Oomuro-ke: Dear Sisters

I loved it right from the get-go. It's all about these little everyday situations that depict the Sisters' lives, offering a real soul-soothing experience. I've always been wary of spin-offs focusing on secondary comedic characters because they usually spell disaster. But this one's a notable exception. Unlike other "failed" attempts, this spin-off doesn't revolve around Sakurako. Instead, it takes us on a journey through the sisters' lives, sparing us from the fatigue of seeing Sakurako's over-the-top antics over and over again.

What sets this work apart is its focus on the iyashikei genre, a genre aimed at healing the soul with its tranquility and simplicity. Here, ... the quirks of the original work, Yuru Yuri, take a backseat, almost disappearing altogether, to make way for a serene and comforting experience. Following the lives of Onee-chan, Nadeshiko, and the imouto, Hanako-sama, is like taking a deep breath after a tiring day. It's an invitation to savor life's little moments, to unwind, and find peace in the mundane. All in all, this spin-off is a true embodiment of iyashikei at its finest.

My favorite moment in the post Doga Kobo Yuru Yuri series is that part from San Hai where it's nothing but 5 minutes of silence starring Rise in a Straw Millionaire type segment where she exchanges various goods for other goods. It's not very funny, especially considering how zany the series can get, but I still do enjoy it for how relaxing and how it provides a nice break in the middle of a chaotic wacky series. In that sense, Oomuro-ke serves basically the same purpose. It's not very funny, it's not very crazy, and it lacks a lot of elements that makes Yuru Yuri ... what it is, but that's okay. What you get is just iyashikei, or a more relaxed slice of life with minimal comedy. And to that effect, Oomuro-ke is a great watch. Temper your expectations, dim the lights, and enjoy 40 minutes of relaxing slice of life starring the brat and her two sisters.

7/10