Mina's Photobook Wishlist, Idols & Dubstep, Provocative Dancing, and the Masterminds Behind J-Idols

Hello ladies, I feel like I refer to readers to much as 'guys' not that I actually think the majority of followers are males but in the modern-sense guys can be used as gender neutral.  WOAH.  I'm sorry it seems I went off on a tangent sooner than expected.  I'm sorry.  [What do you ladies think of the font size?  I was thinking the old size was a bit too small and this is the next size up.]


Photobook Wishlist [The Part Where You All Discover I'm a Perv]:

The news of Acchan releasing another photobook got me super excited; I almost bought it immediately.  I'm planning on going to Japan next year so I've concluded it is best to wait and just go on a shopping splurge.  AKB48 fans have likely heard this news by now.  Acchan's PB sales tend to amazing.  I personally adore her previous releases.  On that topic, the photobooks that I currently own are the following: Myao's Shining Sky, Watarirouka Hashiritai's Akkanbe, both travel diary PBs from AKB48, the third volume of TomoCawaii, AKB48 x Bijo Saishu, Acchan, and ATSUKO.  So if you are keeping track I own two of her PBs.  One was taken in Hawaii, the other in New York City.  The concept for this release is her clumsy side, which is very true.  Plus, it was shot in Paris.  I enjoy PBs shot in different countries because you see them play around more than if they were just held up in a room.  Now moving onto my current wishlist.  [They are in no particular order.]

1. Maeda Atsuko (AKB) - Bukiyou
2. Maeda Atsuko (AKB) - Hai
3. Michishige Sayumi (Morning Musume) - La
4. Ishikawa Rika (Dream Morning Musume) - hanagocoro
5. AKB48 - AKB48 Twenty-Four Hours
6. Matsui Rena (SKE) - Kingyo
7. Asami Konno (ex Morning Musume member) - Alo-Hello!
8. Kojima Haruna (AKB) - Haruna Kojima
9. Oshima Yuko (AKB) - Yuko Oshima L.A.
10. Itano Tomomi (AKB) - TomoCawaii Vol. 2
11. Eri Kamei (ex Morning Musume) - 20
12. Fujimoto Miki (Dream Morning Musume) - Cheri
13. Abe Natsumi (Dream Morning Musume) - ecru [or whatever I love Nacchi] 


Idols and Dubstep:
There are people who love or hate dubstep, similar to the reaction received by to auto-tune.  I fell in love with dubstep thanks to the UK hit TV show Skins which is known for their music selection.  If you watch the sixth season which is currently airing you'll likely hear it.  If you have no idea what I'm talking about or what it sounds like, here is a link.  If you frequent YouTube, you've probably have noticed popular songs being remixed with dubstep.  It is basically good party/ club music.  Just like how not long after auto-tune went mainstream in the US that it went mainstream in Asia, dubstep has followed.  I've yet to see it gain the popularity it has in the United States, but that may be due to (at least in Japan) the clubscene is different when compared to the west.  


My interest in discussing this topic was due to the preview of Morning Musume's upcoming single which features auto-tuning and the use of dubstep.  Personally I've hated most instances of auto-tune by Morning Musume, and Hello Project in general.  It doesn't make Shige's voice sound better but pitchier.  It tends to ruin singles for me, like with Niigaki's lines in Only You.  I'm waiting till I see the PV for this song before laying final judgement on the use of dubstep.  At the moment it sounds a bit like they just added it in there to try to be cool.  The rest of the song sounds like their past singles.  It is only featured heavily in two segments: the beginning and presumedly in a dance section.  While other songs I've heard from the west integrate it more into the beat.   

Now K-Pop isn't excluded from the practice either.  However, I only recently noticed it.  There was one song in particular that it jumped out at me but I've forgotten which.  However, when I tried to figure out what it was I found out that it was used in Hyuna's Bubble Pop.  [face palm]  I've listened to that song so many times, why have I never noticed it!  So when I was listening to it I was like 'where is it?' because the most noticeable time is in the dance section.  [I was probably too distracted by the infamous butt-to-vagina wipe she does.]  A strong beat isn't uncommon for K-Pop, but if you notice they use a small dubstep part used as a beat in the verses.  I had to listen for it to notice.  I do like the approach because it is not too overpowering, so the song doesn't sound like a remix.  But that doesn't mean I wouldn't mind dubstep being more highlighted.  Songs like Britney Spears, Nicki Minaj, and Ke$ha's Till the World Ends I think feature it well without making the only noticeable element.  [although that song is technically a remix.]  

