The ever evolving AKB48 for better or worse (Shabondama Days)

AKB48 has seen quite a few graduations this year.  And with the recent loss of Kawasaki Nozomi and Oshima Mai, the base of original members is dwindling.  Nizmo wonders how a loss of a few more original members would affect the group overall.  Because of the groups’ size, so far it really hasn’t skipped a beat.  And since many of AKB48’s front girls are still under 20, they will probably stick around for at least a couple more years.  But what happens after that?

Nizmo notices a few of the new generation beginning to cause people to take notice.  Miyazaki Miho is one.  Matsui Jurina from SKE48 another.  But he wonders whether or not the younger girls will have the star power of the original group.  He compares it to early gen./late gen. Morning Musume.  But if you think along those lines the younger girls should bring a new generation of fans.  The biggest factor for Nizmo may be Akimoto Yasushi’s writing style and ability to keep up with the trends.  That could be a very valid point.  Although I’d like to point out that Akimoto-sama has been doin’ it for over 25 years, so I think his track record may speak for itself.  In any case it is an interesting read.  And while most of us focus on being fanboys/girls, Nizmo’s pragmatic approach to writing about AKB48 is certainly refreshing.  Recommended reading.