I wasn't sure if I would get the chance to apply for this one, but when I was in Tower Records the last week of January and they happened to have some of the first press of her album so I went ahead and bought it. Submitted the code online and then waited. I wasn't too concerned whether I got in or not, but was super excited when I checked the results and saw that I got in, and number 77 to boot.
So yesterday after coffee with friends I headed to the familiar host-club district of Kabukicho where the live was to be held. It was freezing outside but I knew the live was standing so I brought jackets that could either be stuffed in my bag or wrapped around my waist and headed inside when it was my time. I didn't end up exchanging my drink ticket because I wanted a good spot.
And I got one. I was able to find something just to the left of center in what basically became second row with a perfect view.
The entire live was great. Kikkawa gives a very powerful performance that if anyone hasn't checked out yet they definitely should. I am sure someone saved the Ustream of the performance so if you find it give it a look later.
As promised she performed every song off of her album, kicking off the live with her latest single "Konna atashi de yokattara" and for a surprise encore performed the same song one more time. She had 3 different outfits, her three single outfits. She actually had a bit of a happening two or three songs in when the bottom of her boot broke off. She went backstage to change it, and what she changed into happened to be her own warm winter boots. Silly Kikka, those heeled boots weren't meant for dancing. Course all three of her outfits have pretty high heels so it is quite amazing that she can dance the whole time in them.
To show the power of Universal, Kikka had two professional back up dancers for some of her songs, both very beautiful and talented women, though obviously the audience's eyes were on Kikka. When the dancers were introduced though, some members in the audience started shouting their names as they left the stage, to which an irked Kikka replied "Hey, don't tell me you found another favorite!" Naw, you are too talented and funny to look away from.
Not much to comment on the set list, besides the fact that all of the songs from the album worked great live. Even while singing ballads, Kikka's strong voice doesn't waver. I loved "Aitakunattara" live and I am not usually a ballad fan.
At the end of what turned out to be a full concert (interrupted by two vtrs of Kikka's path until now) there was a handshake as you were leaving. I told Kikka I had fun, and after saying thankyou normally in Japanese she appeared to recognize me and gave a weird grunt before saying "Ho! See you" and waving very cheerfully at me as I was pushed away.
Don't worry Kikka, you will definitely see me again soon, I promise it.