Provocative Dancing:

I would like to focus on the example of the rookie K-Pop group ChoColat and their recent music video, One More Day, that has been getting some heat.  I want to start off with saying that I completely understand why people are upset.  The last thing I approve of is sexualization of children.  It is unhealthy.  I am in favor of banning child beauty pageants.  What the PV Guru Guru Curtain did I thought was distasteful which was sad because I did like relatively everything else.  


After stating that little disclaimer I now want to get into the fact that I don't mind the dancing in the MV.  The youngest members are basically freshmen in high school if that helps give you an idea of their age.  I don't know about you guys but this is nothing by my freshmen standards.  At mixers, dance parties held above a local bowling alley after home football games, it was basically a mass of grinding teens.  Does everybody here know what grinding is?  [I know that it was odd for my friends in Japan.]  It is basically a lap dance standing up, or the person in front bending over.  One of my favorite things at mixers was establishing a grinding train which is about four or more people in a line grinding against each other.  Now when watching it, it looks like sex with clothes on = dry humping.  However, I usually did this with friends and I never had the intention of sleeping with any of them.  Another story to give you perspective on my outlook is that I was dropping it like it's hot since 6th grade (first year of middle school = 11).  It is just the style of dancing that is popular.  Britney Spears was 16 when Baby Hit Me One More Time was released.  


So when I look at what they did I'm not too concerned.  If they were wearing something more risque then I would have a problem, but at the moment it only looks like the dancing is suggestive.  I think the moves people are most bothered by are ones relating to the chairs.  Personally, it makes sense if you think choreography.  I tend to be unimpressed by dancing with chairs, but they did a good job of it.  Then there is the camera shots, like of their butts.  I've tried to think of a better shot that would be better to highlight the move, but I don't have any better ideas.  Plus, it is not gratuitous shots.  So, nope.  I do not think this is inappropriate.  


[I've bashed Miley Cyrus because I think the situation is different.  If you are a Disney star then your music is targeted at young children.  Britney Spears had a break after the kids TV show before debuting as a solo artist.  You can't help who your fans are, but if part of your target audience is children you must take extra responsibility.  I don't care if you all of a sudden want to act your age.  You need to handle a careful transition, preferably a break period.]


The Masterminds Behind J-Idols:
This was spurred by my discovery that I'll likely never purchase a Johnny's good ever (well maybe with the exception of a concert ticket).  Why is that?  Because the man behind JE, Johnny Kitagawa, is a pedophile.  Now this especially pisses me off consider the strict code idols themselves follow.  It also disturbs me because the media tends to avoid the topic because he basically owns all the popular males stars in Japan.  This is disappointing because when I was considering doing a comparison of the three main idol-production groups I was planning on praising them.  JE has the most long-term success not only for the groups themselves but as a organization as a whole.  They've been successful for a while.  Plus, older units like SMAP and Arashi, who is heading into their 30s, are still standing strong.

Let's compare this to Hello Project.  Their production style, PV-wise, is similar.  You tend to see a lot of low budget, formulaic music videos.  However the main difference is the success topic.  I think everyone is aware that Hello Project has plateaued.  I thought they were coming back with S/mileage but they fizzled out due to bad management on Tsunku's part.  The whole member change element did it in for Morning Musume too.  At first it worked extremely well, but now the biggest factor is no one knows the current members.  The question is what will he do with Dream Morning Musume.  The group could become like SMAP or Arashi with longterm success, but only if he tries to do more than make money.  Both Johnny and Kitagawa, to me, seem only out there for the bottom line.  

