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Good (and Bad?) News for Foreign AKB Fans

2010/09/06
By IndigoSkies under AKB48

The good and bad news this last week had for us… (SaeYaka, Team K and AKB48 Paradise)
Super Enpou Tickets – Now Even Easier For Foreigners To See AKB48! (IXA Ready – Fist On!)

So I’ve never had the chance to try and see AKB in Japan. (Or at all actually, but.) But I imagine it must be really hard to get a ticket. They have so many fans now that your chances of getting a ticket to a show are probably getting lower and lower. If you’re a foreign fan, it’s even worse because you only have such a limited time before you have to go back home! In order to fix this, AKB is starting up a “super enpou” ticket system for foreigners. If you apply and tell them when you’re in Japan, they’ll try to hook you up with at least one show that you want to see. And not only that, the seats are in the front row!! I’m so jealous XD

The bad news is that the AKB fanclub, Hashira no Kai, is turning into the AKB Official Mobile Fan Club. While this probably doesn’t matter to many people in Japan, as mobile phones are used constantly there for things like this, it means that foreign fans will probably no longer have access to the fanclub. I’m sure putting everything on a mobile system is much more convenient for Japan, but since other countries have different carriers and systems, it’s impossible for us to get into it at all. This issue has popped up before with mobile-only blogs and subscriptions, and it’s really frustrating to not be able to access things D: But hopefully this will cut down on the reselling of tickets, which is the reason listed for the change, so all in all it’s probably for the better?

The Unexpected Collaboration

2010/09/02
By maiZe under AKB48, Blogs, News, Noteworthy, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

“Yume no Collaboration” Musume x S/mileage x AKB48 (Pure Idol Heart)
When Idols Collide (Selective Hearing)

For those of you who haven’t heard about or seen the clips from this past weekend’s 24hr TV broadcast, Morning Musume and S/mileage from Hello! Project collaborated with some AKB48 members to perform a Ghibli medley and Morning Musume’s Dekkai Uchuu ni Ai ga Aru.

I haven’t read fan reactions on the forums, but I can only imagine the flame wars which resulted from this “yume no collaboration”. I’m a Hello! Project fan, but I found it interesting to see Hello! Project and AKB48 members on the same stage working together (Morning Musume’s leader, Takahashi Ai, and AKB’s #1 girl, Oshima Yuko, were so cute near the end of Dekkai) . And really, this event shouldn’t be about idol group vs. idol group. Both Gaki and OpsMonkey put that in perspective as they remind us that this is a charity event and not the time for wota rivalries.

Morning Musume to Adopt an Alter Ago

2010/08/29
By maiZe under Blogs, News, Up-Front Agency

Morning Musume transforms into Muten Musume for sushi tie-in (Tokyograph)
New Morning Musume Unit “Muten Musume” Single Announced (Hello!SayuNii)
Muten Musume ! Debut Oct 24 (Pure Idol Heart)

Morning Musume is set to transform into cute little chibi versions of themselves to promote a sushi chain based in Osaka. Their alter are known as Muten Musume, and leader AiAi has said, “As Muten Musume, we’ll be helping to spread around the world the culture of Japan’s own sushi”. They will be releasing their single Appare! Kaiten Zushi on October 27th.

It looks like the fears that this sushi single was going to be the graduation single for Kamei Eri, JunJun and LinLin were unfounded. So far, there hasn’t been any further word on Morning Musume’s 44th single. But in the meanwhile, take a glance at the Muten Musume chibis. They’re so adorable!!

Some Previews To Help Decide On Your 2011 Calendar

By maiZe under Blogs, Up-Front Agency

Hello! Project 2011 Calendar Covers Released (Hello!SayuNii)
Your H!P daily dose of 2011 (Jiriri Kiteru)

It’s that time of the year again… Time to decide which idol group (or individual) will adorn your wall for the upcoming year. The two links above have the previous of the covers for the Morning Musume, Berryz Koubou, C-ute, Mano Erina and S/mileage calendars. I have heard that there are previews up for some AKB calendars, but so far haven’t found these previews myself.

H!P fans, one thing to keep in mind is that this year’s Morning Musume calendar will be the last with Kamei Eri, JunJun and LinLin. I wonder if that will affect some choices this year for fans of multiple groups.

Holy $*#&

2010/08/23
By Murr under Blogs, Eyecandy, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Zombie ♥ Mano Erina (Aramatheydidn’t)

Honestly, when I first saw these pics, I was little bit more than freaked out. I had first seen them on a friend’s twitter, so I thought they were photoshopped. He’s got a habit of doing so. Anyway, then I saw them elsewhere and my reaction is STILL wtf. I mean, is this something that you would expect to come from Dear Sweet ~~Boring~~ Innocent Mano Erina?

2010/08/22
By Murr under AKB48, Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Technopop, Up-Front Agency

TBS TV :”Which female group would you want to join?” (Pure Idol Heart)

With the recent influx of new idol girl groups in Japan, I could see why the news stations would be interviewing the public about this. For these groups to even come into existence, there needs to be enough interest in forming new ones/joining established ones. That means that people need to want to apply for the ability to audition for these groups. Don’t even get me started on the last two boy groups/bands that formed in the past week or two. Saturation of the market is NOT needed right now~ -_-

The Antichrist… ?

2010/08/21
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Mano Erina-The Spawn of Satan (Nyu chan desu!!!)

Mano’s latest single and accompanying PV seems to be … strange, for lack of a better word. I mean, ManoEri, the ring leader? Snapping a whip at a middle aged man? While wearing a happy smile!? That seems antichrist-like to me…

Change… Might Be Good

2010/08/19
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Change is good pt 1: Morning Musume (目の前の歌・紅・芽・意)
Change is Good Pt 2: H!P Kids
Change is Good Pt 3: S/mileage and Soloists

So, I understand that change is needed to freshen up the image of Hello!Project, so that they can draw in new fans. And while what Max suggests is interesting, I don’t agree with it. It seems to me as if he’s trying to turn them into another AKB. That’s not what H!P fans, current ones, I guess, are looking for. He’s keep bringing up the issue of line distribution, talking about giving it to the leads, but isn’t that is done already? I don’t know, I just disagree with his thoughts on a proposed restructuring of Hello!Project, but how do you guys feel about it?

By Murr under Blogs, Eyecandy, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Ai-chan through the ages (Morningtime)

The current leader of Morning Musume has long held the attention of the fans. She is beauty personified and has the voice and personality to match… Wait a minute, who am I, VGN? Anyway, I agree with that statement somewhat, but not to the degree that I’ve seen various people go to. Morningtime is one of those people. Ai-chan is goddess to these people. And with this post, you can somewhat see why.

And you know what I mean by THESE PEOPLE.

There are no posts from this category.

Good (and Bad?) News for Foreign AKB Fans

2010/09/06
By IndigoSkies under AKB48

The good and bad news this last week had for us… (SaeYaka, Team K and AKB48 Paradise)
Super Enpou Tickets – Now Even Easier For Foreigners To See AKB48! (IXA Ready – Fist On!)

So I’ve never had the chance to try and see AKB in Japan. (Or at all actually, but.) But I imagine it must be really hard to get a ticket. They have so many fans now that your chances of getting a ticket to a show are probably getting lower and lower. If you’re a foreign fan, it’s even worse because you only have such a limited time before you have to go back home! In order to fix this, AKB is starting up a “super enpou” ticket system for foreigners. If you apply and tell them when you’re in Japan, they’ll try to hook you up with at least one show that you want to see. And not only that, the seats are in the front row!! I’m so jealous XD

The bad news is that the AKB fanclub, Hashira no Kai, is turning into the AKB Official Mobile Fan Club. While this probably doesn’t matter to many people in Japan, as mobile phones are used constantly there for things like this, it means that foreign fans will probably no longer have access to the fanclub. I’m sure putting everything on a mobile system is much more convenient for Japan, but since other countries have different carriers and systems, it’s impossible for us to get into it at all. This issue has popped up before with mobile-only blogs and subscriptions, and it’s really frustrating to not be able to access things D: But hopefully this will cut down on the reselling of tickets, which is the reason listed for the change, so all in all it’s probably for the better?

