+MP3 Rotation Site+
Welcome to the MP3 rotation section of Sata Andagi!: An Azumanga Daioh Fansite. This will be updated as monthly as possible with new MP3 downloads of the Azumanga Daioh soundtracks, character CDs, and tribute albums. To get the MP3s, right click on the song link and save target.
THE RULES
1. NO DIRECT LINKING TO THE FILES! At least have the decency to link the site.
2. All MP3 files are for evalution only and must be deleted after 24 hours.
3. For requests, e-mail the webmaster.
4. Enjoy! Yes, it's mandatory! XD
JANUARY 2007
The song: Douiukotokana (Kouri no Juujika Hen)
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:44, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.42MB
Why it's here: The Sensetastic Oranges and Lemons Experience! Oranges and Lemons Fantastic Fruity Band! The Oranges and Lemons Good-Time Orchestral Effect! *insert LSD-influenced band name here!*
The song: Kokoro wa Shoujo de Parachute
The singer(s): Yuu Asakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series, Vol. 2
The details: 4:06, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.73MB
Why it's here: Here's hoping Yuu gets some more voice roles and sings some more songs. Hear that everyone? More Yuu in '07! More Yuu in '07!
The song: Soramimi Cake
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 3:57, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.62MB
Why it's here: Crazy enough, the main opening theme to Azumanga Daioh has only been featured on this website once before. Now this brings it to a second time, which puts it on par with the soft version of the opening. This is one of the songs that propelled me into the shameless world of anime music, where you can be a grown man and still gather immense amounts of enjoyment from high-pitched female voices over strings, horns and a waltz beat. It's only become worse from there. Thanks, Soramimi Cake!
The song: Sekai wa Neohappy
The singer(s): Tomoko Kaneda
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Maxi Vol.1 Chiyo Mihama
The details: 4:05, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.75MB
Why it's here: I don't remember what the instrument in the background keeping the melody is called, but I've noticed it in other anime character songs where the person involved is supposed to be rich. For example, it's in Ana Coppola's character song from Ichigo Mashimaro. It also reminds me of sixties hippie music from some reason. Is there a connection? Did some hippies move to Japan and become rich? Or is Japan just crazy like that (yes)?
The song: Maaya to Ita Kisetsu (live)
The singer(s): Kuri-Coder Pops Orchestra w/Tomoko Kaneda
The album: Tribute to "Azumanga Daioh" Live
The details: 2:02, 128kbps, 44kHz, 1.87MB
Why it's here: It's the soundtrack to one of my favorite scenes in the show (Sakaki finally alone with Maya) and this version is a little longer than the official ones on the OST - with vocals, even. (Guest commentary: Blacksad)
The song: Asayake Senro
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:03, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.71MB
Why it's here: This version of the familiar Shin Gakki theme captures so wonderfully the Life Is Good-feel that the Azumanga show leaves you with. (Guest commentary: Blacksad)
The song: Sora wa Tobikiri Paradise
The singer(s): Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.4 Tomo Takino
The details: 3:56, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.60MB
Why it's here: It hasn't been here for over a year, so get your Tomo-in-toned-down mode while it's hot. Seriously, maybe this type of singer is what she could become if she applied herself and all that energy to something.
The song: Hororin Confetti
The singer(s): Tomoko Kaneda and Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 4:39, 128kbps, 44kHz, 4.26MB
Why it's here: In the chorus, it's hard to hear Osaka singing behind Chiyo. It's just that combination of Chiyo being shrill and Osaka being too soft. Maybe this difference is the "confetti" they're trying to reach. Of course not, but I can speculate.
The song: Time Pavement
The singer(s): Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.3 Ayumu Kasuga(OSAKA)
The details: 4:18, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.94MB
Why it's here: I've been listening to this song for like almost three years now, and I just realized Osaka isn't singing in Kansai, as far as I can tell. I wonder if that's because she only speaks Kansai because her friends think she should, or if that's because Japanese with a Kansai accent just don't use it while singing. Anyone know? If you do, you should e-mail me.
The song: Kokoro wa Shoujo de Parachute
The singer(s): Yuu Asakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.2 Sakaki
The details: 4:04, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.73MB
Why it's here: Yuu Asakawa has such a cool voice, even if she's not the greatest singer. She needs to sing more music. She definitely needs more big roles in brand new anime so that she can sing an opening here, an ending there, and then I can get them. Even character image songs would be great. Someone make this happen.