I think the topic isn't 100% true when it comes to Akimoto Yasushi.  They've been employing amazing film directors to film their PVs.  He has also used controversial subject matter.  For example, a verse in Beginner isn't performed on TV because it criticizes parents.  They've had singles on sexuality, bullying, and SKE48 just released a PV featuring homosexual behavior.  SDN48's singles consistently were in the Top 3 of the Oricon charts, but he is disbanding them.  It isn't like he isn't making money off of them.  While he hasn't made long term success for a single group.  He has had multiple periods of success.  He formed Onyanko Club in 1985.  Onyanko Club debuted at #5, but the following single hit at #2.  They had six consecutive #1 singles.  If you wonder why AKB48 songs have strong sexual undertones it is likely due to Akimoto.  Onyanko Club was known for their playful, un-preachy, songs about taboo subjects.  I think Akimoto is more of an creative guy, but the record company and likely business-minded folk contribute to their marketing.  [Fun side note for Morning Musume fans.  While he was in high school he produced episodes of Utaban.] 

Watching this interview is very enlightening for a fan.  I've always tried to defend AKB48 talent-wise, so hearing the concept makes me appreciate AKB48 more.  I do think there are members who are talented, but there is variation.  I do agree that as a whole they could not compete against western artists.  This is where I see a difference between Tsunku and Akimoto's selection of talent.  

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. . .

Six of the eight being promoted.  The second to the left is Yui who replaced Erena on Team K.

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!

Graduation Photobooks and Moar!

There are a lot of photobooks being release, especially from AKB48 members.  It seems H!P is following AKB48's lead by releasing cheaper photobooks that don't have a hardback.  They make a great gift for the holidays, or you can do what I did and put all the merch on her Birthday/ Holiday wish list.  Have fun shopping:

Oshima Yuko's 3rd PB - L.A. 
1429yen 
I rarely preorder photobooks unless I know I really want it and I think it will sell out fast on CDJapan.  One of the reasons why is that I need to see enough previews beforehand, because I can't just go into the store and preview it.  Yuko is a goofball but also is really sexy, which comes across in this photobook release.  She obviously shot this in LA.  The photos have a gritty raw look to them which fits my image of LA (yes I've been there). 

Takahashi Minami 1st PB - TAKAMINA 
1143yen 
ONLY 4 COPIES LEFT AT CDJAPAN!  Takahashi Minami is also a goofy character, but she is quite modest in comparison to most of the other members.  Therefore, you won't see as much skin.  I was surprised at how cute Minami was in the previews I saw.  Now I don't think there will be any swimsuit shots, but she hasn't been wearing any bikinis lately.

Momoko Tsugunaga 5th PB - Momochi Zukan

2800yen
This one comes with a making of DVD.  Momo is one of my favorite H!P idols.  Momo is one of the most spastic, possibly the most spastic, idol ever.  I can't believe she is going to college.  She still has like the same face she did when she debuted.  

Kamei Eri's Graduation PB - Eririn
2200yen
This is a little more expensive than the last two because it includes a making of DVD.  Eri always releases wonderful photobooks and the only reason why I've held back is because they are usually over $40.  This photobook focuses on what she is like or would of been like as a normal adult.  We have the expected, sexy swimsuit shots.  However, this time we see her doing daily things like her on the train, playing tennis, working out, working as both an OL and a waitress.  Very natural photobook, which isn't too odd for Eri considering she has a very charming personality.

Ono Erena's Graduation PB 
1600yen
I am surprised about how little I've heard about this photobook.  It is going to be released tomorrow!  Like Eri was for Morning Musume, Erena has been a long time popular member of AKB48.  This is the only one that has yet to be released, so there are less previews floating around.  However, Erena's past photobooks and photo shoots have all been really good.  What I really love about Erepyon is how she is able to naturally walk the line between a child, a teen, and an adult.  She is adorable and sexy.  She is the most full figured out of the three that I've talked about, which I like.  The extra somethin' somethin' provides a lot of OMG cleavage shots.  This is my iPhone wallpaper actually.

Shinoda Mariko's 3rd PB - Mariko
1400yen
Now this one has been out for QUITE a while now, but I had to recommend it at some point.  I'm low on cash so it has been sitting on my want list for some time now.  Now I never thought of myself as a big Mariko fan, but she has been growing on me and seeing all the previews for this definitely helped.  She is a professional model so I wasn't surprised by how photogenic she was, but I was surprised by how much personality shined through.  Even though she comes off as a cool character (and was known for her poker face?) she is still a little bit of a goof.  She says harsh things, especially to guys, and has made an idiot of herself on AKBingo!, but that is why I love her.