The Unexpected Collaboration

2010/09/02
By maiZe under AKB48, Blogs, News, Noteworthy, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

“Yume no Collaboration” Musume x S/mileage x AKB48 (Pure Idol Heart)
When Idols Collide (Selective Hearing)

For those of you who haven’t heard about or seen the clips from this past weekend’s 24hr TV broadcast, Morning Musume and S/mileage from Hello! Project collaborated with some AKB48 members to perform a Ghibli medley and Morning Musume’s Dekkai Uchuu ni Ai ga Aru.

I haven’t read fan reactions on the forums, but I can only imagine the flame wars which resulted from this “yume no collaboration”. I’m a Hello! Project fan, but I found it interesting to see Hello! Project and AKB48 members on the same stage working together (Morning Musume’s leader, Takahashi Ai, and AKB’s #1 girl, Oshima Yuko, were so cute near the end of Dekkai) . And really, this event shouldn’t be about idol group vs. idol group. Both Gaki and OpsMonkey put that in perspective as they remind us that this is a charity event and not the time for wota rivalries.

2010/08/22
By Murr under AKB48, Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Technopop, Up-Front Agency

TBS TV :”Which female group would you want to join?” (Pure Idol Heart)

With the recent influx of new idol girl groups in Japan, I could see why the news stations would be interviewing the public about this. For these groups to even come into existence, there needs to be enough interest in forming new ones/joining established ones. That means that people need to want to apply for the ability to audition for these groups. Don’t even get me started on the last two boy groups/bands that formed in the past week or two. Saturation of the market is NOT needed right now~ -_-

AKB48′s Latest Single Sales, Thoughts

2010/08/19
By IndigoSkies under AKB48, Blogs, News

AKB48 Heavy Rotation #1 Ranking (Pure Idol Heart)
AKB48 tops the daily chart! (aramatheydidnt)
AKB48 Heavy Rotation 1st Day Sales (IXA Ready – Fist On!)
[Heavy Rotation] Final Updates + Review (MELOS no Michi)
AKB48 – Heavy Rotation (Selective Hearing)

Today is the long-awaited release day for AKB’s new single, Heavy Rotation, with the PV that everyone’s been talking about! Sales are already out for the day, and it seems that after shipping 650000 copies to stores to sell – more than their previous single – they ending up selling less than Ponytail to Shushu. But before you start freaking out over their downfall, it was only about 10k less, bringing in a total sales number of 340,487. That’s over 300,000 more copies than AAA’s new single at #2!! With that I’d say it’s pretty much guaranteed they’ll get #1 for the week. I can’t wait to see their total sales for the week!

I Can Name That AKB48 Tune in 4 Notes

2010/08/18
By CK♂ under AKB48, Blogs

Name That AKB Song 2010! (No AKB No Life)
Name that AKB song! – Round 6

And here’s your host, Tom Kennedy..errr, I mean Hinatin! I’m glad to see Hina has brought back her popular parlor game. Like the idols themselves, many of our featured bloggers have their own musical talents. Hina breaks out her guitar and plays some of her favorite AKB/SKE tunes, and you get to guess which songs she is playing! Fun, eh?

I’m not sure if there are any prizes in mind, but you can mail your guesses to Hina. Rumor has it that if you win you will be invited back for the bonus “sing-a-tune” round with guest vocalist Kathie Lee Gifford! ;-)

Wanna Sell Your Product, Call AKB!

2010/08/17
By CK♂ under AKB48, News

Puccho x AKB48 (MELOS no Michi)

I am already addicted to this website!

There seems to be no shortage of product endorsements for AKB48 these days. But this is one of the cutest I have seen. Puccho candies is using AKB48 and their new single in a new advertising campaign. Not only is the concept adorable, but the ads themselves are quite tongue-in-cheek! MELOS has linked the site, which is full of mindless entertainment. So now you know why all the girls have recently been talking about candy on their blogs!

Look Out…Here Comes SDN48!

By CK♂ under AKB48, News

SDN48 Announce Major Label Debut (IXA Ready – Fist On!)

Okay, this isn’t really new news. But it was re-announced not too long ago on one of SDN48′s new television programs. AKB48′s “mature audience” unit is about to release their first single. The second part of this story is that management is considering removing the age limit to see the group perform live.

While everyone is ecstatic over the debut single, the age limit issue has stirred a little bit of controversy with some of the SDN faithful. Although the girls themselves seem quite happy about it. I am personally concerned they might homogenize their content to appeal to a wider audience. But then I am reminded of AKB48′s Heavy Rotation PV (hehe) In any case, one year after their debut SDN48 is finally getting the push they deserve. That itself is great news!

Nothing Like Eyecandy to Cheer You Up

2010/08/12
By CK♂ under AKB48, Blogs, Eyecandy, Up-Front Agency

Hello!Project B.L.T Scans (♥May-Lyn’s Hot Spot♥)
Oshima Yuko LA Photobook Previews! (Kira Kira Anni)
MAEDA vs MAEDA 前田敦子前田憂佳 (The Ultimate Idols)

It has been a rough week, I know! May-Lyn comes to the rescue with plenty of H!P photos from B.L.T. magazine. I wonder if those came with any collector cards? For those of you who went to Anime Expo, Anni has previews of the PB Oshima Yuko shot while she was in California. I have two words…”CK Wants” And J wonders which you prefer, the sexiness of Maeda Atsuko or the more taboo sexiness of Maeda Yuuka. I know what my answer is!

With the A6 Debut, AKB48 Finally Completes the Shuffle

By CK♂ under AKB48, Blogs, Concerts

AKB48 Team A 6th Stage – Mokugekisha (Aigon’s Domain)
“We are Eye Witnesses” (of A6 finally premiering) (Team A 6th Stage ‘Mokugekisha’ text-only review) (Where’s Natsuki?)
Team A 6th Stage [Mokugekisha] (MELOS no Michi)
目撃者 = Eyewitness (Creamed Potatoes)
A6: Mokugekisha (目撃者) Review (Wota in training)

Wow, I remember watching Team A’s Stage at the theater back in the Fall of 2008! But FINALLY the last piece of the puzzle is in place. The new Team A finally debuted their new stage, “Eyewitness”. Some of the lucky few who have seen the show have their reviews ready…

We will start with known Team B enthusiast Aigon, who feels the Stage rocks…at times. I have long noticed with Aigon he and I have very opposite opinions about AKB48 songs. He usually loves the songs I hate, and vice-versa. But that’s okay. Somebody has to cheer for everything. He still prefers Team B’s new stuff, but ultimately thinks the shuffle has been a tremendous success overall.

RSL noticed many of the Theater upgrades are evident on the LOD. You can always count on RSL for a detailed costume review. In addition to his well-detailed descriptions of each song, he ends the post with a “favorite-least favorite” listing of the songs, costumes and dances.

MELOS begins by giving props to one of the most surprising aspects of the new stages…The Zenza Girls. I love their songs too, even if I still don’t have a favorite Kenkyuusei. I love that Melos picks some of the same songs as me as his faves. Yes, I love Akogare no Popstar and Saboten no Goldrush too!

P.L’s review is brief and to the point, although she might be the only person I have heard say Takamina’s solo unit “sucked”. That is surprising to me! Finally Mina acknowledges the Talent in Team A, but isn’t fond of too many of these songs. She wishes Mariko would smile more, and wonders how the fans see the girls with such bad lighting. Actually Mina, the lighting isn’t that bad in the Theater. That is more the effect of the LOD cameras.

So not the greatest reviews. I don’t know, I really like A6. But my Oshimen is on Team A. Like with most aspects of pop idols, I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Who Will Have the Honor of Being on Your Wall in 2011?

2010/08/11
By IndigoSkies under AKB48, Blogs, Up-Front Agency

AKB48/SKE48/SDN48 2011 Calendar Line-Up Announced (IXA Ready – Fist On!)
Hello! Project 2011 Calendars Announced (Hello!SayuNii)

It’s only August, but calendars are already starting to be announced! I don’t even want to think about the upcoming school year, let alone 2011, but I do love seeing who gets their own calendars. Hello! Project has the main artists as usual – Momusu, C-ute, Berryz, Manoeri, S/mileage; while AKB and their related groups have a ton of different solo calendars from their girls. So many options! And then there’s things like anime calendars, and actor/actress calendars, and that leads into the biggest question of them all: how can you choose between so many? Do you have the wall space for all of your favorites?!

