I know I've been lazy lately and haven't been reviewing any music videos. At least I tried to keep up post new PVs every so often. I wanted to review C-ute's new PV, but thought I should review what else I have stockpiled for my next spam. I wish I had more positive reviews, but I'm holding out that AKB's full 18min PV will be better than the under 5min version. To be warned, this is half Korean idols. I feel like I should give them a fair shake like I do for Japanese idol groups. Recently, well no this behavior has been around forever, there has been some haters on the Korean side. Right now the target is SKE48 because they will be doing some activities in Korea. It pisses me off and ruins K-Pop for me. So I blame K-Pop fans for why I want to hate K-Pop (even if it isn't deserved). Especially when I see them defending their groups from American-Pop haters on YouTube. So If you like K-Pop, let me enjoy my J-Pop in peace, so that I can also enjoy my K-Pop☆
Even though in spirit it isn't much different than their last PV, which I didn't care for, I really like this PV. The various colors create these beautiful solo and group shots. This seems to go better with their name, but I miss their developing character. They are such wonderful dancers I feel like songs like Shock are better for them. The costumes are typical idol outfits I almost thought it was a parody at first. I mean the neon green cowboy hat. The large skirts are a bit frumpy in the dance shot, but look adorable in the other various shots. The classic leg-grab move is funny. I think they did a marvelous job here, but I do not like the song one bit. I don't think it is catchy or something I want to dance to. The girls shine brightly, but the song doesn't do it for me.
☆☆☆☆
I think the concept of the group is cute, but I'm a Cindy fan. They are all just too rough around the edges. Everything looks like the dull schoolgirl idol PV, but they don't know how to work the camera. When they aren't looking at the camera, like in the library, nothing seems off. However, in the most of the shots I don't see them shine. They are pretty stiff especially in the dance shot and when it comes to the choreography. There are couple girls who seem more comfortable, at least at some points, and that is the tallest and the girl standing next to her with the small side ponytail. I tend to go easy on the indie idol groups. They mainly lack attention grabbing eye contact.
☆☆
Is it just me or is Korea beating Japan at the number of active, major idol groups? I do not like the dance shot because everything is too gold. It is almost like they are trying to blend in. I think the solo shots are all pretty good, but some are better than others. I really like the girl with the gold background and the brass band shot. My least favorite is the presses solo shot. Now the black solo shot seems out of place. Most of the other shots were going with the gold color and a retro feel from the same period to match the song. However, the black dance shot seems to lack any of that except for the gold ceiling panels. Plus, one of the girls has grey hair. How is that flattering? I think what sold this video for me is the one solo shot of the girl with the gold background. I just adore that shot and it is the reason why this wasn't going to lose another star.
☆☆☆
All seems well at first, looks like it matches the song. However, I should of known that I would be disappointed because this is targeted at Japan. See I wouldn't mind if their Korean videos and songs didn't seem significantly better quality. Why does it feel like Korean artists come to Japan and sell a worse product even though Japan has a bigger music industry? They wouldn't pull that bullshit if it was the States. It is basically, no it is, three dance shots. Should I be grateful that you changed your clothes and the backdrop? I don't hate it, but it feels like just another insult and I can't take it anymore after Mr. Taxi. Mr. Taxi was atrocious if you consider their earlier songs and the fact that in Tokyo getting a taxi is ridiculous.
☆☆
First thought: barbie. This song is about being cool, I assume. I don't think it is cool, especially when you are doing a dance move which makes me think you are farting. Oh an old, creepy white guy this couldn't get any worse. Another dance move which looks like you are waving the stink away from your butt. Track in prom dresses? Some random losers. . . WTF was that? I didn't like the song on top of it all. Yep.
☆
Can anyone explain their name for me? This looks like it came from the 90s. I do give them credit for trying out something different like roller-skates. I don't know what to make of their two level stage.
☆☆
I do not approve of the second dance shot. I do adore the pink set. What is with these girl groups and using some interesting shots at the beginning then ditching it to just use three dance shots? At least they have close up shots. For some reason their second dance shot reminds me of middle school. That little laugh at the end was as cheesy as the state I live in. For the most part it was pretty good.
☆☆
Showing posts with label c-ute. Show all posts
Showing posts with label c-ute. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
Old Favorites & Recent Fascinations
BiS - Fresh Faced Idols?
Most of you know by now that Japan and Korea are having an idol boom. New groups are sprouting up and gaining attention every which way (sorry if that doesn't make sense to you it is a phrase I use. . . Midwest thing?). One unit, BiS [Brand new Idol Society], has released their (major?) debut single and hit the Oricon charts. (Another unit Kiss-My-Ft2, from JE, got the number one spot. How is their name pronounced? Kiss My Foot?) They have an edgier image, rebelling against the idea that idols have to be clean and proper. I saw them first through Pure Idol Heart and I responded well to the PV posted. I checked them out on YouTube and I was intrigued. However, I was a bit dumbfounded when I started watching their hit single:
I was shocked, but then I was distracted by some beautiful shots and realized they did a good job. Nudity can be done tastefully and it reminded me of various paintings. (My favorite place in LA is the Getty. I went there twice while I was in LA for the first time.) Once I regained myself I went wait, we are missing someone! The member, which happens to be my favorite, is no longer in the group. Which sucks if it was because of the nudity thing. They found a replacement, but I'm bummed. See I like variety in groups and now it feels like they are missing an element, and overly cute one. I was a huge fan of t.A.T.u, still am but not as big. They did a tribute to t.A.T.u. which was great. But, my favorite has to be this one:
Anyway, with my favorite member gone I am a bit undecided if I should continue following them. I will stick around to see how I like the new member, but she will be missed. (Fortunately my second favorite, girl with short hair and extra piercings, is still there.)
Do I Still Care?
Hello Project has been luke-warm for me as of late, to none of your surprise. Why do I keep bringing it up? Because I still want to like and enjoy being a fan. I want to keep one foot on each side of the river(?). I got S/mileage's first album which was pretty good, mostly because I adored their singles. Berryz Koubou still releases likable singles. . . I really like their latest at least. C-ute has sooooo much potential. (If only they had a different producer!) Morning Musume has all those great new members! Most of my disappointment falls on their producer Tsunku. I mean, everything would be peachy if they had better music. But who can blame him, he is distracted by the indie idols like Afilia Saga East. Honestly, I've stopped caring about Morning Musume and S/mileage. I'm paying them as much attention as Kiss-My-Ft2 and SNSD. I've even deleted my tags on Tumblr for Hello Project and Morning Musume, which means I don't even want to look at pictures or videos of them. I'm still rooting for C-ute.
Hello Project isn't the only idols I've deleted my tag on Tumblr for: Momoiro Clover. The management just keeps pissing me off then Akari leaves and I've had it. They aren't the same without Akari. They look like a more miss-matched, older version of Tokyo Girls Style (who I am recently entranced by).
Oh, and I think Beckii Cruel's upcoming single sounds horrible and she isn't that good of a dancer (if you've watched her recent Morning Musume dance cover).