AKB48's 18th Single Details & Other Merch on My Want List

I'm doing a combo post, because I post a lot and they are a similar enough topic to push together.  I've bet you've noticed the buzz going on about this single as more information slowly creeps out of the woodwork.  I was just saying how I wanted a serious single from AKB48.  Please, if you know you are going to buy these anyway just use my link when you buy them.  It won't cost you anything.  If you do the same thing just let me know your blog and I'll use your link.  Win win people.  I'm really tight on cash.  (Thanks on those who at least clicked.  I got 45 total, but it turns out that doesn't get me anything.)  Let's start with the track list and album covers:


Type A
1524yen
【ＣＤ】

1.Beginner               
2.Boku dake no value（Under Girls ）           
3.Kimi ni Tsuite （Team MINT）               
               
【ＤＶＤ】
1.Beginner Music Video　                 
2.Boku dake no value Music Video            
3.Kimi ni Tsuite Music Video                 
4.Beginner Dance Shot（Yuko version）                 
5.Beginner Dance Shot（Mariko version ）                 
6.Beginner Dance Shot（Jurina + Mayuyu version）

Type B
1524yen
【ＣＤ】

1.Beginner                 
2.Boku dake no value（Under Girls）           
3.Nakeru Basho（Team Diva）                 
               
【ＤＶＤ】
1.Beginner　Music Video　                 
2.Boku dake no value Music Video                 
3.Nakeru Basho Music Video                
4.Beginner Dance Shot （Atsuko version）                 
5.Beginner Dance Shot（Itano version）                 
6.Beginner Dance Shot（Takamina version)

Now, who the heck is Team Diva?  MINT was the group (Maeda At, Kasai, Katayama, Nito, Matsui S) who won the Ameba Pigg battle.  Their song is a sad romantic track.  The main track for this single, Beginner, is a tough track that fans have been comparing to RIVER, Team K's Stand Up, Keibetsu Shiteita Aijouand, and K-pop.  As for the lyrics I've heard their plain angry; nothing you expect from an idol group.  As soon as the rip of the song surfaced the internet people have been talking about pre-ordering it.  So, if you are on the fence don't wait too long.  Try to get the first press, so pre-ordering is the best.  I'm on the fence on which type I want.  I really like Type B's cover and dance shots.  Then again, I want to have the Acchan and Tomochin cover and MINT's song.  I will likely wait until I've heard the third tracks to make a final decision.  To be honest. . . I'm REALLY leaning for the Type B version.  I am impressed with what AKB48 keeps on releasing.  Even the generic single I love because they are catchy and fun to dance to.  Then they release that spastic single (Heavy Rotation, Soul Train, Veggies, and Pirates) and to follow it a bloody gore fest.  It is oddly perfect for the start of the school year here in the States.  Damn You Midterms and Finals!  Pure Idol Heart has plenty of news footage of the Janken tournament if you want to watch.  I thought they would of had a live stream or something live.

AKB48 x Bijo Saishu (1429yen)

It is a photobook that includes every member of AKB48.  Each one has their own theme, but nothing too dramatic and abstract.  It is a collaboration with stitch-work artist Asami Kiyokawa.  I want this, but I think I'll have to put it on my Christmas list.  I wonder if any of my family would buy it for me.  None of AKB48's PBs are ever too expensive.  Most of their stuff PB and Mook wise are pretty reasonable, but they release a ton of those every year.  This is on my must have list.  I love art and AKB48 so it is a perfect match.  Here is the theme list:

