Mr.Children is one of the most popular bands in Japan. They made their major debut in 1992 with the release of their first album, "EVERYTHING", but it wasn't until one of their singles was used as a drama theme song, like their fourth single "Cross Road", that they started getting noticed. They got their big break in 1994 with the release of their fifth single, "innocent world", which made record sales and earned the Japan Record Award in 1994. Their fourth album, "Atomic Heart", which was released in the same year, is still their top selling album to date. Since then, all their singles have been number one hits in the Oricon charts like "Tomorrow never knows" and "Namonaki-uta", and many of them became million sellers, and they've produced other noteworthy albums.
In 1997, they took a long vacation, and came back to the Japanese music scene the next year with the single "Owari-naki-tabi."
Their sound is essentially a blend of light pop and classic rock. But due to the band's inclination to experiment with various music styles, their sound is constantly evolving. They have delved into various types of rock as well as jazz, blues, folk, country, and dance. Despite this constant change, however, their music has progressed successfully, proving them to be a versatile band that can last.
The main force behind the band is their singer and songwriter, Kazutoshi Sakurai, who composes almost all of their songs. The rest of the band include Kenichi Tahara on guitar, Keisuke Nakagawa on bass, and Hideya Suzuki (Jen) on drums and backing vocals. They also have supporting musicians on keyboards, guitar, brass instruments (trumpet and saxophone), and computer programming for their tours because they usually embellish their recordings.
It must be noted that a good part of what makes Mr.Children's songs unique is Sakurai's remarkable vocal ability. His vocal range is higher than the typical male range, and he sings with a noticeable Western style. Also, it is because he is influenced by the great classic rock artists of the '60s and '70s (in particular, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones) that the band's music usually has a classic rock feel. But being the vocalist of the band doesn't prevent him from sometimes sharing guitar solos with Tahara, or playing them by himself. He also plays the piano and harmonica proficiently.
Tahara and Nakagawa are the quietest members of the group, often choosing to remain in the background when the band appears on TV shows. Jen seems to be the most extroverted member who takes his top off onstage at any opportunity. He also always matches Sakurai's sense of humor. They are all very talented musicians who make vital contributions to the band.
On December 31, 2004, their song "Sign," was again awarded the Japan Record Award, ten years after the first.
Mr. Children has a long-time association with the Toys Factory record label.
Pocket castanet
Mr.Children Lyrics
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それが僕です そっと祈るように響かせる 体中に
例えばカスタネットで 簡単なリズム 奏でている
それが君です 気まぐれに生真面目に僕を導いてゆく
つないだ手が語りかける 声になる前の優しい言葉
裏表のない次元でゆっくりと今 呼吸している
お天気がすぐれない日は君の心にある雨雲を
取り除いて太陽を差し出せる存在 そうありたい
靴を汚し 踵減らし 歩いてゆく長い凸凹道
季節ごとに咲いた花の香りを僕ら踏みしめてく
つないだ手が語りかける 声になる前の優しい言葉
裏表のない次元でゆっくりと今 呼吸している
靴を汚し 踵減らし 歩いてゆく長い凸凹道
季節ごとに咲いた花の香りを僕ら踏みしめてく
The lyrics of Mr.Children's song "Pocket Castanet" convey a sense of carrying someone's melody, their essence, within oneself. The singer describes how this melody, metaphorically represented as a pocket castanet, resonates quietly but powerfully throughout their entire being. The castanet, a percussion instrument, symbolizes the rhythm and harmony that this person brings into the singer's life. The lyrics suggest that this person is capable of guiding and influencing the singer in both whimsical and serious situations, demonstrating both spontaneity and seriousness.
The song emphasizes the significance of interconnectedness and communication. The joined hands between the singer and this person become a medium of heartfelt conversation, speaking kind and tender words before they even become audible. This subtle connection exists in a dimension without pretense or hidden motives, allowing the two individuals to breathe and exist in synchronization, taking their time to fully embrace the present moment.
The lyrics further illustrate the desire to be a presence that can dissipate any gloom or clouds within this person's heart, aiming to be a source of warmth and sunshine when their mood is affected by unfavorable circumstances. The singer wants to be a constant source of support and positivity for this individual.
As the song progresses, the lyrics also touch upon the hardships and challenges faced in life's journey. The singer describes walking a long and bumpy path, wearing down their shoes and heels. However, they find solace and joy in the fragrance of flowers that bloom with each passing season, symbolizing the beauty and rewards found along the way. Together, they step on these flowers, embracing and appreciating the fleeting moments of life.
Overall, "Pocket Castanet" emphasizes the deep connection between two individuals, their resonance and influence on each other, and the mutual support and understanding they share amidst the ups and downs of life's journey.
Line by Line Meaning
ポケットに君のメロディー いつも持ち歩いている生き物
I carry your melody in my pocket, it's a living creature that is always with me.
それが僕です そっと祈るように響かせる 体中に
That creature is me, resonating softly throughout my body as if praying.
例えばカスタネットで 簡単なリズム 奏でている
For example, playing a simple rhythm with castanets.
それが君です 気まぐれに生真面目に僕を導いてゆく
That is you, leading me whimsically but sincerely.
つないだ手が語りかける 声になる前の優しい言葉
The connected hands speak gentle words before they become voices.
裏表のない次元でゆっくりと今 呼吸している
Breathing slowly in a dimension without deceit.
お天気がすぐれない日は君の心にある雨雲を
取り除いて太陽を差し出せる存在 そうありたい
On days when the weather is not good, I want to be a presence that removes the rain clouds in your heart and offers you the sun.
靴を汚し 踵減らし 歩いてゆく長い凸凹道
Walking along a long and uneven road, dirtying my shoes and wearing down the heels.
季節ごとに咲いた花の香りを僕ら踏みしめてく
We tread upon the scent of flowers that bloom with each season.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Kazutoshi Sakurai
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind