By Olajide A. Emmanuel, Music Reviewer
In the ever-evolving landscape of Japanese pop music, BE:FIRST has emerged as a formidable force, captivating audiences with their energetic performances, intricate choreography, and a sound that transcends genres. As the countdown to their sophomore album 2:BE continues, the release of their latest single “Blissful” on August 12, 2024, has added fuel to the anticipation. The track, which is the 15th on the 16-track album set to be released on August 28, 2024, encapsulates the essence of what BE:FIRST represents: joy, resilience, and a celebration of the present moment.
A Soundscape of Joy and Resilience
“Blissful” opens with a vibrant blend of hip-hop beats and dance-pop melodies, setting an immediate tone of positivity and lightheartedness. The production is meticulously layered, featuring a catchy bassline that underpins the entire track, while bright synths and rhythmic percussions give the song its buoyant energy. The instrumental arrangement is both modern and nostalgic, reminiscent of early 2000s pop while firmly rooted in the current soundscape of 2024.
The song’s upbeat nature is palpable from the first note, a deliberate choice that reflects the title itself. The production work on “Blissful” is tight and polished, with a crispness that highlights BE:FIRST’s vocal strengths. Each member brings a unique tone to the table, and their voices blend seamlessly to create a harmonious chorus that is both uplifting and infectious.
Lyrical Exploration: Joy Amidst Uncertainty
Lyrically, “Blissful” is a masterclass in balancing lightheartedness with deeper reflections on life’s unpredictability. The opening verse, “神様はたまに残酷で Oh-woah / 結末を教えてはくれない No way to say,” which translates to “God can be so cruel, never revealing the ending, no way to say,” sets the stage for a song that acknowledges life’s uncertainties. This line is particularly striking, as it speaks to a universal truth: the unpredictability of the future and the human desire for certainty.
Yet, rather than dwelling on the uncertainties, the lyrics quickly shift to a more optimistic perspective. The line “僕らの昨日に間違いは無いから / いつだって君と現在(いま)を遊ぶ,” meaning “There are no mistakes in our yesterday, I’ll always enjoy the now with you,” is a poignant reminder to live in the moment and find joy in the present, regardless of what the future holds. This theme of embracing the now, of finding bliss in the moment, is the backbone of the song.
In the pre-chorus, the lyrics “I’m going out, going out / Going, going out どこにでも / To the left, to the right / We’ll do it, do it right / Do it, do it right / 子どもの様に” evoke a sense of freedom and nostalgia. The phrase “子どもの様に,” which translates to “like when we were kids,” invites listeners to rediscover the innocence and joy of childhood, to embrace a carefree attitude that is often lost in adulthood.
The chorus, with its triumphant “まだ遊び足りないんだ (Hey!) / 派手に行こう Rock the party (What’s poppin’?) / ハイになる瞬間 (Hey!) / 理由は君もわかってる,” which translates to “There’s more fun to have, (Hey!) / Let’s go all out Rock the party (What’s poppin’?) / So high in the moment, (Hey!) / You know the reason,” is an anthem of living life to the fullest. It’s an invitation to celebrate, to find bliss in the simplest of pleasures, and to share those moments with others.
Quotable Lyrics and Their Deeper Meanings
Throughout “Blissful,” several lyrics stand out not just for their catchiness but for the depth of meaning they carry:
- “神様はたまに残酷で Oh-woah / 結末を教えてはくれない No way to say” – This line speaks to the inherent uncertainty of life, a theme that resonates deeply in the modern world where the future often feels unpredictable. It’s a reminder that while we may seek answers and clarity, sometimes, the journey itself is the only answer we get.
- “僕らの昨日に間違いは無いから / いつだって君と現在(いま)を遊ぶ” – These lines are a beautiful reflection on acceptance and mindfulness. By stating that there are no mistakes in yesterday, the song encourages letting go of past regrets and fully engaging with the present.
