted me up into euphoria. I can't imagine what it must have been like to actually be in that audience. It was definitely because of the direct transition from Ongaku without any pause whatsoever, so the energy just snowballed onwards. Oh my stars. Whoever came up with the entire latter half of Blue Day's setlist from Magia > DU > signal> Ongaku > HB was a goldarn genius. GENIUS.
snow falling
A nice song to slow down after the MC. In terms of singing it wasn't too different from any normal performance of snow falling. Keiko was perfect and I like the way Hikaru sings 'falling snow' with the slight pause. I do think Wakana sounded more like she was using her old voice so I loved that. The fuller strings gave it an acoustic sound, similar to the Xmas live, I'd imagine. It was really beautiful and soothing.
symphonia
Yeah, I've always loved the live version of symphonia more than the studio version ever since its After Eden live rendition. I still do. Because Wakana's voice is leaps and bounds better in this than it was in the AE live I enjoy this one so much more. There's a lot more power. And Keiko just absolutely nails that opening. God, the shivers down my spine when she holds those notes. Hikaru was perfect too, the "tamerai no izanai…" line she sings at the beginning sounded much better to me than previous lines. Symphonia always makes a really fitting end-ish song. Also I think Rie Akagi added in some extra flute, which was lovely. It gave the song a really pretty finer touch in some places.
red moon
My favourite red moon has always been the one from Red Moon live. I appreciate this one too, because all the girls were spot on, hitting all those notes, but it just seemed to lack some of the energy in the Red Moon live. It wasn't as tumultuous and passionate, which was what I loved about Red Moon's version. That said, it was still really good. Hikaru was great, Wakana was smooth, Keiko was powerful. Seemed to lose a bit of control on the last kajiurago bit and go a tad shouty, but it was really powerful.
And I really just can't get over those strings. They really added to this song, gave it more a throbbing/pulsating feel. The strings just made a lot of songs seem so much more alive and dynamic.
believe
Yah, we also complained about this one getting repeated. I did not mind Ongaku at all and tbh I didn't really mind this one being repeated either, though it wasn't as exciting as Ongaku. I actually may kind of love the live version of this song, but feel a bit more meh about the studio recording. The girls really bring this song to life for me in the live version, Hikaru and Keiko sound so much more energetic driving the song forward and Wakana is more powerful on the chorus live. I think I remember being super impressed by Korechan in this one.
sprinter
Ahhh, so uplifting! A really fitting song to end the setlist with. Hikaru started off fine but got a bit breathless towards the middle and end, like in her part right before the dramatic pause and 'sekai no hate made' (I've noticed it does happen a bit in quite a few of their sprinter lives recently, so I'm guessing this is a more difficult song for her). And Keiko was grabbing waists left, right and centre, I think. If I recall correctly, that is.
It might have been on Red Day also, during Ongaku. Anyway, Keiko just grabbed people and was charming as heck. And Hikaru was being absolutely adorable as usual, running up and down. The strings really added to this one too. I think they cut down on the backing track as well so you could hear Wakana much more clearly doing the background singing. This was a great sprinter, but I think I still like Type Moon's better, actually. That one always leaves me with warm fuzzy feelings inside.However, I will never tire of watching the girls do that pointing thing. With every point I fall in love even more.
Loved the cute moments as they were saying goodbye to the audience, Keiko running like a madwoman to the greet the right side of the audience. And then comically pushing Wakana from behind as they were walking back down to the left side, with Wakana pretending to fall over the railing. And then Hikaru, the last one to leave the stage, doing one final jump and fist pump before she disappeared from view. God, I love these girls.
The Documentary of LIVE THE BEST 2015 “Red Day” & “Blue Day” at Nihon Budokan
In no particular order, just typing what I remember from it.