Rising Stars (the brighter side of things)
NMB48 (polished in very little time)
Tokyo Girls Style (avex is pulling through)
Hey Say Jump (their latest was a stupendous improvement)
Afilia Saga East (we'll see, seems a bit only fan service)
Super Girls (another we shall see case)
Recent Cravings
I've been going through some odd obsessions. I'm a DD when it comes to AKB48, so I shouldn't be so surprised when I jump from one member interest to another. Today I was watching old footage of Ayaka Kikuchi, before she was fired. All of a sudden I've missed Oshima's pervy cuteness. Then there is Iwasa Misaki's powerhouse vocals. I've changed my wallpaper to Kasai Tomomi. Akimoto Sayaka's awesome~ness. I'm literally all over the place. Now I found some subtitled videos which has an adorable Takamina (I mean her hair and that hat are super flattering) and then Sasshi accidentally causing dirty jokes. Why don't I dislike anyone within AKB48? They have so many membersssss. . . oh yeah Haruka Ishida is the only one out of what is it now 75?
Am I Suffering From a K-Pop Phase?
I've been addicted to Nine Muses' No Playboy. My friends and I want to learn the dance to HyunA's Bubble Pop. I keep on hearing bollywood in my favorite Super Junior Korean singles. I've been voting in Eat Your Kimchi polls. I went through a huge K-drama stint while in Japan. What is happening to me?
Can Happiness Be Considered a Girl Group?
If you've seen them perform or have watched one of their PVs you might of noticed that only two girls sing. It almost feels like one center with a support singer and then a whole bunch of back up dancers. I was looking forward to the group since they were good dancers, but WTF is this? I'm all for dancers getting a bigger spotlight, but can they not sing at all? Their lead vocalist is spectacular! I almost prefer her to go solo. You see I adore Matsuda Seiko, an idol-soloist from way back. For some reason I keep on seeking out her replacement or equal for today. One of the candidates is Happiness' lead vocalist, the other is Acchan from AKB48. What do you think? I will post some videos after the jump to give you a better perspective.
Matsuda Seiko Performing on a Music Program
Happiness Dancing at a Concert
Happiness Performing on a Music Program
Acchan Performing her First Solo Single
 |
| The member in pigtails has left the group to be replaced by Yufu. |
I was shocked, but then I was distracted by some beautiful shots and realized they did a good job. Nudity can be done tastefully and it reminded me of various paintings. (My favorite place in LA is the Getty. I went there twice while I was in LA for the first time.) Once I regained myself I went wait, we are missing someone! The member, which happens to be my favorite, is no longer in the group. Which sucks if it was because of the nudity thing. They found a replacement, but I'm bummed. See I like variety in groups and now it feels like they are missing an element, and overly cute one. I was a huge fan of t.A.T.u, still am but not as big. They did a tribute to t.A.T.u. which was great. But, my favorite has to be this one:
Anyway, with my favorite member gone I am a bit undecided if I should continue following them. I will stick around to see how I like the new member, but she will be missed. (Fortunately my second favorite, girl with short hair and extra piercings, is still there.)
Do I Still Care?
Hello Project isn't the only idols I've deleted my tag on Tumblr for: Momoiro Clover. The management just keeps pissing me off then Akari leaves and I've had it. They aren't the same without Akari. They look like a more miss-matched, older version of Tokyo Girls Style (who I am recently entranced by).
Oh, and I think Beckii Cruel's upcoming single sounds horrible and she isn't that good of a dancer (if you've watched her recent Morning Musume dance cover).
NMB48 (polished in very little time)
Tokyo Girls Style (avex is pulling through)
Hey Say Jump (their latest was a stupendous improvement)
Afilia Saga East (we'll see, seems a bit only fan service)
Super Girls (another we shall see case)
Recent Cravings
I've been going through some odd obsessions. I'm a DD when it comes to AKB48, so I shouldn't be so surprised when I jump from one member interest to another. Today I was watching old footage of Ayaka Kikuchi, before she was fired. All of a sudden I've missed Oshima's pervy cuteness. Then there is Iwasa Misaki's powerhouse vocals. I've changed my wallpaper to Kasai Tomomi. Akimoto Sayaka's awesome~ness. I'm literally all over the place. Now I found some subtitled videos which has an adorable Takamina (I mean her hair and that hat are super flattering) and then Sasshi accidentally causing dirty jokes. Why don't I dislike anyone within AKB48? They have so many membersssss. . . oh yeah Haruka Ishida is the only one out of what is it now 75?
Am I Suffering From a K-Pop Phase?
I've been addicted to Nine Muses' No Playboy. My friends and I want to learn the dance to HyunA's Bubble Pop. I keep on hearing bollywood in my favorite Super Junior Korean singles. I've been voting in Eat Your Kimchi polls. I went through a huge K-drama stint while in Japan. What is happening to me?
If you've seen them perform or have watched one of their PVs you might of noticed that only two girls sing. It almost feels like one center with a support singer and then a whole bunch of back up dancers. I was looking forward to the group since they were good dancers, but WTF is this? I'm all for dancers getting a bigger spotlight, but can they not sing at all? Their lead vocalist is spectacular! I almost prefer her to go solo. You see I adore Matsuda Seiko, an idol-soloist from way back. For some reason I keep on seeking out her replacement or equal for today. One of the candidates is Happiness' lead vocalist, the other is Acchan from AKB48. What do you think? I will post some videos after the jump to give you a better perspective.
Matsuda Seiko Performing on a Music Program
Happiness Dancing at a Concert
Happiness Performing on a Music Program
Acchan Performing her First Solo Single
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011
UPDATED: MOAR from the AKB family! + PVs
After the great news that Maeda Atsuko would have her first leading role in a film and release a solo single, I bet you are all pumped to see her have the lead for the Hana Kimi remake. I've been wishing that they make a live-action adaption of Ouran High School Host Club (which they are), plus this! AKB48 are reaching now to surpass Mr. Children in record sales; they surpassed a million copies on their second day. This makes dealing with haters so much more worth it. The opening theme will be AKB's 22nd single, but that isn't too surprising considering Acchan has a guaranteed spot in the top 5. However, if she isn't center would that be weird. . . Anyway, there is even better news for AKB48 fans: Tojima Hana and Komatani Hitomi will be joining SDN48!!!!!
With all SDN's recent graduations, things weren't looking too good. (You tend to get people that graduate early on, but still you hope they aren't jumping ship.) They are both first generation members. Tojima is very popular with overseas fans, like myself.
I'm under a bit of a time constraint with working, and me leaving on Monday. So, I will just post some recent PVs and I'll try to review them later and update this post.
The outfits are cute, but I don't like the bubbles. The close-up and dance-shot backgrounds are cute. I didn't understand the point to the six part shots at the beginning. So, I actually would prefer it if they did less editing, because the things they did looked cheap. The jump shots and props were fun. Except for some of the editing, this was a good Hello Project PV. Typical Hello Project PVs: studio-only, dance shot+ close up shot, and no creativity (except for the girls making cute faces).
