There's nary a cloud in the sky in Yuko Ando's brand of midtempo pop. She's developed a reputation over the last 15 years for perpetually optimistic music, with nearly every song boasting a happy ending. Happiness is the natural conclusion for her breezy pop numbers, which unfold at a relaxed pace, inviting you to slow down and take in your surroundings. Influenced heavily by the similarly cheery style of J-pop heavyweight Chara, Ando's guitar-driven songwriting is like a pep talk from a close friend.