Erhanz shares this single from the talented singer, and recommends a couple of the tracks.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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To be or NOT to be - That is the QUESTION! ~Updated~
Recommended reading. Apparently, the attempt to break into the United States has been placed on hold. Strawberrie breaks the news and opines that BoA can at least go back to Korea for a while.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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KAT-TUN’s Nakamaru begins studies at Waseda
Nakamaru Yuichi has become a correspondent student in the Department of Human Behavior and Environment Sciences at Waseda University. This is pretty cool, I’m sure Bakanishi is also considering higher education as a result.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
Johnny's, News • No Comments
Erhanz shares a download of this single, which is tied into Naruto, and recommends the first three tracks.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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A track-by-track review of this 2007 single, which enjoys the simplicity of the title track but finds the remaining tracks wanting.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Courtesy of Tokyograph: Gocchin’s brother has his day in court finally, pleading guilty to theft but says it was his accomplices who beat the security guard. No word on whether or not he’ll be doing any jail time.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Mai Kuraki - Yume Ga Saku Haru/You And Music And Dream [28th Single]
blackmager likes how cool Kuraki sounds on the title track, while observing a Christmas-y feel to the second track ballad.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Arashiro Beni - Chapter One ~Complete Collection~
Megumi does a track-by-track review of this album, finding herself ultimately “bored, yet amused at the same time”. Makes one wonder if a second chapter is worth it…
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Charmy☆Renai describes how she followed different fandoms - Doctor Who, PGSM - as a prelude to what we know becomes her interest in Hello! Project, which will follow in the next installment.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Terawaki, Yoshizawa, Ishikawa chosen as volleyball casters
Recommended reading. Yoshizawa Hitomi and Ishikawa Rika will be guest casters for the World Olympic Qualification Tournament for volleyball. Other much-beloved, top-notch idols will be doing the Japanese team’s support song: Hey! Say! JUMP and their “Dreams come true”.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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[single] Justice to Believe / Aoi Iro
There is shock expressed at this 2006 single from Mizuki, as all previous themes for the Wild Arms games have apparently sucked. However, the c/w song isn’t as good, so maybe they should have gone with that?
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Tsuki does a detailed track-by-track review of this album, concluding with some very solid advice based on the lessons learned from this debut.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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ayu-mi-x 6 - Casserole remixes anyone?
Rift doesn’t like what’s done to some favorite Hamasaki Ayumi songs on these two albums, with some notable exceptions.
Ray • May 13th, 2008
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Recommended reading. Akiramike considers the main relationship of this show - between the title character and de facto protege Mano - and why the chosen story arc suits them well. It’s another very solid analysis, showing a clear understanding of narrative and characterization.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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A track-by-track review of the #1 girl group album of the year: some flaws are noted, especially in the vocal mixes of a couple tracks, but Die finds the overall package a “techno utopia with some impressive and spectacular songs”.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Recommended reading. Samantha goes through some potential pitfalls that idols can make in their line of work, using examples to illustrate each point. I like how she stresses the subjectivity in having a favorite idol, as well as her willingness to point out flaws in idols she likes, not just those she doesn’t like. As always, Samantha shows a clarity and thoughtfulness that never fails to impress.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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NEWS - SUMMER TIME [9th Single]
A track-by-track review of this single which emphasizes the boys’ vocal abilities as well as the overall summer vibe of the package.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Cat turns her attention to one of the more neglected members of Team A, Kawasaki Nozomi. As always, there’s plenty of nifty screencaps of this “classic” beauty, while Cat explains how Nozofisu’s had to work to mold a rather specific idol persona for herself. Another great profile, as my AKB48 education grows.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Erhanz shares this single and recommends the first two tracks.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Recommended reading. sauder has a review of this week’s Haromoni@, which is a continuation of last week’s memory test battle. This week, the other side of the bracket step up to battle it out. The review goes round by round with screencaps galore, and I have to say that the Koha picture for round 7 is simply GOLD. I take a strange pleasure in weird Koharu pics. I can’t explain it. Though I have to agree with sauder about her round 9 screencap. It definitely makes up for the funny round 7 shot.
