tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56046098346811923842024-02-18T21:14:36.160-08:00Thennary SpeaksThennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.comBlogger1016125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-74880474334580615332021-11-08T19:49:00.003-08:002021-11-08T19:49:21.170-08:00Still around and a quick interest update.<p> This year has been quite the year of change for me as I ended up moving to another state and it took much longer than I ever expected to be able to find a place to move into. That said I have finally achieved my long term goal of being able to move into a place of my own so I am quite happy with that.</p><p>Between all of that I have been getting back into K-pop and Johnny's. I think I have reached a point that I am trying to balance my interests now in terms of time and money spent on them. I feel like I have reached a point with K-pop that I have a few groups now I plan on continuing with but overall less and less groups are catching my interest, let alone holding it. With Johnny's though I still feel like I have a long way to go to catch up. Not spending so much on K-pop will help a lot with that. </p><p>I am so excited for Naniwa Danshi's debut and have their debut single on pre-order with NEWS' upcoming single. It will be so nice to get both in my hands later this month.</p><p>With my favorite Hello!Project groups no longer around (Country Girls and Kobushi Factory) I feel like I am mostly hanging on for Oda Sakura in Morning Musume. Though I would enjoy Momusu much more if they were more active with releases. I have no idea what H!P is thinking, all I can assume is that not being able to perform as much is hurting financially so they could not release much. But I do not think such a release drought is helping either. And it is sad the only Momusu '21 single we are getting is more because Sato Masaki is graduating than anything else.</p><p>Other than that not much has changed with the other music I follow. I will probably make a few posts to go over exactly which idols I follow like I have before as I make another try with this blog.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-73728711758782548132021-02-03T01:06:00.001-08:002021-02-03T01:06:43.111-08:00Treasure to make Japanese debut<p>It has been announced that in March Treasure will be having their Japanese debut. Their first Japanese release will be an album titled The First Step: Treasure Effect and will come out on March 31st. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mAzdXHkUMZE" width="320" youtube-src-id="mAzdXHkUMZE"></iframe></div><p>The album is listed as having 13 tracks all in Japanese with only the unreleased song BEAUTIFUL being confirmed. That said I doubt the group will be learning many songs from scratch and expect the ten songs on their Korean album to get Japanese versions on this album. So with BEAUTIFUL there will be three brand new songs (as I really hope we will not get the remixes on this) which should not be too demanding with the group actually getting some decent time between releases. Also BEAUTIFUL will probably be ready to be switched out as the ED song for Black Clover by then so having another new Japanese song to be used as a tie-in to something it would be helpful to keep the release and group in people's minds after it hits shelves.</p><p>Overall I am excited for the release, though I do hope the boys get to slow things down a little in the coming year. YG started them off with a bang with the three singles in three months and then an album soon after and while there is more time between that release and this one it still feels like they are not getting much of a rest. But on the other hand they do need to make sure they secure their foot hold in these markets so they can have longevity as any new group would have to do. I just hope they are managed well enough to avoid members burning out.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-9364751714955945042021-01-21T11:01:00.009-08:002021-01-21T11:01:50.283-08:00Sexy Zone Let's Music!<p>Sexy Zone is moving forward with releases as they have their next single Let's Music announced to be released on March 24th. It will only feature the four currently active members as Marius Yo is still on hiatus for his mental health. </p><p>Honestly it feels to odd for the group to have finally been back to the full five member roster with their last single when Matsushima So returned to the group after his hiatus just for them to be back to four members but it is a different member missing. That said I am glad Marius is getting all the time he needs to rest. And just as fans patiently waited for So's return we will wait for his. But he will of course will be missed.</p><p>On a personal note I was going to start skipping picking up the group's singles and just buy their albums but I will pick up at least the regular edition of this single. If just so I can feel like I am supporting the group as they go through yet another rough time for them.