☆☆☆
The costumes really suit DiVA, but the pants for the silver. . . do not approve. I do appreciate them doing a different angle (birds-eye ish), but I didn't love it. I'm not usually a fan of black-figures but with the dancing it turned out well. Now what were they holding, that made them switch outfits? The night-time setting matched the song, but them holding something that glows didn't have a point to it.
☆☆☆☆
This is only one shot out of a PV, but I posted it anyway. I'll just leave some comments. I love the fact that they are doing something different and Mano looks great outside! See what a change of setting and moving camera can do. I wouldn't even mind that much if this was the entire PV.
Perfume always does a fabulous job. I love the concept of taking pictures and making them coming alive by replacing them with video.
☆☆☆☆☆
Oh god. When I saw the outfits I was concerned. The problem with these is that they aren't flattering. It flattens their chest and highlights curves in a negative way. These only suit those who are tall and thin. It made Risako's boobs smaller. I don't like the changing colors and heart shapes. Changing colors always look cheap to me; I hate it when people use them in opv and amv. Some of the dancing is vulgar in my opinion. The bike shots looked bad. I do like the sectioned screens during the dance shots. I did like having the girls dance in front of a screen of their close-up shot, it reminded me of concerts. However, I didn't like the single close-ups on the screen during the dance-shot.
☆☆
Very pretty.
☆☆☆☆☆
I don't like the crystals and the mini poles at the front of the dance shot. The short blonde hair isn't good on Takahashi. Niigaki's hair finally looks good, but they still need to work on styling Aika's. The group still shot looks odd with all the extra props. I do not understand all the crystals. If they took away all the extras I would like it more. Adding doesn't make it better. The girls look pretty and I prefer the white on white over the purple and red sets. I would prefer a different oufit on different colors. I just don't think they look as good. Besides it is the same set with different color curtains. They should of mixed up the outfits a bit more than 9th gen has shorts. This didn't make me like the song than I already did.
☆☆
I don't like any of the guys, or the song that much. I do like the variety of shots, angles, outfits, and pans.
☆☆☆
Why are they at a foreign college? I guess a lot of people travel abroad but. . . I don't like the bimbo cheerleaders. I like the close up shorts of them singing and some of the group shots outside, but I'm not sure about anything else.
☆☆☆
I'm not a huge fan of this single. I find the contrast between the new and old backgrounds odd. There were quite a couple of things that confused me. However the dance shot and the close-ups were good. Why is Yukirin keep on trying to seduce me? Nice, in Aki-cha's temptress shot she just twirled. . . very sexy. They are pretty adorable.
☆☆☆
I like the positive messages.
☆☆☆☆
Little trivia, but they didn't finish filming this PV because of the earthquake, which is too bad because I love everything about this PV. Perfume is just perfection. I adore the orange accents and the flowing fabric. You don't need to over-edit, or tons of different things to make a good PV.
☆☆☆☆☆
With all SDN's recent graduations, things weren't looking too good. (You tend to get people that graduate early on, but still you hope they aren't jumping ship.) They are both first generation members. Tojima is very popular with overseas fans, like myself.
I'm under a bit of a time constraint with working, and me leaving on Monday. So, I will just post some recent PVs and I'll try to review them later and update this post.
The outfits are cute, but I don't like the bubbles. The close-up and dance-shot backgrounds are cute. I didn't understand the point to the six part shots at the beginning. So, I actually would prefer it if they did less editing, because the things they did looked cheap. The jump shots and props were fun. Except for some of the editing, this was a good Hello Project PV. Typical Hello Project PVs: studio-only, dance shot+ close up shot, and no creativity (except for the girls making cute faces).
☆☆☆
The costumes really suit DiVA, but the pants for the silver. . . do not approve. I do appreciate them doing a different angle (birds-eye ish), but I didn't love it. I'm not usually a fan of black-figures but with the dancing it turned out well. Now what were they holding, that made them switch outfits? The night-time setting matched the song, but them holding something that glows didn't have a point to it.
☆☆☆☆
This is only one shot out of a PV, but I posted it anyway. I'll just leave some comments. I love the fact that they are doing something different and Mano looks great outside! See what a change of setting and moving camera can do. I wouldn't even mind that much if this was the entire PV.
Perfume always does a fabulous job. I love the concept of taking pictures and making them coming alive by replacing them with video.
☆☆☆☆☆
Oh god. When I saw the outfits I was concerned. The problem with these is that they aren't flattering. It flattens their chest and highlights curves in a negative way. These only suit those who are tall and thin. It made Risako's boobs smaller. I don't like the changing colors and heart shapes. Changing colors always look cheap to me; I hate it when people use them in opv and amv. Some of the dancing is vulgar in my opinion. The bike shots looked bad. I do like the sectioned screens during the dance shots. I did like having the girls dance in front of a screen of their close-up shot, it reminded me of concerts. However, I didn't like the single close-ups on the screen during the dance-shot.
☆☆
Very pretty.
☆☆☆☆☆
I don't like the crystals and the mini poles at the front of the dance shot. The short blonde hair isn't good on Takahashi. Niigaki's hair finally looks good, but they still need to work on styling Aika's. The group still shot looks odd with all the extra props. I do not understand all the crystals. If they took away all the extras I would like it more. Adding doesn't make it better. The girls look pretty and I prefer the white on white over the purple and red sets. I would prefer a different oufit on different colors. I just don't think they look as good. Besides it is the same set with different color curtains. They should of mixed up the outfits a bit more than 9th gen has shorts. This didn't make me like the song than I already did.
☆☆
I don't like any of the guys, or the song that much. I do like the variety of shots, angles, outfits, and pans.
☆☆☆
Why are they at a foreign college? I guess a lot of people travel abroad but. . . I don't like the bimbo cheerleaders. I like the close up shorts of them singing and some of the group shots outside, but I'm not sure about anything else.
☆☆☆
I'm not a huge fan of this single. I find the contrast between the new and old backgrounds odd. There were quite a couple of things that confused me. However the dance shot and the close-ups were good. Why is Yukirin keep on trying to seduce me? Nice, in Aki-cha's temptress shot she just twirled. . . very sexy. They are pretty adorable.
☆☆☆
I like the positive messages.
☆☆☆☆
Little trivia, but they didn't finish filming this PV because of the earthquake, which is too bad because I love everything about this PV. Perfume is just perfection. I adore the orange accents and the flowing fabric. You don't need to over-edit, or tons of different things to make a good PV.
☆☆☆☆☆
Monday, February 28, 2011
Upcoming Releases
DOCUMENTARY of AKB48 to be continued
4800yen
Release Date: 2011/04/22
Q10 DVD Box Set
14580yen (10% off)
Release Date: 2011/03/18
External Bonus:
cell phone strap
postcards
18 First Press Copies Left
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/16
External Bonus:
photo
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. 週末Not yet
2. ひらひら
3. 素直になりたい
[DVD]
1. 週末Not yet PV (Nakamura Taikou ver.)
2. Sorezore no Not yet “Oshima Yuko”
3. Sorezore no Not yet “Yokoyama Yui”
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/16
External Bonus:
photo
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. 週末Not yet
2. ひらひら
3. 笑うがいい
[DVD]
1. 週末Not yet PV (Irie Yu ver.)
