‘Battle Concert’ a blockbuster for the ages

There’s no real way to describe this concert. It’s the best thing since last April 2007 when Berryz Kobo invaded Saitama Super Arena, but this April 20 concert with °C-ute added was too much. Too much. What a great idea and what a great use of the hit songs of both groups.

 

°C-ute won, by the way, on the strength of its singles. But Berryz was right there all the way, limited only by one ballad too many. Even Risako’s solo on “Very Beauty” wasn’t enough to counter Umeda’s incredible comedy routine and her traditional enka-like solo (with staggering visuals by everyone including the Eggs).

 

Throw in a great early battle of singles (°C-ute carried the edge) in the first half, some combo numbers and a few shuffles and, bingo, it was a fantastic time had by all. But both °C-ute and Berryz had a devil of a time deadling with the animated enemy force, going down in a  heap before eventually prevailing in their super-hero personae.

 

And to think Berryz and °C-ute did this thing three – count ‘em, three – times in a single day! This DVD shoot probably occurred during the third and final show; note that Risako almost stumbled and fell right before her solo, and Saki of Berryz has a scary-looking leg wrap on her left knee (which has bothered her since last year) with the wrap continuing all the way up her hamstring. Take care, Little Captain. We can’t lose you.

 

And Saki of °C-ute joined up with Saki of Berryz for a spectacular dance with Maimi in her famed “Lipstick” number. It was Maimi and the rockin’ Sakis, with Saki of °C-ute tying herself up in knots. Crazy.

 

There’s no way to further explain any of this right now and I’m not even going to try. Just peruse this splash of screencaps, and the discussion will have to wait.

 

Yes, this was a battle on several fronts. But it was also a hugely joyous occasion, and take a close look at that Yokohama Arena crowd – it wasn’t the usual gang of wota crazies. Families, seniors, kids … everyone had a ball at this one. And °C-ute and Berryz Kobo dressed for the occasion, all great outfits and just flat-out beauty on display.

 

Lighting was uneven at best, though, and the set was an austere frame. But the Yokohama Arena layout was great, with a long central walkway (almost too long for the girls to effectively cover) and side walkways. Overall, a great show for the fans. This was one for the ages. Get both DVDs and get them now.

 

This is Rad signing off – for  now.