</p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FNEOIKT-1462" target="_blank"><img alt="Let's Music / Sexy Zone" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=NEOIKT-1462" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FNEOIKT-1462" target="_blank">Let's Music [w/ Bonus, Bundled Set of All 3 Editions]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Sexy Zone</div></div>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-56817462874598662972021-01-16T14:55:00.020-08:002021-01-16T14:55:00.524-08:002PM 2021 comeback confirmed<p>While it was hoped and even somewhat expected for by fans it has been confirmed that when Junho completes his military service in March, 2021 2PM will be ready to return with full group promotions. </p><p><a href="https://n.news.naver.com/entertain/now/article/112/0003388751" target="_blank">Naver article</a> (Korean only.)</p><p><br /></p><p>With My House becoming a viral hit in 2020 despite no new promotion for it, having 2PM getting back into group promotions as soon as possible is the smart thing to do. Especially as groups that stop full group promotions to have members do their mandatory military duty always risk being forgotten as newer groups debut or start filling the void left. But I do not think that was as much of an issue with 2PM as there are very few if any other boy groups that have the same "beast idol" image that 2PM has that are still active.</p><p>Of course no matter how popular they are I will still be a fan and eagerly await to have new music from the group again.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-31596411706136425682021-01-14T22:50:00.004-08:002021-01-14T22:50:53.317-08:00Secret Number's Lockey<p> Honestly I was not sure what to think when Secret Number announced that they were going to run a contest to choose a fan name. K-pop fan names can get, well let's just say interesting at times. But it looks for this group a bullet was dodged. The fan name for the group is Lockey (Pronounced "lucky" because K-pop.). For a full explanation for it just check out the graphic below that goes over it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwC2GtSnHtAKw2MzvAM4EcNTK8eLa9S3rRhrlfEjyvc5MlIsoxU5RFX4BwvXECLUhZO7y7Eqgo88TZB1sRijaDJmf1RmGQ34Vp-WT9GEH9jncVbned4CGoVM2fBdooz4Na5w1jq9OktuGx/s2048/1t17yp81y2a61.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwC2GtSnHtAKw2MzvAM4EcNTK8eLa9S3rRhrlfEjyvc5MlIsoxU5RFX4BwvXECLUhZO7y7Eqgo88TZB1sRijaDJmf1RmGQ34Vp-WT9GEH9jncVbned4CGoVM2fBdooz4Na5w1jq9OktuGx/w400-h283/1t17yp81y2a61.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Honestly I have been a fan of J-pop and K-pop for so long I think my questionable English meter is broken, but I would like to think this is one of the better fan names. It is better than Aespa's My, but let us face it, that is probably one of the more questionable fan names in K-pop in general so it is not hard to be better than it. Either way I am happy with what was selected with Secret Number, especially as it sounds like the group may have a comeback in the near future. And I hope with each new release the group brings in more Lockeys. </p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-8401628299360521052021-01-09T19:35:00.003-08:002021-01-09T19:35:46.486-08:00Burning NEWS<p> It has been announced that NEWS will be will be taking over the opening theme song for Yashahime anime series. The new song will be called Burn and will start airing with the anime on January 9th, taking over from SixTONES op theme NEW ERA.</p><p><a href="https://www.johnnys-net.jp/page?id=whatsnew&artist=12&data=961" target="_blank">Johnny's Net</a> (Japanese)</p><p><br /></p><p>I am really surprised that there is a new song for NEWS already as it has not been long since their latest single release. That said I will never say no to more NEWS. And I am really happy for them to get a tie-in like this. </p><p>It is kinda surprising too, as usually artists from the music label that is sponsoring the program that are selected for theme songs. But Johnny's does have SixTONES with Sony Music Japan and have had other artists on the label before so they could just be using the good relations they have with the company. Especially since SMJ has a high selling group from Johnny's with SixTONES.</p><p>And this hopefully means there will not be much a wait for NEWS' next single. Though that does mean I probably should start saving up for it now.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-6368751367092127562021-01-07T18:40:00.004-08:002021-01-07T18:40:54.125-08:00Getting closer to 2PM<p>Earlier this week it was announced that Chansung of 2PM has been officially discharged from his military service. This leaves Junho to be the final member of the group needing to finish his mandatory military service.</p><p><a href="https://www.allkpop.com/article/2021/01/2pms-chansung-returns-from-his-mandatory-military-service-today" target="_blank">Allkpop article </a>(English)</p><p><br /></p><p>2PM was one of the first groups I got into back when I first got into K-pop and have never completely stopped following over the years. Ever since getting back into K-pop last year I have been waiting for the group to be able to resume activities again so getting the news that we are one step closer is exciting. And Junho should be done this March and then the group can be complete again.