2. Sorezore no Not yet “Kitahara Rie”
3. Sorezore no Not yet “Sashihara Rino”
4. Short Films
5. Making Of
6. Not Yet Interview
1143yen
Release Date: 2011/03/16
External Bonus:
photo
32-page color photobook
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. 週末Not yet
2. ひらひら
3. 泣きながら微笑んで (Not yet ver.)
1143yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
External Bonus:
trading card
Only 20 First Press Copies Left
Tracklist:
1. Answer
2. モノズキ1号
3. Answer (Anime ver.)
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
First Press Sold Out
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. Answer
2. モノズキ1号
3. ☆の向こう側 (no3b ver.)
[DVD]
1. Answer PV
2. Making of Answer
3. Kojima Haruna "Cloudy sky"
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
First Press Sold Out
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. Answer
2. モノズキ1号
3. 愛しさのアクセル (Takahashi Minami Solo)
[DVD]
1. Answer PV
2. Making of Answer
3. Takahashi Minami "Kiseki wa Umareru"
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
First Press Sold Out
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. Answer
2. モノズキ1号
3. 逆転王子様 (no3b ver.)
[DVD]
1. Answer PV
2. Making of Answer
3. Minegishi Minami "Watashi wa Watashi"
800yen
This came out a while back, but I thought I should include it anyway.
1500yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
Only 2 Copies Left In Stock
Tracklist:
[DVD]
1. Kiss me 愛してる
2. Kiss me 愛してる (Close-up Ver.)
3. Making of
1600yen
Release Date: 2011/02/23
Only 4 Copies Left In Stock
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. Kiss me 愛してる
2. 二十歳前の女の子
1600yen
Release Date: 2011/02/23
Only 10 Copies Left In Stock
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. Kiss me 愛してる
2. 二十歳前の女の子
1000yen
Release Date: 2011/02/23
First Press Sold Out
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. Kiss me 愛してる
2. 二十歳前の女の子
1000yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
Only 7 Copies Left
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ヒロインになろうか!
2. ヒーロー現る!
1600yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
Only 9 Copies Left
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ヒロインになろうか!
2. ヒーロー現る!
[DVD]
1. ヒロインになろうか! PV (Dance shot ver.)
1600yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
Only 6 Copies Left
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ヒロインになろうか!
2. ヒーロー現る!
[DVD]
1. ヒロインになろうか! PV (Dance solo mix ver.)
1000yen
Release Date: 2011/03/02
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ヒロインになろうか!
2. ヒーロー現る!
1143yen
Release Date: 2011/03/09
External Bonus:
photo
Only 4 More Copies of First Press Left
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ミライボウル
2. Chai Maxx
3. 全力少女
4. (予定情報)他カラオケ3曲/計6曲収録
1619yen
Release Date: 2011/03/09
External Bonus:
photo
Only 14 More Copies Left to Pre-Order
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ミライボウル
2. Chai Maxx
3. (予定情報)他カラオケ2曲/計4曲収録
1619yen
Release Date: 2011/03/09
External Bonus:
photo
Only 17 More Copies Left to Pre-Order
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. ミライボウル
2. Chai Maxx
3. (予定情報)他カラオケ2曲/計4曲収録
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/09
First Press Sold Out
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. バンザイVenus
2. 愛の数 (Team KII)
3. 卒業式の忘れもの (White Team)
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/09
First Press Sold Out
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. バンザイVenus
2. 愛の数 (Team KII)
3. 誰かのせいにはしない (Red Team)
4762yen
Release Date: 2011/02/23
Only 21 Copies Left
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/23
External Bonus:
photo
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. 愛、チュセヨ
2. 天国のドアは3回目のベルで開あく (アンダーガールズA)
3. 淡路島のタマネギ (アンダーガールズB)
[DVD]
1. 愛、チュセヨ PV
8. 天国のドアは3回目のベルで開あく PV
9. 淡路島のタマネギ PV
10. Recording and PV Makring of (Type A version)
11. 「愛、チュセヨ」選抜メンバー発表ドキュメント
1524yen
Release Date: 2011/03/23
External Bonus:
photo
Tracklist:
[CD]
1. 愛、チュセヨ
2. 天国のドアは3回目のベルで開あく (アンダーガールズA)
3. 愛よ 動かないで (レイチェル)
[DVD]
1. 愛、チュセヨ PV
8. 天国のドアは3回目のベルで開あく PV
9. 愛よ 動かないで PV
10. Recording and PV Makring of (Type B version)
11. 「GAGAGA」韓国プロモーションドキュメント
Release Date: 2011/04/08
3420yen (10% off)
Only 23 First Press Copies Left
External Bonus:
Folder (A5)
4230yen (10% off)
Only 2 First Press Copies Left
5220yen (10% off)
Friday, February 25, 2011
AKB48 and Plastic Surgery + Other Topics
“The members of AKB are currently at the peak of their popularity and they wouldn’t have the spare time for such a procedure. In Tomochin’s case, the down time would take up to three to six months. People like them rather use eye tape and eye pieces to freely change the appearance of their eyes to a certain degree, e.g. double eyelids. Many people always think of plastic surgery first when seeing double eyelids, but that is a common mistake.”
Further, he stated, “It’s not just Tomochin. On the Internet there are a lot of rumors involving members of AKB48 and plastic surgery, especially Maeda Atsuko, Shinoda Mariko, Kojima Haruna, Minegishi Minami, and Watanabe Mayu. I don’t think any of those girls have gone under the knife. Most of them debuted in their early teens and it’s natural for them that certain features, such as their eyes and nose, change over time. Moreover, their faces become a lot thinner over the years, and they started to use more make-up than before. There is no need to say that they also started to use things such as eye tape."
C-ute is in a really good place in terms of members, so I hope they can push it. Other young idol units like Momoiro Clover and SKE48 are experiencing ever increasing sales and popularity; Momoclo is appearing on Shabekuri 007. There has been a recent boom in interest in idols in Japan, so it is an ideal time to implement a surge.
It also seems that AKB48 graduate, Oshima Mai, is experiencing problems at Avex. After releasing two singles she has seemingly disappeared. Considering the interest in AKB48, I would think that Avex would at least to try to promote her more. Since they don't seem to care about pushing her, Mai Mai should appeal to Akimoto to let her join SDN48. She was quite popular in AKB48 and she is talented.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Mass New PVs Review
Sorry if these aren't that well done or go into much depth. I want to do this now, but I have a lot of homework tonight so I'll keep this quick.
I don't expect anything different from the Undergirls at this point. They continue to release adorable, yet cliche promotional videos. They ride bikes, work as a team in sports, go to class, and deal with everyday teenage problems. The low quality of the video made it difficult to determine all the girls that are in this single of Undergirls. One new face, with quite some screen time, was Chibi Airi from SKE48. There wasn't a dance shot, but the storyline follows the girls and three boys (who are crushing on some of the girls). There were some funny moments, including the boys trying to sneak into a Meetan event. It is nice to see that Meetan still finds her way to the lolis.