The girls walk around in these soft brown snuggies. Hilarious footage of them rehearsing their dansu, especially the Magia Learn-to-Swim one. Cute Hikaru even practicing while they're walking down the hallways, and Wakana practising in the background while Hikaru was talking to the camera. Kajiura-sensei was spotted in the room when they did their mai-ai-ai thing but for some reason didn't join in, instead was watching on with a smile. Keiko just sitting on the floor of the part of the stage that jutted out into the audience looking up at the ceiling before being joined by a staff member. They talk over some things to do with the concert, I presume, then Wakana and Hikaru join and they all kind of just sit/crouch on the stage with papers scattered around the place discussin concert stuff probs. They also rehearse their special Magia entrance and practice moving around on stage (a lot of Keiko directing the other two, it's sweet XD) The FBM are also really funny, Jr. making funny faces and gestures behind the girls as they walk down the corridor talking into the camera. Oh, and the pile of hands for the mai-ai-ai ritual was huuuuge. Hahahaha. They had to fit in all those string members, the FBM, Rie Akagi and Accordion Dude (name escapes me…Yoshiaki?).
I watched through the credits and discovered they not only had a choreographer credited but also a 'Dance Instructor - Izumi'. Hahahahaha!
It's funny that these are "The Best" Blue and Red because for me, at least, a lot of the songs were indeed the best live versions so far. I know not everyone would agree and I probably was a little high from excitement and hype, the guest musicians and the sick lighting. Who knows, maybe if I rewatch the concerts in a more tranquil mindset later on I'd feel a bit differet about them. Regardless of all that, on this first watch I really, really enjoyed both these concerts, more than any other Kalafina bluray, and the amazing kinds of feelings and emotions it brought I find well worth the money I spent, ridiculously expensive shipping and all.
Stay awesome, Kalafina! I'll definitely make my way to a live one day!
Basically, 10/10 WOULD REWATCH FOREVER.
S
sprinterXkyrie
Guest
^I can feel ya...Im glad I'm not the only one who thinks that Kala Budokan concerts were soo close to perfection! . . Cant wait to watch those DVDs <3
S
Seasonreaper
Guest
Just got my BD copies in, plus the Kalafina Record.
Probably only going to have time to watch Red Day today and I'll watch Blue on Monday. Kinda worried about Hikaru but there's been a lot of times people have mentioned something's off and I haven't even noticed, so hopefully it won't bother me too much. I don't expect them to be perfect anyway, nobody is.
Oh, and my live photobook just arrived at my proxy service. Should get that next week.
Probably only going to have time to watch Red Day today and I'll watch Blue on Monday. Kinda worried about Hikaru but there's been a lot of times people have mentioned something's off and I haven't even noticed, so hopefully it won't bother me too much. I don't expect them to be perfect anyway, nobody is.
Oh, and my live photobook just arrived at my proxy service
. Should get that next week.
K
Kirito
Guest
It mostly has to do with having visuals. The lot of us who are listening off the MP3 rips don't have visuals to "distract" us (for lack of a better term) from the flaws in their vocals.
I'm planning to get the BDs once I go to Japan again at the end of this year. For now, shipping is a hassle and expensive and I don't have a credit card so I'm just waiting for someone to post eventually post the full BD rips. XD
I'm planning to get the BDs once I go to Japan again at the end of this year. For now, shipping is a hassle and expensive and I don't have a credit card so I'm just waiting for someone to post eventually post the full BD rips. XD
S
Seasonreaper
Guest
OK, thoughts on Red Day:
Prelude - It's prelude. Not much to say other than I love those dresses. They're gorgeous, especially Wakana's.
Misterioso - Sounds decent to me. I don't have much of an opinion either way on the song, but the performance was fine.
Teto - Hikaru does sound a little weak here, but Keiko sounds great. A little different to usual, but great nonetheless.
Fantasia - Good stuff. Wakana is really on top form here, she sounds gorgeous.
Kagayaku - Good again, no problems with Hikaru here in my opinion.
ARIA - I was expecting something entirely awful considering the feedback, but it's not as bad as I was expecting. Sure, Hikaru isn't great like she can be, but it's not totally unpleasant. If this is her at her worst, I can live with that. Wakana and Keiko do a fine job as a backing group. Solo is nice.
Believe - Hikaru sounds better here, Wakana sounds fantastic. Sadly a good performance doesn't stop the song from sucking.
Moonfesta - That dancing, just wow. They really look like they're having fun which is great, those smiles are the cutest. As for the actual performance, it's pretty damn fine. Hikaru is fine here, which is good, the other two do a fantastic job. This was one of the songs I was really looking forward to so I'm happy.