The song: Tearose de Nemurimashou
The singer(s): Sakura Nogawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh: Character CD series Vol.8 Kaorin
The details: 3:26, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.15MB
Why it's here: This song was requested. Two months of Kaorin songs; does this fulfill the monthly recommended dosage of borderline unrequited love? Or does everyone just like Sakura Nogawa's voice? Iunno.
The song: >Mahou Neko ni Aeru Hi wa
The singer(s): Yuu Asakawa and Tomoko Kaneda
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.2 Sakaki
The details: 3:51, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.53MB
Why it's here: It never really registered with me before that, in this song, Sakaki and Chiyo are singing about a magical cat. Oh dear.
The song: Ashita wa Makenai Go! Friend!
The singer(s): Houko Kuwashima
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.5 Kagura
The details: 3:13, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.94MB
Why it's here: Requested. Mmm, Japanese girl "punk." If you like this, I'd definitely go check out the bands/singers GO!GO!7188, Kimura Kaela, and Otsuka Ai.
The song: Kaze no Mon-Ami
The singer(s): Sakura Nogawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh: Character CD series Vol.8 Kaorin
The details: 4:19, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.96MB
Why it's here: This song hasn't been here for a while, and I can never think of anything interesting to say about it anyway. Uhh, those are quite some strings and synth pads? I guess. Here you go.
The song: Otona no Yasunde Dekakeyou
The singer(s): Akiko Hiramatsu and Aya Hisakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.7 Yukari Tanizaki & Minamo Kurosawa & Kimura sensei
The details: 3:34, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.27MB
Why it's here: Requested. Oh so campy. Oh so fun.
The song: Poi Poi Peace
The singer(s): Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.4 Tomo Takino
The details: 4:18, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.94MB
Why it's here: Requested. I guess it says something about fandom that you can find this song in a midi ringtone just like Tomo has in the show. And no, don't ask me where to find it, because I don't know.
The song: Shikkari! Try La Lai
The singer(s): Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.3 Ayumu Kasuga(OSAKA)
The details: 4:49, 128kbps, 44kHz, 4.41MB
Why it's here: Requested. I wonder if Osaka picks the music in her songs, because they've got instrumention that only she could come up with. What's exactly doing the percussion next to that shaker, there, and where do I get one?
The song: Kurumi Narasu Aozora
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:33, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.25MB
Why it's here: Doo doo doon, doo doo doon, doo dooo dooo doo. Parts of this song are basically a cute polka. Chew on that.
The song: Kono Sora no You ni
The player(s): Kuri-Coder Pops Orchestra
The album: Azumanga Daioh Original Soundtrack Vol.1
The details: 1:18, 128kbps, 44kHz, 1.20MB
Why it's here: The first actual song from the soundtrack to be featured here. This is the song played as the victory parade marches in the sunset after the first culture festival.
The song: Lazy Crazy Bonkuraazu
The singer(s): Houko Kuwashima, Yuki Matsuoka, and Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.5 Kagura
The details: 3:51, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.52MB
Why it's here: Is it possible for something to be both lazy and crazy? Lazy we know, but being crazy usually implies some sort of wild jumping around or something involved. Unless they mean crazy in the head. Then that's certainly possible, since that's a good description of me.
The song: Sarabai~Happy Hen
The singer(s): Kaneda Tomoko
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Maxi Vol.1 Chiyo Mihama
The details: 3:35, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.28MB
Why it's here: Just so you don't get any weird ideas, "Hen" in this case is Japanese for "version," so this is the happy version of the song (Yomi's karaoke version was definitely the unhappy version). This isn't a song about chickens jumping for joy, no matter if it sounds like it or not. Which it kinda does. Oh well, it's still not about that.
The song: Tenshoku Equal Kaikan no Housoku
The singer(s): Akiko Hiromatsu, Aya Hisakawa, and Kouji Ishii
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series, Vol. 7 Yukari Tanizaki & Minamo Kurosawa & Kimura sensei
The details: 4:06, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.76MB
Why it's here: Why does everyone want to hear Kimura sing? I mean, there's the fact that it sounds hilarious, but there's also the fact that his voice molests you mentally. Overall, the funny wins in the end. Now let's all have our ears be touched by Kimura's singing... in that way.