DIVA is back! Again this song gives most of the solo lines to a few, talented, singers. Instead of the amazing ballad they had last time (which wouldn't work because the main track is a ballad), they sing a very Koda Kumi-esque dance track. The song is a bit too cheerful in contrast with the rough, edgy fight/ dance club. The nice thing is that some of the less-promoted members get some screen time once again. I am a bit disappointed that Amina wasn't featured like she did last time (one beautiful solo line). Maybe next time DIVA comes around they'll feature some of the other members with vocal talent like Wasamin.
What can I say about this PV. It follows their usual style of a dance track with a rap section included. This one does seem to feature more members on an even level. I don't care for all the outfits, but the overall setting and color palette is fitting. I heard one of the guys got a solo line, which doesn't happen often. I don't follow them too closely, but I am a fan. (One of their singles made my top singles list of 2010). I don't love the song. So far, the Undergirls is the only song that I find catchy at the moment.
Overall this is pretty good. The colors and lighting are great. I like the song, but I don't know if I would play it on my iPod unless it came up on shuffle. The major fallback is the costuming. While, I love the color combination and I believe it works well with the set. . . I dislike the fact that they only wear one outfit and the shorts. I expect the fellas will love the sit of their rear-ends in spandex shorts; I, however, spent a good deal of time trying to determine my stance on them and keeping my eye out for camel-toe. Spandex shorts are fine if we are talking butts, because they all have a nice, little booty, but the crotch is a bit more difficult. (I don't know how a crotch can be flattering so covering it in spandex wouldn't be my first choice.) There are some things that makes me ask why? Without any kind of storyline it is just the basics of a PV (so why are there glass apples?). All I want to see from Hello Project is some more effort in this department. Just by adding some small elements you can create a, I don't know purpose, to the PV. Like AAA's PV for example, it is also mostly a dance shot and close-ups, but by highlighting the setting it adds more depth.
The technological tone of the song suits the title. I thought it was okay. The song was kind of one note, but still good. It actually reminded me of K5 or Akimoto's style in general (the guitar solo combined with the techy, sometimes one-note song). The thing that I found off putting was the fact that they seemed out of place. It seemed like they were going for luxury + Buono!, but it didn't sit right with me. First off the girls were in club outfits on a boat in the middle of the day. Why not swim suits or resort-wear? Then they have them singing in front of two expensive cars. Um, why? I know some people are unhappy to see Airi still in the center. Personally, I think the group looks good in that formation. Airi is the most normal-pretty. Momo is short and out of control, and Miyabi has dyed hair. What I didn't like is when they did push Airi as the lead. They should be on equal footing. The only other thing that I didn't like was the continuous cross dissolves towards the end. I was enjoying the interesting close-up formation, so it kind of ruined the moment for me.
So close to being excellent! Ditch the individual close-ups with the black background because I think it hurts the integrity of the rest of it (just looks cheaper). I would also get the girls dirty when they work on the cars. It looks way to out of place, plus it would make the rock n' roll mood much better. This also isn't a song that I would download. Jeez, no one seems to be hitting the addiction button yet.
Speak of the devil, I've been addicted to this single ever since I heard it. I was even considering giving up my first press AKB48 single to purchase this one instead (still want to). I know I give H!P crap about producing cheap PVs, but they incorporate a storyline which H!P hasn't been doing much lately. The cheap background even looks better because of the cartoonish characters and comic shots. This song is a catchy as unicorns! If only Akari wasn't leaving (what is going to happen to all their raps!) Momoclo could overpower (easily) SKE48 as my second favorite idol group. I am continually impressed by their singles and performances. They remind me of SKE48 because of how genki they are.
Happiness is another new, major idol group. It seems they are all in middle school. They were back-up dancers for (I believe) EXILE. If you notice one gets most of the lines (like Nacchi back in the day). For a major debut, it is quite good. Nothing really blows me away or encourages me to follow them. Good job.
アンダーガールズ (AKB48) - 偶然の十字路
I don't expect anything different from the Undergirls at this point. They continue to release adorable, yet cliche promotional videos. They ride bikes, work as a team in sports, go to class, and deal with everyday teenage problems. The low quality of the video made it difficult to determine all the girls that are in this single of Undergirls. One new face, with quite some screen time, was Chibi Airi from SKE48. There wasn't a dance shot, but the storyline follows the girls and three boys (who are crushing on some of the girls). There were some funny moments, including the boys trying to sneak into a Meetan event. It is nice to see that Meetan still finds her way to the lolis.
DIVA (AKB48) - エリアK
DIVA is back! Again this song gives most of the solo lines to a few, talented, singers. Instead of the amazing ballad they had last time (which wouldn't work because the main track is a ballad), they sing a very Koda Kumi-esque dance track. The song is a bit too cheerful in contrast with the rough, edgy fight/ dance club. The nice thing is that some of the less-promoted members get some screen time once again. I am a bit disappointed that Amina wasn't featured like she did last time (one beautiful solo line). Maybe next time DIVA comes around they'll feature some of the other members with vocal talent like Wasamin.
AAA / ダイジナコト
What can I say about this PV. It follows their usual style of a dance track with a rap section included. This one does seem to feature more members on an even level. I don't care for all the outfits, but the overall setting and color palette is fitting. I heard one of the guys got a solo line, which doesn't happen often. I don't follow them too closely, but I am a fan. (One of their singles made my top singles list of 2010). I don't love the song. So far, the Undergirls is the only song that I find catchy at the moment.
℃-ute 『Kiss me 愛してる』
Overall this is pretty good. The colors and lighting are great. I like the song, but I don't know if I would play it on my iPod unless it came up on shuffle. The major fallback is the costuming. While, I love the color combination and I believe it works well with the set. . . I dislike the fact that they only wear one outfit and the shorts. I expect the fellas will love the sit of their rear-ends in spandex shorts; I, however, spent a good deal of time trying to determine my stance on them and keeping my eye out for camel-toe. Spandex shorts are fine if we are talking butts, because they all have a nice, little booty, but the crotch is a bit more difficult. (I don't know how a crotch can be flattering so covering it in spandex wouldn't be my first choice.) There are some things that makes me ask why? Without any kind of storyline it is just the basics of a PV (so why are there glass apples?). All I want to see from Hello Project is some more effort in this department. Just by adding some small elements you can create a, I don't know purpose, to the PV. Like AAA's PV for example, it is also mostly a dance shot and close-ups, but by highlighting the setting it adds more depth.
Buono! 『JUICY HE@RT』
The technological tone of the song suits the title. I thought it was okay. The song was kind of one note, but still good. It actually reminded me of K5 or Akimoto's style in general (the guitar solo combined with the techy, sometimes one-note song). The thing that I found off putting was the fact that they seemed out of place. It seemed like they were going for luxury + Buono!, but it didn't sit right with me. First off the girls were in club outfits on a boat in the middle of the day. Why not swim suits or resort-wear? Then they have them singing in front of two expensive cars. Um, why? I know some people are unhappy to see Airi still in the center. Personally, I think the group looks good in that formation. Airi is the most normal-pretty. Momo is short and out of control, and Miyabi has dyed hair. What I didn't like is when they did push Airi as the lead. They should be on equal footing. The only other thing that I didn't like was the continuous cross dissolves towards the end. I was enjoying the interesting close-up formation, so it kind of ruined the moment for me.