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjCEtvLKdK0uu83XGIk3na3yqP25K8qlU-rSCkKHMvoX7q5E9vGrOk-3aOAM39glvaYtQzx7NgL8NR4nl4Jj0A5OgaXUcYqgeqCygnSvkEIDdFi6sIvmn2K3KjQMsUt4DQagxsDSlrJRo/s1091/chansungmilitarydischarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1091" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjCEtvLKdK0uu83XGIk3na3yqP25K8qlU-rSCkKHMvoX7q5E9vGrOk-3aOAM39glvaYtQzx7NgL8NR4nl4Jj0A5OgaXUcYqgeqCygnSvkEIDdFi6sIvmn2K3KjQMsUt4DQagxsDSlrJRo/s320/chansungmilitarydischarge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I have to confess since catching up on the group I was a bit worried about 2PM continuing on as 6, with Taecyeon signing with another agency so it was a relief to see him at the celebration for Chansung. And it has made me even more hyped for when they can come back.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-21321135868668217202020-12-31T14:54:00.007-08:002020-12-31T14:54:53.452-08:00Looking forward.The year is ending and like many I am ready for it. Though being honest this year did have some good I was glad to have experienced with the bad. But there is a greater sense of needing to move on for me, as there are goals that I am getting slowly closer to reaching and hopefully accomplish in the coming year.<div><br /></div><div>I have taken a bit of a mini-break from the blog as so many of the posts I was making were just about upcoming releases and it just felt like I was writing ads. I have been working on other types of posts but they have been more slow going than I hoped. But I will keep working on them and focus on more on finding news to talk about for the groups I follow so there is more content. Plus it helps keep me in the loop of things.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the end idols still give me so much joy and I want to spread that joy to others. Also as a fan of both J-pop and K-pop I would like to bring more understanding between the fandoms. I know everyone has their own tastes but there is no need for hate. Especially when fans of both are not going to escape being judged by others for enjoying music in a different language.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course like always, thank you everyone who continues to follow me. I know this is probably one of the more messier eras for my blogging but I hope you are finding something you enjoy. </div>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-66358006282466438402020-11-19T20:44:00.005-08:002020-11-19T20:44:29.292-08:00SixTONES 1st album, 1ST<p> I was thinking we would be getting another single before an album, but nope, SixTONES will be ringing in the new year with their debut album, aptly named 1ST, coming out on January 6th, 2021. Like their singles it will come in two limited editions and a regular edition with different track listings for each version.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-16" target="_blank"><img alt="1ST / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=SECJ-16" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-16" target="_blank">1ST [CD + DVD / Limited Edition A: Genseki Ban]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p></p><p>The first limited edition, or the Genseki Ban as it is being called, is the usual CD and DVD combo. The first 10 tracks on the album are the same as all the other editions, which includes the three title tracks from their singles so far. Then there are five more songs, all from their Junior era that are being released on CD for the first time. The songs are, この星のHIKARI (Kono Hoshi no HIKARI), BE CRAZY, Laugh In the LIFE, Rollin', and RAM-PAM-PAM. The DVD will have the music video for the album track ST, as well as the making of and solo angle versions of the MV.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-18" target="_blank"><img alt="1ST / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=SECJ-18" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-18" target="_blank">1ST [CD + DVD / Limited Edition B: Neiro Ban]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p></p><p>The other limited edition is called the Neiro Ban and is also a CD and DVD combo. The exclusive songs on this version are three songs of two member units with the six members being paired off into duos. The DVD will have music videos for each unit song.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-20" target="_blank"><img alt="1ST / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=SECJ-20" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-20" target="_blank">1ST [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p></p><p>The regular edition is the usual CD only. It will have three tracks exclusive to it, two new songs and an album remix of the B-Side song Telephone. The first press version of the regular edition will come with a photo booklet and a sleeve for the CD.</p><p><br /></p><p>Between December and January I am going to have very little extra disposable income outside of getting new releases. Especially releases like this where I plan on getting all the different editions. But I cannot pass up getting a version that has bonus music tracks. Plus there are Junior era tracks, and duets that are getting music videos! Sony Music Japan basically doled out a release that hit all my weaknesses. Thankfully I will have a little extra money coming in so while I cannot buy them all at once I should be able to have them all in only two orders.