In honor of Kis-My-Ft2’s complete videography being uploaded to YouTube (in edited form, of course…), I can’t resist writing about each single. To put this in context for Bias List readers, Kis-My-Ft2 (or Kisumai, as they’re often known) are my J-pop version of Infinite. That’s how much I love them and their discography.

Yet, I rarely write about them because finding online links to their music was so hard… until now!

Snow Dome no Yakusoku (2013)

Writing about a holiday song in April feels kind of strange, but Snow Dome no Yakusoku is a ballad you can play all year long. Yes, we have another ballad. This one has a bit more to it, and has become one of Kisumai’s signature tracks around November/December.

The combination of acoustic guitar, gentle percussion and harp-like synths feels very comfortable, and the addition of strings gives the song some weight. I also love how the chorus is immediately preceded by a shot of vocal drama. The rhythm here has a slight r&b vibe, making Snow Dome a ballad with a beat. In fact, much of its production takes me right back to the early 2000s. Kisumai’s performance is pleasant and emotive and elevates a track that could easily be forgettable in other hands.

The music video has a cute snow globe concept, creating a cozy fantasy world inside. Sadly, the YouTube edit nixes the best part. During Snow Dome’s climax, the globe gets shaken up and the guys float into the air. It’s wonderful cheesiness, as expected during the holidays!