Neverending - Not a song I really listen to much, but performance sounds good. Strings sound great. La la la la la~
Hikari Furu - Wow. I've always been a bit iffy about this song. Seeing it in France made me cry, and this nearly did too. I think it's a song I just need to experience in live form. This performance though, was amazing, especially the long note by Keiko at the end and Wakana's finale. Camerawork is a bit of a mess though.
Hikari no Senritsu - That flute is really lovely. Hikaru's open is great, hoping she's settled in now after her initial wobbliness. Different flute solo is awesome, good job Rie. Bridge is phenomenal, then again it's always been one of my favourite parts in any Kalafina song.
When the Fairytale Ends - Sounds good. Can't see shit for the first part. Great strings especially.
Fairytale - That lighting at the start is pretty odd. Those dresses
. That kajiurago section is grand especially, but overall a good performance.
Oblivious - Ahhhhhhh~. Everything about this performance I lovealthough I'd still have preferred the re/oblivious version.
Kyrie - Those long notes from Wakana are fantastic, she really is on top form here. Also wow, that rainbow lighting part way through is neat. Hikaru has definitely acclimatized to the venue by now, she was fine here. Maybe putting ARIA later on would've been a better idea, having one of the most Hikaru-heavy songs right at the front was a mistake. Those last long Kyrieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees by Keiko are astoundingly lovely.
Consolation - Nice transition between the two. Intro kajiurago is beautiful and the performance is far better than the Consolation live version, which is great. Wakana note before the solo is gorgeous too. Solo is awesome, and that kajiurago afterwards is just something else.
Ongaku - ...and right into Ongaku. I don't think I'll ever get tired of this song. Some of Hikaru's expressions are amusing. Keiko's sass during that first ONGAKUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU is majestic, and her expression in the second one. Wonderful solos throughout as well, that Konno solo is something special indeed, followed by Wakana being practically perfect 
. That Keiko smile during the applause 
.
Yume no Daichi - Rather good. Not much to say really other than it being on point.
Eden - New dresses, and they are pretty
. Keiko's skirt is lovely. I don't particularly care much for Eden as a song though, but the performance they put on is fantastic, aside from Hikaru coming across a little loud on occasion. Having them running about waving to the audience is super cute though.
Mune no Yukue - Also not a song I care for much. Keiko's vocals are phenomenal though, can't fault that at all. Hikaru sounds on point, too. The chorus seems more Engrish than the studio recording here, the CD performance was practically spot on in regards to pronunciation, not as much here, although still considerably better than a lot of Japanese artists attempting to sing English words. Solo is great. I usually get bored by this song in the After Eden live, but here it manages to keep my attention at least, but it's still far too long for it's own good. Nice piano outro.
Alleluia -
. Holy. Shit. Actually made me tear up. That was incredible.
Japan Expo 2014 Doc - Can't understand half of it other than seeing a good friend of mine be one of the people who got filmed getting their stuff autographed. The guy who said 'Yeah, I came from the UK'. Nice coverage of the Misterioso a cappella segment. They barely even covered the live, though, a couple of tiny segments and that's it.
Misterioso - Sounds decent to me. I don't have much of an opinion either way on the song, but the performance was fine.
Teto - Hikaru does sound a little weak here, but Keiko sounds great. A little different to usual, but great nonetheless.
Fantasia - Good stuff. Wakana is really on top form here, she sounds gorgeous.
Kagayaku - Good again, no problems with Hikaru here in my opinion.
ARIA - I was expecting something entirely awful considering the feedback, but it's not as bad as I was expecting. Sure, Hikaru isn't great like she can be, but it's not totally unpleasant. If this is her at her worst, I can live with that. Wakana and Keiko do a fine job as a backing group. Solo is nice.
Believe - Hikaru sounds better here, Wakana sounds fantastic. Sadly a good performance doesn't stop the song from sucking.
Moonfesta -
That dancing, just wow. They really look like they're having fun which is great, those smiles are the cutest. As for the actual performance, it's pretty damn fine. Hikaru is fine here, which is good, the other two do a fantastic job. This was one of the songs I was really looking forward to so I'm happy.Neverending - Not a song I really listen to much, but performance sounds good. Strings sound great. La la la la la~
Hikari Furu - Wow. I've always been a bit iffy about this song. Seeing it in France made me cry, and this nearly did too. I think it's a song I just need to experience in live form. This performance though, was amazing, especially the long note by Keiko at the end and Wakana's finale. Camerawork is a bit of a mess though.
