Popular Harajuku Model Misa Kimura is now an idol! The group’s name is MUSUBIZM and their theme is “to bring the world together with the power of Japanese ‘kawaii’ culture. The 6-member group unveiled their first performance on December 19th during the live webcast of “Joshi Collective”.

“Joshi Collective”, a regular web program on the social TV site 2.5D, is sort of like a “girl’s night out” (joshikai) where models, idols, artists, musicians, and other women working in the entertainment and media industry of Japan gather together to discuss topics important to them. In addition to the usual cast of Misa Kimura, vocalist from the band SEBASTIAN X, Manatsu Nagahama, model Ren Koseki, comedy duo SPIKE (Shiho Matsuura and Haruna Ogawa), singer Shiho Namba, and idol Natsuki Kiyoshi (Kiyoshi Ryujin 25), popular idol units Pla2me and Hacchake-tai (from PASSPO☆; Shiori Mori, Naomi Anzai, Yukimi Fujimoto, and Natsumi Iwamura) were part of the exciting broadcast.

昨日解禁の情報だったのですが！ なんと！2015年1月1日PASSPO☆のツアーファイナル、東京ドームシティーホールにてオープニングアクトをはっちゃけ隊がやることに決定いたしました！！入場はお早めに！！ pic.twitter.com/yiSFB91aht

— はっちゃけ隊 (@hachake315) December 19, 2014

The first part of the program was a talk show where Pla2me and Hacchake-tai were asked to talk about things that worried them as well as how they stay positive despite the ups and downs of being an idol. Pla2me’s Saki Kamiya and Mari Mizuta worried that they wouldn’t be seen as vulnerable or sensitive (a trait that many Japanese women perceive as being popular or attractive) because of the wild and physical nature of their dance performances. The Hacchake-tai echoed the sentiment by worrying that they weren’t as popular as the more feminine members of PASSPO☆, particularly since they are known for being the rowdy “older sisters” of the group that like to drink. However, you kind of have to admire a group that claims to “never get down”, even if their motto is “if you get depressed, let’s have a drink!” (ochikondara, toriaezu kanpai!) Matsuura from Spike suggested that they learn to cry more often instead of always being so high-spirited but her partner Ogawa quickly shot her down by saying “this one has never had a boyfriend before!”

今日ご一緒だったむすびズムさんと！！今日お披露目とのことで！そんな記念すべき瞬間が見れて嬉しかったー！！✨ミサさんにも久しぶりに会えたし、ミサさんが歌って踊ってるのかわいかった( ˃ ⌑ ˂ഃ ) pic.twitter.com/et6SbdcIij

— カミヤサキ1/10代官山UNITワンマン (@saki_p2m) December 19, 2014

The second half of the program featured live performances from Pla2me and Hacchake-tai which got the 2.5D studio heated up but, when the main hosts returned to the stage “Misamisa” (popular nickname for Misa Kimura) was missing! A few moments later she appeared on stage with 5 other young girls and despite it being their first performance, the crowd of idol fans and Harajuku fashion types received them warmly. After finishing their first song “unlucky girl”, they went into their “self-intro song” (most groups have these and the members mention their special characteristics or catchphrases in them) “MUSUBIZM”. As expected of a group under ASOBISYSTEM (same agency as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and TEMPURA KIDZ), their Japanese-inspired outfits were bright and poppy and their songs were an energetic dempa-kei mishmash of genres. With the end of their short first performance, many of the members of MUSUBIZM were brought to tears after having completed the first major step in their career as idols.

All the members of MUSUBIZM (aside from Misamisa, who already had one) opened Twitter accounts on December 19th, had a live webcast on their UStream channel on December 23, and appeared at the MiSS iD Festival ’14 alongside groups like Niji no Conquistador, Houkago Princess, and “many more” at Shinjuku Re NY on December 27th to close out 2014. They open their activities for 2015 with an appearance at ifes Premium ~Shin-nen O-EAST 500yen Kouen Special~ on January 6th. Don’t miss out on Japan’s latest idol group!

Venue: TSUTAYA O-EAST 2-14-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo
Date: January 6, 2015
Open: 1:00pm Start: 1:30pm
Ticket: 500 yen (+ 2 drink minimum)
Scheduled to appear: Houkago Princess, WHY@DOLL, Ange☆Reve, Luce Twinkle Wink☆, Stella☆Beats,
Jelno!, CANDY GO! GO!, 3min., Death Rabbits, Nato☆Kan, asfi, 100do.BaSiC, Seishun! Tropical Maru, PICK UP GIRLS」, FES☆TIVE, re-2, Rio Hiiragi, P.IDL, Shibuya DOMINION, AKIHO&HARUKA, Kawasaki Junjou Komachi☆, Tsuyogari Sensation, Millennium Girls, Ultra Girls, Neparyakyachahyanya, amorecarina, Candy zoo, MUSUBIZM, Baseball Girls, KOTO, Smile Gakuen, Suzu Matsumoto, MINEPRODUCE

Official site: http://musubizm.asobisystem.com/

Sunmyu released a MV for “Koi wa Panorama” which was filmed by the members of the group.

Compared to their previous MVs which are highly polished productions with soft lighting, rehearsed choreography and on location shooting, this MV seems to be filmed with a single camera using natural and fluorescent lighting as the members of Sunmyu move freely. As always, the music sounds familiar and comforting while being fresh and exciting at the same time.

“Koi wa Panorama” is the coupling song for “Hatsuyuki no Symphony” available on the Type C version of the single. This version comes with a 20-page photobook comprised of pictures taken by Sunmyu of each other. With so many processed images of idols coming out of Japan, sometimes it can be nice to see something more candid, no?

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Hatsuyuki no Symphony [CD+Photo Book/Type-C]

Sunmyu official site: http://sunmyu.com/

New wave idol group Yurumerumo! have released yet another unconventional MV and this time it is for the song “Nemutai CITY vs Dokusho Nikki” from their mini-album “SUImin CIty DEstroyer” which was released on New Year’s Eve.

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In the video they receive a text message from their manager informing them that they will have to make the video by themselves as they can’t get in contact with the director. What follows is a montage of Yurumerumo! pulling an all-nighter to finish the video as they perform in front of a green screen and desperately try to stay awake while adding special effects and edits on a computer. The waves of synthesizers mix with the effected vocals, creating a retro futuristic atmosphere.

Yurumerumo! might have snuck this new release under the radar during the busy New Year’s season but, don’t let another sleepless night pass without placing an order for “SUImin CIty DEstroyer”!

Buy Item

SUImin CIty DEstroyer

Yurumerumo official site: http://ylmlm.net/

BABYMETAL has finally revealed a trailer for their upcoming song “Road of Resistance”!

Ever since BABYMETAL first performed “Road of Resistance” during their November 2, 2014 performance at Brixton O2 Academy in London, fans have endured hours of shaky and blurry footage just to hear it again. One fan even edited together footage of 8 different fancams in order to recreate that moment when the Fox God revealed the song which was previously referred to as “The One”.

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“Road of Resistance” was made possible through a collaboration with guitarists Herman Li and Sam Totman of the British power metal band Dragonforce, who also contributed their over-the-top skills to the song. In the description, it refers to the song as a “new anthem”, a claim hard to deny if you are any sort of fan of metal. Our only criticism of the clip is that it isn’t a full version! We want more!

BABYMETAL : http://www.babymetal.jp/

Popular choreographer Natsumi Takenaka will hold an event to talk about her new released book “Idol=Heroine~Utatte Odoru Tatakau Onna no Ko ga iru Kagiri, Sekai wa Utsukushii~” (Idol=Heroine~ Because There are Singing Dancing Fighting Idols, The World is Beautiful) on January 21, 2015 (Wednesday).

Guests such as Lena from Vanilla Beans and Nade ks Japan (Nayumi Ninomiya, Momoko Oguchi, Reina Hikasa, and Rachael Watashiga) will appear at the event.

In the event “Idol=Heroine” ideal casting meeting, the guests applied idols to the characters of the fighting heroine such as Sailor Moon, as Natsumi Takenaka stated “Women being attracted to female idols is similar to the feeling of girls liking Sailor Moon”.

Also, those who purchased the book will be able to participate in the signing session of the author Natsumi Takenaka, after the event.

Event information 
Date
January 21 2015 (Wednesday)
Open : 18:30
Start : 19:30

Place
Odaiba, Tokyo Culture Culture
1-3-11 Aomi, Koto-ku, Zepp Tokyo 2F
http://tcc.nifty.com/

Guests
Hitomi Sakai (Idoling!!!)
Naomi Anzai (PASSPO☆)
Nanami Nishi (Niji no Conquistador) + Kondou-san (Manager of Niji no Conquistador)
Natsumi Takenaka (Choreographer)
Lena (Vanilla Beans)

Spectator: Nade ks Japan (Nayumi Ninomiya, Momoko Oguchi, Reina Hikasa, Rachael Watashiga).