Can They Get Any Better?

2010/08/04
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Johnny's, News, Pop Idols

Arashi’s new album sells 275,000 copies on first day (Tokyograph)

It’s such a good feeling being a JE fan. Never any disappoint from them in terms of sales. And Arashi’s new album is selling so WELL! And with SMAP selling at the same time, it’s stunning seeing how much power JE has over the idol industry and it’s fan(girl)s.

Buhbye, Akanishi~

2010/07/20
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Johnny's

Johnny to remove Akanishi from KAT-TUN (Tokyograph)
Jin’s message about leaving KAT-TUN (aramatheydidn’t)

I… This kind of makes me laugh. Honestly. I know what I think about this, but for the sake of not offending any fangirls (and boys) delicate sensibilities, I will keep it to myself… But. Is it really a great loss?

Everyone Has That Friend Who Wants to Learn More About J-Pop

2010/06/08
By Amy under Blogs, JPop, Johnny's, Recommended, Up-Front Agency

5 Songs I Would Recommends to an Inexperienced J-popper (fields of maiZe in the morning)

This post is long overdue–sorry, maiZe!–but I absolutely loved it! maiZe responds to MorningBerryz’s request for songs to introduce inexperienced listeners to J-Pop. I love maiZe’s taste in music and this post is a good dip into her favorite artists. I don’t want to spoil which ones she posted, but I can say that I love them! Especially the last two, two of my favorites <3 What do you all think, would you show your inexperienced friends these songs or do you have your own list?

Murr Completes her Essay

2010/05/31
By maiZe under Blogs, Johnny's, Pop Idols

Idol Theory, pt. 3 (鮮やかなblue)
Idol Theory, pt. 4
Idol Theory, pt. 5

She began her essay on idol theory back in February, and I’m happy to see that she finally completed it! If you missed parts 1 and 2 she has links to them in these posts, so you can catch up before starting on part 3. It’s an interesting look on how the idol industry works, and good introduction into the Japanese idol industry if you don’t know much about it.

Even if you are fairly well verse in the idol world, you may still find out new little tidbits as you read through her essay. I definitely learned a thing or two about Johnny’s entertainment here – but then again, I’m still a baby when it comes to the world of Johnny’s entertainment.

Arashi a Hit on MSte… Oh Yeah, AKB too…

2010/05/30
By Murr under AKB48, Blogs, JPop, Johnny's, Snark

ARASHI and AKB48 at Music Station (Jiriri Kiteru)

AKB and Arashi, both groups fighting to top the Oricon Charts right now, both appeared on a recent episode of Music Station. Well, Arche has some choice words to say about AKB’s latest single, of which I have to say I agree :D. But the best part of this post I think is the Arashi worship. Guys, readers, I have news for you. Arashi is amazing. AMAZING. Moving on… The differences between the performances of these idol groups is hilarious. And then there’s a little rant about Risako at the end, but you can just ignore that bit…

Liamers Investigates Music Beyond the H!P Boundaries

2010/04/25
By CK♂ under Blogs, JPop, Johnny's, Pop Idols

Expanding Music Horizons series: Part 1 (Mayuge Madness)
Expanding Music Horizons series: Part 2

There is tons of music to enjoy in this world. Liamers has decided to venture out and sample a bit of it. Not to say he doesn’t already have a diverse musical taste. Anyway, where else to start than a few other female J-pop acts. He starts with the prerequisite Perfume and the “dreaded” AKB. But I am really interested in his thoughts on Vocaloid, which is a music genre I really like but am still somewhat confused about!

For part 2…male idols? Wow! Liamers delves into the world of Johnny’s Entertainment, and judging by the amount of video embeds he really likes KAT-TUN! He also really likes J-rockers Abingdon Boys School. It is always enjoyable to hear someone’s thoughts when they are new to a group, especially when that group is a favorite of yours. So if you are a fan of the above-mentioned artists, I’m sure you will get a kick out of these posts!

Liamers also promises his next post to be an investigation into K-pop. I wonder which groups he will take a liking to?

Someone’s Been Caught In The Storm!

2010/04/08
By Murr under Blogs, Johnny's, New Blogs

Stormy fields of maiZe

One of our very own has opened a new blog, having found a new fandom! maiZe has found a new idol group to follow on the male side of things. And how can you not blame her? Arashi are some handsome and amusing Japanese idols, what’s not to like about them! I say new blog, but this blog was actually started in January… And so far, our beloved maiZe has ranked the dorks of Arashi and her fave PVs. I love her commentary on these guys!

MorningBerryz Has a Special Giveaway~!

2010/03/31
By Murr under Blogs, Eyecandy, JPop, Johnny's

~What’s your Arashi♥ top 5? giveaway っo(*´∀｀)o～ (モーニングBerryz…the morning after…..)

For those Arashi fangirls out there! MB has always had amazing giveaways, her prizes always being worth the effort of signing up for vox and doing what it takes to get that prize! This time, she’s offering Arashi’s 5×10 DVD clips and the LE version of Troublemaker ~~which I WANT~~. Go! Enter that contest! Who knows, you just might win!

Also, eyecandy. Lovely, lovely eyecandy.

Murr’s Got a New Home and Belated Cake Day Wishes

2010/03/21
By maiZe under Blogs, Cake Day 2010, Johnny's, Up-Front Agency

Third Time’s a Charm… (鮮やかなblue)

Murr recently packed up her blog and moved to her 3rd home – she is now being hosted by Nicole on unchained.nu. So, update your blogrolls and rss feeds!

In addition to letting us know about her move, she gives a shoutout to IW for Cake Day. While she has no cake, she does have 2 birthday songs to belatedly celebrate the day – one from Hello! Project, one from Johnny’s. So, if you want cute girls singing happy birthday, or cute guys…. Or both, look no further!

The Troublemakers Get Mixed Reviews

2010/03/15
By maiZe under Blogs, Johnny's

~ARASHI 「Troublemaker」 First 2X winner of The Maochan♥ award~ ー(*￣Ｏ￣)ノ (モーニングBerryz…the morning after…..)
ARASHI – Troublemaker (No Music No Life)
ARASHI – Mou Ippo (One Step) (Troublemaker’s B-side)

Anyone who follows the Oricon charts knows that Arashi’s latest single Troublemaker sold very well in its first week. But how did kind of reviews did it get from bloggers?

Anyone who knows MorningBerryz knows she’s a diehard Arashi fan, and her enthusiasm for the group is not dampened at all with this release. She loves everything about the single – from the PV (stating it to be one of Arashi’s best), to the b-sides. She loved it so much it got a double Maochan award, the first time in MB’s blog’s history. I think that’s her very subtle (ha!) way of showing her appreciation for the single.

On the other end of the spectrum, Karen of No Music No Life was less than pleased with Arashi’s latest venture. Giving the A-side and first B-side a listen, she was disappointed to find that both songs bored her as she found that Arashi was being too “safe” in their musical style. Luckily, upon listening to the second B-side, only available on the regular edition of the single, she found a saving grace to an otherwise lackluster release.

New Unit From Nice Girl Project: COCOCREW

2010/06/13
By maiZe under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, TNX

New Unit: COCOCREW (Pure Idol Heart)
COCOCREW – Performance, Talk, Fashion Show (Miracle Sexy Dynamite)

I’m a little late on this news, but a new unit from Nice Girl Project has released a PV for their new song “COCOLULU SONG”. According to Pure Idol Heart, they are the image group for the COCOLULU shops.

Pure Idol Heart has the PV as well as a CM for the song, while Miracle Sexy Dynamite has links to a special live and fashion show which were posted on the COCOLULU website.

It’s a nice, summery and catchy song. Makes me think I should take some time and check out the rest of the Nice Girl Project… Always did mean to look into THE Possible back when they were still in Hello! Project.

Hey, Senpai! Is A Blog Here to Help

2010/03/01
By maiZe under Blogs, JPop, New Blogs, Pop Idols, TNX, Up-Front Agency

Hey, Senpai! is a new idol focused blog, less than a month old. It’s quite an interesting blog as their about page outlines their mission:

Our goals are twofold: to provide fans with hard-to-find information such as Mixi and song download rankings, and to assist fans in using Japanese resources to show support for a group or individual.