It looks like sauder quite enjoyed this episode of Haromoni@, even if it was filled with tension. It looks like next week we’ll see the finals of the memory test, and we’re back to more MouTube.
maiZe • May 12th, 2008
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Trying to get into “Mihimaru GT”
Our own AnyGroove is looking for suggestions on what to try out from this popular duo.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Recommended reading. Our own wu-san has an interesting write-up on the hot legged Berryz member, Chinami. He’s still slowly learning more about Berryz, and uses wiki.thePPN as the source of his insider information. Looks like wu-san and Chinami have a lot of things in common… It may just be a match made in heaven. XD I don’t know how I missed her habit of sleeping with her eyes half open, but I know about it now, and it’s all thanks to wu-san. ^_^
maiZe • May 12th, 2008
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Courtesy of Tokyograph, their new song “NEXUS 4″ will be used for a Subaru CM. No word if they PV version will have Dante driving the car around.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Recommended listening. So, Kawaiirrhea’s got a new remix up on the remix blog, and wowzers!! I’m totally loving this one. I don’t know if it beats AS FOR ONE KISS or VERY Hyacinth for me, but it’s pretty close. How about I put all three in a tie? How the heck am I supposed to pick between Aa!, Aya and Buono!?
It’s quite amazing how well the vocals for Kiss!Kiss!Kiss! mix with the instrumental for The Peace! Really, this one should not be missed! Oh… And Kawaiirrhea has a PV to go with it… Be warned, it’s very trippy! But I like it. ^_^
maiZe • May 12th, 2008
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Erhanz shares downloads of this single and recommends the first three tracks. What’s this - a collaboration with Wada Akiko? Wow! Considering that she’s responsible for the greatest m-flo song of all time, count me in!
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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New Music Review: Nanni mo Iwazu ni I LOVE YOU (v-u-den)
A quick review of the swan song from this H!P trio - and like everyone else who cares, some concern on where Erika and Yui are winding up after this.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
Blogs, Hello! Project • 1 Comment
[News] If You Don’t Buy One Concert DVD This Year…
Our own Vee discourages you from buying Ayu’s ‘Countdown Live 2007-2008 10th Anniversary’ DVD, and there’s good reason to listen to her, apparently. I’ll take Vee’s word for it, of course, as she’s certainly well-versed when it comes to Ayu, and the case she makes is a simple but good enough one - the vocals were off. Some credit must go the the ear debacle however, which Vee mentions. It’s a good read that keeps me interested in an artist I’m not too interested in. Maybe I should just read Vee’s ayu posts over and over until I start obsessing. I’ll consider it.
wu-san • May 12th, 2008
Avex Trax, Blogs, News, Recommended • No Comments
Kaori Iida +06+
Kanna & Airi & Saki
Will’s latest set of pictures feature Kaori Iida, and they’re pretty damn great on the simple premise that it’s Iida. The third picture’s a lot of fun.
An earlier entry has Kanna, Airi and Saki all looking happy together. I think what Kanna’s wearing is pretty neat, in a kind of indies way.
wu-san • May 12th, 2008
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510 Day: Sometimes, An Idol Changes Your Life Forever…
A little bit of eyecandy, a little bit of snark - Chiakii pays tribute to Goto Maki in her own fashion.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Paul admits to being drawn in by C-ute’s visual screen merchandise, and why bloody hell not? They look fantastic: the members donning the outfits from ‘Namida no Iro’. Maimi and Erika look very yummy. If I enjoyed eating people, I’d be dining on those two. I’ve no doubt about that.
wu-san • May 12th, 2008
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Memorable Snippets: Part 2 - Matsuura Aya “Ayaya Knows”
Our very own MaiZe has the next instalment of her ‘Memorable Snippets’, and it’s all to do with Ayaya this time around. The fist shared clip consists of Aya performing ‘I know’ and forgetting the lyrics near the beginning. As MaiZe points out nicely, Aya handles it with ease, and that certainly translates positively to the fans. God, she’s such a good performer. The second clip has her teaching the fans the lyrics and some silly arm movements, which is one charm part of the song I suppose. Vocally, well, Ayaya shines, and that’s not really a suprise. As far as H!P goes, she’s near, if not at the top. The clips are from 2003 and I have to thank MaiZe for taking me back to a happy place. I mean, ‘I know’ is pretty damn awesome.
wu-san • May 12th, 2008
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Um, is that hair on your head, or a really ugly hat?
Misa takes a brief look at some awful H!P hairstyles, and really, there’s so many to choose from. Misa manages to jest about a few, but you know what, I liked the Aichan style she picks apart. Wait, actually I was always too busy staring at her body in that jumper thingy to be honest. Yes, her hairstyle for Kanashimi Twightlight was certainly arresting, and maybe not for good reasons. Ha, but I like the Aika bangs on show in the post, contrary to Misa’s misgivings.
wu-san • May 12th, 2008
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Kiss! x 3 Ltd Edt DVD - part 1
Pretty baby, un petite ingenue
Our own Zush screen capture’s a segment of Buono!’s making of DVD for their ‘Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!’ single, and Miya’s having a little trouble keeping her drink down. Bless.