Entrance Fee
Pre-sale: 2500 yen
Ticket sold on the day: 3000 yen

Tickets
Now on sale at e-plus
http://eplus.jp/sys/T1U14P0010843P006001P002146099P0030001

Buy Item

Idol=Heroine 

Related Links
Pot Publishing Official Website : http://www.pot.co.jp/
Natsumi Takenaka Twitter : https://twitter.com/723takenaka

Travel-themed girls rock unit PASSPO☆ celebrated their 5-year anniversary, welcomed in 2015 and bid farewell to member Makoto Okunaka in grand fashion at Tokyo Dome City Hall on New Year’s Day.

The sold-out audience of 3,500 “passengers” (PASSPO☆ term for fans) were taken on a “flight” (PASSPO☆ term for performances/events) that spanned 67 songs and more than 6 hours. The concert titled “PASSPO☆ Kessei 5 Shuunen Count UP Tour, Tour Final “Shinnen dayo! 5 Shuunen to Sukoshi Bin ~Zenkyoku Wasurezu Odoreru kana~” (English: 5th Anniversary Count UP Tour, Tour Final “It’s New Year’s!” 5 Years and a few days Flight ~ Can we do all of our Songs Without Forgetting Anything?)” was an unprecedented event and impressive display of the growth of PASSPO☆ as performers.

The quartet of Shiori Mori, Yukimi Fujimoto, Naomi Anzai, and Natsumi Iwamura, also known as the Hacchake-tai opened up the show with a rousing rendition of “Hacchake Sensation” before the familiar sounds of “Full Throttle” filled the hall and PASSPO☆ took the stage as 9 members for the final time. Dressed in their red, blue, and white uniforms from “Perfect Sky” and grey New Balance sneakers, they began with their Oricon weekly #1 ranked “Shojo Hikou”. As it was New Year’s Day in Japan there were kadomatsu (traditional decorations) on both sides of the stage and they even broke open a barrel of sake with wooden mallets on stage, resulting in Natsumi Iwamura being splashed. Additionally, audience members received omikuji (fortunes available at Shinto shrines) that were written in the 9 different colors of the members of PASSPO☆.

As they continued on through their major label singles, videos from the songs played on the screen behind them, offering glimpses into the history of PASSPO, especially when seeing the group’s first graduated member Kaho Sakuma (graduated in December of 2011) on the screen. During “With XXXX” there was even a shadowy dancer on the screen holding a green penlight (Sakuma’s color) but she did not make an appearance on this night.

Fan favorite “Pretty Lie” had passengers shouting out the call-and-response enthusiastically along with the first of many instances of the arena floor being engulfed in pink penlight kechas when Makoto Okunaka delivered her solo lines. Ai Negishi, Mio Masui, Anna Tamai, Sako Makita, and Okunaka may have been saddened by the fact that this was the last time for them to be performing “Shang Shang Chandelier” as they attempted a feeble victory cry but they powered through it, waving their fans elegantly and hopping around like jiangshi (Chinese hopping ghouls).

Compared to other graduation concerts filled with tearful heartfelt speeches, Makoto Okunaka’s graduation was handled by the Hacchake-tai, which meant lots of cardboard box art and general silliness. The Ground Crew (PASSPO☆’s backing band) made their first appearance on stage as “teachers” and Naomi Anzai read a message from graduated member Kaho Sakuma before the Hacchake-tai joined by Okunaka launched into “Kibun wa Saikou! Saikou! Saikou!” to dispel the earlier gloomy mood completely. Okunaka tried her best to keep up with the wild dancing and bid farewell to her pink happi coat as it was lifted away on a wire. At the end she was asked how she felt, to which she responded “I don’t really get what’s going on!”, which might be a typical response when seeing the Hacchake-tai for the first time.

PASSPO☆ continued with a 20-song medley split into four parts, with the first part including “Muteki GIRL”, “Natsuzora Dash””Go On A High Way”, “Hareruyo” mixed together with “Halleluiah”, “Hello”, and “Hakana” before taking a quick water break.

The medley transitioned into the slower softer songs “Truly” and “Sakura Iro” before gradually speeding up with “See You Again” and the harder rock guitar sounds of “Final Vision” and “Tap My Toe”, highlighted by Sako Makita and Anna Tamai’s cartwheels and Mio Masui and Makoto Okunaka’s ninja star throwing moves (no actual ninja stars were thrown) during the agressive funk rock of “Street Fighter”.

Shiori Mori sang out the end of “RUIN” while the other 8 members ran off stage. They returned having donned baseball jerseys to sing “No.1 Boy” as scenes from their variety show “Shaku Uma TV” played on the screen. The jerseys came off as they continued with the punk rock “Thank You Birthday”.

The medley came to an end with Ai Negishi, Anna Tamai, Natsumi Iwamura, and Sako Makita rocking out to “Starting Over” which transitioned into “Turn Around” with Naomi Anzai switching out with Tamai. Mio Masui carried Makoto Okunaka on her back as she ran on stage before they sang the retro-rock duet “Yume Passport”. All 9 members returned to the stage for the spicy “Kimi Iro no Samba” and the extra sweet “Pink no Parachute” as the venue was bathed in pink lights.

Returning to full-length versions of songs, the first part of the concert ended with fan favorites “Love Diary”, “Sakura Komachi”, “Cosmic You”, and “Natsuzora Hanabi”.

The members then moved to the back of the stage for the “Band PASSPO☆” section of the show, taking up their instruments and began a 6-song performance which included “Perfect Sky”, “BREAK OUT!!”, “2DAYS”, “Candy ・Room”, “Shiny Road”, and GPP”. This was the first time for them to perform “BREAK OUT!!” and “2DAYS” live as a band but their practice paid off as they sounded a lot better than they had last spring (when “Perfect Sky” went on sale and they performed it at several release events).

A video showing a rehearsal of The Ground Crew played on the screen as the stage was rearranged according to the specifications of their all-star backing band lead by producer Penne to Arabiatta (guitar/keyboards) with ex-Sex Machineguns members Panther (guitar) and HIMAWARI (drums), Gargoyle’s KENTARO (guitar), and $pyke (bass). A second introduction video played as The Ground Crew launched into a live version of “Ignition” and PASSPO☆ returned in their TRACKS outfits adorned with angel wings for “Baby Jump ~ Tengoku he no Toujou-bin~”.

The angel wings were thrown down and the temperature in Tokyo Dome City Hall began to rise with “Uhae!” and “WANTED!!”, which was ended by Makoto Okunaka sounding a gong. Sako Makita and Anna Tamai continued with their graceful dance solos during “Rock Da Week”. Heels were kicked up and fists pumped during the fast punk of “Pock☆Star”. Mio Masui and Okunaka got the audience even more riled up as Penne to Arabiatta showed off his tremolo bar skills during the intro for “Dom Dom Freedom”. Hawaiian 6 guitarist Yuta Yasuno made a guest appearance for “Mousou no Hawaii” and “Mudai”, which he wrote for PASSPO☆ in 2013. Tamai seemed to be overcome with emotion during the middle of “Mudai” but pulled it together to finish the song. Yasuno tossed his guitar into the audience before walking off stage.

The Strings Airport Quartet provided an ominous intro for “BEAST IN YOU” and orchestral flourishes to “Wish on a star” and “Bathtub”, which also featured soap bubbles floating around the stage.

Continuing on with “Next Flight”, “MASK”, and “WING”, Mio Masui seemed to be getting emotional as well, mentioning things that made her shed tears in 2014 before starting off “Onegai” as light blue penlights lit up the audience. Masui then took up the bass that she inherited from Akihiro Yokoyama (longtime bassist of The Ground Crew and thrash metal band UNITED that passed away unexpectedly in 2014), tears rolling down her cheeks as she started off “Himawari”.

The crowd ran back and forth on the floor and followed the movements of PASSPO☆ during “Step and Go”, rocked back and forth to “Material Girl”, and jumped tirelessly to 「I」. After “Kucha Love”, it was time for Makoto Okunaka to say her goodbyes to the 8 members of PASSPO☆ who had been with her for the past 5 years. At the risk of being disrespectful, this moment should have been better organized. Okunaka wandered back and forth on the stage, pulling aside each member one-by-one, sometimes forgetting what she had planned to say to them. The main part of the concert came to a close with Okunaka’s farewell song “TRACKS”.

Even after almost 6 hours, the audience showed no signs of fatigue, chanting “Makoto!” for several minutes and stringing blue lights from the front of the stage to the back of the floor, making a sort of makeshift runway. The encore began as PASSPO☆ returned to the stage in their usual tutu skirts, this time coordinated with pink Makoto Okunaka graduation T-shirts. Despite Okunaka having a tiara balanced on her head, it remained there during the wild towel waving of “LALA Love Train”. A spring Kanto solo tour titled “PASSPO☆ One-Man Flight Tour 2015～More Attention～” was announced and Okunaka reminded fans to watch her in the upcoming horror film “Shinrei Shashinbu”. Shiori Mori reminded Okunaka that “no matter where you go, we’ll be here for you” before singing “Dear My Friends”. Okunaka’s eyes welled up and her voice was hoarse and shaky as she sang her solo line in “Growing up”, a song she described as her “decisive song”. The encore came to a close with “Let It Go!!”, PASSPO☆’s very first single, as specifically requested by Okunaka.

