Singer-songwriter Natsuki Kawanishi released the new digital single, Sweet Detour, on July 15.

This new song is themed around the concept of “the feeling of being unable to speak your mind and ending up taking the long way around.” It depicts the misunderstandings that arise precisely because people can’t be honest with themselves, as well as the true feelings hidden behind their tough-guy facades, using Kawashishi’s characteristic, unpretentious language. In addition, the sound production was handled by Satoru Takeuchi, who worked on Ideal Girl. With its light and mellow sound and lyrics that make listeners want to sing along, this song conveys a sentiment that is both sentimental and uplifting.

■Comment from Natsuki Kawanishi
“I wrote this song for people who have gotten too good at saying, “It’s okay.” Even while saying, “I’m fine” or “It’s nothing,” deep down, I actually wanted them to notice, or I just wanted to stay with them a little longer. I packed it full of those ambiguous feelings that swing back and forth between putting on a brave face and wanting to be taken care of. I can’t help but feel that life is made up of many detours, and I wish I could love it all, even the days when I can’t be honest with myself and the times when I take the long way around. I’d be happy if you could listen to it while thinking of someone you want to be with, or while relating it to your own experiences.”