Hikari no Senritsu - That flute is really lovely. Hikaru's open is great, hoping she's settled in now after her initial wobbliness. Different flute solo is awesome, good job Rie. Bridge is phenomenal, then again it's always been one of my favourite parts in any Kalafina song.
When the Fairytale Ends - Sounds good. Can't see shit for the first part. Great strings especially.
Fairytale - That lighting at the start is pretty odd. Those dresses
. That kajiurago section is grand especially, but overall a good performance.Oblivious - Ahhhhhhh~. Everything about this performance I love
Kyrie - Those long notes from Wakana are fantastic, she really is on top form here. Also wow, that rainbow lighting part way through is neat. Hikaru has definitely acclimatized to the venue by now, she was fine here. Maybe putting ARIA later on would've been a better idea, having one of the most Hikaru-heavy songs right at the front was a mistake. Those last long Kyrieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees by Keiko are astoundingly lovely.
Consolation - Nice transition between the two. Intro kajiurago is beautiful and the performance is far better than the Consolation live version, which is great. Wakana note before the solo is gorgeous too. Solo is awesome, and that kajiurago afterwards is just something else.
Ongaku - ...and right into Ongaku. I don't think I'll ever get tired of this song. Some of Hikaru's expressions are amusing. Keiko's sass during that first ONGAKUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU is majestic, and her expression in the second one
. Wonderful solos throughout as well, that Konno solo is something special indeed, followed by Wakana being practically perfect . That Keiko smile during the applause .Yume no Daichi - Rather good. Not much to say really other than it being on point.
Eden - New dresses, and they are pretty
. Keiko's skirt is lovely. I don't particularly care much for Eden as a song though, but the performance they put on is fantastic, aside from Hikaru coming across a little loud on occasion. Having them running about waving to the audience is super cute though.Mune no Yukue - Also not a song I care for much. Keiko's vocals are phenomenal though, can't fault that at all. Hikaru sounds on point, too. The chorus seems more Engrish than the studio recording here, the CD performance was practically spot on in regards to pronunciation, not as much here, although still considerably better than a lot of Japanese artists attempting to sing English words. Solo is great. I usually get bored by this song in the After Eden live, but here it manages to keep my attention at least, but it's still far too long for it's own good. Nice piano outro.
Alleluia -
. Holy. Shit. Actually made me tear up. That was incredible.Japan Expo 2014 Doc - Can't understand half of it other than seeing a good friend of mine be one of the people who got filmed getting their stuff autographed. The guy who said 'Yeah, I came from the UK'. Nice coverage of the Misterioso a cappella segment. They barely even covered the live, though, a couple of tiny segments and that's it.
D
Daiima
Guest
Lucky you, my proxy service still hasn't got my blu-rays.Oh, and my live photobook just arrived at my proxy service
george1234
Moderator
So when we will have access to the footage ? I dont really want to listen to the mp3s first.
grunty
I have reached Yuki nirvana
You could always buy it. :)
LianaIlia36
I have reached Yuki nirvana
Here is my Red Day review. (Sorry george, I don't have a Blu-ray player in my computer. Gomen!)
The Best Red Day
Prelude ~ Misterioso: I quite like this song as well. Hikaru is a little more shaky. But she smiles, so it seems to be okay. I think this is a good song to start with, it has a good vibe, and it’s from Madoka, which a lot of people know.
Te to: So the weird dance is from te to. I kind of like it actually. The swimming motion… oh wow lol. This is cracking me up watching it. At least they’re still singing it correctly too. I would call this a “sexy dance” from the Middle Eastern. Lol I remember seeing Dance Instructor in the credits of Blue and laughed because of this dance. The ball roll is just too funny. But overall I liked the song.
Fantasia: I love this song. The beginning was a little off, but then it goes on strong. I like it when they’re walking around in a circle in the center stage. Hikaru maybe sounds a little shaky. And wow, a violin part for this song! Wakana is great though in her part! Love the added violin/strings part. Loved it.