Duck × Maeda Ami
Raccoon × Oota Aika
Ant × Suzuki Mariya
Armadillo × Minegishi Minami
Boar × Ono Erena
Dolphin × Kuramochi Asuka
Eel × Kitahara Rie
Angelfish × Takajyo Aki
Parrot × Takahashi Minami
Snail × Nakatsuka Tomomi
Fox × Fujie Reina
Bear × Masuda Yuka
Black leopard × Itano Tomomi
Shiba inu × Hirajima Natsumi
Siberian Husky × Umeda Ayaka
White Rabbit × Oku Manami
Skunk × Yonezawa Rumi
Cricket × Matsui Sakiko
Sparrow × Maeda Atsuko
Sumire/Violet × Sato Sumire
Dandelion × Komori Mika
Tulip × Kashiwagi Yuki
Chihuahua × Watanabe Mayu
Chimpanzee × Miyazawa Sae
Evening Primrose × Sato Amina

Crane × Kojima Haruna
Flying fish × Tanabe Miku
Dragonfly × Oya Shizuka
Mouse × Miyazaki Miho
Hibiscus × Chikano Rina
Hummingbird × Uchida Mayumi
Pigeon × Matsubara Natsumi
Rose × Kasai Tomomi
Hedgehog × Kobayashi Kana
Pansy × Iwasa Misaki
Sheep × Sato Natsuki
Penguin × Ishida Haruka
Portulaca × Nakaya Sayaka
Marigold × Nakagawa Haruka
Mammoth × Akimoto Sayaka
Meerkat × Shinoda Mariko
Tortoiseshell cat × Katayama Haruka
Cabbage butterfly × Nakata Chisato
Goat × Sashihara Rino
Yuri/Lily × Nonaka Misato
Lion × Kikuchi Ayaka
Orchid × Nito Moeno
Squirrel × Oshima Yuko

Takamina - Takahashi Minami's First Solo PB!

Well, people are excited.  I surprised that she didn't get one when she was younger considering how popular she is.  It is 1200 yen, but preordering isn't available yet for CDJapan.  The release date is set for 9/22.  There are already a couple previews floating around.  If you are not familiar with Takamina and photoshoots then you might be disappointed.  It may be swimsuit-less.  She has appeared in some two pieces, but she often has the most covered.  Personally I believe that it is about time, but then again Sayaka hasn't released one either.  With all the bad talk about AKB48's taste/ reputation I think this will be evidence partly against that.


I can tell you right now that I will not purchase this photobook.  Mostly because I won't have any income during the school year so I need to save my cash for the CDs.  The other reason is because she just irks me.  I think she is funny, she can be adorable, she looks great in some pictures.  I just can't help it.  Something about her bugs me.  It is no where near the strong (I'm going to punch her) feelings that I have towards Jurina.  I've noticed when I watch old concerts or stages she does not bother me in the least bit.  I actually like her a ton more.  I don't know.  At first, maybe it's the hair.  Or it is possible that she does the deer in the headlights/ crazy eyes more often now.

Since she is Aki-P's favorite, she will probably get the okay not too be too dirty or to show too much skin.  So for now enjoy the only good picture we have of Takamina's tush (and the most skin we'll likely ever see):

News

I'm back!  I was busy for a couple days with family, who also do not have internet.  I was too busy to post anyway.  I was lucky to miss all the wonderful events that those in LA got to enjoy.  I might just do a picspam of pictures that are being uploaded by other wota, but later.  There are a couple noobs that I've asked to contribute to the site and both are up for it.   Now lets start with all the PV goodies!

S/mileage PV Preview - ◯◯ がんばらなくてもええねんで!!

Goto Maki PV Preview - EYES


Berry Koubou PV - 本気ボンバー!!

4Minute PV - I My Me Mine

Now onto sub-groups news:

Nattou Angels Z is the second generation line up of Nattou Angels (Miho Miyazaki, Tomomi Itano, and Tomomi Kasai).  The members are Haruka Ishida, Nito Moeno, Miyazaki Miho and Sato Sumire.  Their song is titled Nattou Man.

French Kiss is a new sub-unit from AKB48 including Yukirin, Aki, and Mocchi.  They all belong to the same agency.  The single will be released under Avex.  It is the ending theme for an anime.







ずっと　前から

No Sleeves will be releasing another single, but they are also doing another drama!


Other News:
The idols that made media line for senbatsu will be releasing a pocket photobook (AKB48 Best12)

AKB48 has started another TV show where hidden cameras follow one member around for a day.  The first episode followed the recent birthday girl: Tomomi Itano!