The song: Soramimi Cake (soft version)
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:02, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.69MB
Why it's here: It's a stripped-down Soramimi Cake we have here, which somehow makes it much more whimsical than normal. We've got percussion only rhythm, we've got an alternate vocal track which is more fitting to the softer version, and we've also got a tuba and a doumbek mixed in during the bridge and second half of the song. We've got love. Pure love in downloadable form.
The song: Moi Moi
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:06, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.76MB
Why it's here: A strange, slow, intro on what sounds like Moroccan bongos leads into what turns out to be a manic vocal piece taken from the soundtrack. I don't know what kind of dancing would go with this type of song (almost polka, judging by the beat), but it's sure tempting to make something up, because it's hard not to move to this song.
The song: Maya to Ita Kisetsu (live)
The singer(s): Kuri-Coder Pops Orchesta w/Tomoko Kaneda
The album: Tribute to "Azumanga Daioh" Live
The details: 2:02, Variable kbps, 44kHz, 2.85MB
Why it's here: This is a live version of one of the songs from the soundtrack that includes the seiyuu for Chiyo-chan, Tomoko Kaneda, performing some scat vocals in the middle. Cute as all heck and a worthy addition to the rotation.
The song: Sorezore no One Way
The singer(s): Rie Tanaka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Series Vol.6 Koyomi Mizuhara
The details: 3:47, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.47MB
Why it's here: Yomi sings over acoustic guitar and piano. For some reason to me, this song sounds vaguely 1970's. Maybe this could also be the theme song to some short-run old TV show. If you listen to the song and think about it, you'll see what I mean.
The song: Tsukurimashou!
The singer(s): Tomoko Kaneda, Rie Tanaka, Chieko Higuchi, and Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 2:38, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.42MB
Why it's here: It's been almost a whole year since this song's been on here, last showing up after winning the contest last December. It's still as cute as ever, and now the most popular song on this site, getting it's third spin.
The song: Oishii Kimitachi
The singer(s): Rie Tanaka and Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Series Vol.6 Koyomi Mizuhara
The details: 3:47, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.47MB
Why it's here: I keep expecting to hear Tomo being punched during this song, but it never happens. I guess it would upset the smoothness of the song. Oh well.
The song: Asayake Senro
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:03, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.71MB
Why it's here: Requested. This song is bouncy and soothing at the same time, a feat that few can pull off. For Oranges and Lemons, it seems to be second nature.
The song: Raspberry Heaven
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 3:31, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.23MB
Why it's here: Raspberry Heaven, I'm posting you again! When the download of paradise finishes, you and I, we'll be together (again).
The song: Ashita wa Makenai Go! Friend!
The singer(s): Houko Kuwashiwa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.5 Kagura
The details: 3:13, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.94MB
Why it's here: "I wanna wanna be your friend! (hai hai, hai hai hai!)," sings Kagura in this piece. So download this song and make Kagura your friend! (Disclaimer: this will actually not happen.)
The song: Lazy Crazy Bonkuraazu
The singer(s): Houko Kuwashima, Yuki Matsuoka, and Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.5 Kagura
The details: 3:14, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.96MB
Why it's here: They're lazy, they're crazy, and they're definitely not that bright. It's the bonkuras! Last time I posted this song, for some reason I didn't include the seiyuu for Osaka and Tomo on vocals, because they sure are there. Oh well, I did it right this time. Osaka needs to be in more rock songs. Get the Negima song "Maze of the Dark" for a great hard rock song with Yuki Matsuoka (who plays Evangeline).
The song: Poi Poi Peace
The singer(s): Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.4 Tomo Takino
The details: 4:18, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.94MB
Why it's here: Requested. Tomo is Tomo. This song is Tomo. It's loud, brash, and energetic, with lots of flourishes. It's not the most brilliantly done song, nor is there any virtuosity, but it's strangely endearing anyway.
The song: Kaze no Iro March
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:14, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.96MB
Why it's here: Requested. This is a popular one, it is, it being here for the third time. Not that I'm complaining; I love this song. It's just so... different. It fits as the unofficial Azumanga theme song (Soramimi Cake being the official one) perfectly.
