Is Trick a good place to start with Kumi Koda?

Yes, Trick is recommended as a starting point for new Kumi Koda listeners. A vibrant fusion of J-pop and electronic rhythms punctuated by bold lyrics and catchy hooks that demand attention. Released on January 1, 2009, Trick marked Kumi Koda's fifth studio album during a period of significant commercial success following her breakthrough with the album Best ~first things~ in 2006. This album came after a string of hit singles, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the J-pop landscape and showcasing her evolution into more experimental sounds.

Trick works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Trick?

Trick has 14 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Trick

Kumi Koda · 2009

55 min · 14 tracks · J-pop

A vibrant fusion of J-pop and electronic rhythms punctuated by bold lyrics and catchy hooks that demand attention.

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Top tracks — play these first

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TABOO Start here — This track exemplifies Koda's signature style with its pulsating beats and provocative lyrics, establishing a bold tone for the album.
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Moon Crying — A poignant ballad that showcases Koda's vocal range and emotional depth, contrasting the upbeat tracks with its introspective narrative.
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Bling Bling Bling — This energetic track blends hip-hop influences with a high-energy production, encapsulating the contemporary dance vibe that defines much of the album.
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Your Love — Combining romantic lyrics with an infectious melody, this song highlights Koda's ability to merge heartfelt themes with catchy pop elements.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic J-pop with electronic elements but lacks strong cohesion across its diverse styles.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with electronic beats, while the second half shifts to more melodic and introspective songs.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the catchiness of the hooks.

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

Influence 4/10

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

dynamic emotional journeys
long, immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Represents a high point in Koda Kumi's sound evolution and commercial success.
Themes: dance floor allure· empowerment through sexuality· neon-lit nightlife
Career context: Released on January 1, 2009, Trick marked Kumi Koda's fifth studio album during a period of significant commercial success following her breakthrough with the album Best ~first things~ in 2006. This album came after a string of hit singles, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the J-pop landscape and showcasing her evolution into more experimental sounds.
Stylistic neighbors: Namie Amuro· Ayumi Hamasaki· Miliyah Kato