In addition to a Mixi FAQ (prior to this, I didn’t know much of anything about Mixi), they also have a tutorial on how to create your own Ameba blog. And of course, they also provide a healthy dose of current idol news (as well as a blogroll of official H!P, TNX, Idoling!!!, etc. blogs and twitter accounts).

It looks like this site will grow to become a good souce of idol information. I look forward to seeing what else they have in store for us.

Tokito Ami recognized as Idol of the Week. Glorious Eyecandy follows.

2010/02/10
By johpan under Eyecandy, TNX

Idol of the Week: Ami Tokito (Japanator)

Dale North of Japanator has started an “Idol of the Week” series and is already on week 10. While focusing primarily on gravure idol as opposed to JPop idol, this post caught my eye since it features TNX’s Tokito Ami! The post also has a gallery of pictures for us to drool over featuring bikinis, etc.

Keep an eye out on this series for more eyecandy! I know I will.

Eri~na Leaves Canary Club and Akiyama Yurika Gets a Photobook

2009/05/05
By broomhead under Blogs, News, TNX

Erina Hashiguchi leaves the nest of Canary Club (Tokyograph)
Akkyan 1st Solo Photobook (Miracle Sexy Dynamite)

Tokyograph reports that Hashiguchi Erina is graduating from Canary Club, but will also be remaining – arguably as a solo artist – with NICE GIRL Project.

mint as Miracle Sexy Dynamite lets everyone know that Akiyama Yurika of THE Possible will have a photobook released on June 25.

THE Possible to Appear Live at Ameba

2009/04/10
By CK♂ under Media Site, News, TNX

THE Possible on Ameba Studio (Miracle Sexy Dynamite)

Juju reports that three members of THE Possible will be broadcasting live at Ameba Studio this Saturday. And of course it will be streaming live via the Ameba web site. She has posted a link and the local U.S./Canada start times for those of you who are “timeline challenged”.

I sometimes watch these Ameba interviews, but for some reason my PC freezes a lot during the show. Oh well, I am glad to see the NGP machine chugging along. And I think it’s about time for a new THE Possible single, ne?

Miracle Sexy Dynamite Reports on an NGP Single and Anime Tie-in

2009/04/05
By CK♂ under Blogs, TNX

Ogawa Mana’s new anime voice role, opening/ending single (Miracle Sexy Dynamite)

Juju has all of the particulars on the new anime series starring Mana Ogawa. The series is called Gokujou!! Mecha Mote Iinchou and debuted this past weekend on TV Tokyo. She also has previews of the associated songs, which were performed by members of NICE GIRL project although we do not yet know which members were part of the single. I really like that first song, especially with that “Irish Traditional” sounding guitar lick on the intro. The second track sounds very R&B. And reminds me a lot of MiniMoni’s Crazy About You.

Miracle Sexy Dynamite is a New TNX/NICE GIRL Project Blog

2009/03/29
By CK♂ under Blogs, Recommended, TNX

Miracle Sexy Dynamite

It’s about time someone started a blog dedicated to Tsunku’s NGP girls. Juju from Melody Life has taken on that task. Everything you have ever wanted to know about Canaria Club, THE Possible, Tokito Ami and the dreaded Nice Girl Myu!

The most recent posts are reports on a new Canary Club radio show, and a regular NGP television program which begins broadcasting on satellite in April. Plus Juju also plans on keeping us updated on all of the latest TNX/NGP releases. So go ahead and update your feedreader!

Merry Go Round has H!P 2008 Awards Results

2009/02/14
By misa under Blogs, Recommended, TNX, Up-Front Agency

2008 H!P/TNX Awards Results

Amy of Merry Go Round has posted the results of the 2008 H!P and TNX release poll she did, and I can say I’m not very surprised at the results. Niigaki definitely deserved her no.1 positions, because she is definitely the hottest idol of 2008, however I disagree with Monkey Dance being the wost PV. That’s just my opinion, isn’t it? Anyways, its interesting to see how this turned out. I think Erika’s hotter than people are giving her credit for! But being one who voted against Miki Korenaga, I’m not surprised she was tied with Erika for ugliest. Great poll, Amy!

Ai no ENERGY is Possibly a New Blog by a Nice Girl

2009/01/23
By Amy under Blogs, TNX

Roselinde of Hello!°C-ute has had a new blog since December dedicated to news about Nice Girl! Project and THE Possible. She’s got a couple informative posts up about various artists under TNX, including downloads, magazines, and tracklists! If you enjoy Hello!°C-ute’s news reporting style and are looking for some about TNX, this is the place to head to!

Melody Life is a New Jmusic Blog

2009/01/12
By Nicole under Blogs, Recommended, TNX, Up-Front Agency

Recommended reading. To those of you who frequent #wotachat, Juju (otherwise known as Mint) needs no introduction, but for the rest of you silly bloggers who have no idea who Juju is or why she’s awesome… consider this your first lesson in, uh, badassery. Melody Life will probably focus on Juju’s main jmusic interests, which include Hello! Project, TNX, and (as I’m guessing from the banner) Perfume, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see her venture into other areas as time goes on. Having known Juju personally for quite some time, I’m fully confident that she’ll become one of IW’s favorite bloggers. … no pressure, right?

BoA’s Back in Korea & Hitting The Big Screen In the US

2010/08/06
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Kpop, News

BoA’s Korean Comeback + ‘Game’ Music Video (BoA’s House)
BoA to Star in Hollywood Dance Film (bottom article)

She’s spent some time away from Korea building up her career in Japan, and launching an American album, but BoA’s back with a Korean album after 5 years away. I remember way back in the day listening to Sara and ID; Peace B. The album released earlier this week and has strangely put me in a nostalgic mood.

In addition to her new album, it’s been announced that BoA will be in a Hollywood dance film. I’m a huge fan of dance, though I couldn’t dance to save my life. I hoping it’s a large-scale movie like Step Up 3D and BoA can get a lot of exposure in the US through this role.

Popping Up Like Weeds pt. 1

2010/06/24
By Murr under Avex Trax, JPop, Pop Idols

Avex Adds 12-nin “SUPER GiRLS” (Hey, Senpai!)
New Unit:SUPER☆GIRLS [New Update ] (Pure Idol Heart)
AVEX Creates Another New Idol Group (IXA Ready – Fist On!)
Avex forms new idol group SUPER GiRLS (Tokyograph)

With this oversaturation of the market, it’s getting hard nowadays to avoid female idol groups as they seem to be popping up EVERYWHERE with no signs of stopping in the future. It’s getting hard to track who is who and who is signed up to which agency and label. I mean, seriously, is it really necessary for all these groups to exist!?

That being said, who knows what their music is going to sound like? I’m leaning towards the stereotypical J-pop sound for idols, though I have more faith in this one, as they’re being debuted by Avex. There’s a number of directions they could head with a large range of ages and 12 girls with (hopefully) different vocal ranges.

Goto Maki’s Set To Make Her Comeback

2010/06/09
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Blogs, JPop, Noteworthy

Official Goto Maki Site Renewed (Hello!SayuNii)

Maki’s site is back up and she looks poised to get back into the thick of it with her upcoming mini-album set to release this July. Ado also has a link to the concert she streamed on June 3rd, in case you missed and it and wanted to check it out.

It’s good to see her back after a few months out of the media eye. She looked sharp and sounded great. Get ready Maki fans, ’cause she back in business!

Goto Maki’s Back This Summer

2010/05/17
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Blogs, JPop, Noteworthy

Goto Maki Will Resume Activities This Summer (Hello!SayuNii)

Goto Maki is back to work this summer after taking time off to grieve the passing of her mother earlier this year. As Ado reports, Maki will kick things off with a mini-concert in June and it looks like it will be streamed live. She is following that up with a mini-album release in July.

I’m surprised that this news hasn’t popped up anywhere else… Where have all of Maki’s fans gone? I’ve liked what she’s done since she joined up with Avex. I’m looking forward to her mini-concert – you can bet that I’ll be watching on June 3rd if it does end up streaming.

Queen of J-pop on Ustream?!

2010/04/13
By Murr under Avex Trax, Blogs, Concerts, JPop, Media Site

Ayu interview on Ustream tomorrow! (aramatheydidn’t)

To celebrate the release of her 11th original studio album, “Rock’n'Roll Circus” and the start of her new tour, she will be broadcasting a 45 minute interview on Ustream, teaming up with Yahoo!Japan. Aramatheydidn’t has all the information as well as the link in their post, so go check it out, you Ayu stans and Fans!