The song: Otona no Yasunde Dekakeyou
The singer(s): Akiko Hiramatsu and Aya Hisakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.7 Yukari Tanizaki & Minamo Kurosawa & Kimura sensei
The details: 3:34, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.27MB
Why it's here: I can see it now: This is the opening theme song to the short-run 1968-69 black-and-white comedy television program "The Yukari & Nyamo Show" starring two friends who teach in the same school. One's kind of a loose cannon and likes to get into trouble, while the other is the straight woman, exasperatedly keeping her in check while making many happy memories at the same time. The two naturally get into all sorts of trouble as two single gals alone in the big city, but their friendship always pulls them through in the end. Seriously. It's like this song was created in a studio in 1968 specifically for this purpose. Didn't you know? Azumanga Daioh is just the more popular spinoff series from this original "cult classic" program!
The song: Hoshi no Megane
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 2:48, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.57MB
Why it's here: Requested, and for good reason. This is familiar background music to the anime but with added vocals. I've already espoused how enjoyable Oranges and Lemons are on this site many times, and I will again: Oranges and Lemons are enjoyable. Very much so. Listen and be happy!
The song: Shikkari! Try La Lai
The singer(s): Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.3 Ayumu Kasuga(OSAKA)
The details: 4:49, 128kbps, 44kHz, 4.41MB
Why it's here: Osaka. Everything is here because of Osaka. She makes everything happen; she makes the world spin 'round. This song is a sleepy song, though, since it fits her personality and all. Not that Time Pavement is much faster, but it does have a bit more going on. This one's cute and all, especially "cha-u-ne-n, cha-u-ne-n."
The song: Time Pavement
The singer(s): Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.3 Ayumu Kasuga(OSAKA)
The details: 4:18, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.95MB
Why it's here: The rhythm and melody of this song still make me want to listen when it pops up on a random playlist, even so long after I've had it. If you could have a soundtrack to floating blissfully on a cloud, not having a care in the world, this would have to be it.
The song: Douiukotokana (Kouri no Juujika Hen)
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:44, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.42MB
Why it's here: This is the last song I have to feature on the rotation, unless I start adding instrumentals from the soundtracks. This song is... strange. It's like the trip-out, psychedelic Japanese orchestra, like Oranges and Lemons decided to be inspired by Led Zeppelin's "Dazed and Confused" or something. So in conclusion, this is probably a good song to listen to when you're tripping on too much green tea Pocky, if you know what I mean.
The song: Kokoro wa Shoujo de Parachute
The singer(s): Yuu Asakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series, Vol. 2
The details: 4:06, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.76MB
Why it's here: Ah, Yuu. <3
The song: Tea Rose de Nemurimashou
The singer(s): Sakura Nogawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh: Character CD series Vol.8 Kaorin
The details: 3:26, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.15MB
Why it's here: This is the very last character single that has not been featured on this rotation. Now it is. The opening guitar sounds like country music, which is kind of scary when you realize this is a Japanese song you're about to hear, but it turns into another one of those good songs for a spring stroll in the park, though the country-sounding guitar continues to show up. The other thing I always question with song is the title. Translated, it's "Let's sleep with Tea Rose." Is "Tea Rose" Kaorin's super-secret pet name for Sakaki or something? The world may never know.
The song: Soramimi Cake
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 3:57, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.62MB
Why it's here: I swore I had put this track here already, but it was only the soft version. Anyway, this song is one of the things that instantly springs to mind when I think about Azumanga Daioh. It's just so... singable. This full-length version is very cool, too, especially when it drum-kicks into the whole strings interlude. We also get a whole new verse of words to learn! Lu, la lu, la... hey, what's a holy whisper?
The song: Sekai wa Neohappy
The singer(s): Tomoko Kaneda
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Maxi Vol.1 Chiyo Mihama
The details: 4:05, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.75MB
Why it's here: I don't know why, but at the beginning of this song, I imagine that it's Chiyo-chan actually sitting at the organ and singing this song like some kind of ten-year-old J-Pop Tori Amos or something. Anyway, as expected of Chiyo-chan #1 character song, this is a happy-go-lucky-and-fairly-bouncy-but-restrained pop number where Chiyo can wish neo-happiness (whatever that may be) for everyone in the whole world.