</p><p>That said the only Johnny's group I have to worry about announcing a new release soon will be Kis-My-Ft2, who are due a new single around now so I await that announcement soon.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-55524435346273237112020-11-12T15:56:00.003-08:002020-11-12T15:56:44.747-08:00NEWS closing out the year with at Triple A-side single<p> Looks like NEWS will be starting their new era as a three member group as the year ends. The single is a triple A-side, Beautiful/Chinchaumakka/Canaria, and will be released on December 23rd.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJECN-611" target="_blank"><img alt="Beautiful / Chinchaumakka / Canaria / NEWS" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JECN-611" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJECN-611" target="_blank">Beautiful / Chinchaumakka / Canaria [CD+DVD / Limited Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">NEWS</div></div><p></p><p>The first limited edition, Type A, will be a CD and DVD combo. The CD will have all three A-side songs as well as a B-side that is exclusive to this edition. The DVD will have the music video for Beautiful as well as the making of footage.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJECN-613" target="_blank"><img alt="Chinchaumakka / Beautiful / Canaria / NEWS" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JECN-613" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJECN-613" target="_blank">Chinchaumakka / Beautiful / Canaria [CD+DVD / Limited Edition / Type B]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">NEWS</div></div><p></p><p>The second limited edition, Type B, will be a CD and DVD combo. The CD will have all three A-side songs as well as a B-side that is exclusive to this edition. The DVD will have the music video for Chinchaumakka as well as the making of footage.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJECN-615" target="_blank"><img alt="Beautiful / Chinchaumakka / Canaria / NEWS" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JECN-615" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJECN-615" target="_blank">Beautiful / Chinchaumakka / Canaria [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">NEWS</div></div><p>The regular edition is just the CD with the title tracks. For the B-side it looks to have a new version of Endless Summer. This version also has the karaoke tracks for the title tracks.</p><p>There is then a special edition that is only available for a limited time through the Johnny's Shop Online website. It will come with a tote bag that the members have produced themselves as well as a photo book.</p><p><br /></p><p>With the release date I am going to considering getting this single as a Christmas present for myself. And I am going to have try to see about using a proxy service or something to get the special edition that is only available from the Johnny's Shop Online. So that will be an interesting experience. Either way I am super excited for this release.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-77005430906331235712020-11-11T23:45:00.001-08:002020-11-11T23:45:36.121-08:00Hey! Say! JUMP getting fairytale Fab<p> I just realized that it has been about a year since getting back into Johnny's as I recall Hey! Say! JUMP's album Parade being the first new release from the group that I picked up. Which of course means I should have been expecting their next album to be released before the end of the year. I was not though so it took me by surprise to have it announced to be released December 16th. </p><p>This album carries a theme of fairy tales with most of the songs being inspired by a fairy tale. The title of the album is Fab! -Music speaks-. It will come in 3 editions, 2 limited and 1 regular edition. Both limited editions are CD and DVD combos. </p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJACA-5857" target="_blank"><img alt="Fab! -Music speaks.- / Hey! Say! JUMP" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JACA-5857" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJACA-5857" target="_blank">Fab! -Music speaks.- [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type 1]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Hey! Say! JUMP</div></div><p></p><p>This first limited edition has 16 song tracks on the CD and then on the DVD it has the music video and making of footage for the album track Fab-ism. It will also come with a large sized 32-page photo booklet with lyrics.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJACA-5859" target="_blank"><img alt="Fab! -Music speaks.- / Hey! Say! JUMP" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JACA-5859" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJACA-5859" target="_blank">Fab! -Music speaks.- [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type 2]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Hey! Say! JUMP</div></div><p></p><p>The second limited edition has the same track listing for the CD as the first le. The DVD has two music videos for three of the songs on the album, Okami Seinen, Senya Ichiya and Naimono Nedari as well as making of footage for the Okami Seinen music video. It will have a 40-page photo booklet with lyrics.