Lacrimosa: Wakana did sound a little high in the beginning, but then went back to her normal singing. I loved this song more after watching Kuroshitsuji, which I found out about after the song. Heh Also got my single signed by them, and Yuki! So it’s of course one of my favorite singles because of that. Never noticed this before but Keiko’s dress, or rather the skirt part of it looks like a rose turned upside-down. I just notice these things. Heh Overall good job with all the girls, except the beginning.
Kagayaku…: Not my favorite song, but I do love the PV. Hikaru standing with her back turned was cool in the beginning. Wakana is better here. Keiko of course awesome, the duet between Hikaru and Wakana was amazing. Love Rie’s playing. Hikaru doesn’t sound as loud during her part as she used to for this live, which is good. I think it was like that for ACen as well. Really well done.
ARIA: Hikaru maybe sounds a little nasal in the beginning, but then gets better during the song. It’s a very powerful song and I loved it ever since I first heard it. This live is not the best, Hi-chan is a little shaky it seems. Maybe she’s trying to put some emotion into it? I am not sure. I am glad she is better though for the upcoming tour. Hikaru hits her high notes though, so that is good. It doesn’t have the same feel where I got chills as at ACen.
Believe: Even though I like Believe, I am not sure why they had to sing it for both days, since most people probably went to both lives, though I know some couldn’t due to the lottery. But still, they could have added another song, like lirica, which I am sad did not get on to the BEST cds. I know it’s one of their newer songs though. I still enjoyed it. I like that some people stood up though. Wakana is stronger in this song though, so is Hikaru it seems. I love it when they smile, it’s like they are really enjoying the song then, and everything melts away for them and it flows effortlessly.
Moonfesta: I really liked this in Consolation’s live. The puppet dance was pretty cute. Rie’s dancing was cute too. I always loved the twirl during this song. They all did a wonderful job and I think they all have fun with this song too.
Neverending: I really enjoyed this song. Konno’s playing is just love. Hikaru is maybe a little loud with this song, but Wakana and Keiko are great. Hikaru is a little better on second verse. I liked this song from After Eden, so I was happy to be able to see this live of it.
Hikari furu: Wakana on top of the stage for this song was cool. I remember the girl behind me at ACen screaming loudly when it came on, and just remembering how well Wakana did. Same here, she is really something, with her vocal capacity. Keiko’s part was pretty as well. All three did really well. Wakana maybe a little shaky towards the end, but other than that, great! Keiko’s long note towards the end was great. I don’t think Wakana screeched at all.
Hikari no Senritsu: Love Rie’s playing as always. Wakana really is awesome in this live. She delivers all of her notes with great capacity. Rie’s dancing is just too cute. I like the flute solo here better than the original actually. I think it echoes a little more when they move to the middle. But I like it for this song. I like it when Keiko beats her chest. But I do notice too that they don’t focus on the band a whole lot too. Rie and the accordion player obviously. Then when each member has a solo too.
When the fairy tale ends: I like Sakurada’s playing, not as much as Yuki’s of course, but he gives great emotion to this song. I like the plucking of the strings. I think it’s these ones that they focus on the band members. But I do agree that they need to during Kala’s songs too. I didn’t really care for this song, but this live is great.
Fairytale: I like the start of it, when the light made them look like dolls in the beginning. I like these dresses better than Blue’s I think. I am one of the ones who like this song. Keiko did extremely well, so did Wakana. I liked Hikaru’s “sayonara” actually. It was better than the loud one before.
Oblivious: Konno’s start! Wow. But unfuzz camera! Sheesh. But this is really great. Wakana could be a bit more powerful, but I think it’s a good version of the song. Especially Konno. Heh I always liked Wakana and Keiko’s part towards the end. Show more Konno darn it. (Sorry, just love him so much.)
Kyrie: Hikaru is better in this song. This is one of my favorite Kala songs. I liked when Keiko clasped her hands together during the chorus. Wakana is really powerful here. Loved it.
Consolation: I like how it started right after Kyrie. I don’t care for this song too much, it grew on me after ACen though. This has to be hard to sing live, I find myself struggling when singing with it. Wow Wakana nails her high notes, truly amazing. Hikaru is more powerful than in other songs. Keiko great as always. All three were awesome during this song. Still don’t like the ending though.