The song: Hororin Confetti
The singer(s): Tomoko Kaneda and Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 4:39, 128kbps, 44kHz, 4.26MB
Why it's here: This one's a pretty slow duet for Chiyo-chan and Osaka. That fits Osaka just fine, and it fits the old-lady persona that Chiyo tends to have occasionally, so we'll just let these two stroll along on a spring day to this song. I guess it works well; leave the faster songs to the girls who can run, like Kagura.
The song: Sora wa Tobikiri Paradaisu
The singer(s): Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.4 Tomo Takino
The details: 3:56, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.60MB
Why it's here: This is Tomo singing a laid-back song. This is probably one of the only times you'll hear Tomo-chan using a regular voice, so you'd better gobble this one up. The background music in this is sort of a horns and almost reggae thing which does somewhat evoke images of the sky being an extraordinary paradise (which is more or less the translation of the title).
The song: Sorezore no One Way
The singer(s): Rie Tanaka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.6 Koyomi Mizuhara
The details: 5:01, 128kbps, 44kHz, 4.59MB
Why it's here: This is an elegant song with strings and acoustic guitar that backs up the true voice of Yomi, Rie Tanaka. We all know Rie can sing, even though Yomi isn't supposed to be able to. So just count this as Yomi "singing from the heart" and succeeding.
The song: Mahou Neko ni Aeru wa
The singer(s):Yuu Asakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.2 Sakaki
The details: 3:51, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.53MB
Why it's here: The voices of Sakaki and Chiyo sing together in this, a quiet song befitting Sakaki's quiet nature. It seems like the kind of song that would be playing on the background on a simple spring stroll, which is probably something these do like to do a lot. Chiyo does seem kind of out of place in this song at the beginning, but she does settle in once you get used to her voice along with Yuu Asakawa's soft voice.
The song: Kaze no Iro March
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:14, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.96MB
Why it's here: March! March! Do the march of the color of the wind! And what exactly is that? Enjoyable, it is. This is instantly recognizable for anyone who's watched at least one episode of the anime. It also finds itself on this rotation a second time.
The song: Tsukurimashou!
The singer(s):Tomoko Kaneda, Rie Tanaka, Chieko Higuchi, and Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 2:38, 192kbps, 44kHz, 3.63MB
Why it's here: Warning: this song will cause cuteness-related seizures. Do not attempt to listen to this song without understanding the fact that Osaka singing "tsukurimashou" at the end of this song will destroy your brain. In a good way. When I decided to have this contest, I had a feeling this one would be a winner. And it is, in many more ways than one.
The song: Tenshoku Equal Kaikan no Housoku
The singer(s): Akiko Hiromatsu, Aya Hisakawa, and Kouji Ishii
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series, Vol. 7 Yukari Tanizaki & Minamo Kurosawa & Kimura sensei
The details: 3:32, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.24MB
Why it's here: Does everybody really want to hear Kimura-sensei sing? I guess so. His histrionic, horrible singing is rather hilarious. So I can't fault this pick. It's just too funny. Add to the fact that the seiyuu for Yukari and Nyamo can both sing, and you have a winner!
The song: Kaze no Mon-Ami
The singer(s): Sakura Nogawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh: Character CD series Vol.8 Kaorin
The details: 4:19, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.96MB
Why it's here: Alright, alright, it's time to give Kaorin a turn. Hers was the last character single released, and now her character song is last to appear here. I suppose this is sort of a pretty song for pining after your love. Strings, fanfare, cymbal crashes and all that appear. I can see Kaorin sitting inside on a rainy day, looking out the window longingly and singing this song for an absent Sakaki-san. She should get Sakaki to sing with her; I think they'd make a great duet, and it would give Kaorin the chance she wants so badly.
The song: Kurumi Narasu Aozora
The singer(s): Oranges & Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:33, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.25MB
Why it's here: You gotta love those voices. It's hard to miss Masumi Itou in any song, and for me, it's hard not to like the song if Masumi Itou is in it. Oranges & Lemons delivers with more beautiful music with a combination of instruments straight out of the orchestra and advanced band class. This is a playful little number that wanted to take its turn a couple months ago, but somehow got lost in the shuffle. Now it can shine brightly in the spotlight for a while.
