Archive for the ‘Other’ Category

Have No Shame! Have No Fear!

The Gift of Abnormality (S.P.A.K.A.)

For Jyoru is here! Ever been afraid to let anybody, even your friends, take a look at your iPod? Afraid that they’ll make fun of you choice in music? I’ve heard many a time people claim that they are scared to let the contents of their iPod be known. But why is that? Think about it. The only reason that the music you like is different from theirs is the language. I used to have to hang-up myself. It was hard to deal with, especially because music is such a big part of my life. I don’t feel that way now, but I know some people still do. I don’t know. Jyoru says it much more efficiently and eloquently than me. But reading this does make me feel better even if I have gotten over it myself…

A Break and a Loss

POLYSICS to lose member, take a break (Tokyograph)

PhotobucketSad news, POLYSICS fans. Kayo, who played (is that the right word to use?) synthesizer and vocoder, and did vocals, is reported to be leaving the group next year. This must be devastating, as she has been part of the group since 1998. She will take part in the group’s recently announced tour in the US, and her last performance as part of the POLYSICS will be at the Nippon Budokan in March. But not only is a member leaving, the group has decided to take a break after the Budokan run. Though, good news is, it’s only supposed to be a short hiatus. Preparation for a new era and all that. Ganbare, POLYSICS!

Japan Nite 2010 Might Be Coming to a Town Near You

Japan Nite 2010 lineup announced (Tokyograph)

SXSW (South by SouthWest) might or might not be coming to a town near you, peeps. Held once a year, the festival just announced their lineup for the tour. So far, the bands confirmed seem not well known, but more bands have yet to be announced. Confirmed though, and this is the only name I recognize, is Chatmonchy. You should definitely check out this tour if you’re interested in Japanese Indie music.

Music to Re…lax…. by…. zzzZZZZzzzz

17 Songs For Night Listening (Sora to Kujira)

Do you have a playlist you listen to when going to sleep? I know I do but if this post is anything to go by, then my playlist is far from one that you would sleep to… But when I did attempt to make one, most of Jin’s recommendations were in that playlist. These songs are exactly what one needs to listen to when trying to relax and fall asleep. While most of these songs are to be expected, some came as complete surprises to me. What J-pop songs would you recommend?

History Is Always Important

Hibari Misora – the very first J-pop star? (madara_blog)

I’ve always been a big fan of the idea that when you come into a fandom or become a fan of a new artist that you should look back at that artist’s history. Learn as much as you can so that you can appreciate what they’ve done and understand what they did to become who they are in this present, what makes them so appealing to you. But Madara has decided to take it a step farther. Do you know about Hibari Misora? If not, you should. It’s because of her that the artists you love and adore (i.e. H!P, AKB, Perfume) are in the place that they are now. So why don’t you take some time out of your day and read what Madara has so gratefully written about her? It never hurts to know a bit more about history. :3

From Celestia to Morning Musume

A Note to Momusu (Bikkuri Project)

Celestia gives a warning to Morning Musume about Berryz Koubou. She’s attending some of Morning Musume’s concerts very soon, so she decided to write a note regarding her attendence by giving them a warning: stay away from the Berryz. Also, she warns about the potential threat C-ute’s Airi may be. She also gives some comments regarding Berryz’s and Momusu’s latest PVs. She seems all over Momusu’s latest, but she isn’t such a fan of “Ryusei Boy”.

I would say that we should all heed her advice: avoid the Berryz for a little while. (And a third of the kids at the school she teaches at for that matter.)

Tsunku in an anime?!

Tsunku To Debut As Voice Actor In “Gokujou!! Mecha Mote Iinchou” (Hello! SayuNii)

This threw me for a loop. I have no idea why, either…. According to adode137, Tsunku is to be voice acting in an anime. I just never expected anything like. I don’t know if his character is permanent or not, but it’s very fitting for Tsunku’s first venture outside the music industry.

Ichii Sayaka is on Her Way Back to Show Business

ichii-sayakaThe return of Ichii Sayaka (Hello! Online)

For those of you who don’t know, Ichii Sayaka is a former member of Morning Musume, having joined as part of 2nd generation with former members Yasuda Kei and Yaguchi Mari. She graduated from Morning Musume soon after the 4th generation was added, in mid-2000. She returned to the music scene for a little while as part of CUBIC CROSS and the release of a solo single, but has been inactive for 5 years after getting married and having a child.

Yesterday, it was announced on Oricon, and translated by Hello! Online, that Sayaka would be making a comeback into show business with plans to become an actress. It looks like she’s been taking acting lessons for the past half-year, so it will be interesting to see what we see from her in the next few months.

In the immediate future, she’s got a few things lined up with articles and appearances scheduled through until September 5th, which are all listed in H!O’s translation. Take particular note of her ameba blog which is live as of now (though there’s only 1 [barely] post so far).

For me, it’s funny that this comeback was announced today, for I was just watching an old Utaban episode – Morning Musume’s first appearance on the show after Sakaya’s graduation. Quirky timing… ^_^

Sekai no Melody moves to a new domain

Sekai no Melody

“Multilingual singing organization” Sekai no Melody (for those of you at AX, the large group of girls who performed at Hello! Party) has moved its site to the above link. Their old site does not redirect and no longer contains any relevant content. Please update your bookmarks as necessary.

Help Celebrate 4 Years of YODC and Win Prizes!

YODC’s Turning 4!!  Super Terrific Happy Exciting Contest (Your Opinion Doesn’t Count)

I must admit I thought Langdon’s YODC shirt was pretty cool when I saw him wearing it at AX.  And now you can win one of your own.  In honor of four years in existence, the boys at YODC are holding a contest.  It’s easy, just send in a picture or video in honor of their blog and you might win a prize.  C’mon, you know you love those Bollywood Babes, Hump Day Eyecandy Extravaganzas and Badass Posts!  I am looking for my “YODC safety pin” as we speak.  There are H!P picsets to win too!!!

BTW guys, congratulations on four years.  You rock!