I'm also quite happy with the choices. I love both Rikako and Murotan and the third girl is adorable. I wonder how the new sound will be. Murotan and Rikako do energetic well I think, but less squeaky than old S/mileage. Also due to Rikako's age (though she looks like she's 15/16 I swearrrr) the sexy songs will be done less I think.
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS! Rikako!!!! Yay! YAY! Been waiting for that and now's just great. =) Don't know Aikawa but Murota may be a great choice too (she resembles a bit MoaMetal btw <3 )
Looks like they're asking for the meaning behind the name. Damnit, now I have to figure out how to say that in Japanese
Murotan and Rikako are going to take the spotlight for sure.. new girl is a wild card, she is really pretty though. I think this will be fine for Meimi, Ayaka, and Kanon... but I wonder if Kana, Rina, and Akari are up to the challenge...
They can still do serious/cool-age like Ii Yatsu/Aa Susukino, they probably just cant go sexy S/mileage like Mystery Night. Can definitely do energetic S/mileage like Eighteen Emotion but not really to the 4 nin or early 6 nin extent.
Edit: I feel like this is what would've happened if they really wanted to go back to the cute route: