Stressed? Had a bad day or just want to relax? If so, marble’s debut album could make for a perfect remedy.

marble’s first full-length album “虹色ハミング” (Nijiiro Humming, Rainbow-colored Humming) was released on February 6, 2008. The soft pop duo take the listener away to a peaceful place.

marble, which consists of micco (vocals) and Kikuchi Tatsuya (guitar & more), gained notoriety following the success of their single “芽生えドライブ” (Mabae Drive). The track was featured as the ending theme in the anime Hidamari Sketch in early 2007. The duo released two more singles in 2007 before going on to record their debut album.

“虹色ハミング” is like a vacation in the countryside. The album’s sounds are calm and organic; it’s very natural and almost cathartic. While the album is this way, it’s not boring. Colorful lyrics and melodies stand out to make tracks on “虹色ハミング” memorable. Songs often have but a few layers. That sounds great considering the nature of marble’s music.

The songs are calm, but not often slow or boring. Much of “虹色ハミング” is steady-paced and tracks like “綿帽子” and “青空loop” really pick things up.

micco’s voice is beautiful.

marble’s debut effort is solid from start to finish. While no tracks are lost in the mix, some elevate above others. The singles (“芽生えドライブ”, “空中迷路”, “青空loop”), “アネモネ”, and “星空” are what I especially enjoy.

[rating:8/10] 8/10

Tracklisting:
01. アネモネ ～Melancholy of marble Version～
02. 空中迷路
03. 青空loop
04. 君とスロー
05. move
06. 青の扉 ～Album Version～
07. 虹色ハミング
08. 綿帽子
09. ほどいた手
10. 最後は白になる。
11. 星空 featuring Lil’ ～Train to Stella Mix～
12. 蕾
13. クローバー ～Ble Nova Version～
14. 芽生えドライブ

Listen to “芽生えドライブ” (Mabae Drive) at the end of Hidamari Sketch

Buy Nijiiro Humming by marble