Ongaku #2: Keiko is fierce in the beginning. Heh When she backs up together with Hikaru that is cool. I think they know this one pretty much like the back of their hand (an expression we have saying that they know it really well). Love Konno’s part so much. Wish it was in the original. Wakana is amazing too. (Wow, they introduced Konno and the strings this time, which I don’t think they did in Blue Day right?)
Yume no Daichi: I quite like this song. Wakana starts strong, Hikaru is maybe a little loud again. Overall they did great on this song.
Eden: Love those golden dresses. I love that they’re smiling during this song. It’s such a hopeful one. I like it, but I don’t listen to it often because it’s so long, but this live is good. Hikaru does really well here. They looked satisfied at the end too.
Mune no Yukue: I think this one was good after Eden. I really like Keiko in this song, but did not really care for it at first. I love Hikaru’s “riber” or at least that’s how it sounds to me. Heh She does well in her part too, maybe a little shaky, but not bad. It seems like the band members are put up on screen but not on the actual Blu-rays themselves. Is this true, Hatou?
Alleluia: This is one of my favorite new singles. Keiko is really really good. So are the other two of course, but I consider Keiko the lead in this song, the shot of her with the stained glass was pretty. It almost made me tear up a little. This was the perfect ending song. Loved it.
Overall both days were spectacular. Yes, Hikaru is a little shaky sometimes, but I think she owns the songs she is dominant in. As does Wakana, whom I am most proud of. Keiko is always pretty much awesome. Wakana blew me away. Especially in Consolation and signal, two hard songs to sing. Complaints: they did not show the band enough. Maybe they did on the big screen there, but they did not on the actual Blu-rays themselves. In some solos they did, like with Konno, but then they quickly cut back to Kalafina, yes, it is they’re concert, but the band makes up the concert. Hikaru was a little shaky, but not as bad as everyone was saying. I think I would be nervous too with that huge venue. Really those are the only complaints. I loved both days, wish I could have been there. So jealous of Hatou right now. One day, I shall attend a concert in Japan. I have yet to watch the Anime Expo doc, but I shall do that tonight. And hang up my poster. This is Liana signing off. heh
Prelude ~ Misterioso: I quite like this song as well. Hikaru is a little more shaky. But she smiles, so it seems to be okay. I think this is a good song to start with, it has a good vibe, and it’s from Madoka, which a lot of people know.
Te to: So the weird dance is from te to. I kind of like it actually. The swimming motion… oh wow lol. This is cracking me up watching it. At least they’re still singing it correctly too. I would call this a “sexy dance” from the Middle Eastern. Lol I remember seeing Dance Instructor in the credits of Blue and laughed because of this dance. The ball roll is just too funny. But overall I liked the song.
Fantasia: I love this song. The beginning was a little off, but then it goes on strong. I like it when they’re walking around in a circle in the center stage. Hikaru maybe sounds a little shaky. And wow, a violin part for this song! Wakana is great though in her part! Love the added violin/strings part. Loved it.
Lacrimosa: Wakana did sound a little high in the beginning, but then went back to her normal singing. I loved this song more after watching Kuroshitsuji, which I found out about after the song. Heh Also got my single signed by them, and Yuki! So it’s of course one of my favorite singles because of that. Never noticed this before but Keiko’s dress, or rather the skirt part of it looks like a rose turned upside-down. I just notice these things. Heh Overall good job with all the girls, except the beginning.
Kagayaku…: Not my favorite song, but I do love the PV. Hikaru standing with her back turned was cool in the beginning. Wakana is better here. Keiko of course awesome, the duet between Hikaru and Wakana was amazing. Love Rie’s playing. Hikaru doesn’t sound as loud during her part as she used to for this live, which is good. I think it was like that for ACen as well. Really well done.
ARIA: Hikaru maybe sounds a little nasal in the beginning, but then gets better during the song. It’s a very powerful song and I loved it ever since I first heard it. This live is not the best, Hi-chan is a little shaky it seems. Maybe she’s trying to put some emotion into it? I am not sure. I am glad she is better though for the upcoming tour. Hikaru hits her high notes though, so that is good. It doesn’t have the same feel where I got chills as at ACen.