The stage went dark once more and the “Makoto!” chants continued until PASSPO☆ returned for a second encore, this time in the shredded denim tops from “Shojo Hikou”. The Ground Crew and Strings Airport Quartet also returned for the grand finale. Leader Ai Negishi, perhaps hit by the finality of the moment, became emotional, musing about what the appeal of PASSPO☆ is and what it would have been like if “better” members had been chosen but also feeling grateful that it was the 9 members standing next to her on stage. Ending with the song that began the night almost 7 hours earlier, the audience loudly sang several verses of “Shojo Hikou” as gold confetti fluttered down from the ceiling.

While people all over Japan were braving long lines and cold weather for their first shrine visit of the year, PASSPO☆ provided a warm welcome for the Year of the Sheep. It was truly a rare event that tested the mind, body, and spirit of the “passengers” on PASSPO☆’s first flight of 2015. Makoto Okunaka may no longer be part of PASSPO☆ but you can experience this amazing concert over and over again when the 2-disc DVD is released on March 25th.

Opening Act – Hacchake-tai (Naomi Anzai, Yukimi Fujimoto, Shiori Mori, Natsumi Iwamura)

Hacchake Sensation

Set List
00. Full Throttle
01. Shojo Hikou
02. Vivi Natsu
03. Kimi wa Boku wo Suki ni Naru
04. Kiss = Suki
05. With XXXX
06. Jaa ne
07. Pretty Lie
08. Shang Shang Chandelier
09. Kibun wa Saikou! Saikou! Saikou!
10. Muteki GIRL
11. Natsuzora Dash
12. Go On A High Way
13. Hareruyo
14. Halleluiah
15. Hello
16. Hakana
17.Truly
18. Sakura Iro
19. See You Again
20. Final Vision
21. Tap My Toe
22. Street Fighter
23. RUIN
24. No. 1 Boy
25. Thank You Birthday
26. Starting Over
27. Turn Round
28. Yume Passport
29. Kimi Iro no Samba
30. Pink Parachute
31. Love Diary
32. Sakura Komachi
33. Cosmic You
34. Natsuzora Hanabi
35. Perfect Sky
36. BREAK OUT!!
37. 2DAYS
38. Candy ・Room
39. Shiny Road
40. GPP
– Ignition
41. Baby Jump ~ Tengoku he no Toujou-bin~
42. Uhae!
43. WANTED!!
44. Rock Da Week
45. Pock☆Star
46. Dom Dom Freedom
47. Mousou no Hawaii
48. Mudai
49. FAKE
50. BEAST IN YOU
51. Wish on a star
52. Bathtub
53. NEXT FLIGHT
54. MASK
55. WING
56. Onegai
57. Himawari
58. Step and Go
59. Material Girl
60. 「I」
61. Kucha Love
62. TRACKS

Encore
63. LALA Love Train
64. Dear My Friends
65. Growing up
66. Let It Go!!

Second Encore
67. Shojo Hikou

Yumemiru Adolescence closed out 2014 with “Kagayake! Yume Award 2014″ at Tokyo International Forum Hall C on December 29, 2014.

In a setting far removed from the typical sweaty live house that many idols have performances in, Tokyo International Forum Hall C looked more like the kind of place where piano recitals or stage plays are held. As the lights dimmed and the sounds of Yumemiru Adolescence’s “OVERTURE” filled the concert hall, the members appeared one by one, performing a short dance solo as they were illuminated by the spotlights. From there, they launched right into “Stealth Bukai 25:00″, the lead track off their album “Dai-ichi Shi-shunki” and “Zettaiteki Sympathy” before greeting the sold-out audience gathered in Yurakucho. Having just celebrated a birthday on December 2nd, youngest member Kyoka made a mistake on her age during the self-introduction. As usual, Yuumi Shida was beside herself with excitement.

Yumemiru Adolescence moved to the middle stage for the classic from their early days “Hajimete no Kagayaki” and spun like ballerina figurines on a music box during “Hanamomo”. Heart shaped balloons floated down from the ceiling and bounced through the floor level seats. Things slowed down with the delicate piano ballad “Himitsu” and the guitar-driven “Heroine”.

When the stage lights came back on, Yuumi Shida appeared on the top level of the stage sitting at a table for two in a white dress to sing her solo song “You&Me” as the audience waved yellow penlights. The solo songs continued with Kyoka wearing cat ears and paws for “Kachi Neko to Onya-ki” accompanied by light blue penlights. Karin Ogino finished up the set with “Itsuka Ohime-sama ga” while singing behind a sheet of glass as the venue glowed red.

With all 5 members returning to the stage in white one-piece dresses, Yumemiru Adolescence jumped into their Oricon top 10 hits “Syoumei Teenager” and “Mawaru Sekai” but it was “Junjou Marionette” that drew the loudest response of the night from the audience until this point.

After changing into their outfits from “Syoumei Teenager”, they continued with “Namida ga Deru kurai Tsutaetai Omoi” and “Doko ni demo iru, Itatte Futsuu” before discussing their goals for 2015. Kyoka declared that she would graduate from middle school, which would seem like not much of a goal but the other members made fun of her lack of book smarts. Rei Kobayashi vowed to get a solo song, which was met with jokes about how it would be a rap song or something strange. Yuumi Shida proclaimed that she will “take the summit” but failed to come up with anything more specific when asked to explain more concretely. Akari Yamada expressed her wish to lose 3kg even if she didn’t watch what she ate, an unsurprising desire from an Osaka native, but easier said than done. Leader Karin Ogino made an appeal to the media attendees to do what they could to get her a solo radio show.

Yumemiru Adolescence began the final stretch of the concert by shooting down the audience during “Nakumushi Sniper”. Fan favorites ” Candy-chan” and “Himawari Heart” brought the main performance to a close. As soon as they had left the stage, an announcement of a Tokyo/Nagoya/Osaka spring solo tour was shown on the screen but it was the second announcement of their major label debut with Sony Music Associated Records that drew a loud applause from the crowd. You can read more about that in our other article here.

The encore began with “17:30 no Anime” as copies of their new contract fluttered down from the rafters. Karin Ogino attempted to read the contract to the audience but got stuck on how to pronounce one of the characters. In the end, it seemed that no one in the group was able to read it! Brandishing their newly designed towels, Yumemiru Adolescence ended their final performance of 2014 with “JUMP!” 2014 was an amazing year for Yumemiru Adolescence but with the backing of a major label, 2015 looks to be even better! SanKyoka [a phrase often said by Kyoka which combines the Japanese pronunciation of "thank you" (sankyuu) and her name]!

Set List
01. OVERTURE
02. Stealth Bukai 25:00
03. Zettaiteki Sympathy
04. Hajimete no Kagayaki
05. Hanamomo
06. Himitsu
07. Heroine
08. You&Me
09. Kachi Neko to Onyaki
10. Itsuka Ohime-sama ga
11. Syoumei Teenager
12. Mawaru Sekai
13. Junjou Marionette
14. Namida ga Deru kurai Tsutaetai Omoi
15. Doko ni demo iru, Itatte Futsuu
16. Nakumushi Sniper
17. Candy-chan
18. Himawari Heart

Encore
17:30 no Anime
JUMP!

Yumemiru Adolescence Official Website : http://yumeado.com/

La PomPon (Power Of Music, Pride of New generation), the girls’ vocal and dance unit that seemed to come out of nowhere last summer and had the Internet buzzing about the high level of their performance, unveiled the MV for their debut single “BUMP!!”(release date: January 28) on New Year’s Eve.

In sharp contrast to the winter season, the video was filmed somewhere warm (Okinawa perhaps?) and shows the members dancing on the beach and poolside at a hotel under clear blue skies. Of particular note is that the outfits they are wearing on the beach were specifically chosen with the colors of the members so it is easier to remember which one is your favorite member.

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In the days leading up to the release of the MV, La PomPon uploaded three short trailers showcasing the dance skills of the members. In one of the tweets announcing the MV it was mentioned that a behind the scenes video was made as well so stay tuned!

Day 3 (December 28, 2014) KIRI and KAREN

Day 2 (December 29, 2014) HINA and MISAKI

Day 1 (December 30, 2014) YUKINO and RIMA

Related Links
Official site: http://lapompon.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/La_PomPon

Buy Item

Bump!! [w/ DVD, Limited Edition]

Bump!! [Regular Edition]

On December 22, 2014, a release party was held at Under Deer Lounge in Shibuya to celebrate the release of THE LADY SPADE‘s second album, “Reversed Shaped Black Heart“.

THE LADY SPADE is a four-member group made up of vocalist ATG (aka Alice to Gizzelle, aka Alice), dancers Lotta and Childa, and DJ SLF!!. Known for their cute yet dark look, their edgy outlook and visual style is instantly memorable. Their new album contains 16 tracks, and has a technopop feel.