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJACA-5861" target="_blank"><img alt="Fab! -Music speaks.- / Hey! Say! JUMP" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JACA-5861" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJACA-5861" target="_blank">Fab! -Music speaks.- [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Hey! Say! JUMP</div></div><p></p><p>The regular edition has a bonus track that is not included with either of the limited editions. The lyric booklet included can be folded out to become a poster.</p><p><br /></p><p>There are previews up for some of the songs from the album already and I am really looking forward to it. It sounds like it is going to be another solid album from the group. </p><p>Of course I am sadly not going to be able to get all the versions, there is just too much coming out for all the groups I am following to afford everything. It'll just be the regular edition for me as I want the bonus track.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-32023270696408658072020-11-05T23:15:00.001-08:002020-11-05T23:15:08.126-08:00Morning Musume didn't give completely give up on 2020 after all<p> I swear I had been lamenting the fact that it looked like we would only be getting one CD release from Morning Musume this year before seeing that they announced they were going to squeeze in one final release for the year. The single is a double A-side single with the title tracks </p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FEPCE-7600" target="_blank"><img alt="Jyunjyo Evidence / Gyusaretai Dakenanoni / Morning Musume.'20" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=EPCE-7600" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FEPCE-7600" target="_blank">Jyunjyo Evidence / Gyusaretai Dakenanoni [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Morning Musume.'20</div></div><p></p><p>The limited editions are CD and DVD combos. The Type A LE has the music video of Jyunjyo Evidence and the making of footage for it while the Type B has the music video and making of footage for the other A-side, Gyusaretai Dakenanoni. The CDs for all versions have the same track listing of the title tracks and karaoke versions of them.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FEPCE-7604" target="_blank"><img alt="Jyunjyo Evidence / Gyusaretai Dakenanoni / Morning Musume.'20" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=EPCE-7604" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FEPCE-7604" target="_blank">Jyunjyo Evidence / Gyusaretai Dakenanoni [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type SP]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Morning Musume.'20</div></div><p></p><p>The special edition is a CD and DVD combo like the limited editions. The DVD will have the dance shot and close up versions of the music videos of both A-sides.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FEPCE-7606" target="_blank"><img alt="Jyunjyo Evidence / Gyusaretai Dakenanoni / Morning Musume.'20" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=EPCE-7606" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FEPCE-7606" target="_blank">Jyunjyo Evidence / Gyusaretai Dakenanoni [Regular Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Morning Musume.'20</div></div><div><br /></div><div>The regular editions will just be the CD. Each version will have a different CD jacket. The first press editions will come with a randomly selected trading card of either a member of Morning Musume '20 or a group card for a total of 15 different variations.</div><div><br /></div><div>And a notable fact about the songs are that both are written by Tsunku. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>That all covered I am looking forward to a new single from the group. I wish Hello!Project would release more consistently for them, or just about any of their groups, but they do help me save money by releasing so little. But I am curious to what kind of Tsunku songs we are getting so hopefully we'll get previews soon.</div>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-84452320158967419092020-11-01T21:32:00.002-08:002020-11-01T21:32:50.322-08:00J-Storm becomes a Youtube channel<p>Johnny's has finally decided that Arashi will not be the only group on their own music labels that can have their music videos on Youtube as they have opened a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCruUAAgi8FPOEhV_6nxD0ew" target="_blank">Youtube channel</a> for the artists on their J-Storm and Johnny's Entertainment labels. </p><p>So far they have a mix of music videos (shortened versions though) and concert performances, all of course for the latest releases of the artists featured. NEWS is the only noticeable absence, but I am certain that is because Johnny's does not want to put anything up when they were 4 members and do not have anything yet for the current 3 member line up.</p><p>I have to assume that with the record label being closed when Arashi goes on hiatus that this is how the J-Storm name lives on. And with Johnny's loving to recycle names and concepts it is pretty fitting to be used like this.