What makes Viola by Hitomi Shimatani notable?

'Viola' solidified Hitomi Shimatani's presence in the J-pop scene, reaching notable chart positions in Japan and contributing to her growing fanbase. The album features tracks that showcase her vocal range and emotional depth, resonating with listeners and critics alike. Released on March 17, 2004, 'Viola' is Hitomi Shimatani's second studio album, following her debut album 'Hurricane' from 2002. At this point in her career, Shimatani was establishing her unique sound within the J-pop genre, building on the commercial success of her first release.