Japanese Music Reviews Cooler Than Your Mom Reviews Mainstream and Indie J-Music

2010/03/25
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Blogs, JPop, New Blogs, Pop Idols, Visual Kei

Japanese Music Reviews Cooler Than Your Mom

Japanese Music Reviews Cooler Than Your Mom is a new blog which is a few weeks shy of hitting it’s 2-month old mark. sakurayume is a new blogger, and she is covering a wide variety of J-music acts – from Goto Maki, to Perfume, to XodiacK (… I’d never heard of this group before, and I’d never heard of the ‘Galactic Rock’ genre, but now I know it thanks to sakurayume).

If you check out her about page, she explains that she is “going to try and put special emphasis on indie artists as I feel like they are really important to music appreciation.” If you’re looking to try get some info on some the more obscure j-music acts, it looks like this will be a good place to check out!

This May Welcomes The Next Generation Of Idols

2010/03/22
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Brace yourself: the Idol Wars are coming (again)! (Hey, Senpai!)

Hello! Project vs. AKB48? AKB48 vs. Idoling!!!? Idoling vs. Hello! Project? These idol rivalries are so last decade! Piper_G looks towards this coming May where a whole new slew of young, up and coming idol groups will be making their major debuts.

It looks like Avex’s Tokyo Girls’ Style and Stardus Promotions’ Momoiro Clover are releasing their debuts on the same day – May 5th. Meanwhile, Hello! Project’s S/mileage isn’t officially set to debut yet – they still need to reach their 10,000 smile quota to get the go ahead from producer, Tsunku♂. Last I heard, they had reached 8,000 with less than a week to go. If they can get that last 2000 smiles, do you think we’ll be seeing a triple launch on May 5th?

Time For Cake Day Pink Wota Style

2010/03/18
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Blogs, Cake Day 2010

[Cake Day Symphony] Part 1: BAKE FOR ABSOLUTION (Pink Wota)
[Cake Day Symphony] Part Two: ROCK ‘N’ ROLL CIRCAKE

Vee at Pink Wota makes Cake Day epic. Last year’s Yuke Yuke Monkey Cake was awesome, and this year, she has 2 Cake Day posts to share. The first is filled with cupcakes dedicated to a band which has nothing to do with J-music… But the original idea involved idols (though it wasn’t supposed to be for IW’s cake day… But that’s not the point). The point of this first post (for me at least) is the awesome Muse vs. SNSD photo near the end of the post (and the cupcakes of course, cause they look tasty)! Her narrative throughout the making of these cupcakes is awesome to read through.

Cake Day Part 2 gets to the true IW Cake Day celebration as Vee makes another amazing cake to celebrate with us! You really have to check it out. This year, we are treated to her “making of” videos – now I’m really sad we missed out on the inside info of how the monkey cake was made last year. I just have to say that Vee’s dad is so awesome! :D

A double dose of recommended eating!

What Do Ayumi Hamasaki and Mick Jagger Have in Common?

2010/02/23
By CK♂ under Avex Trax, Blogs

Give Ayu Shelter (Pink Wota)

With the announcement of Ayu’s 2010 concert tour, Vee doesn’t fail to notice the “humor” in the tour’s chosen title. Rock n’ Roll Circus? Where have I heard that before?

Yes Vee, the 1968 super-concert was the first thing I thought of as well. I even named one of my personal blog posts after The Who’s performance in that show. But back to Ayu, apparently she is getting in touch with her rock n’ roll roots. 60′s Brit rock to be precise. And it is no coincidence that Ayu has recorded in the same London studio as the Rolling Stones. All of this news has Vee excited about the tour and possible forthcoming album, which by every indication is going to rock!

Goto Maki’s Mother Has Died

2010/01/24
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Blogs, Noteworthy

Goto Maki’s mother passed away: Goto Tokiko (55) (Hello! Online)

The mother of Goto Maki, a former member of Morning Musume and current Avex artist, has passed away. Goto Tokiko died after falling from a third storey window and suffering severe head injury. Hello! Online has more information on the situation, news clips and reactions from some former Hello! Project members.

My deepest condolences go out to Maki and her family as they deal with this terrible tragedy.

2010/08/22
By Murr under AKB48, Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Technopop, Up-Front Agency

TBS TV :”Which female group would you want to join?” (Pure Idol Heart)

With the recent influx of new idol girl groups in Japan, I could see why the news stations would be interviewing the public about this. For these groups to even come into existence, there needs to be enough interest in forming new ones/joining established ones. That means that people need to want to apply for the ability to audition for these groups. Don’t even get me started on the last two boy groups/bands that formed in the past week or two. Saturation of the market is NOT needed right now~ -_-

The Antichrist… ?

2010/08/21
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Mano Erina-The Spawn of Satan (Nyu chan desu!!!)

Mano’s latest single and accompanying PV seems to be … strange, for lack of a better word. I mean, ManoEri, the ring leader? Snapping a whip at a middle aged man? While wearing a happy smile!? That seems antichrist-like to me…

Change… Might Be Good

2010/08/19
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

Change is good pt 1: Morning Musume (目の前の歌・紅・芽・意)
Change is Good Pt 2: H!P Kids
Change is Good Pt 3: S/mileage and Soloists

So, I understand that change is needed to freshen up the image of Hello!Project, so that they can draw in new fans. And while what Max suggests is interesting, I don’t agree with it. It seems to me as if he’s trying to turn them into another AKB. That’s not what H!P fans, current ones, I guess, are looking for. He’s keep bringing up the issue of line distribution, talking about giving it to the leads, but isn’t that is done already? I don’t know, I just disagree with his thoughts on a proposed restructuring of Hello!Project, but how do you guys feel about it?

Weren’t the 70′s Grand?

By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols

10 Popular 70′s J-Pop Songs (Yonasu.com)

It’s always to hear what was considered idol music back in the 70′s, 80′s, and even the 90′s. Listening to these songs, you can really tell where the likes of Morning Musume, Momoiro Clover, AKB48, Arashi, and the rest of those idols got their inspiration and influences from. I love the classic feel of all these songs.

The Worst of the Worst

By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Recommended, Up-Front Agency

Why the worst matter (Aoi♥Usagi)

Simple question I’ve got for you guys. Is there an idol group in which there isn’t a member you hate/dislike? Honestly? And that idol group, do you pay attention to it? I mean, aside from single releases and things of that nature, do you really care what’s happening to that group? Line delegation? Facetime in the PV? If not there’s probably a reason you don’t care that much and I think Usa-chan’s got a good explanation as to why.

Idols Enter the World of Pixar – 3D

2010/08/18
By Midori under Concerts, JPop, News, Noteworthy, Pop Idols, Recommended, Up-Front Agency

TBS To Air A Morning Musume Event In 3D (Hello! Sayunii)

Yes, Morning Musume is entering the world of 3D entertainment. 3D has been quite popular lately around the world, and with Morning Musume trying to get back into the top idol game, they appear to be beating AKB48 to what could be a very interesting change in the idol concert medium.

While the details aren’t all clear, as Hello! Sayunii points out, there’s still quite a bit to be excited about: idols in 3D! Maybe this new foray into the 3D market is why Hello!Project hasn’t been spending money lately? And, most importantly, before they go, our three soon-to-be former Morning Musume members will get a chance to show their stuff in a breakthrough in idol performance.

Sad News in the J-Pop World

2010/08/11
By IndigoSkies under JPop, News

Utada Hikaru to Take Indefinite Break (Japan Zone)
Utada to release singles collection before taking indefinite break (Tokyograph)

I feel like suddenly a lot is happening in j-pop right now – is it just me? I’m willing to bet that everyone who knows j-pop knows Utada Hikaru, with her long career as a very popular artist. But it looks like that long career is coming to a temporary halt, so she can focus on her personal growth. I don’t blame her, since she’s been singing since she was young. When you’re a star, you probably don’t have much of a personal life, right? While I’m sure all of her fans will miss her, I wish her the best with everything she wants to do, and I’ll be looking forward to her return.

Can They Get Any Better?