The song: Shikkari! TRY La Lai
The singer(s): Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.3 Ayumu Kasuga(OSAKA)
The details: 4:49, 128kbps, 44kHz, 4.41MB
Why it's here: This is another spacy Osaka song. I don't know whether it's because it's supposed to be similar to her personality or whether it's because she can't sing any faster than "Time Pavement" speed. Mystery desu. This is another amalgam of instruments: flutes, shakers, bells, strings, etc. Another trip into the groovy and left-turn-making mind of our Kansai girl.
The song: Lazy Crazy Bonkuraazu
The singer(s): Houko Kuwashima
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.5 Kagura
The details: 3:51, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.52MB
Why it's here: Kagura's the tomboy, so I guess she gets the songs with the electric guitar. Not that I'm complaining. This is a catchy one and a tricky one. What is being said is indeed "lazy crazy bonkura days," but the title of the song is not that. It's "Lazy Crazy Bonkuraazu." Now that that's all cleared up, don't you think Kagura could be the Japanese Avril Lavigne? No offense to Kagura intended.
The song: Oishii Kimitachi
The singer(s): Rie Tanaka and Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Series Vol.6 Koyomi Mizuhara
The details: 3:47, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.47MB
Why it's here: Yomi can sing after all! Maybe she just has to be singing about food, because that's what this song seems to be all about. Tomo chimes in on this song as well (dietto wa... wonder what that could possibly mean?), and it's your standard sort of mid-tempo pop fare.
The song: Hoshi no Megane
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 2:48, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.57MB
Why it's here: Back once again with another round of whimsy and wonder is Oranges and Lemons, taking on the Azumanga Daioh background music. If you've been following this MP3 rotation, then you know what O&L is all about, and this is more of the same. Flutes, strings, and those great and unique vocals. I recently heard very similar vocals in another anime song, and sure enough, it was the same two ladies.
The song: Sarabai~Happy Hen
The singer(s): Tomoko Kaneda
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character Maxi Vol.1 Chiyo Mihama
The details: 3:35, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.28MB
Why it's here: This is the quirky ending to the so-called "Very Short Movie," as well as the song that Yomi sings during the karaoke episode. Chiyo-chan is as cute as ever singing this piece, which seems to have been made for the kid in her that still peeps out every once in a while. The vocals jump all over the place, with Kaneda-san even using her voice as another instrument in the bridge. The best description I can give: this is a song that cannot be mistaken for any other song ever in the history of the universe.
The song: Moi Moi
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:06, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.76MB
Why it's here: This is another instantly recognizable background piece, but with vocals included. After the melody instruments kick in at the beginning, it feels like you're watching the anime once again (what a great feeling). The vocals of Oranges and Lemons don't stray from the established melody, but the pace of this number gives it a very frenetic feel, as was probably intended. It's pure Azumanga, and you all know it.
The song: Poi Poi Peace
The singer(s): Chieko Higuchi
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.4 Tomo Takino
The details: 4:17, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.92MB
Why it's here: Obviously, this song is boisterous, being Tomo-chan's first character song. It's a barrage of brass, with horns all over and a genki Tomo giving it her all. It almost as if you can see her jumping around on stage during the instrumental breaks. This song makes its appearance in the anime as the ringtone for Tomo's cellphone, which shows up in a couple of the later episodes.
The song: Raspberry Heaven
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 3:29, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.20MB
Why it's here: Duh. It's the instant-classic closing song. Its unique instrumentation and flow are easily recognizable and so very catchy that you can't help but sing along, or at least hum. Myself, I've pretty much memorized the song. Though, Oranges and Lemons sings it much, much, much better than I ever could. This song captures the essence of Azumanga Daioh perfectly: unique, wonderful, and memorable.
The song: Time Pavement
The singer(s): Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.3 Ayumu Kasuga(OSAKA)
The details: 4:18, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.95MB
Why it's here: Osaka's two character songs are both pretty slow-paced; it's to match her spaced-out personality, I suppose. I imagine this song's varied, winding instrumentation to be a gateway into the amazing workings of the mind of Osaka-san, where anything could be happening at any time, including putting cuckoo clocks in songs (not that I object, everything in this song works for me). Osaka herself sings this song in karaoke during the series, which brings up the question of how she only got a 65% while singing her own song. Well, it's because Osaka can score poorly on anything.