ATG

Childa

Lotta

SLF!!

The group performed 13 songs during the release party, many of them tracks from the new album “Reversed Shaped Black Heart”. It’s been a while for them to perform to many songs at once, and the venue was packed with fans.

The concert was preceded by a very theatrical performance, and during one song, Alice appeared in handcuffs. THE LADY SPADE’s live performances may have a sort of “underground” feel to them, but the music is undeniably pop, with fans spellbound by the spectacle of their performances.

During the encore, they were joined by dancer Tiffany, who is currently on maternity leave. Together, the four of them performed their song “Sweetholic”.

Since their appearance at Anime Matsuri 2013 in Texas, Spade have been gaining fans overseas. This year, we’re expecting to see THE LADY SPADE continue to grow and expand as a group outside of Japan.

Set list
01. Open the Curse
02. Black Magic
03. (E)na
04. Wakannai & Aredabetaina (medley)
05. Eyecatch -RSBH-
06. Gyakusama na Waltz
07. Ice Cream
08. Hellbound
09. End of the World
10. Killing Me Softly
11. STAR*

Encore

12. Another Stomach for Dessert in the ABYSS
13. Sweetholic

THE LADY SPADE Official Website : http://www.ladyspade.com/

Photo by  Shinpu Tokyo
Translated by Evie Lund

“Murder idol unit” STARMARIE celebrated the New Year with a solo concert “STARMARIE Tandoku Circus～DARK FANTASY WORLD” on January 2nd and details of their “STARMARIE ASIA ONE-MAN TOUR 2015″ were announced with dates in Taiwan and the Philippines among the 7 cities listed.

With their macabre music videos and bone-chilling songs with titles like “Circus wo Koroshitano wa Dare da (Who Killed Circus)” and “Honda Kyouju no Dying Message (Professor Honda’s Dying Message)”, STARMARIE has lured a considerable number of fans into their dark fantasy world. Without pausing to address the audience sacrificing their precious winter vacation to attend the concert, STARMARIE ran through their 17-song set, 3-song encore, and 1-song double encore like the main character in a horror movie fleeing from the killer. Letting their songs do the talking, STARMARIE’s red-hot performance left many fans speechless.

At the end of the 2-hour concert, information for their spring tour “STARMARIE ASIA ONEMAN TOUR 2015″ was revealed. Seeing that Manila and Taipei were listed among the cities on their schedule, the members cried tears of joy. Due to the overwhelming support their received at Little Tokyo Crazy Kawaii Taipei last November, STARMARIE had promised to return and hold a solo concert in Taiwan. STARMARIE’s international resume also includes previous performances the Philippines and United States but those had been part of larger events with other groups. In addition to performing at Taipei’s PIPE live house and being the first Japanese idols to perform at Manila’s Movie Stars Cafe, STARMARIE is planning to have a concert in another yet-unnamed Asian country.

In other news, STARMARIE has been appointed as ambassadors of Japan’s leading headphone shop e☆earphone. Because of this collaboration, a HPL version (optimized for headphones/earphones) of “Circus wo Koroshitano wa Dare da (Who Killed Circus)” has been made available on iTunes as well as streaming services Spotify and KKBOX.

Set List
01. Circus wo Koroshitano wa Dare da
02. Good Morning Hamamura Show
03. Mitsu-boshi Resutoran・Paul kara Shoutaijou
04. Kuruoshiki Gekka no Butoukai
05. Teiou no Kirei na Aribai
06. Grandchild’s Graduation
07. Kirei na Reona no Shouzouga
08. Mama wa Tensai Guitarist
09. Koi Suru Vocaloid
10. Yomei 124-nichi no Cinderella
11. 1,000-nen Koi Monogatari
12. Obakeyashiki ni Shuushoku Shiyou
13. Monomane-shi Nero
14. Mogura Mystery Tour
15. Sayonara Obento
16. Time Machine・Love
17. Grampa Grampa

Encore
Andromeda Propose
1/3 no Junjou na Kanjou
Na mo Naki Hoshi no My Home

Double Encore
Namida no Pan Koujou (Concel・Kamata)

“STARMARIE ASIA ONEMAN TOUR 2015″
March 15, 2015 (Sunday) – Tokyo
March 22, 2015 (Sunday) – Sapporo (Hokkaido)
April 19, 2015 (Sunday) – Taipei (Taiwan)
April 29, 2015 (Wednesday) – Hamamatsu (Shizuoka)
May 2, 2015 (Saturday) – Manila (Philippines)
May 23, 2015 (Saturday) – Osaka
June TBA 2015 Tokyo (Tour Final)

Related Links
Official Website : http://starmarie.syncl.jp/
Twitter : https://twitter.com/Starmarie19
YouTube Channel : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-wAW8yGWbBEVO1iB9_YZ3w
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/starmariejapan
STARMARIE x e☆earphone page: http://www.e-earphone.jp/STARMARIE
PIPE website: http://www.pipemusic.com.tw/

Aoyama☆Saint Hachamecha High School released the MV for their 5th single “Mecha High no Gyakushuu~BEYOND THE DARKNESS~” (Mecha High’s Counterattack~ BEYOND THE DARKNESS~) right before it was scheduled to go on sale on January 6, but the wait was worth it!

Notorious for their wild and energetic performances, Aoyama☆Saint Hachamecha High School (commonly known as “Mecha High”) experienced early success with an Oricon Top 10 single ranking for “STARTING OVER” (release date: March 3, 2014) and solo concert at Akasaka Blitz (March 23, 2014). It looked like nothing could stop them but, the second half of 2014 was a turbulent time for Mecha High with members Sena Miura and Miho Yuuki leaving and new members Mirei Mochizuki, Yume Narai, and Momo Shiraishi joining the group.

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“BEYOND THE DARKNESS” is a fast-paced rock song about not letting the darkness creep into one’s heart when things get tough. This is reflected in the video as the members take on several challenges ranging from skydiving and training with professional wrestlers to building a house of cards and misogi (the Shinto purification ritual of standing under a waterfall while chanting). And if that’s not enough, there are scenes where they fight with lightsabers!

“BEYOND THE DARKNESS” was written by the duo of X.L.H. and SWiNGiN who had written many of Mecha High’s previous songs. The coupling song “VANISHING POINT” was written and produced by Kenta Matsukuma who is known as the former producer of anti-idol group BiS. But the BiS connection doesn’t end there! Junnosuke Watanabe (former producer of BiS) and Kazuhito Asai (director of several BiS MVs) were responsible for the MV. The third track on the single is a ballad tying together the Mecha High of the past, present, and future titled “STORY”.

If you couldn’t wait for 2014 to be over, perhaps “BEYOND THE DARKNESS” can be your theme song for a new beginning in 2015?

Aoyama☆Saint Hachamecha High School  Official Website: http://hachamecha.syncl.jp/

Buy Item

BEYOND THE DARKNESS 

The MV for DIANNA☆SWEET‘s upcoming 4th single “DEEP SNOW” (release date: January 21) has been revealed! The MV was made possible thanks to fans who helped to crowd-fund by Tokyo Girls’ Update it and acted as extras.

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Matching perfectly with the jazzy tone of the song, DIANNA☆SWEET performs on the stage of a night club dressed in black and gold outfits inspired by traditional Japanese kimono and waving folding fans, evoking the mood of a French cabaret club. Coincidentally, the idol phenomenon is believed to have come to Japan because of a French film Cherchez l’idole (1963).

One of the extras in the video, TGU’s very own “Itaru”, had this to say about the experience:
“Appearing in MV for a group that one is a fan of doesn’t usually happen so it was a really fun experience! Also, the members seemed to be really excited to have the opportunity to appear in such an extravagant set. I think it was a win-win situation. Please enjoy the result of our combined efforts and support DIANNA☆SWEET!”

“DEEP SNOW” comes in 3 different versions with 3 different coupling tracks. Type-A features “The twin tail” by DIANNA☆A (Fuka Nagayama and Mana Wakaba), Type-B features “LUCIFER” by DIANNA☆M (Julia Moe, Azumi Suzuki, and Momoka Okamoto), and Type-C features “Always” performed by the usual members of DIANNA☆SWEET. All three types of the single also include “Hatsukoi Revolution 2015″ as the third track.

DIANNA☆SWEET Official Website : http://www.dianna.jp/

BUY ITEMS

DEEP SNOW [TYPE-A]

DIANNASWEET

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DEEP SNOW [TYPE-B]

DIANNASWEET

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DEEP SNOW [TYPE-C]

DIANNASWEET

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Momoiro Clover Z follows up their epic collaboration with legendary rock band KISS (Yume no Ukiyo ni Saitemina”) by announcing their second single of the year “Seishunbu” will be released on March 11. Adding to the amazing news that they will be starring in their first film “Maku ga Agaru” (The Curtain Rises), “Seishunbu” will serve as the theme song for the film!

