Naoki Sanada's Double A-side New Single "Before the Sun Sets... / Plumeria Rhapsody" Out Today! A Must-Read Fan Buying Guide | In-Depth Review
Sorry to keep you waiting. Today, 8th April, the day has finally arrived. Naoki Sanada's long-awaited double A-side single, "Before the Sun Sets... / Plumeria Rhapsody", hits CD shops and streaming services nationwide. Fans have probably already pre-ordered it, but if you haven't, it's not too late after reading this. We're going to give you a proper Naoki Sanada review, so stick with us to the end.
"Before the Sun Sets..." and "Plumeria Rhapsody": The man with two faces, bringing his A-game
The big draw here is that both tracks are solidly main-event material. Forget old ideas about A-sides and B-sides – they don't apply. Straight from the record label, the quality is exactly what you'd expect.
- "Before the Sun Sets..." – A mid-tempo ballad that feels both classic and refreshingly new. The melancholy of dusk blends perfectly with the strength to move forward. From the first listen, I knew this was something special.
- "Plumeria Rhapsody" – This one's a bit different. With a touch of exotic, tropical flair, the arrangement really stands out. It's a track that shows off Naoki Sanada's depth, refusing to be boxed into just enka.
- Purchase bonuses & tips for events – Check out the different postcards and photos available at each CD shop. Plus, try your luck with the 'Naoki Lottery' for a chance to win signed merchandise!
Will the guitar melodies tug at your heartstrings, or will the rhythm get your body moving? If you truly need a Naoki Sanada guide, start by listening to these two tracks back to back. The gap between his looks and that voice will knock you out every single time.
Release Commemoration Events & YouTube Livestream: No excuse to miss out
Just buying the CD and calling it a day? That's boring – that's not how it works these days. Naoki Sanada has already been rolling out some exciting events since yesterday, 7th April. First on your list should be the YouTube livestream that happened yesterday. If you missed it, don't worry – there should be an archive, so head to his channel right now. And today, the 8th, there's also a premiere of the music video coming up.
If you prefer something in person, don't miss the 'Naoki Lottery' challenge. It's happening now at Naoki Sanada supporter stores nationwide. With a bit of luck, you could get your hands on rare goods or an autograph. Fans near Tokyo should definitely check the schedule at each store.
Ever since he topped the Oricon Enka Kayokyoku chart with 'Ebisu' back in 2020, this guy hasn't slowed down. This year marks exactly a decade since his debut. From a newcomer launching with 'Reiko' in 2016, he now hosts a regular slot on USEN's 'Shigoe Yokocho' and has over 100,000 YouTube subscribers. This man from Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, was never going to be just another enka singer.
If you want a how to use Naoki Sanada in a nutshell, here it is. Put the CD in the player, turn up the volume. And then surrender yourself to that 'knockout voice'. A voice forged by shouting at the seaside, eating chillies, and wrecking his throat with sake – once you hear it, you'll never forget it. Experience its true power in the new single, out today.