2010/08/04
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Johnny's, News, Pop Idols

Arashi’s new album sells 275,000 copies on first day (Tokyograph)

It’s such a good feeling being a JE fan. Never any disappoint from them in terms of sales. And Arashi’s new album is selling so WELL! And with SMAP selling at the same time, it’s stunning seeing how much power JE has over the idol industry and it’s fan(girl)s.

Does This Make a Difference?

2010/08/03
By Murr under Blogs, Eyecandy, JPop, Pop Idols

Ayumi Hamasaki’s Faces (Yonasu.com)

If… If I open this eye wider? What if I tilt my head this way? Let’s blow my hair to this side? Any different? Yes? SUCCESS! I’d be extremely cross if that was actually how photoshoots ran. Do you think she actually consciously tries to change her facial expressions? Or when she’s asked to pose, it just falls into that one mindlessly… Questions, questions.

2010/08/22
By Murr under AKB48, Blogs, JPop, Pop Idols, Technopop, Up-Front Agency

TBS TV :”Which female group would you want to join?” (Pure Idol Heart)

With the recent influx of new idol girl groups in Japan, I could see why the news stations would be interviewing the public about this. For these groups to even come into existence, there needs to be enough interest in forming new ones/joining established ones. That means that people need to want to apply for the ability to audition for these groups. Don’t even get me started on the last two boy groups/bands that formed in the past week or two. Saturation of the market is NOT needed right now~ -_-

MEG leaving the music biz. TechnoPop cries.

2010/08/06
By johpan under News, Noteworthy, Technopop

Bad MEG news, everyone. :( (contemode LJ Community)

Community member tiaraways shares her translation of the rather sudden news of MEG leaving the music scene. Non-fans may find it a little tl;dr but personally, reading this just makes me love the TechnoPop sweetheart even more. MEG admits to being in a place in her career where new ideas can’t be born. In a glass-half-full way of looking at it, she’s doing us a favor by leaving now and not x number of half-assed singles down the road. For that, MEG, I thank you.

On a personal level, I’m sure a lot of us can relate to how MEG is feeling and why she feels the need to break off from her current situation. Like most of the commenters in the post said, you’ve got to admit that she’s got guts to drop everything and follow her heart and reset like this.

Towards the end of the post, MEG hints that she may return with a new record label or create a new label for herself. No matter what she decides for her future, I know I’ll be watching. BTW, I liked MEG more than Perfume

Back With A Bang?

2010/07/17
By Murr under Blogs, New Blogs, Technopop

THE END OF THE POLYSICS HIATUS (Natsu Bam Bam)

POLYSICS are back, and it seems with a bang! With a new promotional picture and a set gig coming up later this year, the absence of Kayo is really startling.

Update: Perfume Returns With A Contrasting Double A-Side

2010/03/30
By johpan under Fan Sites, Technopop

New single details:「Fushizen na Girl / Natural ni Koishite」 (Perfume City)

Contrary to initial interpretations, Natural ni Koishite is actually one half of Perfume’s latest single… a DOUBLE A-SIDE SINGLE! According to the news from Perfume City, ekuseru points out that Fushizen translates to “unnatural” or “artificial” contrasting with the “Natural” kind of love that we’ve been introduced to from its PV and Natural Beauty Basic CM clips.

To those who weren’t completely satisfied with how Natural ni Koishite turned out, here’s hoping that the contrast in titles also carries into a contrast of emotion conveyed in the music.

To the rest of us that just enjoy the fact that Perfume’s releasing new stuff, YAY FOR US :D

Reactions to Perfume’s Natural ni Koishite

By johpan under Blogs, Technopop

All Natural Perfume (23ji no ongaku)
Perfume – Natural ni Koishite (musical ramblings of a dreamer)

The Natural ni Koishite PV has been up for a little while now and some reaction posts have popped up.

Nicole of 23ji no ongaku sees this latest track as unnaturally cheery for the girls.

“…something makes the song seem so un-serious that it’s almost silly.”

I definitely see parts of the PV being silly but musically, I’m kinda not seeing where she’s coming from. It could just be the sound system I’m listening to it with: every thump of the kick drum rumbles seriousness. There are no un-serious kick drum thumps here ;D. If acchan of Maji High ever came over and heard the seriousness of my bass, she’d take off her glasses and destroy it. まじすか? </lulz>

A new challenger has appeared going by the pen name “dreamtiny” and reviews the PV and has a bit of commentary on the use of autotune and its appropriateness. It’s a fun read but the very last sentence caught my eye:

“Anyway, their new single releases on April 14, and I bet they’ll sell well! (though probably nowhere near as well as AKB did)”

It’s always been in my head that Perfume is one of the better selling Japanese artists, especially after TRIANGLE. It’s just been a while since they’ve released anything so those who follow sales don’t have much to judge with based off the release silence. Considering the release gap and contrasting that with the touring and what not that happened during the release gap, where are they going to be for first day / first week sales?

On one side, we have the Perfume die-hards that have been fans since the indies days; has the release gap taken its toll on the fan base? On the other side, Perfume’s popularity with the new fans (from the touring and what not) should be high and their exposure should be up there too especially with the Natural Beauty Basic CM campaign; is this enough to boost their sales?

AKB48′s latest single “Sakura no Shiori” sold over 317,000* copies in its first week. The single before that, “RIVER”, sold over 178,000* in its first week and was their first single to hit #1. From my understanding, RIVER was responsible for hooking a considerable amount of fans all over the world which would partially explain the huge jump in sales. Consider that Perfume’s TRIANGLE sold 210,000* in its first week. While Perfume’s first major fan explosion was over Polyrhythm, do you think that Natural ni Koishite could outsell 317,000? </tl;dr>

Anyway, dreamtiny just started blogging at the start of the year but has reviews and comments on a lot of the JPop and KPop artists we know and love here at IW so be sure to check out the rest of the blog!

* sales stats from Oricon via jpopstop’s wiki

Perfume’s Natural ni Koishite PV is now streaming!

2010/03/18
By johpan under Fan Sites, Technopop

Natural ni Koishite PV Released! (Perfume City)

Meirin reports that Perfume’s latest single’s PV is up on TOKUMAJAPAN’s YouTube channel! Considering it’s been a year since we’ve heard a new single*, this is a very welcome bit of news on this fine Cake Day! It also justifies my pre-order. Yay Perfume for never failing me!

Anyway, check out this awesome new track by these lovely ladies!

*One Room Disco released in March 2009 while TRIANGLE released in July 2009

Some Upcoming Technopop Releases!

2010/02/13
By Wendy under Blogs, News, Technopop

Perfume’s Valentines Gift to us: New Single Announced! (Perfume City)
NEW Perfume single!! (contemode LJ community)
New MEG Single Confirmed?
New Stuff In April, あいにいくよ (PlanetSAWA)

I don’t know about you guys, but I’ve really been feeling the lack of contemode material lately. However, as you may or may not know, capsule has an album coming out soon (personally I am REALLY EXCITED). But where are Perfume and MEG? Well, the problem has been resolved. Perfume City and the contemode community on LiveJournal have information on Perfume’s new single set for April! Not much is known about it right now, though. The contemode community is also reporting on MEG’s new single, but there’s hardly any information on that either besides the fact that it’s coming out on April 21st.

SAWA, on the other hand, recently put out her Swimming Dancing mini-album (November isn’t really recent, but it’s MORE recent than contemode’s acts) so there’s not really a lack of her. Either way, you can never have too much SAWA! (Don’t bother arguing about that.) She has a new mini-album titled Ai ni Iku yo that’s set to be released on April 7th and we already have a preview and tracklist! There’s lots of info provided by BlackCheremy, so instead of me trying to summarize it all, I’d recommend just checking out the post itself.

I am SO excited for all of this. Perfume’s my favourite group, MEG’s my favourite solo singer, and I love SAWA! Her preview sounds really cute, too. Ah, April can’t get here fast enough!

Perfume City Has the Top Perfume Songs of 2009!

2010/01/05
By Amy under Blogs, Fan Sites, JPop, Noteworthy, Pop Idols, Technopop

And the Best Perfume Song of 2009 is… (Perfume City)

Meirin over at Perfume City has the results for their recent poll asking readers what they thought the top Perfume song of the year was! I don’t want to spoil the top three, but I do want to mention that one of my favorite songs, the best thing, came in at #4! Either tons of Perfume fans have great taste or we’re all just crazy! I was surprised to realize that Perfume only released one single and one album this year, but I guess it’s good that they’re not flooding the market. Let’s hope that they release some more #1 singles ~~next~~ this year and continue their domination of the technopop industry!

