World 2003

Rhythm Fantasy is a Japanese dance-pop duo sponsored by the Penelopes' main man, Tatsuhiko Wanatabe. Marilyn Lo and Reiko Nishida share vocal and keyboard duties and come up with a sound pitched in the same vicinity as Saint Etienne and Club 8. World 2003 is a seven-track disc filled with bubbly and charming songs that will put a smile on your face and some pep in your step. Tunes like the opening "Little Baby" or the glittery house romp "Skyscraper" are just as good as anything either of the previously mentioned bands has done recently. Both women have deep and rich voices that blend very well, like on the sweet "You Deserve the Best in Life." The sound of the group is not state of the art; the drum machines are tinny and the keyboards verge on corny, but it works. The melodies and vocal performances help pave over any lingering doubts about the sound of the record. The only tunes that are a bit of a letdown are the overwrought rock ballad "Break of Dawn" and the cheesy synth ballad "Till the End of Time"; otherwise, it is a strong and fun release that deserves U.S. attention.