What makes Consolation by Kalafina notable?

Consolation debuted at number three on the Oricon Albums Chart and received positive reviews for its orchestral depth and emotive vocals. The album's title track, 'consolation,' showcases Kalafina's signature harmonies and has since become a staple in their live performances, highlighting their impact on the J-pop scene. Released in 2013, Consolation is Kalafina's fourth studio album, following their widely acclaimed album After Eden. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their unique sound within J-pop and baroque pop, blending classical influences with contemporary styles while continuing to build their reputation as a leading vocal group in Japan.

Who is Consolation for?

Consolation works well if you're into dreamlike soundscapes for introspection, wave-like pacing with emotional ebb and immersive journey through lush harmonies.

How many songs are on Consolation?

Consolation has 15 tracks, running approximately 86 minutes.

Consolation

Kalafina · 2013

86 min · 15 tracks · J-pop

Lush arrangements intertwine ethereal harmonies with poignant melodies, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that envelops the listener.

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Top tracks — play these first

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consolation — The title track encapsulates the essence of the album with its soaring melodies and intricate vocal harmonies that highlight the group's strengths.
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to the beginning — This track combines powerful orchestration with reflective lyrics, illustrating the theme of new beginnings which resonates throughout the album's narrative.
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ひかりふる — With its uplifting melody and rich instrumentation, this song serves as a beautiful contrast to some of the heavier themes presented in other tracks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Kalafina's lush harmonies and orchestral arrangements create a distinct sound within J-pop, though some tracks feel less cohesive.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent mid-tempo, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies that create a rich, textured sound, particularly in 'consolation' and 'Door'.
The album includes orchestral arrangements that shift from lush strings to more minimalist piano sections, enhancing emotional impact.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dreamlike soundscapes for introspection
wave-like pacing with emotional ebb
immersive journey through lush harmonies
suitable for reflective evening moments
dynamic shifts that reward attention

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek standalone upbeat anthems

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2013, Consolation is Kalafina's fourth studio album, following their widely acclaimed album After Eden. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their unique sound within J-pop and baroque pop, blending classical influences with contemporary styles while continuing to build their reputation as a leading vocal group in Japan.
Stylistic neighbors: FictionJunction· Lisa· Aimer

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

to the beginning

The verse shifts to an introspective tone, contemplating past choices as it builds towards a hopeful chorus.

This structural choice emphasizes a journey from reflection to optimism, mirroring the overarching theme of renewal found throughout the album.