November 2023 brought some of the biggest names in the industry back to the spotlight; fans got a set of memorable albums.
This and more in this article – and extended video – of MONTHLY REVIEW November 2023.
This month’s episode is all about the music released in November 2023.
November was jam-packed with some of the most anticipated CD releases of the year. Out of those Trignal’s comeback with “Ironna Katachi” was the one generating more buzz but let’s not forget one of the pop behemoths among male seiyuu – Yuma Uchida – was also going to release his 3rd album “Y”.
Shouta Aoi and Tasuku Hatanaka also joined in the fun, completing the lineup of awesome – and technical – singers all releasing music at the same time.
However, Shouta Aoi’s “DETONATOR” left a lot to be desired, not living up to the hype. And Tasuku Hatanaka despite releasing a solid single, failed to bring the magic of previous releases to the spotlight.
As such, the standout releases in November 2023 were:
- Yuma Uchida “Y”
- Trignal “Ironna Katachi”
In the video version of this article – which covers many more CDs and features your comments- I also bring my impressions about a couple of CDs I recently reviewed.
Make sure to watch the episode!
Yuma Uchida “Y”
Yuma Uchida wraps up an awesome chapter of 5 years since his debut with “a “Y“, album that aimed at showing completely different sides to himself while celebrating that journey along the way.
“Y” is strong album that further solidifies Yuma Uchida as one of the best and most versatile solo artists among male seiyuu.
However, a, perhaps, rushed want to present fans with new music – and then featuring said music all in this album – removed most of the magic it could have had, potentially taking it a position in which we could talk about it being album of the year.
Trignal “Ironna Katachi”
Trignal’s “Ironna Katachi” is a genuinely confident mini-album showcasing just how polished and talented this group is as well as how much they have matured along the way.
Their sound – which was already amazing in “Tricolore” – was vastly upgraded to fit with the group’s current singing skills and talents and the whole vibe about their songs showcases just how experienced and mature the group now is.
They’ve found their sound, and their image and have singing skills to match all that confidence. This growth has made it so that Trignal is now comfortably trailing that path with you alongside them and it feels warm, cozy and never rushed.
This was a mini-album that many anticipated and Trignal more than delivered all the love the got with a stellar “Ironna Katachi”.
What is THTFHQ’s MONTHLY REVIEW?
As the name says, Monthly Review is a monthly feature in which I find yet another excuse to talk about male seiyuu music and 2D groups.
This is a feature in which I get on camera – unscripted (and usually looking a bit tired lol) – covering the most impressive/buzzworthy releases in any given month – and hidden gems that not many people may end up paying attention to -, counting on your participation as well in all 4 corners:
- Best of the month (3 best/buzzworthy/gems of every given month as picked by me + 3 suggested by THTFHQ readers
- Monthly Choice (3 CD suggestions by me – regardless of when the CDs were released – and 3 suggestions by THTFHQ readers)
- Music in the Horizon (a look at next month’s releases – it mixes my and your comments on upcoming releases by male seiyuu artists, bands, units, or 2D groups)
- Ask Vanessa (ask me anything about male seiyuu or 2D music, if you don’t ask, it turns into a “Soma Saito” corner)
Do you want to participate in MONTHLY REVIEW?
This show is a collaborative work between you and me, sharing our love for male seiyuu and 2D music projects. Don’t be shy to participate.
All this to say, don’t worry about not having perfect English writing or the sort, we all make mistakes and even I am not a native speaker – and typos are really my bread and butter here on the website – so don’t let that stop you from participating, should you want to!
As always, several times during the month, the survey to participate in next month’s episode is shared on THTFHQ’s social media (Facebook and Twitter) and on THTFHQ’s YouTube channel‘s community tab (make sure to subscribe to not miss the notification, or lurk if you don’t want to subscribe).
You can participate as many times as you want, I only ask that you avoid submitting the same answers in the various entries you make in this feature.
The goal is to feature as many CDs as possible, not to talk only about 1 or 2 CDs.
Please remember that these episodes are much more enjoyable with your insights. Every month I share a survey on social media for you to leave your impressions on new music.
Although only 3 people are chosen for each corner (less if there were fewer submissions), know I read them all. I read everything and keep being impressed by your musical sensibility!
THTFHQ’s community is filled with talented individuals, fans of good music, and voice acting. You geek as hard – or even more – about both things as I do!
If the links are not working, CLICK HERE to check the video.