“Maku ga Agaru” was adapted for film from the book of the same name by Oriza Hirata. The story revolves around the members of Momoiro Clover Z as they aim for the top prize at the national tournament of theater clubs under the direction of a new teacher who used to be “the queen of school theater”. “Maku ga Agaru” is directed and produced by Katsuyuki Motohiro who was responsible for the popular “Bayside Shakedown” (Odoru Daisosasen) series. The screenplay was written by Kiyasu Kohei, known for writing the screenplay for the film “Kirishima, Bukatsu Yameterutteyo” as well as his career as a voice actor in Prince Of Tennis (Kaoru Kaido) and Hajime no Ippo (Ippo Makunouchi).

“Maku ga Agaru” premieres on February 28. It was also announced that Momoiro Clover Z will be taking on the challenge of performing a play on the stage this May as well!

The coupling track for “Seishunbu” is “Link Link” which was first heard in the teaser trailer for the film. A third song “Hashire!! (Z ver.)” will also be included on the single.

Trailer for “Maku ga Agaru”:

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Don’t miss the Momoiro Clover Z’s stage actress debut!!

“Maku ga Agaru” Special Website : http://www.makuga-agaru.jp/

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s first drama theme song will be used for Thursday drama “Mondai no Aru Restaurant”  beginning on January 15th! Kyary’s 10th single, “Mondai Girl”, will be released on March 18th!

Kyary debuted in the summer of 2011, and was produced by CAPSULE’s Yasutaka Nakata and has been unstoppable since! Last year, she began her second world tour, completed her largest arena tour, and performed on NHK’s Kouhaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Song Battle). It has been announced that she will record a song for a new drama, “Mondai no Aru Restaurant” (written by Yuji Sakamoto and starring Yoko Maki) that will begin airing on Fuji TV on January 15th.

The track, titled “Mondai Girl”, was created by sound producer Yasutaka Nakata of CAPSULE specifically for this drama. It’s a bubbly and cute song supporting the hard working women around the world. This single supports each individual’s unique traits and bravery with Kyary-esque content and the collaboration of this drama’s humor that comes from theme of the struggle women have to deal with under an unreasonable male society.

The coupling tracks will be the two songs fans have been so eager to hear an announcement from. They are “KISEKAE” used in the NEW Nintendo 3DS commercial and “My Room,” which plays during the CHINTAI commercial.

The limited edition will include footage from KPP NANDA COLLECTION WORLD TOUR 2014 and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s Colorful Panic TOY BOX.

Thursday night drama “Mondai no Aru Restaurant” will begin airing on January 15th at 10PM. Please check out Kyary’s new song and the bravery of the people struggling under the modern society in this new drama!

BUY ITEMS

Mondai Girl [w/ DVD, Limited Edition]

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Mondai Girl [Regular Edition]

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Related Links
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Official WEBSITE: http://kyary.asobisystem.com/
Kyary Official Blog “Kyary Pamyu Pamyu Way Way Blog by Ameba”: http://ameblo.jp/kyarypamyupamyu/

 Translated by Misato

Popular celebrity Mariya Nishiuchi was able to fulfill her dreams on August 20th 2014 after receiving the ‘Best New Artist’ award at both the ‘56th Kagayaku! Japanese Record Awards’ and the ‘47th Japan Cable Awards’ for her debut single ‘LOVE EVOLUTION’. Get ready Mariya fans, the release of her new video for ‘7 WONDERS’ from her 2nd single, is just around the corner. The video will be released on January 28th, so be sure to mark those calendars!

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Mariya’s new video is loaded with scenes that highlight her many talents such as her singing while playing guitar on stage with her band and walking down the runway.

The theme behind Mariya’s music video, ‘A woman’s complex feelings when in love’, is also notably well represented. It is also without a doubt that this video is jam-packed with all that is charming about the multi-talented celebrity.

Nishiuchi had this to say about the highlights of her new video – ‘Anyway first of all it was so beautifully portrayed. When I see it, I feel like I’m at a live concert and even when I was singing in the video I sang as if I was actually singing at a concert. The song is filled with complicated feelings in regards to love from a woman’s point of view, with the lyrics talking about how even though a woman has a man that loves her, she feels uneasy, wonders if there are areas she feels is somehow ‘off’ or not quite right as well as whether the relationship will work out overall; I tried to convey the feelings of a woman struggling with those emotions in this music video.

The coupling song ‘Don’t let me down’ will air on January 10th on TV Tokyo Anime in the form of the new series ending theme song for anime ‘Fairytale’. It will be the first time that Nishiuchi will be performing an anime’s theme song.

Even after undertaking her career as a singer, Nishiuchi is continuing her work as a top model for ‘Seventeen’. Despite her plate being already quite full from her work as a singer and a model, this Autumn Nishiuchi will take on the heroin role in the new movie ‘Rain Tree’.

No matter what work, Nishiuchi always challenges herself and after showing us her crying face when she received the ‘Best New Artist’ award, anyone could see just how much of a pure heart she holds. With that, as well as ‘having a face that teenage girls strive to have’, Nishiuchi has acquired the top place for cute looks and has gained tremendous popularity with young women.

BUY ITEMS

7 Wonders [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type A]

[CD]
1．7 WONDERS
2．Don’t let me down
3．7 WONDERS（Instrumental）
4．Don’t let me down（Instrumental）
[DVD]
“7 WONDERS” Music video
Backstage shots of music video
[deals]
Mini photobook
Original guitar pick
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7 Wonders [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / TYpe B]

[CD]
1．7 WONDERS
2．Don’t let me down
3．7 WONDERS（Instrumental）
4．Don’t let me down（Instrumental）
[DVD]
“7 WONDERS” Music video
Backstage shots of music video
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7 Wonders [Regular Edition]

1．7 WONDERS
2．Don’t let me down
3．7 WONDERS（Instrumental）
4．Don’t let me down（Instrumental）

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Translated by Cheryl Coyle

Not many people have heard of the instrument erhu (known as “nico” in Japanese) in Japan. Learning the erhu from the age of 6 and participating in an international music competition for the first time in 6th grade, Kiriko has received many awards both within and outside of Japan. Not only by playing classical music, Kiriko has gathered attention by creating a new style of playing anime songs by the erhu. This interview will ask her origins as an erhu player and her future activities.
日本ではあまり聞き慣れない二胡。６歳から二胡を習い始め、小学6年生で初めて国際コンクールに参加、その後も国内外で数々の賞の受賞経歴を持つ実力派二胡奏者、桐子さん。古典曲もさることながら、最近は二胡でアニソンを弾くというスタイルで一躍話題に。そのきっかけや、今後の活動についてインタビューしました。

Firstly, I recognize that erhu is an unfamiliar instrument in Japan, but how did you come to start the erhu?
−まず始めに、二胡って日本ではあまり聞きなれない楽器だと思うのですが、習い始めたきっかけは何だったのですか？

I started when I was 6 years old. I learned the piano from 4 years old, and after 2 years of learning it, my dad became a big fan of Sakamoto Ryuichi. Sakamoto composed the theme song of the movie “Last Emperor”, and after noticing that the erhu was used in the theme song, I began to be conscious of it. Although it wasn’t a popular instrument, my dad found an erhu class and my mom started learning the erhu at a different class too, and I was watching my parents practicing the whole time. While I was watching and listening to them practicing, I began to develop relative pitch, and I was able to recognize the intervals by Do Re Mi Fa So Ra Si Do (C D E F G A B C) although I did not know the song at all. My mom used to place the score on the kitchen and hum the tune while cooking, and one day I took a look at the score when my parents were not at home. The score of the erhu is written by using the numbers 1 to 7, and when I realized that 1 is Do (C) and 2 is Re (D), I was really happy and started to be interested in playing the erhu.
6歳の時からです。元々4歳の時からピアノを習っていて、2年くらい習った所で父が坂本龍一さんの大ファンで。坂本さんがラスト・エンペラーのラスト・エンペラーのテーマを作曲されて、その中で二胡が使われていて、その頃から二胡を意識するようになったんです。知名度はなかったんですけど、父がたまたま二胡の教室を見つけて、その後母が別の教室で習い始めて、自分は両親が練習しているのをずっと見ていたんですけど、そんな姿を見たり聞いたりしているうちに相対音感がついていて、二人が演奏している曲は全然分からないけど、ドレミファソラシドで分かっていて。母がいつも料理しながらキッチンに楽譜を置いて鼻歌で歌って練習してたんですけど、ある日両親が居ない時にキッチンに入って楽譜をちょっと読んでみようと思ってみたら、二胡って１～７まで、って数字で表すけど、ドレミファソラシドで。それが自分でドが１でレが２で解読できたのがうれしくってそれで興味持ってやってみようかなって。