Believe: Even though I like Believe, I am not sure why they had to sing it for both days, since most people probably went to both lives, though I know some couldn’t due to the lottery. But still, they could have added another song, like lirica, which I am sad did not get on to the BEST cds. I know it’s one of their newer songs though. I still enjoyed it. I like that some people stood up though. Wakana is stronger in this song though, so is Hikaru it seems. I love it when they smile, it’s like they are really enjoying the song then, and everything melts away for them and it flows effortlessly.
Moonfesta: I really liked this in Consolation’s live. The puppet dance was pretty cute. Rie’s dancing was cute too. I always loved the twirl during this song. They all did a wonderful job and I think they all have fun with this song too.
Neverending: I really enjoyed this song. Konno’s playing is just love. Hikaru is maybe a little loud with this song, but Wakana and Keiko are great. Hikaru is a little better on second verse. I liked this song from After Eden, so I was happy to be able to see this live of it.
Hikari furu: Wakana on top of the stage for this song was cool. I remember the girl behind me at ACen screaming loudly when it came on, and just remembering how well Wakana did. Same here, she is really something, with her vocal capacity. Keiko’s part was pretty as well. All three did really well. Wakana maybe a little shaky towards the end, but other than that, great! Keiko’s long note towards the end was great. I don’t think Wakana screeched at all.
Hikari no Senritsu: Love Rie’s playing as always. Wakana really is awesome in this live. She delivers all of her notes with great capacity. Rie’s dancing is just too cute. I like the flute solo here better than the original actually. I think it echoes a little more when they move to the middle. But I like it for this song. I like it when Keiko beats her chest. But I do notice too that they don’t focus on the band a whole lot too. Rie and the accordion player obviously. Then when each member has a solo too.
When the fairy tale ends: I like Sakurada’s playing, not as much as Yuki’s of course, but he gives great emotion to this song. I like the plucking of the strings. I think it’s these ones that they focus on the band members. But I do agree that they need to during Kala’s songs too. I didn’t really care for this song, but this live is great.
Fairytale: I like the start of it, when the light made them look like dolls in the beginning. I like these dresses better than Blue’s I think. I am one of the ones who like this song. Keiko did extremely well, so did Wakana. I liked Hikaru’s “sayonara” actually. It was better than the loud one before.
Oblivious: Konno’s start! Wow. But unfuzz camera! Sheesh. But this is really great. Wakana could be a bit more powerful, but I think it’s a good version of the song. Especially Konno. Heh I always liked Wakana and Keiko’s part towards the end. Show more Konno darn it. (Sorry, just love him so much.)
Kyrie: Hikaru is better in this song. This is one of my favorite Kala songs. I liked when Keiko clasped her hands together during the chorus. Wakana is really powerful here. Loved it.
Consolation: I like how it started right after Kyrie. I don’t care for this song too much, it grew on me after ACen though. This has to be hard to sing live, I find myself struggling when singing with it. Wow Wakana nails her high notes, truly amazing. Hikaru is more powerful than in other songs. Keiko great as always. All three were awesome during this song. Still don’t like the ending though.
Ongaku #2: Keiko is fierce in the beginning. Heh When she backs up together with Hikaru that is cool. I think they know this one pretty much like the back of their hand (an expression we have saying that they know it really well). Love Konno’s part so much. Wish it was in the original. Wakana is amazing too. (Wow, they introduced Konno and the strings this time, which I don’t think they did in Blue Day right?)
Yume no Daichi: I quite like this song. Wakana starts strong, Hikaru is maybe a little loud again. Overall they did great on this song.
Eden: Love those golden dresses. I love that they’re smiling during this song. It’s such a hopeful one. I like it, but I don’t listen to it often because it’s so long, but this live is good. Hikaru does really well here. They looked satisfied at the end too.
Mune no Yukue: I think this one was good after Eden. I really like Keiko in this song, but did not really care for it at first. I love Hikaru’s “riber” or at least that’s how it sounds to me. Heh She does well in her part too, maybe a little shaky, but not bad. It seems like the band members are put up on screen but not on the actual Blu-rays themselves. Is this true, Hatou?
Alleluia: This is one of my favorite new singles. Keiko is really really good. So are the other two of course, but I consider Keiko the lead in this song, the shot of her with the stained glass was pretty. It almost made me tear up a little. This was the perfect ending song. Loved it.
