Honey Sugar and Spice by Milk Film: A Sweet Mess of Indie Pop Magic
Alright, let’s talk Honey Sugar and Spice, the 2003 gem from Japan’s own Milk Film. Released under Cream Cone Records, this album is like that one friend who shows up uninvited to your party but ends up being the life of it. It’s a mix of pop, rock, and indie vibes—kinda like if Avril Lavigne decided to hang out with J-Pop kids in Harajuku. And honestly? I’m here for it.
First off, can we talk about “Dizzy a Go Go”? This track hits you right in the nostalgia glands. Imagine riding a neon-lit rollercoaster while eating cotton candy—that’s what this song feels like. The energy is infectious, the beat is bouncy, and the chorus slaps so hard it might as well be illegal. You know those songs where you accidentally scream-sing along even though you don’t speak Japanese? Yeah, this is one of them. I’ve caught myself mumbling “dizzy go-go-whatever” at random moments, much to my cat’s confusion.
Then there’s “Beside You,” which flips the vibe completely. If “Dizzy a Go Go” is the chaotic bestie dragging you to karaoke, this one’s the quiet crush sitting next to you on the train. It’s got this dreamy, almost melancholic undertone that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Like, sure, it starts off chill, but halfway through, BAM—you’re emotionally compromised. By the end, you’ll either want to call your ex or hug a pillow. Either way, it sticks with you.
Other tracks like “ブーガンヴィルのための音楽” (Music for Bougainvillea) and “Astro Lover’s Rock” keep things interesting too. They’re quirky enough to feel fresh, but not so weird they alienate you. Think of them as the quirky side characters in an anime—they add flavor without stealing the spotlight.
Now, let’s zoom out for a sec. What makes Honey Sugar and Spice stand out isn’t just its catchy tunes; it’s how Milk Film blends genres like they’re making some kind of musical smoothie. One minute you’re jamming to upbeat indie rock, the next you’re floating in ethereal synth-pop heaven. Honestly, it shouldn’t work—but somehow, it does. Like putting pineapple on pizza. Controversial? Maybe. Delicious? Absolutely.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say some tracks could trim down their runtime. But hey, perfection is overrated anyway. Besides, aren’t albums supposed to feel like little worlds you can get lost in? That’s exactly what Milk Film gives us here—a sugary, spicy escape into their sonic universe.
So yeah, Honey Sugar and Spice. It’s messy, it’s fun, and it’s got more personality than most playlists I’ve seen lately. Sure, it came out two decades ago, but good music doesn’t age—it just gets cooler with time. Final verdict? Give it a spin. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself humming “dizzy-go-go-no-idea” during your morning commute.