- “We’ll be fine, let’s take off / I-I-I feel so blissful / 世界中が Playground / 味わうんだ” – This chorus lyric captures the essence of the song. It’s about seizing the moment, feeling blissful in the present, and viewing the world as a playground full of opportunities for joy and adventure.
- “Ay 答えなんて意外と簡単 / Ay 仲間 居場所がガイダンス” – This verse, translating to “Ay, the answer is surprisingly simple / Ay, friends and a place to belong is guidance,” emphasizes the importance of community and belonging. It suggests that the complexities of life often have simple answers rooted in connection and companionship.
Musical Composition and Vocal Delivery
From a compositional standpoint, “Blissful” is a testament to BE:FIRST’s ability to blend various musical influences into a cohesive and captivating whole. The track’s structure is conventional but effective, with verses that build momentum into a pre-chorus that heightens anticipation, culminating in a chorus that delivers a powerful emotional payoff.
The instrumentation is particularly noteworthy. The bassline drives the rhythm, providing a solid foundation for the layers of synths and electronic elements that dance around the vocals. The use of electronic percussion adds a modern edge, while the subtle inclusion of traditional instruments creates a rich, textured soundscape that is both contemporary and timeless.
Vocally, BE:FIRST shines. The group’s harmonies are tight, and each member’s voice is given room to stand out while also contributing to the overall blend. The delivery is energetic and confident, with just the right amount of emotional weight to convey the song’s themes without overshadowing the upbeat nature of the track. The vocal arrangement in the chorus is particularly effective, with the repetition of “I-I-I feel so blissful” acting as both a hook and an emotional release.
Choreography and Visual Presentation
Although the official music video for “Blissful” had not been released at the time of writing, BE:FIRST’s track record suggests that the visual presentation will be as dynamic as the song itself. The group is known for their intricate and synchronized dance routines, which often serve to enhance the storytelling of their music.
Given the energetic nature of “Blissful,” it’s easy to imagine a choreography that is both high-energy and playful, reflecting the song’s themes of joy and freedom. The post-chorus, with its repeated “Oh-o-o-oh-oh” sections, seems tailor-made for a visually striking dance break, likely involving synchronized movements that mirror the rhythmic shifts in the music.
Visually, BE:FIRST’s music videos often blend contemporary aesthetics with elements of street style, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the “Blissful” video follows suit. The use of vibrant colors, urban settings, and creative camera work could all serve to amplify the song’s themes and make the visual experience as uplifting as the auditory one.
Context Within the Album and BE:FIRST’s Discography
As the penultimate track on 2:BE, “Blissful” seems strategically placed to serve as a climax or turning point in the album’s narrative. While the full concept of the album won’t be clear until its release, “Blissful” likely plays a crucial role in conveying the album’s overarching message of self-discovery, joy, and the importance of living in the moment.
In the context of BE:FIRST’s discography, “Blissful” marks a continuation of the themes explored in their previous work, while also showcasing their growth as artists. Their debut album established them as a group capable of delivering powerful performances and memorable music, and “Blissful” further solidifies their place in the J-pop landscape. The track’s blend of introspective lyrics and upbeat production is a natural evolution of their sound, suggesting that 2:BE will be an album that balances fun and depth in equal measure.
Final Thoughts
“Blissful” is a song that encapsulates the spirit of BE:FIRST—energetic, joyful, and deeply connected to the present moment. It’s a track that invites listeners to dance, to reflect, and to find bliss in the everyday. As we look forward to the release of 2:BE, “Blissful” stands out as a highlight, a song that not only showcases the group’s musical talents but also delivers a message that is both timely and timeless.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of BE:FIRST or new to their music, “Blissful” is a song that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a reminder that, no matter what life throws our way, there is always a reason to celebrate, to find joy, and to embrace the present with open arms. As the world continues to navigate uncertain times, BE:FIRST’s “Blissful” offers a much-needed dose of positivity and a soundtrack to