The soft nature of the show goes together nicely with the soundtrack, which is just as good as the first, and for me, even better. The melody and transition sounds alone make my heart flutter, and it will be sure to raise some vague emotion within you. The musical pieces are truly wonderful, and though I shy away from the music type of Long Shot Party, it is symbolically meaningful and pairs nicely with the anime, as you will find with the ending as well.
The acting is suburb, especially that of Madara(Natsume's guardian cat/sensei), and of that of Natsume himself. Both lead the show in a wonderful voice cast, the two's banter and conversations unique and entertaining.
The only difference you will find with the two seasons is that the first was episodic, while this one verges on two-episode plot arcs, though only a couple. While the shows episodic arc plot remains largely intact, it is something that differs from the anime Mushishi, as it still involves the same characters, same setting(mostly) and a certain growth in Natsume we don't often see in episodic anime.
This season is a bit more upbeat, whereas the last one was more depressing, and certainly more lonely. This one shows a more positive natsume, a clear indication of his growth. Though he is surrounded by human friends and yokai friends, the theme of loneliness is still present, so much so that it wouldn't be amiss if the writers explored something new. Though to do so, might not work, and if something isn't broke..etc
There are few memorable episodes, but each one is enjoyable and rarely boring, and it will pick up momentum as the series goes on.
The character development, which is that mainly of Natsume is greatly woven throughout, and that of Reiko's background is scattered throughout, though there is more than enough questions left unanswered more than anything. While the side-characters remain good natured and lovable, there exists no real momentous change or development among them. They did however introduce a new female character, Taki, who is rather charming, and often makes good use of her screen time through humour with madara(who she finds cute) and her conversations, often deep ones, with Natsume.
As for Art, and animation, you may take what you will. The art work blends softness with clarity, and often gives way to something colorful, and for that, it is truly wonderful, and memorable. The art itself is nothing to brag about though, and while the animation is fluid it will not stand out to you, if you were to compare it to an anime known for its animation; this, will apply to the art as well. However, regardless, you will find no problems with what this show does with either, and you may even feel bias towards it, as I have.
The series, as it proved in the first season, never made Natsume out to be some strong character with the power to defeat all yokai. Though he gets a bit stronger, this can only be seen in his resolve, and though I am not generally a fan of main characters who have no real gifts, it seems to only work wonders for Natsume, who like the show, is compassionate, emotional, full of heart, and upbeat.