It was good that I started the erhu, but my parents were really strict and they didn’t let me play with my friends or play the game unless I practiced two hours a day. So, I used to hate the instrument that time. When I had to draw a picture of my future dream in class, I drew myself standing in the middle of an idol group. I really hated the erhu. But, I was the one who said that I wanted to start the erhu, so I continued unwillingly, and acted as if I have practiced when my parents were not at home. For example, I quickly hid my game boy and grabbed the erhu as if I was practicing, as soon as I heard the door lock open. That was how much I hated the erhu.
始めたのはいいんですけど、親が厳しくて、一日２時間とかやらないと友達と遊ばせてもらえなかったりゲームも出来なかったんです。だから私はその頃楽器が大嫌いだったんですよ。小学校で将来の夢の絵を描く授業があって、その時は３人組のアイドルの真ん中に立ってる自分を書いたりしてました（笑）。二胡大っ嫌いだったんですよ。やるって自分で言っちゃったから、怖いから、って感じで嫌々やってて、両親が居ない時は、練習した様に見せるために悪知恵を働かせていました（笑）。　カチャッと部屋の鍵の開く音がしたら、ゲームボーイを隠して椅子にすぐ着いて、二胡やってましたよ！？　みたいな（笑）。本当にずるばっかしてた。それくらい嫌だったんです。

However, when I first participated and listened to the performance of the erhu players of my age at the international music competition at Beijing in 6th grade, I was astonished by the difference of the level. My result was terrible and the level was really different. Until then, I was able to easily read the music and play the instrument, and I had confidence because the people around me told me that I was good. For the children of China, being able to play accurately is something that anyone could do if they practice, and they were able to do one step further of putting their emotions in the music and being really expressive. But at that time, I didn’t know any of that and just played the notes as it says on the scores, so that’s where the difference appeared. After that, my thoughts towards the erhu changed.
でも小学六年生の時に初めて北京の国際コンクールに参加して、本場の同年代の子供達の演奏を聞いたときは、そのレベルの差に圧倒されました。結果がボロボロでもう本当にレベルが違いすぎて。それまでは普通に楽譜通りに引くことは余裕で、すごい自信があってみんなから上手に引けてるねって言われていい気になってたんです。中国の子供たちにとっては譜面のとおりに弾くっていうのは誰にでも努力すればできることで、更にその上の段階の感情の込め方、表現力がすごいあるんです。その当時私はそんなこと知らずにただ楽譜のとおりに引けばいいと思っていたから、そこに差があるのに気づいて。そこで意識が変わりましたね。

So you realized your own level for the first time in 6th grade after participating in the international music competition.
-日本にライバルがいない中、小学校６年生の時に初めて国際大会に出て、初めて自分のレベルに気づかされたということなんですね。

Absolutely. I was always being conscious of the Chinese players of my age that time. After I decided to get first place for the next contest, I practiced almost four hours every day, and I was able to win the first place in the competition held the next year at Pekin.
そうですね。その頃はずっと中国の子を意識してました。ぜったい次のコンクールでは優勝するって決めて、そこからは毎日4時間くらい練習をして、無事一年後の北京でのコンクールで１位を取りました。

The video of you playing the song of the anime “Love Live” has received attention not only in Japan but in other countries such as China and Shang hai. Why did you think of playing anime songs with the erhu? (The video : http://www.nicovideo.jp/watch/sm23473412)
−二胡でアニメ「ラブライブ！」の曲を弾いている動画が、日本だけでなく中国、香港など海外でも話題になっていましたね。二胡でアニソンを弾いてみようと思ったきっかけは何ですか？(動画：http://www.nicovideo.jp/watch/sm23473412)

I liked playing games and watching animes since I was little. During my study abroad in Pekin, I always played classical songs, but the music I usually listen to are songs of Nogizaka 46, or anime songs, or other idol songs. I used to be an otaku, but I didn’t have any otaku friends around me, so I was hiding it the whole time. I made a secret account on twitter and tweeted things like “Harutan (^ω^) peropero”. But one time I made a mistake and tweeted about the anime Love Live on my main account. I was depressed because I thought my followers would decrease, but surprisingly, it increased. It was that time when I thought that these kinds of people can become my fan. Since then, I started posting videos on Nikoniko Douga, and there was more response than I had expected, and nanka omoshiroina tte omoihajimeta.
小さい頃からゲームやアニメが大好きなんです。北京留学中はずっと古典曲ばかりやってたけど、普段聞くのは乃木坂４６とかアニソンとかアイドル系の曲ばっかり聞いてて。つまりいわゆるオタクなんですけど、周りにオタク友達がいなかったから、ずっと隠してたんです。Twitterなんかも裏アカウント作って「はるたん（＾ω＾）ﾍﾟﾛﾍﾟﾛ」とか書いてたんです（笑）。でもとあるきっかけで間違えて本アカでアニメ「ラブライブ！」のことをつぶやいてしまって！　フォロワー減るなって落ち込んでたら逆に増えたんです（笑）。そのとき、こういう人たちにファンになってもらえるかも、と思って。それからニコニコ動画とかをやるようになって。配信してみたら予想以上に反響があって、なんか面白いな、って思いはじめました。

In the event held on July at Hong Kong, you performed the song of “Love Live”. How was the reaction of the audience?
−今年7月に香港で開催された同人イベントでも、「ラブライブ！」の曲を演奏されていましたね。観客の方の反応はいかがでしたか？

I was worried that people would respond negatively if I played anime songs with such a traditional musical instrument, so I was surprised and glad at the same time when the audience was pleased with my performance. Also, when I arrived to the airport, the fan was waiting for me and they took me to the live hall. Many people came to my signing and photo taking sessions, and the CDs were sold out too. I thought I was not popular at all, so I was very happy and grateful.
二胡っていう伝統的な民族楽器でアニソンを演奏するなんて、どうなんだろう、邪道だとか言われないかな、って心配もしたんですけど、逆に喜んでもらえてびっくりしたし、やっぱりすごく嬉しかったです。しかも空港に着いたらファンの方が会場までアテンドもしてくださったんですよ！　サイン会と写真撮影会もやったんですけどたくさんの方が来てくださって、CDも持っていた分が全部売り切れて。自分がまったくの無名だと思って行ったので、本当にありがたいです。

As an erhu player, what are your future goals and things you want to challenge?
−二胡奏者としてのこれからの目標や、チャレンジしてみたいを聞かせて下さい。

My primary goal is to become synonym with erhu. I want my name “Kiriko” to appear on the top when people search the keyword “erhu”. It may be difficult to be the number one player just by looking at the technical aspects, but I want to try my best for people to know the erhu by playing anime songs. Also, although the erhu is known as “the tone of healing”, I want to teach them that that is not it. After going abroad and listening to the genuine erhu, I realized that China also plays technical music with the erhu too. I think that kind of music is more of a mesmerizing style than healing music. It is important to be conservative to sustain the traditional erhu, but I thought I can express the beauty of erhu by doing something different.
一番の目標は、二胡奏者と言えば桐子、と言われるようになること。二胡ってキーワードいれて検索すると一番に出てくる、ってくらい。技術面で１番になるというのは大変なことかもしれないけれど、アニソンを弾くとかちょっと変わったことをして、もっともっとたくさんの人に二胡を知ってもらうために頑張りたい。あと二胡って日本では“癒しの音色”とか言われることが多いんですけど、それだけではないってことも伝えたいですね。留学をして本場の二胡を見て聞いてきて、超絶技巧的な曲を弾くのが中国でははやっていたりするのを知って。それって癒しというよりは魅せるスタイルだと思うんですよね。二胡っていう古典的な楽器を守るために、保守的でいることも大切なことだけれど、自分が少し変わったことをして若い人に二胡の魅力を伝えていくことで、何か変えられることがあるんじゃないかな、と思っています！

The album “NiKOHOLiC” is now on sale! With the album, she challenges to play pop music and anime songs not only traditional music, to show new style of expression of Chinese traditional instrument erfu. You have to listen to the original song “Cat Tail” that was composed for this album! Why don’t you listen to the Kiko World filled with a world view of originality?
そんな桐子さんですが、最新アルバム「NiKOHOLiC」が絶賛発売中！　伝統音楽の垣根を越え、ポップスやアニメソングなどにも挑戦し、中国伝統楽器・ニ胡の新たな表現として注目の作品。このアルバムのために書き下ろしたオリジナル曲「きゃっとている」も必聴！　独特の世界観あふれる桐子ワールドを、二胡になじみがある人もない人にもぜひ聞いてみて欲しい。

BUY ITEM

NiKOHOLiC

Related Links
Official Website : http://www.kiriniko.com/
Twitter : http://www.kiriniko.com/
YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/user/KiRiKs2

Translated by Serina
Photo (in miko outfit) by Kenta Kuzuhara

If you were fortunate enough to find a way to order the “Dempa-tou” (name of Dempagumi.inc’s fan club) limited edition version of Dempagumi’s 3rd album “WWDD”, February 18th can’t come soon enough! Dempagumi.inc has just unveiled images of the artwork and contents of the box set in order to sate your curiosity and intensify your expectations!