Buono! 『雑草のうた』
So close to being excellent! Ditch the individual close-ups with the black background because I think it hurts the integrity of the rest of it (just looks cheaper). I would also get the girls dirty when they work on the cars. It looks way to out of place, plus it would make the rock n' roll mood much better. This also isn't a song that I would download. Jeez, no one seems to be hitting the addiction button yet.
ももいろクローバー「ミライボウル」
Speak of the devil, I've been addicted to this single ever since I heard it. I was even considering giving up my first press AKB48 single to purchase this one instead (still want to). I know I give H!P crap about producing cheap PVs, but they incorporate a storyline which H!P hasn't been doing much lately. The cheap background even looks better because of the cartoonish characters and comic shots. This song is a catchy as unicorns! If only Akari wasn't leaving (what is going to happen to all their raps!) Momoclo could overpower (easily) SKE48 as my second favorite idol group. I am continually impressed by their singles and performances. They remind me of SKE48 because of how genki they are.
HAPPINESS / Kiss Me
Happiness is another new, major idol group. It seems they are all in middle school. They were back-up dancers for (I believe) EXILE. If you notice one gets most of the lines (like Nacchi back in the day). For a major debut, it is quite good. Nothing really blows me away or encourages me to follow them. Good job.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Upcoming Posts! (from mina : 3)
Hopefully I will follow through with this one. I'm done with my finals so I have like three weeks off where I will have lots more free time. There are a number of posts I've been wanting to do, so hopefully I'll get them done, but if you know me you know that as soon as I write down to do something I usually won't.
-Berryz Koubou 2010 Concert Review: I got the idea when I saw that their first live concert in Bangkok got uploaded onto YouTube, but then I wasn't too impressed with the one part that I watched. Therefore, I am going to try their summer concert. The good news is that I adore their album for this concert, so it should be good.
-C-ute 2010 Dance Special Concert Tour Review: Guess what else got uploaded! This is in no particular order by the way. The dance medley from this concert renewed my interest in C-ute, so this was a must for me.
-Morning Musume Graduation Rival Survival Concert Review: It is a graduation concert I felt it was a requirement to review it for you guys. I hope you guys like concert reviews because I am doing quite a bit.
-SKE48 Top 30 Concert Review: Why not?
-AKB48's 5th Anniversary Stage: I would have to download it first, but I've been wanting to watch it for a while now.
-GETS!: I am expecting a lot of delicious goodies that will be coming my way this holiday season so I will share them with you. The only sad thing is that I'll be leaving my scanner in my dorm room over break, so you'll have to wait for any high quality scans.
-Buono! 2010 Concert Review: Yeah another concert review, but as of now I don't know what news will pop up so this is all I got. The AKB48 ranker is down too, but V3.0 is in the works so I am excited.
-Berryz Koubou 2010 Concert Review: I got the idea when I saw that their first live concert in Bangkok got uploaded onto YouTube, but then I wasn't too impressed with the one part that I watched. Therefore, I am going to try their summer concert. The good news is that I adore their album for this concert, so it should be good.
-C-ute 2010 Dance Special Concert Tour Review: Guess what else got uploaded! This is in no particular order by the way. The dance medley from this concert renewed my interest in C-ute, so this was a must for me.
-Morning Musume Graduation Rival Survival Concert Review: It is a graduation concert I felt it was a requirement to review it for you guys. I hope you guys like concert reviews because I am doing quite a bit.
-SKE48 Top 30 Concert Review: Why not?
-AKB48's 5th Anniversary Stage: I would have to download it first, but I've been wanting to watch it for a while now.
-GETS!: I am expecting a lot of delicious goodies that will be coming my way this holiday season so I will share them with you. The only sad thing is that I'll be leaving my scanner in my dorm room over break, so you'll have to wait for any high quality scans.
-Buono! 2010 Concert Review: Yeah another concert review, but as of now I don't know what news will pop up so this is all I got. The AKB48 ranker is down too, but V3.0 is in the works so I am excited.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
My Top 20 Songs of 2010
I noticed that people have been posting these. Part of me wanted to wait till January, but the Oricon charts and many Japanese awards pick them early (which is why you won't see Beginner included in most of them). Three stages from AKB48 have been premiered, so I wanted to include songs from those as well. BUT, I am going to separate them. I'll first do my Top 20 singles and then my Top 10 stages songs (no units). I think that some will be surprised with the variety, even I am. These are my opinions on what I liked best, not even what I think are in fact the best songs. If the videos aren't showing up you'll have to go off the main page by clicking the read more link or whatever. When I posted it all together it seemed slow.
Top 20 Singles of 2010!
Top 10 Stage Tracks
1. I'm crying - Team A
2. 夢の鐘 - Team K
3. 100メートルコンビニ - Team B
4. ジグソーパズル48 - Team K
5. 摩天楼の距離 - Team A
6. 勇気のハンマー - Team B
7. ウッホウッホホ - Team K
8. 命の意味 - Team A
9. 隕石の確率 - Team B
10. いびつな真珠 - Team A
You know what. Now that I formatted in a friendlier way, I don't really have anything to say for this part. This ranking is pretty much just what I love in order of how much I like it. If you want me to clarify. . . I'll consider it ( : 3 )
Top 20 Singles of 2010!
- Beginner - AKB48
- Troublemaker - Arashi
- 1! 2! 3! 4! Yoroshiku - SKE48
- Monster - Arashi
- Ikuze! Kaitou Shoujo - Momoiro Clover
- Oh! - Girls' Generation
- Love Song - Rain
- BBI-RI-BOP-A - Narsha
- Sakura no Shiori - AKB48
- Makenai Kokoro - AAA
- Ponytail to Shushu - AKB48
- Otakebi Boy WAO! - Berryz Koubou
- Akkanbe Bashi - Watarirouka Hashiritai
- Lupin - Kara
- HUH - 4Minute
- Onegai Dakara - Mano Erina
- GAGAGA - SDN48
- Wild - Amuro Namie
- Shock! - C-ute
- ooGanbaranakutemo Eenende!! - S/mileage
Top 10 Stage Tracks
1. I'm crying - Team A
2. 夢の鐘 - Team K
3. 100メートルコンビニ - Team B
4. ジグソーパズル48 - Team K
5. 摩天楼の距離 - Team A
6. 勇気のハンマー - Team B
7. ウッホウッホホ - Team K
8. 命の意味 - Team A
9. 隕石の確率 - Team B
10. いびつな真珠 - Team A
You know what. Now that I formatted in a friendlier way, I don't really have anything to say for this part. This ranking is pretty much just what I love in order of how much I like it. If you want me to clarify. . . I'll consider it ( : 3 )
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
MOAR News! Uddles and Yoodles!
