capsule – JUMPER [12th 7" Analog Single]

Album Cover:

While still nothing amazing to everything else I have scene, I think this is the very first cover I’ve seen without any person on it that I actually like. The contrast between the astrobright colors and the dark background is a lot like the actual music video. And of course, I like the little addition of the X with a star inside it, which seems to be the trademark for this era.

The Digital Stuff You Listen To:

Now, I was really a big fan of the original PV version of Jumper, so I was really hesitant about listening to this after reading some reviews about how they changed something that was already really good. But after taking a listen to it, my big question is “Whats the big deal?”. Aside from the very catchy introduction (which really didn’t fit in with the rest of the song), I fail to see anything to go “damnit” about. While the pitch is slightly higher, it’s hard to actually tell the difference between the two. This version is also faster, which I don’t really mind, as it gives me a challenge it lip sync the ever so famous line “Ankles strapped our secrets slaved march breaking like a fruit just like you leaning bouncing feel the speed of landing stepping jumping jumper”. Yes, that line right there, is pretty much the entire song sung in different ways. I really don’t get it, but it’s insanely catchy to sing along for those 7 minutes. Luckily, it’s not just those lyrics throughout the entire song, as there’s the occasional heavy grungy instrumental here and there. What’s interesting though, is that Toshikos voice has taken a dramatic change for this era as it’s much more “warped” and distorted than it was in Sugarless GiRL, but I don’t mind, since it’s a pretty cool effect. Overall, this song is actually the only 7 minute long song that I can actually put on repeat. Good job guys.

The main reason why I don’t listen to most mainstream American songs is because it feels awkward, especially with rap. I don’t know why, but I feel really awkward and “out of place” while listening to it, and The Time Is Now is no exception, kind of. For one thing, why is it that capsule always has the catchiest introductions, especially this one which sounds like a robot beat boxing. But when some girl starts rapping, I start to cringe because how awkward it is, but after a while it grows on you. It actually sounds pretty cool hearing this rapper with some distortions on her voice. Also, when there is some regular singing going on, she sounds raspy, but I don’t mind either. Honestly, this has to be the first song with rapping I’m actually listening to after the Lil Mama Remix of Girlfriend by Avril.

The Promotional Video:

Honestly, I think I wouldn’t have liked Jumper as much if it weren’t for this video (and just a side note, this version is sung in a lower key). I just don’t know why, but the dark colors are really cool to look it, and I think the capsule has finally found a form of fashion that works for them, gigantic sunglasses that I really want now. Everything about this is video is strangely interesting to look at. The main being Toshiko and the way she moves her lips, along with the cool scenes with all those girls in the wacky dresses. This has gotta be the most interesting J-tek video I’ve seen yet. There are also cool little tidbits, like that little star staying in place even when scenes change, Nakata with a lot more arms, and Toshiko actually looking hot. Actually, this video is the main reason why I now always lip sync to this song, along with jumping around. Now all I need are some big sunglasses and my white Skull Candies, and the this would be perfect.

Overall Rating:

5.3!!! out of 5