2009′s Top 5… Disappointments?

2009/12/17
By Wendy under Blogs, Noteworthy, Rants, Technopop, Up-Front Agency

Top 5 disappointments of 2009 (Wotakular)

Brian over at Wotakular brings us a list rarely seen among all of the end-of-the-year blog posts: The WORST of 2009. I’ve mainly been seeing lists talking about the highlights of the year, so this interested me.

Number 5 is Kago Ai’s debut single, no hesitAtIon (I couldn’t figure out the capitalization for so long until I realized it’s A and I). Brian doesn’t like Kago but liked the song, so it was hard for him to come up with a definite opinion on the song. Number 4 is the lack of Perfume/the lack of good singles. They only released one single this year, One Room Disco, and Brian doesn’t like it very much. Number 3 is the flop that is Kimagure Princess. I have to agree with him on this one. After the past two singles, I can’t help but just feel a bit disturbed when I think of Kimagure Princess. Number 2 is, of course, Koharu’s graduation. It really was a shock and disappointment, wasn’t it? As for Brian’s number 1 disappointment, it seems pretty much every European fan was upset over this: Buono!’s concert in Sweden being canceled.

Sometimes it’s nice to read negative posts, and this one is full of humor. If you’re sick of seeing positive end-of-the-year lists, this post is for you.

Perfume’s Record Label Turns to YouTube for DVD Promotion

2009/12/13
By CK♂ under Blogs, Concerts, JPop, Technopop

Perfume is Officially(?) on YouTube Promoting Tour DVD (Perfume City)

At least we can be assured these videos won’t be taken down…

Meirin has the link to the official YouTube channel of Tokuma Japan Communications, Perfume’s record label. Among the posted videos is a preview of Perfume’s upcoming Tour DVD which releases in January. I haven’t been listening to Perfume much recently, but I really liked the clip. The good news is the site has uploaded a few other vids as well so hopefully we will see a couple more previews of the concert. Additionally Meirin has posted the DVD tracklist and links to the usual buy sites.

X Japan North American Tour Expands to Ten Cities

2010/07/12
By CK♂ under News, Rock

X Japan Announce First US Tour (Japan Zone)

For a while now I have been wondering about this. X Japan has been working in Los Angeles, and they are scheduled to appear at Lollapalooza in Chicago. It figured that they would be doing more than just one show, right? Apparently they are, with 10 shows planned throughout North America.

According to Japan Zone they will be playing in 2000-6000 seat venues, so I am sure you will see tons of fans making the trip from Japan to see them. Especially on the West Coast. Like when Glay performed here last year, it is a chance to see a major group play in a theater much smaller than where they usually perform in Japan. Of course given X Japan’s track record, nothing is written in stone until it actually happens. But this is great news nonetheless!

detroit7 and KOKIA Now Available!

2010/06/24
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Media Site, Rock

JapanFiles and Victor Entertainment begin partnership with releases from KOKIA (Gunslinger Girl, Tales of Innocence) and detroit7 (Selective Hearing)

JapanFiles has began a new partnership with Victor Entertainment, starting with KOKIA and detroit7. If you’re familiar with anime, then KOKIA should sound familiar, having done the openings and endings for a few popular anime and games. If you haven’t heard detroit7 before, I recommend them. I’m not all that eloquent when it comes to expressing why an artist is amazing, but a lot of blogs out there have done reviews of their albums out there!

Hangry&Angry Eurotour 2010 Reviews…London

2010/06/23
By CK♂ under Blogs, Noteworthy, Rock

Hangry & Angry in London 2010 (CNoEvil)
Shirow’s adventures in London with H&A (Wotaku Now!)
HANGRY&ANGRY in London (Pori.co.uk)
Hangry & Angry at Alexa Shopping Centre (Hello!Blog)
HANGRY & ANGRY London Signing (Tasuki Daisuki Blog)
Hangry & Angry Camden 27 May 2010 (Morningtime)

Are you ready for the Summer Expos? Heading to L.A. or Paris next week? To whet your appetite, here are the posts from a few lucky Brits who had the opportunity to catch Hangry&Angry Live! Not only was there a show, but an autograph signing event before the actual concert. To me one of the funniest things about these posts is that they are all talking about each other. It seems CDevil, Shirow, Morningtime and Insane Lampshade were all hanging out. Those guys and PTom in the same building? That’s scary!

Anyway, more great reviews of the girls’ appearance. And for a few, cool pics showing off their SWAG. Namely H&A autographed Pics and CD’s. Ni~ce! I’m glad everyone had such a great time! And I’m sure we will be seeing a repeat performance for many of them in Paris next week!

Also, be sure and check out the Helsinki and Paris reviews in the post below!

Hangry&Angry Eurotour 2010 Reviews…Helsinki and Paris

By CK♂ under Blogs, Recommended, Rock

hANGRY & ANGRY @ Tavastia, Helsinki 2010-05-24 (The Three Metalheads)
Hangry&Angry in the land of Moomin (Kakko-ii.com)
Rachels’s Thoughts on Hangry & Angry in Paris (Hello!Blog)

The Summer Expo’s are looming, and so is plenty of Idol fun for fans on both sides of the Atlantic. In that spirit here is a set of reviews from Hangry&Angry’s recent tour of Europe. We start with France and Finland, where Henkka, Zush and PTom’s friend Rachel all caught the show. Well, not necessarily together…you know what I mean.

Some great little anecdotes here, and plenty of pictures as well. The neatest things about this set of posts is the varying perspectives of the writers. Each of them has a unique story to tell. So it’s well worth it to read all three!

Say Hello to the KiLLKiLLS For a Healthy Dose of Punk-Pop

2010/06/22
By CK♂ under Blogs, Punk, Rock

Ex-ketchup mania punk band KiLLKiLLS complete first Japan tour (Selective Hearing)

Are there any other Ketchup Mania fans having withdrawals like me. Jeez I loved that band, and was so sad to see them break up. But when I first heard Dai and Wani of Ketchup Mania had formed a new band, I was skeptical. After all, it was the lead singer Hiro that I was truly enamored with.

However, Greg has posted an update on the KiLLKiLLS…I must say I am really impressed! Sure I still miss Hiro, but Dai, Wani and their new groupmates bring the same energy and style that made KM so awesome. The group recently released a new album and completed a national tour. Ever cooler, they are being supported by JapanFiles! Check out the photos and their latest PV! Greg has also posted a bunch of band links if they happen to catch your fancy.

Nicole Laments Over The Loss of 2 Bands

2010/06/11
By maiZe under Blogs, JPop, Rock

Reaching the Limit: On the End of HIGH and MIGHTY COLOR (23ji no ongaku)
Much Unlike Yesterday

You may remember the post I wrote a few weeks ago announcing HIGH and MIGHTY COLOR disbanding. Well, one of those bloggers I alluded to has written up her thoughts on the break up. Her post isn’t a tribute post or a goodbye yet – there are still a few months before the group disbands. But Nicole voices her disappointment about the breakup and not getting to know HALCA (the current lead vocalist) better.

Nicole hasn’t had a good time of it with some of her favourite bands recently, as the brilliant green is losing its guitarist, Matsui Ryo… And as Nicole points out that “for a group that only has three members to start with, and has had those same three members since the very beginning, this is quite shocking”. Having followed the brilliant green for nearly 10 years, this is a big blow to her and it has left her feeling betrayed.

Just Beat iiiiiit! Beat iiiiiiiiit!

2010/06/07
By Murr under Blogs, News, Rock

Goodbye BEAT CRUSADERS (J-Rock Explosion)
BEAT CRUSADERS to disband (Tokyograph)

Lame pun is lame, and I know it. Anyway, say bye bye to Beat Crusaders. Some of you might know them from the collaboration they did with Melon Kinenbi on their final album… Do you think… No… Maybe? That MK inspired BC to “spread out”? Ah, who knows.