The song: Soramimi Cake (soft version)
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:02, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.69MB
Why it's here: This is Azumanga Daioh's opening song, but it's not. For lack of a better name, I've dubbed it the soft version. Hearing the regular version of this song, a true Azumanga fan will gravitate toward the source of the sound, hunting for their "cute girls and big red speech bubbles" fix. Hearing this for the first time? They'll most likely be entranced. Take out the rhythm section (it comes in later, building the song up), replace the strings and piano with flutes, and make the singing extra cute, and there you have it: this very enjoyable version of one of the most memorable songs in anime.
The song: Ashita wa Makenai Go! Friend!
The singer(s): Houko Kuwashima
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series Vol.5 Kagura
The details: 3:13, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.94MB
Why it's here: I think this singing role is perfect for Kagura. She has the voice and style to be a Japanese punk rocker, don't you think? Purple socks? Go with it! Anyway, this song is a quick and happy rock song complete with chorus of "I wanna-wanna be your friend" along with the Japanese equivalent of Oi Oi: Hai Hai! Okay, so this song isn't really "punk" per se, but it's just so cool!
The song: Asayake Senro
The singer(s): Oranges and Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 4:03, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.71MB
Why it's here: I can't get enough Oranges and Lemons. Must be a vitamin C (for cuteness) deficiency. This is yet another song that you'll recognize from the background music in the anime. But, in this case, it is extended and includes vocals. Already knowing the melody makes you want to sing along, and hey, if you don't know the Japanese lyrics, you can around three minutes in! "La la la la la la la la la laaa la!"
The song: Kokoro wa Shoujo de Parachute
The singer(s): Yuu Asakawa
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series, Vol. 2 Sakaki
The details: 4:04, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.73MB
Why it's here: This song shows up in the series twice. The first time is when the girls go sing karaoke, and Sakaki-san sings this song. The second time is on the radio, playing on "Naku and Micchi's Youthful Heartthrob Talk Show" when Tomo and Yomi are talking in Yomi's room in Episode 19. It's announced as Yuu Asakawa's song, which is fitting, since that's Sakaki-san's seiyuu. The song itself? Pretty. :3
The song: Tsukurimashou
The singer(s):Tomoko Kaneda, Rie Tanaka, Chieko Higuchi, and Yuki Matsuoka
The album: Azumanga Daiou Vocal Collection Utaimasho
The details: 2:38, 192kbps, 44kHz, 3.63MB
Why it's here: It's definitely cute enough to make you go what the hell. This is the full version of Chiyo-chan's cooking song in Episode 1. Also, Yomi-san and Tomo-chan make talking appearances, and Osaka-san sings at the end. The general gist of the song is that it highlights a character trait that each girl has, except Chiyo-chan doesn't sing about Yomi-san. And so she tries. And then Osaka wants to sing, and she does, and it's so cute that it will incapacitate you!
The song: Tenshoku Equal Kaikan no Housoku
The singer(s): Akiko Hiromatsu, Aya Hisakawa, and Kouji Ishii
The album: Azumanga Daioh Character CD Series, Vol. 7 Yukari Tanizaki & Minamo Kurosawa & Kimura sensei
The details: 3:32, 128kbps, 44kHz, 3.24MB
Why it's here: The first time I heard this song, I couldn't help but crack up. It's a total tropical song with Kimura going crazy on vocals behind Yukari and Nyamo. I can easily picture Kimura letting loose in a limbo contest while listening to this song. What a scary thought. Still, it's got a catchy chorus, and you just can't beat those Kimura vocals by Kouji Ishii.
The song: Kaze no Iro March
The singer(s): Oranges & Lemons
The album: Tribute to Azumanga Daiou
The details: 3:14, 128kbps, 44kHz, 2.96MB
Why it's here: This is the full-length, vocal version of the march that plays on the eye-catch in the middle of the show, as well as in the background of the show at times. If you thought it was incredibly catchy as a background track, just wait till you hear this.