News and Releases

Hello Project:


Maeda Yuuka of S/mileage will be releasing her first photobook on 7/23.  She will also release her first solo DVD.

S/mileage will be releasing their second major single.  [◯◯ がんばらなくてもええねんで！！ (OO Don't overdo yourself!!)]  The release date is set for 7/28.  Here is a segment that shows a photoshoot, them listening to the song, recording, and dance practice:


Berryz Koubou's next single is Maji Bomber!! and will be released on 7/14.


On the same day Niigaki Risa, sub-leader of Morning Musume, will be releasing her 3rd Alo-Hello! DVD and photobook titled Mahalo. 

Buono! will be releasing another album titled Buono! BEST on 8/10.






AKB48:

Team Young Jump and Team Playboy are releasing joint mook.  It is $10.29 at CDJapan.  It comes with a sticker and poster.  You can buy it here.

AKB48 is releasing a visual book for all three teams for 2010.  All three are released on 7/22.  Buy them at CDJapan for under $20.
Team A Version

Team K Version

Team B Version


No Sleeves known also as no3b is releasing their first album on 9/15.

There is a massive release of solo trading cards on 7/31.  Versions:
Oshima Yuko, Maeda Atsuko, Shinoda Mariko, Itano Tomomi, Watanabe Mayu, Takahashi Minami, Kojima Haruna, Kashiwagi Yuki, Kasai Tomomi, Kitahara Rie, Minegishi Minami.

Other:
SCANDAL will be releasing their second album on 8/11.

Regular Edition CD


CD w/ PB


CD w/ DVD

GETS☆

I'm so pleased I was alone a moment ago because I spazzed out.  YesAsia takes about seven days, not including Sunday, to deliver.  Unfortunately, because it is YesAsia the usual special poster that comes with Acchan PB series was not included.  Plus... it is more expensive.  Here is a tip, if you want it get it from CDJapan.  If you preoder it, they'll get it to you the day it is released.  Just stick with CDJapan.  YesAsia should be considered a back up because they have a larger stock.  Anyway, it is summer so my parents are at work, my sister had left with some friends, and I am running around the house spewing gibberish.  Guess what I got!  Well, you probably already saw the next picture...

I purchased Miho Miyazaki's first PB, Atsuko Maeda's last PB of the series, and Watarirouka Hashiritai PB.  So I have yet to buy a single piece of Hello Project merchandise, only AKB.


Acchan can really draw you in.  On the computer screen it looks just like she is giving you some blank expression, but her eyes really capture my attention.  She has a talent of making me feel like I am actually making eye contact.  This photobook has the most fashion vibe that I've ever seen.  She is also one of the most photogenic people ever.  Her photobooks are always a safe bet.
These are both wonderful sides to one poster.  I was surprised to find this considering I didn't get one from Atsuko.  The photobook by Watarirouka Hashiritai is a great way to remember the original four.  It is obvious fan service: swimsuits, school uniform swimsuits, school gym uniforms, and school uniforms.  There is a little of their single costumes and some fashion shots.  Mayuyu and Lovetan in lolita outfits, Nacchan sporting rocker fashion, and then Harugon in a wedding dress.

If you are not familiar with Watarirouka Hashiritai here is the basics.  Watarirouka Hashiritai is a subgroup of AKB48 consisting of mostly original Team B, including the recently added fifth member.  The four are represented by Production Ogi, as well as the members of no3b.  Their singles have been slowly increasing in top rank.  Their last single AkKanbe Bashi hit the number one spot on the Oricon charts.  I love all the members except Ayaka, the new member.  I personally don't believe they need her, but her voice adds more depth to their sound.


I think this is one of the cases where the DVD is equal in quality, but dealing with region codes in not worth it.  She is not the most photogenic member of AKB48.  She is not the prettiest.  However, her personality is brilliant.  She also pulls it off so well that you don't see her weaknesses.  This is more awkward than Watarirouka Hashiritai's PB, because you feel dirty about how young she is.  Yet, she is not too young for me... she is only a year younger.  She just makes you feel dirty.  Hey, I love feisty Myao, what can I say?