</p><p>Not surprised these are not full versions of the music videos, though I do wish Johnny's was more upfront about that as they are all just listed as official music videos but obviously cut off near the end of the song. Or come up with another way to incentivize fans to by the DVDs with the music video than cutting the videos short. I honestly think Hello! Project had a great idea to put hardsubs of the Japanese lyrics and English translations on their music videos on Youtube so they not only force fans to get the DVDs to get the clean version but also helps make the videos more accessible to English language fans so they know what is being sung about, even with some of the questionable translations.</p><p>Either way I am glad to see Johnny's growing their digital foot print. And what is up still gives a good idea to whether or not someone will like a song. Plus they are not region locked. So still a nice step to becoming a bit more international that I am appreciating. </p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-65530889606820242662020-10-28T02:45:00.001-07:002020-10-28T02:45:31.321-07:00A step forward but with an old stumbling block for Sexy ZoneThe other day Youtube recommended me a video of the dance shot version of Sexy Zone's NOT FOUND, the title track of their upcoming single, which of course I watched immediately as nothing made me happier than seeing the group performing as five again.<div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ta7DJheGnns" width="480"></iframe></div></div><div><br /></div>Of course seeing that the dance version was out I went to see if the regular version of the music video was also available, and it was. Sort of. As while the dance version is on Johnny's official Youtube channel the normal edition of the music video is on the Universal Music Japan Youtube channel and is region restricted. I can only assume it is only available for those in Japan, I am in the U.S. and it is well and truly blocked for me.<div><br /></div><div>This is frustrating as Johnny's is definitely headed to being more available internationally yet the use of region blocking by Japanese companies is a familiar hurdle international fans have been stuck with for years. When Sexy Zone switched labels to a label with Universal it was to understood it was in part to help them reach a more global audience. So the region blocking is pretty disappointing. Especially since Johnny's, who seem to drag their feet in doing anything that brings them into the 21st century, know better than to that if they want to reach an international audience. I hope Johnny's is able to get the labels their groups are with to get on the same page and region restrictions can become a thing of the past.</div>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-48828700742545367952020-10-27T22:43:00.004-07:002020-10-27T22:43:44.276-07:00Finding a Treasure and possibly Enhypen -ing<p>I know it was not too long ago that I went over the K-pop groups that I am interested in but I am going to have to add to that list already. And then maybe add one more group beyond that.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6V_UIhI1utmUbI-x2lcabiTl_XRYHCKtiATn_4SsEIlPmIdndZQACCyoY9bZ1h-hYrSjWZMMNDDH_run5e1H-Y6aPAzD8Q9Xkm5CRWk7t9mO8MQbCnHMOApbV_zPROBua8Wm3KsD4Pcxq/s900/dc69b7b0134749b59a37ca2b113d94df.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6V_UIhI1utmUbI-x2lcabiTl_XRYHCKtiATn_4SsEIlPmIdndZQACCyoY9bZ1h-hYrSjWZMMNDDH_run5e1H-Y6aPAzD8Q9Xkm5CRWk7t9mO8MQbCnHMOApbV_zPROBua8Wm3KsD4Pcxq/s320/dc69b7b0134749b59a37ca2b113d94df.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Treasure has been a group that I have been on the fence about, I loved their first single but was not as enamored with their second single though I did like it. But I found myself coming back to the group again and again, then finally took the time to watch some of their videos on Youtube and there was no turning back after that. I have a favorite member with Asahi but really like Yoshi and Hyunsuk as well. If anything I am just going to be glad they are a new group so there is not much to catch up on. Though they are on a release blitz with a new single being released November 6th and they are supposed to be releasing an album in December.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBj2iklpk_i4hppNr3SLuIXd9ocE7kRdIFbclGDenZPlHVckiHmUxDhKsdsKQxB5zbYGPMJHFPIeQWVZ8pT74lwU48rVpTsp-9hNZOBBFi0mGUuHqazGTZ7vIX2giQ1bTGh6FscGmwAZs/s1000/1601122133-20200926-enhypen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBj2iklpk_i4hppNr3SLuIXd9ocE7kRdIFbclGDenZPlHVckiHmUxDhKsdsKQxB5zbYGPMJHFPIeQWVZ8pT74lwU48rVpTsp-9hNZOBBFi0mGUuHqazGTZ7vIX2giQ1bTGh6FscGmwAZs/s320/1601122133-20200926-enhypen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I am interested in Enhypen as I love the concept for the group that has been seen so far. But I cannot make a final decision until I actually hear what kind of music they will be releasing. And since K-pop does not release the music video of the main track of a release until the day of I will be waiting until November 30th to do so. But if I like their music as much as their concept then I will be adding them to my list.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lnrUJr8B7oI" width="480"></iframe><br /></p><p>But I seriously hope I like their music as I am loving this vampire-esque vibe from their debut trailer.