The first CD features songs like “Sakura Apparition”, “Dear☆Stage he Yokoso”, “Chururi Chururira”, and “Denpari Night”. The second CD is comprised of the members’ solo recordings which include “Promise of the World~Waga Koso Sekai no Kyuuseishu” (Risa Aizawa), “Tokimeki ☆su cha-ra ka Texas (Eimi Naruse), “P and A” (Ayane Fujisaki), “Sorry, Lonely” (Mirin Furukawa), “New Romantic” (Moga Mogami), and “Ano ne…Jitsu wa Watashi, Yumemi Nemu Nanda… ♡”（Nemu Yumemi). The Blu-ray DVD includes the music videos for “Sakura Apparition”, ” Fancy Hoppe ♡ U・FU・FU”, “Chururi Chururira”, “Lemon Iro”, “Denpari Night”, and ” Bali 3 Sankyouwakoku” with optional audio commentary as well as well as concert footage.

The cover art has been designed by Takumi Shiga, director of Dempagumi’s previous music videos. Colorful drawings of a jungle filled with monsters inspired by the members of the group cover the packaging and have been provided by manga artist Natsuko Taniguchi. The box set also includes an oversized 120 page booklet, sticker set, and bandana (so you can look the part of a hardcore Dempagumi fan?). So far it seems that none of the online music stores have cover art for the other versions of “WWDD” but, can we hope that it looks something like the 2 pictures shown above?

It might be too late to pre-order the “Dempa-tou” version of “WWDD” on your own but, perhaps you can make friends with a fan club member and have them order one for you? Even if the box set might be too much for you there is still the CD+DVD, CD-only, vinyl LP, or cassette version to choose from, which you can probably buy at their 2-night live concert at Yoyogi National Stadium on February 10 and 11. Or you can order it now using the links below!

Buy Item

WWDD [w/ DVD, Limited Edition]

WWDD [Regular Edition]

Related Link
Dempagumi.inc Official Website : http://dempagumi.dearstage.com/

Lately, seeing two people walking around town wearing the same exact outfit in different colors is a common thing. Before, we commonly called it a “pair look,” but recently, we began to call it “osoroi coordinate” (matching coordinate) and finally shortening it to “osoro coord.” And for the girls who are really close, there is the “futago coord” (twin coordinate). It’s not limited to just　between girls, either. There less “complete” outfits between friends, couples, and a parent with their child. For example, wearing the same parka, shirt, or matching the top half of the outfit. And on the other end of the spectrum, there can be completely matching outfits from head to toe. Some people even discreetly match outfits by wearing matching accessories like beanies, backpacks, and sneakers.
最近、街で2人組が全く同じ服、色違いの服を着ているのを見かける。一昔前まではこれを「ペアルック」と呼んでいた。近年はお揃いのコーディネート、つまり「お揃いコーデ」、「おそろコーデ」と呼ぶようになった。さらに、仲の良い女の子同士のお揃いは「双子コーデ」とも言われているという。友達同士やカップル、親子でパーカー、Ｔシャツなど上半身だけ揃えたり、また、頭から足先までの全身揃えるなど、そのコーディネートは様々。ニット帽やリュック、スニーカーなど小物で、さりげなくお揃いコーデを楽しんでいる人もいるようだ。

http://www.wegoblog.jp/

Girls enjoy wearing matching outfits to theme parks, concerts, shopping around town, and basically anywhere that will allow it. Original coordinates are obvious at theme parks, but they can also wear matching shirts with characters printed on them, or dress up like the a pair of the characters themselves. For concerts, people will often wear outfits with the members’ color or cosplay them.
若い女の子はテーマパークやライブに行くとき、街で買い物をするときなど、あらゆる場所でお揃いコーデを楽しんでいる。テーマパークではオリジナルのお揃いコーデはもちろん、キャラクターのＴシャツを着たり、ペアのキャラクターになりきったりしている。また、ライブでは好きなメンバーの色を取り入れた服やステージ衣装を真似した服を着ている人が多い。

http://wear.jp/moon0220/coordinate/590505/

https://twitter.com/Maeda_Nozomi/status/541852055162204160/photo/1

http://xn--tcke1d8iub4579b.jp/2012-13Popcorn.html

So what’s the reason to wear matching outfits or twin outfits? By wearing matching outfits or accessories, there’s a sense of togetherness and brings them closer together. Not only that, but it also shows how close the people are to the people around them. There are other reasons like “We’re like two idols with unity” “We stand out as if we’re cosplaying and it’s cute.” Clothing shops with a costumer base consisting of younger people sell clothes that can easily be used for matching outfits as well.
お揃いコーデや双子コーデをする理由とは？　服装や帽子などお揃いにすることで一体感が生まれたり仲良しアピールできたりすることが魅力。「統一感があって２人組アイドルみたい」「コスプレっぽくて目立つからかわいい」など若い女の子の憧れにもなっている。また、若者がよく利用している洋服店ではお揃いコーデ向けに色違いの服や小物が多く並んでいる。

http://www.spinns.com/blog/

http://www.spinns.com/blog/

To support the twin look, Sanrio Puroland in Tokyo provided a “twin coordinate discount.” When you took a coupon to Puroland with your friend wearing a matching outfit, they would discount the admission ticket. It’s a way to grant the wishes of fans who want to “be twins like Hello Kitty and Mimmy” and take cute pictures in matching outfits with their friends.
さらに東京都にあるサンリオピューロランドでは「双子コーデ割引き」が実施されていた。割引券 を持って友達とお揃いの服でピューロランドに行くとパスポート料金が安くなるそうだ。「双子のキティちゃんとミミィちゃんみたいになりたい」「かわいいフォトスポットでお揃いのかわいい服で友達と写真が撮りたい」という女の子の願いを叶えたイマドキの企画。

http://www.puroland.jp/sp/2014_futago/

http://www.puroland.jp/sp/2014_futago/

Matching outfits and twin outfits are something to look out for from now on! Wouldn’t you like to try wearing original matching outfits with your friends or boyfriend?
今後も大注目のお揃いコーデと双子コーデ。あなたも仲良しの友達や彼氏と“オリジナルのお揃い”をしてみては？

Translated by Misato

Manabu Koga, who received recognition for “Underwater Knee High Girls” and “Underwater Knee High Girls Plus”, will begin holding a regular talk event , Monthly Underwater Knee High Girls beginning on January 14th.

This series, which also received a great response on Tokyo Girls’ Update, is a fetish series focusing on women wearing knee high socks and bathing suits underwater.http://tokyogirlsupdate.com/guide/underwater-knee-high-girls-plus-exhibition

A talk event hosted on every second Wednesday, on “Underwater Knee High Day”. The decision to host it on the second Wednesday comes from the Katakana “ニ” used in “knee high,” and the choice of Wednesday comes from Kanji “水” for “water” which is also used in “Wednesday” (水曜日). It will take place in Bar Zingaro in Nakano Broadway 2F, and will revolve around the topics of art, fashion,  fetishism, technology, and hobbies with guests.

Season 1, occurring between January to April, focuses on the theme of women and fetishism with different female creators. Rubber infrastructure artist Cyborg-san will be the guest in January, fashion robot producer Kyunkun-san in February, lingerie brand  “feast” (which creates lingerie for smaller breasted women) designer Gomi Hayakawa in March, and photographer and designer Moira Kuchikaseya (who specializes in fetish works) in April.

It may be obvious to our readers, but the Underwater Knee High Girls series isn’t just eroticism or pornography. It’s something that can’t be classified as simply art or simply fashion. It’s a series that tickles your curiosity on fetishism but makes you want to say “There’s something about this…. Kawaii!” We would love for you to dive in deeper into Mr.Koga’s Underwater Knee High Girls world, but just keep in mind that the entire talk event will be held in Japanese!

Event Information
Dates: Every 2nd Wednesday (Season 1: January 14, February 11, March 3, April 8 / Season 2: May 13, June 10, July 8, August 12)
Time: 19:00-21:00
Location: Nakano Broadway Bar Zingaro/Zingaro Space
(Nakano-ku, Tokyo Nakano 5-52-15 Nakano Broadway 2F)
Price: 2,000 yen (with 1 drink)
Reservation: Bar Zingaro (info@bar-zingaro.jp), please include your full name and phone number

On December 22, Rhymeberry had their one-man live (solo concert), “MAGIC PARTY VOL. 2” at Shinjuku BLAZE. It was their second concert since last August. After the withdrawal of one member, it was MC MIRI, MC HIME, and DJ HIKARU’s 2MC, 1DJ first solo live.
12月22日、新宿BLAZEにてライムベリーのワンマンライブ“MAGIC PARTY VOL.2”が開催された。ライムベリーにとって、昨年８月以来となった今回の２度目のワンマンライブ。メンバー1名の脱退を経て、MC MIRI, MC HIME,DJ HIKARU DJ HIKARUの2MC1DJでは初のワンマンライブとなった。

