Hidamari Sketch X365 OP – Hatena de Wasshoi – Review

Review: Hidamari Sketch’s first season grabbed at me immediately, partly because of its very catchy opening song “Sketch Switch.” There was just some quality about that piece that really grabbed at your attention and, along with the quirky animation, made you curious enough to want to see what this show is all about. Now that Hidamari Sketch X365 has been released, I’m pleased to say that their newest opening song “Hatena de Wasshoi” carries with it the same enjoyability as “Sketch Switch,” making it a worthy companion alongside its predecessor.

“Hatena de Wasshoi” starts out in the way one would expect of a Hidamari Sketch song in that it’s extremely energetic. Its tone suggests that the singers are really happy as they celebrate life and all of the joys to be found therein. The energy, provided in part from the vocalists who definitely convey a sense of enthusiasm-filled joy and the hurried tempo succeed at grabbing the listener right off the bat and never quite lets go. For those familiar with the show and its characters, listening to the girls sing with such passion and love for life is what makes this song so enjoyable. Because of this, this song easily makes it to the top of the list as the best opening from the summer 2008 lineup.

Unfortunately, “Sutakora Dream” doesn’t manage to deliver to “Hatena de Wasshoi’s” level because the pacing is just a bit different, starting with the instruments and melody that seemed to fit a circus setting more than Hidamari Sketch’s. It just wasn’t really able to draw me in and as such, becomes forgettable rather quickly. I suppose the segment of the song when the characters randomly shout “Hidamari” and “Sketch” and throw in an introduction by telling the listener their name might be enjoyable just to hear them speak, but that’s about it. There’s nothing wrong about this song per se beyond the fact that it’s just boring. It certainly makes an attempt at being laid-back nature but never really manages to make it as compelling as the vocal tracks from ARIA.

All in all, this album isn’t terrible, but you’re really only going to be picking this one up for “Hatena de Wasshoi.” “Sutakora Dream” just isn’t my cup of tea and it’s not a stretch to say that very few will find it that enjoyable is a listen.

Rating: Decent