News!!!

AKB48 breaks the 500,000 sales mark for their first week sales of Ponytail to Shushu.  They broke a couple of records:

• Best first week numbers for a female group since Momusu's [Renai Revolution 21] (515k) released approx. 9 years and 5 months ago

• Best first week numbers for a female artist since Utada Hiraku's [Can You Keep a Secret?] (784k) approx. 9 year and 3 months ago.

Included in the first press was a ballot to vote for their 17th Senbatsu Election.  I've posted both the first day and midway results in previous posts.  There are other ways to vote like being in the fan club.

Sayaka Akimoto, captain of AKB48's Team K, has released her first solo, digital photobook.  You can download the video here.  You can also download the photobook here.

There are a couple new AKB48 shows being planned.  One is a cooking show.  The first episode will air on the 27th of this month.

SDN48 finally got their own show.  It is called SDN48 すっぽんの女たち
(Suppon no Onnatachi). You can direct download the first episode here.


Atsuko Maeda of AKB48 is releasing her third photobook installment that is photographed in New York City.  This series is pretty cheap.  The first was in Hawaii, second in Tokyo, and well you know where the third is in.  This one is quite mature and includes partial nudity.

SKE48 will release their third single on the 7th of July.  It will include seven senbatsu for the first track.  It will also include an undergirls and theater girls song as well. 

Last Month on the 12th, AKB48 released Sosenkyo Official Guidebook.  It only costs $10!  It focuses on the Senbatsu Election.  You can buy it here.  Here is some interesting info from the JPHIP Forum:
"First, it comes with stickers and a poster.


The stickers are just inside the first page, and there's one for everyone that's running for the election this time. A total of 121 stickers (64 AKB48 stickers, 46 SKE48 stickers, 11 ranking stickers).


There are 3 different kinds of posters, each one has a back and a front side. The front side of the posters are the covers for Ponytail to ShuShu except larger.


    * Version A Front has Team A & Team S election posters
    * Version A Back has Oshima Yuko, Matsui Jurina, Maeda Atsuko, Takahashi Minami, Watanabe Mayu
    * Version K Front has Team K & Team KII election posters
    * Version K Back has Kashiwagi Yuki, Kojima Haruna, Itano Tomomi, Shinoda Mariko, Kitahara Rie
    * Version B Front has Team B & Kenkyusei election posters
    * Version B Back has Minegishi Minami, Ono Erena,Takajyo Aki, Miyazawa Sae, Kasai Tomomi, Miyazaki Miho


The book starts off with shots and interviews for the last election's Top 10 girls.


    * Maeda Atsuko gets 5 pages for herself (A 2 page spread, 3 pages of candids + interview)
    * Top 2 - 4 gets 4 pages each (Single page spread, 3 candid pages + interview)
    * Kojima Haruna gets 3 pages (Single page spread, 2 candid pages + interview)
    * Top 6 - 10 get 2 pages each (Single page, 1 candid page + interview)


Throughout the book we get some stats like


    * Request Hour 2010 Top 10 Songs
    * The 10 members who appeared on Shukan AKB the most
    * The 10 members who appeared on AKBINGO the most
    * Last election's rankings and vote numbers"

Watarirouka Hashiritai, a sub-group of AKB48, will release their 5th single Seishun no Flag on the 30th.

*:--☆--:*:--☆:*:--☆--:*:--☆--:

Goto Maki has reopened her official website and will be returning this summer.  She has already released a PV.

A new unit has been formed to perform at the Shanghai Expo which starts on the 22nd.  They are called Shanghai.  JunJun and LinLin, the two Chinese members of Morning Musume, selected the recently graduated member of Morning Musume Kusumi Koharu and Berryz Koubou, Buono!, and Aa! member Natsuyaki Miyabi.

For the next Hello Project Summer Tour people can vote for their favorite group and song.  They will perform the most popular songs.  The tour starts on July 18th, and continues until August 8th.

S/mileage will release their second major single on July 27th.

Sayumi Michishige on a TV show asking people on the street who is the cutest between Shige and some OG.  (Not really news, but fun to watch)

Part 1


Part 2