I usually don't report the news. Usually forums and other blogger tend to get there faster or do it anyways, so I assume you get it elsewhere. However, when ever there are tons of releases and news being pumped out I like to spam it all at once. I hope you learn something new!
There will be an OG Spring Tour! Those who are attending are all graduates of Morning Musume: Nakazawa, Iida, Abe, Yasuda, Yaguchi, Ishikawa, Yoshizawa, Tsuji, Ogawa, Fujimoto, Kusumi. That is quite a list. The performances will be starting 4/23. KonKon probably isn't attending because of her new position at TV Tokyo. I really hope the whole issue with Kago Ai would get resolved so that we can see her perform with them again. I understand that she and Goto Maki want to distance themselves from it, but was it really that bad. They can't even do a reunion tour! It might have to do with the fact that they are under different labels and agencies now. The other sad thing is that Kamei Eri, LinLin, and JunJun won't be attending. One tour wouldn't hurt Kamei that bad, and I bet the pandas would love to go.
Kamei Eri is releasing not one, but two photobooks because of her graduation. One is solo and the other is with the rest of 6th gen, except Mikitty. She did just release a solo pb. So if you didn't think that the pandas were being shafted enough, there is one more thing. Kamei Eri will be releasing nine cover songs on iTunes. That is an album right there. This is a part of the "Hello Cover" project where members of H!P release solo covers. I'm guessing we won't see JunJun or LinLin do the same before they graduate. You can start downloading these today!
Memory Seishun no Hikari - Morning Musume
Furusato - Morning Musume,
Koi wo Shichaimashita - Tanpopo
Seinaru Kane ga Hibiku Yoru - Tanpopo
Egao ni Namida ~thank You! Dear My Friends~ - Matsuura Aya
Love Namidairo - Matsuura Aya
Koi no Hana - Abe Natsumi
Onegai Miwaku no Target - Melon Kinenbi
Kousui - Melon Kinenbi
Eri Kamei (Morning Musume) Graduation Photobook "THANKS" w/ DVD
Eri Kamei Sotsugyo Kinen Haroharo! - Memories -
Guess who else is getting a photobook? Pretty much every member in either C-ute or Berryz Koubou who hasn't released one will, and then some. Unfortunately this doesn't include Morning Musume because there are three members who really need to.
Okai Chisato (C-ute) will be releasing both a photobook and a DVD. The release is set for December 24th.
Kumai Yurina (Berryz Koubou) will be releasing an Alo! Hello photobook. This is her third release. It is coming out December 17th.
Arihara Kanna, a graduate of C-ute, will be releasing her first photobook on December 18th.
Last but not least, Shimizu Saki, also known as Captain, (Berryz Koubou) will be releasing her first photobook and DVD. It will be a new 2011 release on January 12th.
Buono!'s 11th single will be released February 2nd. Yep, they are not dead yet. Not surprising because I think they are more popular than their perspective groups. I will post more as covers and a PV is released.
S/mileage will release their 4th single, Shortcut. The date is set for February 9th. Maeda Yuuka has also cut off her long hair. More information will be posted when it is leaked.
Hello Project isn't the only group spewing photobooks and DVDs these days. The 48 Universe is taking advantage of AKB48's new found popularity to promote the both the Undergirls and Theatre Girls. Here are the lucky ladies who are getting some much needed individual promotion:
Rumi Yonezawa (Team K) released her first photobook in NOVEMBER! I would buy it, but it isn't even on CDJapan? Rumi is pretty sexy so I expect it is pretty spectacular. The fans are keeping the scans on the low down because she needs good sales.
On January 26th, Mika Komori (Team B) will be releasing a solo DVD. Not much else has been leaked, but she is known to be an oddball.
Chisato Nakata (Team A) will be releasing her first photobook as well, DVD included. It is going to be released on the 15th of this month. Guess what! The preorder is already sold out at CDJapan! AKB48 is keeping up their tendency to release their PBs pretty cheap. This is about $20! Nice right!
"Chi-Chan - Chisato" w/ DVD
On the 22nd Nonaka Misato (Team K) and Matsubara Natsumi's (Team A) DVD "Natsumicha" will be unleashed to the masses.
Guess who is releasing their second single. FRENCH KISS. Yep, they aren't a one single unit like many other idol units. It is another anime song, but that is fine. Here is a quote I copied:
"French Kiss' 2nd Single "If", will be used as the theme song for anime OVA "Kyo, Koi wo Hajimemasu". Continuing from the 1st single, there will be a special drama made which is set at the same school, as well as a new digital comic version, featuring the members voice acting parts of the manga."
I will post more info and such as it is released. However, if it comes out in the next two weeks I won't because of final exams. (cringe) This single comes out on my birthday. . . and Rika Ishikawa's too! Now you know when right. Okay it is January 19th.
Tomomi Itano (Team K) will be releasing her first solo single. It could be considered her second because she did release a para para track. She is one of the most popular members. She recently modeled wedding dresses at a fashion show. This one is also coming out January 26th.
SKE48 will released their 5th single on February 9th, but that is not important right now. The bigger news about SKE48 is the formation of Team E and the reshuffling of Team KII. On top of that, four Team KII members were demoted! Rough day for those girls. There is no official statement as to why they were demoted, but there are rumors floating around as you'd expect. Now each team has 16 members, unlike the flagship group. . .
Eight research students (also known as kenkyusei or what I like to call them trainees) are being promoted. No news as to which teams they will get promoted to but this one is causing some stir. Many people are guessing there are graduations on the way because this is taking them over the 50 mark. The oldest member is Shinoda Mariko (Team A); she is 24, two years under the unofficial 26 limit. Based on age the other possibilities are: Kojima (22), Akimoto (22), Umeda (21), Kuramochi (21), and Oshima (22). Age is the most reliable predictor, but there tends to be many other reasons why members graduate. Only recently, with the formation of SDN48, did members graduate from AKB because of their age. Is there a big concert coming up because that is when they like to jump these things on you? I am curious as to why you think such a large number were promoted (if not because of graduations), or who you believe are graduating soon (there are eight slots to fill).
Mine? Don't take this personally because I am just going by age, outside potential, and who is not too dependent on the group:
1) Shinoda (Team A): even though popular she has plenty of outside jobs.
2) Sayaka (Team K): she does enjoy musicals and the recent scandal has demoted her from her captain position. She loves AKB, but she did say on her blog that she was confused about her role because of K6. She was also disappointed with her senbatsu ranking; the producers on the other hand have demoted her further down as she is no longer senbatsu.
3) Kojima (Team A): I could see her working either as a charisma model or something along those lines. No3b would be one reason I would see her stay, but they are releasing their album.
4) Maeda (Team A): Acchan has so many options outside of AKB, but she can do it within too. She is very popular so I am not sure. She enjoys acting, but not as much as Erepyon did. Unlike other members, she doesn't need AKB to stay relevant.
5) Katayama (Team A): she has been doing some musicals as well. She has a strong voice and she is just and Undergirl.
6) Umeda (Team K): I could see her transferring to SDN48. AKB transfer to SDN tend to be some of the most popular members because they are more well known and carry over a fan base.