As the lights of the venue dimmed, a documentary of the girls up until this concert shot by director Michihiro Takeuchi played. “2MC” “1DJ” appeared on the screen and the audience chanted accordingly. The excitement in the venue soared as the members appeared, and DJ HIKARU pushed the CDJ button to start the concert.
会場の照明が暗くなると、竹内道宏監督が撮影した、今回の２度目のワンマンまでの軌跡をおさめたドキュメンタリー動画が流れる。スクリーンに「2MC」「1DJ」の文字が映し出されると、観客はそれに合わせてコール。会場の熱気はライブスタートに向かって急上昇。そしてメンバーが登場し、DJ HIKARUがCDJのボタンを押し、ライブがいよいよスタート。

The first song was “WE ARE BACK.” Rhymeberry presented a powerful performance to show that they have returned as revived Rhymeberry, just as the title says. They followed with upbeat songs“SUPERMCZTOKYO,” “IDOL ILLMATIC,” and “WE DID IT.”
１曲目は「WE ARE BACK」。文字通り、新生ライムベリーがワンマンライブという場に戻ってきたのだ、ということを感じさせる、力強いパフォーマンスを魅せた。そして「SUPERMCZTOKYO」「IDOL ILLMATIC」「WE DID IT」とアッパーな曲で序盤を突っ走る。

After the MC, they continued with calmer songs, like “Winter Jam,” which was very fitting for the end of the year. Perhaps the lyrics “Kinou yori sukoshi seichoushita? (Have I matured a little since yesterday?” applies to how the girls currently feel. We heard the cool song “Bright Light,” but we felt like “Sekaijyu Ni I Love You (“I LOVE YOU FOR THE EVERYTHING”)” showed of the cuteness of Rhymeberry.
MC後は一転、聞かせる系の曲が続く。年末にぴったりの「ウインタージャム」。「昨日より少し成長した？」という歌詞が、今の彼女たちの心境と重っていたのではないだろうか。そして「Bright Light」とクールな曲が続いたが、「世界中にアイラブユー」では女子高生ユニットライムベリーのかわいらしさが垣間見えた。

After performing “From Tokyo,” they had an MC session and solo performances. First, it was HIKARU’s solo poetry reading song  “Ich liebe dich (HIKARU MIX). HIKARU normally has very few singing parts, but she really showed off her vocal abilities. Her translucent voice captivated fans. Next was MC HIME’s “Qualia” followed by MC MIRI’s “Sunright.” It was the perfect song to show MIRI’s positive and cheerful personality. Each solo showed of each member’s characteristics and we really felt the important of each member’s role in Rhymeberry.
「フロム東京」を披露後、1度MCをはさみソロセクションへと突入。まずHIKARUのソロ「Ich liebe dich（HIKARU MIX）」。普段歌う場面は少ないが、歌唱力の飛び抜けて高いHIKARUによるポエトリーリーディング曲。伸びやかな透き通る声でファンを魅了した。次はMC HIMEのソロ曲「クオリア」。そして今回初披露となったMC MIRIの「サンライト」へと続く。前向きで元気な、MIRIっぽさ満点の曲。ソロでは3人の個性が強くアピールされ、3人がそれぞれの役割を持っていて、ライムベリーというグループが成り立っている、という強さを実感させられた。

After performing six songs, including “Mazu Taiko” and “Answer Answer,” they went into an encore; but rather than an encore, it felt like the second part of a concert as they performed a total of 9 songs.
そして「まず太鼓」「アンサーアンサー」など６曲を演奏後、アンコールへと突入。ライムベリー本人も後に話していたが、アンコールというよりまるで第二部のような構成で、全9曲を披露。

They covered “Konya wa Boogie Back” (smooth rap) (which can be considered one of Japan’s rap music anthems) by Scha Dara Parr featuring Ozawa Kenji, Beastie Boys’ “Fight For Your Right.” During R.O.D. (HARD), we witnessed the crowd split into two and crash into each other.
日本のラップ音楽のアンセムとも言えるスチャダラパーfeaturing.小沢健二の名曲「今夜はブギーバック」（smooth rap）のカバー、そしてBeastie Boysの「Fight For Your Right」のカバーが披露された。R.O.D.(HARD)では観客が真ん中から２つに割れ、ぶつかり合う場面も見られた。

During the MC, HIME said “We have grown up, and in the future we hope that the ticket stub you have is something you can be proud to show ofin the future [...] and I will be devoted to rap for the rest of my life!” MC MIRI admitted that there was a time when there were one fan to one member in their audience. She said she would say “Nee oniichan!” to the same people and they would repeat “Nee oniichan!” back, showing her appreciation for the full crowd. (“Nee oniichan!” comes from lyrics in their song “HEY! BROTHER”, and “Nee Oniichan” means “Hey brother”)
MCでHIMEは「私たちが大きくなって、今日のライブの半券が将来みんなが自慢できるようなものになるようにしたい」「これからの人生もラップに捧げます！」と強い意志をアピール。MC MIRIは、メンバー１人に対してお客さんが１人ずつしかいなかった時期があったことも告白。「いつも同じ人に「ねえお兄ちゃん！」（「ねえお兄ちゃん！」を連発する「HEY! BROTHER」内の歌詞）って……」と自虐を込めて、会場いっぱいのファンに感謝と喜びを示した。

From the audience’s point of view, it was a very successful resurrection concert; and from the all the excitement, it might be almost predictable for the members to cry during the MC, but they were strong and showed positivity through their messages. Even through all that, DJ HIKARU couldn’t wrap it up so she did an awkward (!?) gag, forcing the audience to burst out in laughter. Their lack of clarity must be Rhymeberry’s amusing part.
客観的に見て大盛況と言える復活ワンマンライブで、これだけの盛り上がりを見せたら、ついMCで泣いてしまいそうなものだが、3人は力強く、前向きなメッセージを残していたのが印象的だった。そんな中、DJ HIKARUは話がまとまらないからということで微妙な（！？）一発ギャグを披露し、会場は爆笑に包まれた。3人ともカラッとしていて、しっとりさせないのがライムベリーの面白いところだ。

It was the group’s 2nd solo concert, but their first time as a group of 3, but their success would make you think otherwise. As they perform, they have improved their rapping skills.
グループにとって２度目の、そして3人体制では初、とは思えないほど大盛況をおさめた今回のワンマンライブ。ライブを重ねるごとに着実にラップの腕にも磨きがかかっている彼女たち。

Rhymeberry’s venues, unlike the average idol concert, lacks glow sticks and wota-gei except Kecak. Instead, there are mosh pits and a diferent atmosphere from idol concerts. There are more rap music fans than idol fans, but the girls are still idols. “Idol” has many definitions and there are many idols, but the microscopic meaning and the most natural way to think of it is “an idol is anyone you consider an idol.” Ultimately, if you think“these girls are working so hard, so I can work hard,” then they must be an idol. Rhymeberry went on hiatus after the withdrawal of one member, then they had a solo concert as a group of 3, so their miracle may even sound like a storyline.
ライムベリーの現場では、一般的なアイドルライブと違って、サイリウムもなければヲタ芸もケチャ以外ほとんどない。それに激しいモッシュが生まれたりするなど、いわゆるアイドルライブの雰囲気とは少し違う雰囲気だ。お客さんもDDやアイドルヲタクというよりも、元々ラップ音楽が好きな人たちが多く見られる。それでもやはり彼女たちはアイドルだ。アイドルの定義は様々でたくさんあるが、究極にミクロな意味で言うと「あなたがアイドルと思う方がアイドル」と考えるのが1番自然で、つまり“この子たちがこんなに頑張っているなら、私も頑張れる”とあなたが思えればアイドルなのだと思う。メンバー脱退、一時的に活動中止、3人体制での初のワンマンライブ……ライムベリーの軌跡は、ストーリー的にそう思わせる所が多々あった。

After many struggles, Rhymeberry was able to come back stronger than ever in 2014. Their one-man live was great, and we bet their activities in 2015 will be interesting.
数々の困難を乗り越えてやっと立ち上がったライムベリー2014。2015年の活動がますます面白いものになることを期待させる、最高のワンマンライブとなった。

Setlist
01.WE ARE BACK!
02.SUPERMCZTOKYO
03.IDOL ILLMATIC
04.WE DID IT
MC
05.Winter Jam
06.Bright Light
07.I LOVE YOU FOR THE EVERYTHING
08.From Tokyo

MC

09.Ich liebe dich(HIKARU MIX)
10.Qualia
11.Sunright
12.Kimi to Boku

MC

13.Playground#1
14.LET IT GO
15.Mazu Taiko
16.Answer Answer
17.MAGIC PARTY

EC1.Ichliebedich(2MC MIX)
EC2.Konya wa Boogie Back (smooth rap)
EC3.IN THE HOUSE

MC

EC4.HEY!BROTHER
EC5.IDOL ILLMATIC
EC6.R.O.D.(HARD)
EC7.Fight For Your Right
EC8.I LOVE YOU FOR THE EVERYTHING（PARTY MIX）
EC9.END MUSIC FOR A MAGIC(C U AGAINpt.2&C U AGAIN)

Rhymeberry Official Website : http://yaplog.jp/rhymeberry/

Photo by Yohei Mochiduki
Translated by Misato