"MIE: NEVER"
Mie's third solo album which came out around 1985 or so is one of my favorites as she shows why her personal style of soft rock/power pop suits her best, just like adult contemporary is Kei’s niche, and the eleven songs here were, I thought, top notch. Beginning with the title track, “Never” which was originally done by the Australian band Moving Pictures for the soundtrack of Footloose which came out a year earlier was a slick sounding, fast paced number with a wailing sax, a really great tune that Mie belted out to perfection. Next up is “Hungry”, a sizzling hot slow jam that was filled with molten sensuality thanks to Mie’s ravenous vocals, easily my second favorite track on this album. “Dancing Love” was a cute, peppy, toe tapping number that bristled with energy while “Memory” was a floaty, ephemeral ballad and was both stirring and moving. The fifth track, “Somebody” was a a classic example of synth-heavy, power pop tunes from the mid 80’s, and Mie excelled with the vocals, this song truly took me back to what had been called the decade of decadence. This was followed by a short version of the 1960’s Classic oldie “I Love How You Love Me” which was sung acapella style, and in English to boot! Positively delightful! “Don't You Think” was another slick, fast paced power pop number, done like only Mie could do, this was followed by “I Don't Go To The Sea”, a jazzy, smooth as silk soft rock song with lovely, mellow vocals and great trumpet work. “Jutemu” is a smoky, stylish slow jam with a sort of French-tinged sound that I found rather intriguing to listen to. “An Awkward Play” is a guitar heavy soft rock tune with a fast paced, sassy beat that had me tapping my feet and the album closes with “Sicilian Wind”, an elegant, soulful ballad as Mie touches the heart with her stirring vocals, complete with beautiful mandolin work. All in all, Mie’s work on “Never” was very much tremendous and well worth listening to for her solo magic.