7) Sato (Team B): Natsuki is attending a University right now. She may need to focus on her studies.
8) Masuda (Team B): She is one of the best singers, she isn't that popular, and she has been doing some acting. She was an original Team K member, so she has been around for some time.
NMB48, stationed in Osaka, will be debuting on New Years Day. It will be a two hour show where they will be performing Team A's third stage. They have 25 members, but only 16 are apart of Team N. Those left over are trainees, so they may not make it to an official team. There are some crowd favorites in A3; I think it is an excellent choice.
AKB48's 19th single, Chance no Junban, hit the number one spot today on the Oricon charts. The grand total is 471,242, which is about the same area that I was expecting (500K). That is even higher than Heavy Rotation's first day sales. I am more excited to see the PVs for Team A and Team K tracks. Three of the tracks, all of the them on Type A, are used for various promotions. Congrats for another Top 10 first day sales of 2010!
There will be an OG Spring Tour! Those who are attending are all graduates of Morning Musume: Nakazawa, Iida, Abe, Yasuda, Yaguchi, Ishikawa, Yoshizawa, Tsuji, Ogawa, Fujimoto, Kusumi. That is quite a list. The performances will be starting 4/23. KonKon probably isn't attending because of her new position at TV Tokyo. I really hope the whole issue with Kago Ai would get resolved so that we can see her perform with them again. I understand that she and Goto Maki want to distance themselves from it, but was it really that bad. They can't even do a reunion tour! It might have to do with the fact that they are under different labels and agencies now. The other sad thing is that Kamei Eri, LinLin, and JunJun won't be attending. One tour wouldn't hurt Kamei that bad, and I bet the pandas would love to go.
Kamei Eri is releasing not one, but two photobooks because of her graduation. One is solo and the other is with the rest of 6th gen, except Mikitty. She did just release a solo pb. So if you didn't think that the pandas were being shafted enough, there is one more thing. Kamei Eri will be releasing nine cover songs on iTunes. That is an album right there. This is a part of the "Hello Cover" project where members of H!P release solo covers. I'm guessing we won't see JunJun or LinLin do the same before they graduate. You can start downloading these today! Memory Seishun no Hikari - Morning Musume
Furusato - Morning Musume,
Koi wo Shichaimashita - Tanpopo
Seinaru Kane ga Hibiku Yoru - Tanpopo
Egao ni Namida ~thank You! Dear My Friends~ - Matsuura Aya
Love Namidairo - Matsuura Aya
Koi no Hana - Abe Natsumi
Onegai Miwaku no Target - Melon Kinenbi
Kousui - Melon Kinenbi
Eri Kamei (Morning Musume) Graduation Photobook "THANKS" w/ DVD
Eri Kamei Sotsugyo Kinen Haroharo! - Memories -
Okai Chisato (C-ute) will be releasing both a photobook and a DVD. The release is set for December 24th.
Kumai Yurina (Berryz Koubou) will be releasing an Alo! Hello photobook. This is her third release. It is coming out December 17th.
Last but not least, Shimizu Saki, also known as Captain, (Berryz Koubou) will be releasing her first photobook and DVD. It will be a new 2011 release on January 12th.
S/mileage will release their 4th single, Shortcut. The date is set for February 9th. Maeda Yuuka has also cut off her long hair. More information will be posted when it is leaked.
*:--☆--:*:--☆:*:--☆--:*:--☆--:
Rumi Yonezawa (Team K) released her first photobook in NOVEMBER! I would buy it, but it isn't even on CDJapan? Rumi is pretty sexy so I expect it is pretty spectacular. The fans are keeping the scans on the low down because she needs good sales.
On January 26th, Mika Komori (Team B) will be releasing a solo DVD. Not much else has been leaked, but she is known to be an oddball.
Chisato Nakata (Team A) will be releasing her first photobook as well, DVD included. It is going to be released on the 15th of this month. Guess what! The preorder is already sold out at CDJapan! AKB48 is keeping up their tendency to release their PBs pretty cheap. This is about $20! Nice right!
"Chi-Chan - Chisato" w/ DVD
On the 22nd Nonaka Misato (Team K) and Matsubara Natsumi's (Team A) DVD "Natsumicha" will be unleashed to the masses.
Guess who is releasing their second single. FRENCH KISS. Yep, they aren't a one single unit like many other idol units. It is another anime song, but that is fine. Here is a quote I copied:
"French Kiss' 2nd Single "If", will be used as the theme song for anime OVA "Kyo, Koi wo Hajimemasu". Continuing from the 1st single, there will be a special drama made which is set at the same school, as well as a new digital comic version, featuring the members voice acting parts of the manga."
I will post more info and such as it is released. However, if it comes out in the next two weeks I won't because of final exams. (cringe) This single comes out on my birthday. . . and Rika Ishikawa's too! Now you know when right. Okay it is January 19th.
Tomomi Itano (Team K) will be releasing her first solo single. It could be considered her second because she did release a para para track. She is one of the most popular members. She recently modeled wedding dresses at a fashion show. This one is also coming out January 26th.
SKE48 will released their 5th single on February 9th, but that is not important right now. The bigger news about SKE48 is the formation of Team E and the reshuffling of Team KII. On top of that, four Team KII members were demoted! Rough day for those girls. There is no official statement as to why they were demoted, but there are rumors floating around as you'd expect. Now each team has 16 members, unlike the flagship group. . .
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| Six of the eight being promoted. The second to the left is Yui who replaced Erena on Team K. |
Mine? Don't take this personally because I am just going by age, outside potential, and who is not too dependent on the group:
1) Shinoda (Team A): even though popular she has plenty of outside jobs.
2) Sayaka (Team K): she does enjoy musicals and the recent scandal has demoted her from her captain position. She loves AKB, but she did say on her blog that she was confused about her role because of K6. She was also disappointed with her senbatsu ranking; the producers on the other hand have demoted her further down as she is no longer senbatsu.
3) Kojima (Team A): I could see her working either as a charisma model or something along those lines. No3b would be one reason I would see her stay, but they are releasing their album.
4) Maeda (Team A): Acchan has so many options outside of AKB, but she can do it within too. She is very popular so I am not sure. She enjoys acting, but not as much as Erepyon did. Unlike other members, she doesn't need AKB to stay relevant.
5) Katayama (Team A): she has been doing some musicals as well. She has a strong voice and she is just and Undergirl.
6) Umeda (Team K): I could see her transferring to SDN48. AKB transfer to SDN tend to be some of the most popular members because they are more well known and carry over a fan base.
7) Sato (Team B): Natsuki is attending a University right now. She may need to focus on her studies.
8) Masuda (Team B): She is one of the best singers, she isn't that popular, and she has been doing some acting. She was an original Team K member, so she has been around for some time.
AKB48's 19th single, Chance no Junban, hit the number one spot today on the Oricon charts. The grand total is 471,242, which is about the same area that I was expecting (500K). That is even higher than Heavy Rotation's first day sales. I am more excited to see the PVs for Team A and Team K tracks. Three of the tracks, all of the them on Type A, are used for various promotions. Congrats for another Top 10 first day sales of 2010!
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