An earlier post sees Zush reinstate his love for Rii with some Blondie lyrics, and of course, they’re rather fitting.
wu-san • May 12th, 2008
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A review of the single which marks D’s major label debut, finding it a solid effort but not outstanding compared to their last album.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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A very enthusiastic review of the single, deeming both the title track and the c/w some of the trio’s best songs. However, all this fear of repetition strikes me as odd - why not embrace it, like an early Helmet song? And what’s this about predicting GAME will sell half a million copies, though? Well, I doubted they’d make #1 on the Oricon charts, so I’ll be glad to be proven wrong yet again.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Shiori to Shimiko no Kaiki Jikenbo栞と紙魚子の怪奇事件簿 Screen Caps
Kevin reviews this drama, which features AKB48’s Acchan., and finds it similar to the vampire series RH Plus in tone. Also, among the copious screencaps, best use of the peace sign EVER!
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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This review goes back to the 2006 debut single of this increasingly popular band, finding a solid lead track and a less successful c/w track. And as always, there’s downloads so you can hear it yourself!
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Some news about a keitai spinoff devote to one of the characters, before a highly detailed plot synopsis followed with equally detailed reactions.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Gokusen 3 ごくせん Ep1 Screen Caps
Recommended reading. Kevin is quite pleased with the new season of this popular drama, sticking true to its formula but still providing some surprises. For example, is that Hoshino Aki I see in one of the screencaps…? Sold!
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Some Johnny’s tidbits are collected from our own Celestia. Commenting on each: that manga is adorable, the second week may be worth watching, and I’d watch a musical called “Prince of The Ass” as long as KAT-TUN play Queens of the Ass Pirates.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Photobook - Nana Akiyama - Pupil
Recommended ogling. This is one of my favorite, and I strongly urge all to look at this remarkable achievement in eyecandy.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Recommended reading. iza04 does an incredible job describing a growing interest in Johnny’s - and Nishikido Ryo in particular - through dramas, especially the current Last Friends where he plays a wifebeater. It’s a thoughtful, well-written piece, and is yet another H!P fan making room in her heart for JE.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Kanon Wakeshima - a lolita girl and her cello
Rift does a solid profile of this lolita goth cellist, covering general information, a short biography, information on her first single, and even the PV clip! Hey, if she’s good enough for Mana…
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Recommended reading. From our own maiZe, a gorgeous site devoted to one of the most talented of H!P Kids. Beautifully designed, as well written as maiZe’s main blog, and hey - Miya FTW! Miya! So even among blogs I surely check upon, I think “Last” owes voracious eyes.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Ketchup Mania Reads My Blog!!!
This is very cool news, as Chris hears back from the band after writing about them on his blog.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Tanimura Nana - JUNGLE DANCE [3rd Single]
A track-by-track review that’s impressed with Nana’s powerful voice and finds the overall package “unforgettable”. If you haven’t seen the PV yet, I highly recommend it.
Ray • May 12th, 2008
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Hello!Project Engrish T-Shirts - First Impressions
Here’s a nice selection of amusing T-shirts worn by various H!P girls… but where’s “Drug Dealer”, “Rock Like Fuck”, and “True Life Seek”?
Ray • May 12th, 2008
Blogs, Eyecandy, Hello! Project • 2 Comments
Recommended reading. Here’s a new H!P blog which shows a good deal of promise. There’s already an interesting post on Top 10 H!P Singles of 2007, so hopefully there will be more to follow.
Ray • May 11th, 2008
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Ami Suzuki teams up with Yasutaka Nakata again
The mastermind behind Perfume will work with the popular diva for “ONE” in July and a new original album in fall. It can only be assumed that she’s looking to recreate the success Nakata has had with everyone’s favorite girl pop trio.
I’m going to Tokyo– Yoshi Ikuzo Revisit
Recommended reading and viewing. Santos writes of a resurgence in interest in the enka singer Ikuzo Yoshi, who made what is arguably the first rap song in Japan in the 1980s. It’s a fascinating bit of history, and Santos goes into some detail on how he set the tone for the Japanese hip hop that would follow decades later. The clip of Ikuzo performing the song is great fun, as well, and worth taking the time to watch.
Ray • May 11th, 2008
Blogs, Hip Hop, Recommended • No Comments