Overall both days were spectacular. Yes, Hikaru is a little shaky sometimes, but I think she owns the songs she is dominant in. As does Wakana, whom I am most proud of. Keiko is always pretty much awesome. Wakana blew me away. Especially in Consolation and signal, two hard songs to sing. Complaints: they did not show the band enough. Maybe they did on the big screen there, but they did not on the actual Blu-rays themselves. In some solos they did, like with Konno, but then they quickly cut back to Kalafina, yes, it is they’re concert, but the band makes up the concert. Hikaru was a little shaky, but not as bad as everyone was saying. I think I would be nervous too with that huge venue. Really those are the only complaints. I loved both days, wish I could have been there. So jealous of Hatou right now. One day, I shall attend a concert in Japan. I have yet to watch the Anime Expo doc, but I shall do that tonight. And hang up my poster. This is Liana signing off. heh
S
Seasonreaper
Guest
I do agree about there not being enough camera focus on the band members. I love the girls and all but the guys did a fantastic job too and are a necessary part of the live. Rie got plenty of time, but that's about it. Overall though, I think Red Day was a fantastic live. Hikaru had a couple of problems but outside of maybe 3-4 songs she did well in my opinion, it was only ARIA that really stood out as being an issue as well, the others were relatively minor. I had no issues at all with the band, nor Keiko, nor Wakana.
Wakana is inconsistent sometimes but this is very much a live where she's showing off what she's truly capable of and when she's on form like this, she's absolutely incredible. Keiko is, well, Keiko. I haven't seen Blue Day yet but since Hikaru's supposed to be better there, so I think I'm really in for a treat, especially considering it has red moon, Signal, Destination Unknown, Sprinter and Hanataba on it.
Wakana is inconsistent sometimes but this is very much a live where she's showing off what she's truly capable of and when she's on form like this, she's absolutely incredible. Keiko is, well, Keiko. I haven't seen Blue Day yet but since Hikaru's supposed to be better there, so I think I'm really in for a treat, especially considering it has red moon, Signal, Destination Unknown, Sprinter and Hanataba on it.
Westkana
HA! I live in her CLOSET!
I would say that Hikaru was mediocre at best on these lives, except for the songs where she used her darker, more gruff voice (I call it her "Magia voice"), where she really shined. Wakana I say consistently did well during the lives, especially in I have a dream and Oblivious. And for Keiko...
Couldn't have said it better myself XD.
D
Daiima
Guest
Live photobook is sold out on Animate webstore.
K
Kirito
Guest
Finished with Blue Day.
Everything was perfect, expect for the sometimes very noticeable shaky camerawork, the low framerate screen in the background (OCD about this one) and red moon. I love red moon, but save for Keiko's Kajiurago, it still pales in comparison to the Red Moon BD version.
Oh, and my only gripe about the vocals now that I've actually watched the darn thing is Hikaru can get slightly loud at times. That's mostly it. And Keiko shouting during destination unknown. Why Kei-chan why.
Favorites were sprinter, signal, I have a dream, seventh heaven, Magia (best one so far, and by far) and symphonia. And the best moment was when the girls suddenly appeared in the audience when Magia began. XD
10/10 would watch again for the awesome lighting and the energy the girls had during the entire thing. I expected the three of them to shed tears though. I would've.
Everything was perfect, expect for the sometimes very noticeable shaky camerawork, the low framerate screen in the background (OCD about this one) and red moon. I love red moon, but save for Keiko's Kajiurago, it still pales in comparison to the Red Moon BD version.
Oh, and my only gripe about the vocals now that I've actually watched the darn thing is Hikaru can get slightly loud at times. That's mostly it. And Keiko shouting during destination unknown. Why Kei-chan why.
Favorites were sprinter, signal, I have a dream, seventh heaven, Magia (best one so far, and by far) and symphonia. And the best moment was when the girls suddenly appeared in the audience when Magia began. XD
10/10 would watch again for the awesome lighting and the energy the girls had during the entire thing. I expected the three of them to shed tears though. I would've.
I
Insidia
Guest
Kalafina LIVE THE BEST 2015 "Blue Day" at 日本武道館
Holding off watching the BDs until my new TV gets delivered.
So much restraint.
Holding off watching the BDs until my new TV gets delivered.
So much restraint.