That’s Such a Nice Smell

2010/06/03
By Murr under Blogs, Rock

INCENSE (J-Rock Explosion)

Girl rock bands are, for the most part, awesome. Sad thing is, they tend not to be as widely publicized, unless they’re all attractive in other ways than just their music. I don’t believe they should be treated any differently from male rock bands, or that “girl” need be added in front of the phrase rock band to differentiate themselves in the first place. But that’s a whole ‘nother matter. Andrew has this feature weekly and the bands he recommends are good music. In his feature, he gives a little bit of a background on them, some of their videos/PVs and their official site, though this is ALWAYS going to be myspace. I gave them a listen, and I really like how they sound. It’s a nice change from the high pitched vocals idol music has to offer.

A Different View…

2010/05/30
By Murr under Blogs, Recommended, Rock

3markets in the studio (SparkPlugged)

Here’s something rarely seen. A rather intimate view into a band’s performance. Their sound is something I never thought I would like, but it works. It just does. And then again, I find myself liking the strangest things (like j-pop). How often do you get to see an artist like this? Truly special.

Ashes to Ashes…

By Murr under Blogs, Rock

Luna Sea Reboot…? (jrocknyc)

What’s this? Another band rising from the ashes to once again release new material? It’s a mystery. Even Go himself is confused. But he got a pretty kick ass banner out of that confusion.

BoA’s Back in Korea & Hitting The Big Screen In the US

2010/08/06
By maiZe under Avex Trax, Kpop, News

BoA’s Korean Comeback + ‘Game’ Music Video (BoA’s House)
BoA to Star in Hollywood Dance Film (bottom article)

She’s spent some time away from Korea building up her career in Japan, and launching an American album, but BoA’s back with a Korean album after 5 years away. I remember way back in the day listening to Sara and ID; Peace B. The album released earlier this week and has strangely put me in a nostalgic mood.

In addition to her new album, it’s been announced that BoA will be in a Hollywood dance film. I’m a huge fan of dance, though I couldn’t dance to save my life. I hoping it’s a large-scale movie like Step Up 3D and BoA can get a lot of exposure in the US through this role.

While Others Hit the Expos, Tsukiki Checks Out Wonder Girls Live

2010/07/11
By CK♂ under Blogs, Kpop

Just In-WG Are Still Amazing (Shanimuni Paradise)

Tsukiki had the chance to check out WonderGirls in Colorado during their current North American tour. And even with the “not-so-lively” crowd, she still found the show to be AMAZING and AWESOME. Tsukiki gives a full review of the concert, which features some interesting cover songs…

Beyonce, Pussycat Dolls and Black Eyed Peas were among the artists WG covered in the show. That alone makes me interested in seeing this concert, even if I’m not the biggest fan. In every review I have seen fans have loved this show. So if they are heading your way be sure and check them out. For those of you who have already missed them (like me) the girls promise to return to the US soon. So cool!

When Fandoms Collide: Orange Caramel Copied A C-ute Song?

2010/06/19
By Amy under Kpop, Up-Front Agency

Orange Caramel’s “Magic Girl” Plagerized? (omonatheydidnt)
°C-ute’s song plagiarized by K-Pop group? [Updated] (Hello!Online)

Oh my. Hello!Online’s Kuno has pointed out that After School’s new subunit, Orange Caramel, has released their debut single and it’s very similar to something we’re all much more familiar with here: C-ute’s Hare no Platinum Doori! When “Magic Girl” was released, I thought it was very cute and commenters said it was too “jpop” for them, but I didn’t think of C-ute at all! I applaud Kuno for his fine hearing and I definitely see the resemblance in the video he posted over at H!O, but I don’t think Orange Caramel will get into huge trouble for this. I really hope that the netizens don’t catch this and raise a fuss, because I’m fine with both songs. What is interesting, however, is checking out the comments from both sides of this argument–why all the hate for the opposite genre?

… Chicken Butt?

2010/05/30
By Murr under JPop, Kpop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

GUESS WHAT? (fem~taku)

What’s a nice way to end your weekend and start your week with? Any suggestions? Yes, you? Reading a book? Are you crazy? Wrong. Next. You? A satisfying meal? Well… you’re on the right track. It’s something like that, but not for your stomach! Some nice visual and aural candy will have to hold you over. Seems like peachy has been out of the scene for a while and wanted to update you all as well. She’s got news from the Jpop to Kpop side of things. Yo check it out yo!

In the World Of Autotune…

2010/05/20
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Kpop, New Blogs, Recommended

Embracing Distractions (Learning to Drive)

Learning to Drive is a relatively new blog written by a relatively old writer. Old in the way that he’s been writing for a while… Not like decades but for a while… HE’S WRITTEN A BLOG BEFORE THIS ONE… Whatever. You understand. Anyway, what do you think of the use of autotune in pop music? For some people, it can very quickly turn them away from the music, not even giving it a proper listen. Initially, brian had done the same to two recently released songs. But this kind of view bothered him a bit. Afterall, since when did the addition of autotune keep that song from being music? But before I go on a tangent, check out his post!

Super Junior’s 4th Album MV is Out! Bounce With Me Bounce With Me!

2010/05/11
By Amy under Kpop, News

Super Junior’s “미인아 (BONAMANA)” video (OMONA THEY DIDN’T!)

If you were sitting on the edge of your seat at 7PM PST like I was, you must have known that Super Junior’s long, long awaited fourth album promotional single music video (what a mouthful!) is out! I was scrambling to find it on naver and youtube along with everyone else, but now the music video is out on youtube for your viewing pleasure. While I’m totally spazzing out over Yesung’s new look, all the boys (with the exception of Eunhyuk? I’m sorry but DNW that eyeliner ever >_>) look marvelous and I’m very excited for their promotions to begin. What do you think of the new music video? Meets expectations or totally left you bored?

SNSD Goes “80′s” While Pimpin’ Cellphones for LG

2010/05/01
By CK♂ under Blogs, Kpop

SNSD MV for LG’s Cooky (JKMUSICPH)

Idol themed commercials are almost always filled with WIN. This one is no exception! The girls of So Nyeo Shi Dae are quite excited about LG’s new line of “Cooky” cellphones. I would say this is more of an advert for SNSD, except they say “Cooky” about 1000 times during the ad. It looks like a cool phone I guess. Well, that might be because TaeYeon is holding it. The bonus is the theme song, a revisit to 1981 and Toni Basil’s monstrous pop hit “Mickey”!

That alone is pure WIN to me!

Talk About Making A Statement

2010/04/19
By Murr under Blogs, Eyecandy, JPop, Kpop, Pop Idols, Up-Front Agency

The °C-ute of today is shit, but… & SNSD Metalhead revealed! (The Three Metalheads)

I mean, seriously, there are not many writers out there who are willing to outright state some like “The °C-ute of today is shit…”, but really, what else would you expect from Henkka? But you know, not everything he says is insulting. He has som- okay, maybe one compliment for °C-ute’s latest album. And it’s certainly an aspect of it that you wouldn’t expect. And then, he informs us of his new fandom. It’s not so surprising seeing the recent trend in listening habits. Check it out!

There Couldn’t Possibly Be Anything Annoying About Music!

2010/04/18
By Murr under Blogs, JPop, Kpop, Pop Idols, Rants, Up-Front Agency

What I Find Annoying In Music (Selective Hearing)

Right? Well, some don’t think so? Tell me, what are your reasons for listening to music? Does it bring you joy? It does? Why? A good way to find out what you enjoy about something is to list what you don’t like about something… Or at least, that’s how I’ve always felt. And Greg over at Selective Hearing has done exactly that. Remember when reading that this is a opinion piece. Try not to let it affect your own feelings too much!

So Nyeo Shi Dae Visits the Bizarro World

2010/04/08
By CK♂ under Blogs, Kpop

SNSD Releases Run Devil Run Story Version MV (JKMUSICPH)

Taking a cue from Superman and Lex Luthor, the girls of SNSD have gotten on touch with their “dark side” in their most recent MV, “Run Devil Run”. Yes, these are the alter-egos that were hinted at in the “Oh” MV. I don’t think I even need to say how scorching hawt the girls are in the PV. In fact I think I prefer my SNSD girls a little “trashy”. But hey, that’s just me. In any case, the guys at JKMUSICPH have the long version of the video linked for you. Watch and find out if good triumphs over “evil”. (Hehehe)

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