Brainstorming

In my opinion, the music of Pastel*Palettes speaks to a particular fan base that is ardent about idols. While it might not be to everyone's taste, it's fun for fans of idols. With four members showcasing their musical abilities, the band stands out among the idol genre from an instrumental perspective.

The band's distinct sound is a result of Hina's amazing guitar abilities, Chisato's bass prowess, Eve's catchy synths, and Maya's skill as a drummer.

But aside from the other band members, Aya Maruyama is the one who has the biggest impact on the band's image and vocals. Her charming demeanor, commitment to her craft, and stage presence are what truly endear this band, even though her cutesy and soft vocals are noteworthy.

The difficulty, though, is in writing music that fits this particular style.

While thinking through this quandary, I'm engrossed in watching Pastel*Palettes live performance, paying close attention to their songs, and trying to identify the essential components that characterize their idol-rock sound.

"Why is this so hard...!" I thought to myself. Just then, my phone started ringing. Surprised, I checked the caller ID—it was the manager.

"Huh? I don't remember giving my number to her?"

I grabbed my phone and accepted the call, "Yes, Manager?"

"Oh? Nakasone, I heard that you're creating a new song?"

'Heard'? Must've been from the girls.

"Yes... Though don't be surprised, as I am currently figuring out what idol-rock means."

"Hahaha! Don't worry, I was about to tell you to create a new song since Christmas is almost here."

"R-Right..." I didn't even notice that... Time sure flies...

"And so, I want you to create a song for PasuPare with a Christmas theme, Idol-rock style."

Haha... I knew it...

"Well then, good luck." She hung up, leaving me hanging.

"...Why did I accept this job again?" I sighed.

The hum of expensive equipment surrounded me in the production room as I sat there, feeling a bit lost amid the high-tech gear. I sighed, my frustration bubbling up.

How on earth was I supposed to navigate this maze of buttons, knobs, and sliders? Just as I was about to let out a frustrated scream, the door creaked open, and Chisato walked in.

"Hm? Shirasagi-san? What's wrong?" I asked, straightening up in my chair, attempting to look more composed than I felt.

"Oh... Nakasone-kun, I figured you'd be here, so I brought you this." She placed a paper bag beside my laptop.

I peered inside, discovering coffee from Starbucks and some pastries. "What's this?" I asked, looking up at her. "For me? H-How much was it?"

"No, no, it's my treat," she replied with a smile.

"Oh... T-Thank you." I smiled back, feeling a bit more at ease as I pulled out the coffee and glanced at the letter. "Salted Caramel Cold Brew..."

"Is it not to your liking?" she inquired.

"N-No, it's all good!" I assured her, though I couldn't help but think that a dark roast would have been more fitting for a long night ahead.

"Are you planning to stay up all night?" Chisato asked, her eyes showing genuine curiosity. "I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but I met the manager on my way here, and she mentioned something about a Christmas song?"

"Yeah... I might," I replied, feeling a sense of determination.

"I see," Chisato said, her gaze shifting downward. The room fell into silence, and I could sense her concern.

"And then, well, we have to make sure it's perfect," I added, breaking the silence and trying to lift the mood.

Chisato's expression remained downcast as she met my eyes and spoke, "I'll help too."

I blinked, surprised. "What?"

"Yeah!"

"Wait wait, isn't it a producer's job to create a song?" I questioned, trying to grasp the sudden turn of events.

"Well, we're going to sing the song you created anyway! Plus, I don't want you passing out on us."

"Shirasagi-san..."

"W-What? I'm just worried! It's normal to be worried! Aren't you still a high school student?"

"Yeah."

"That's right! You can't fit this kind of schedule since you have schoolwork and producer work!"

I couldn't help but appreciate Shirasagi-san's maturity in thinking ahead. I smiled, "Fine... But in exchange, I want you to practice your bass too."

"E-Eh? Why? Is it not perfect?"

"Didn't think that I watched your introduction video?" I teased, navigating to my laptop's history and clicking on the Pastel*Palettes introduction video.

Chisato immediately blushed and closed the tab. "Erase it from your memory."

"Nope, can't do~"

"Then..." She clenched her fist. "I'll do it myself."

"Wait wait, I'm just kidding! Hahaha, it seems that I have forgotten the video." I chuckled, trying to diffuse the tension.

"Good..." she sighed, taking out her phone and initiating a text conversation with someone.

"Who are you texting?"

"My parents. I'll tell them that I'll be off for the night."

"So you ARE planning on staying?!"

"Yes," she said with a smile.

"S-Seriously..."

And so... the two of us stayed up all night brainstorming in the production room, just the two of us. I won't go into details, but let's just say we were both completely exhausted by the end of it.

She also kept teasing me non-stop.