</p><p><br /></p><p>That said I am hitting the point where I know I cannot take on following anymore groups than these two. I just would not have the time or the money for it. Especially if 2PM starts activities again next year. </p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-67100072094769653032020-10-24T23:37:00.002-07:002020-10-24T23:37:34.944-07:00Snow Man's 3rd single announced<p> We have a release date for Snow Man's third single but not much else. None of the song track titles are known, including the title track, but it is set to release January 20th of 2021. And it looks like the release will be like their second single with 3 versions, 2 limited editions and one regular edition.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FAVCD-94954" target="_blank"><img alt="Title is to be announced (3rd Single) / Snow Man" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=AVCD-94954" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FAVCD-94954" target="_blank">Title is to be announced (3rd Single) [CD+DVD / Limited Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Snow Man</div></div><p>The first limited edition is the usual CD and DVD combo. The CD will have the title track as well as a B-side not on the other limited edition. No mention of what the DVD will contain yet.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FAVCD-94955" target="_blank"><img alt="Title is to be announced (3rd Single) / Snow Man" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=AVCD-94955" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FAVCD-94955" target="_blank">Title is to be announced (3rd Single) [CD+DVD / Limited Edition / Type B]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Snow Man</div></div><p></p><p>The second limited edition is the same CD and DVD combo. The CD will have the title track as well as a B-side not on the other limited edition. No mention of what the DVD will contain yet either.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FAVCD-94956" target="_blank"><img alt="Title is to be announced (3rd Single) / Snow Man" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=AVCD-94956" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FAVCD-94956" target="_blank">Title is to be announced (3rd Single) [Regular Edition]</a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Snow Man</div><p>The regular edition is just the CD that has all the songs from the other versions as well as an exclusive B-side track and the karaoke versions of all the songs.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><p>It is surprising to have a single announcement so far out from the release date for a Johnny's act, or more specifically the fact that this is already available to pre-order. Mostly because of how little information is available about the release. I would assume that they would at least have the title for the A-side at least.</p><p>Despite that I am happy to see that the wait for Snow Man's next single will not be nearly as long as the wait between their debut and second single. And it is not surprising as the sales for their second single was really strong so it only makes sense to continue the momentum from that. Plus adding to Snow Man's discography is always a plus. </p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-10068922637081937982020-10-13T00:19:00.001-07:002020-10-13T00:19:04.445-07:00NiziU's debut single track list trying to Make You Happy again<p> The full track list for NiziU's upcoming debut single has been released and it looks like all four tracks on the single will be song tracks. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYWViJf4PQCgSL4pvwUOFm4guzWJrR7Acj4NdLyYERCMrr2RC4fkj5ECDsxVZDVm7fxn1PDYStwUPe-LIbIjd4ztw5zB0GnlZtjkj_98JTMy3Fhp51pKHGO1OC5s-Zz-OCAQJ8MPvmvZ2/s960/cb7ugkg6ehs51.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYWViJf4PQCgSL4pvwUOFm4guzWJrR7Acj4NdLyYERCMrr2RC4fkj5ECDsxVZDVm7fxn1PDYStwUPe-LIbIjd4ztw5zB0GnlZtjkj_98JTMy3Fhp51pKHGO1OC5s-Zz-OCAQJ8MPvmvZ2/s320/cb7ugkg6ehs51.jpg" /></a></div><p>Of course only three songs on the single are going to be new as it looks like Make You Happy is getting a physical release with this single. So in overview all versions of the single will have the title track, two new B-sides, Joyful and Sweet Bomb! and well as the pre-debut song Make You Happy.</p><p><br /></p><p>While I am slightly disappointed in not getting more in the way of new songs from the group I am glad that we are getting as many as we are. It could have easily been the title track a B-side and then karaoke versions for the other two tracks. Plus with some members of the group still in high school I can see the lack of new songs being in consideration of that as Japanese child labor laws could be reducing the amount of time some of them have to work. </p><p>With the pre-debut songs plus the new songs for NiziU's debut single it is not a bad start to their discography. One that if they follow the usual Japanese release schedule that should grow at a steady pace and the following single for this one should be out in Spring. Plenty of time for fans to save up for it.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-9434189064385522342020-10-10T02:27:00.001-07:002020-10-10T02:27:53.862-07:00King & Prince make a promise<p> What is the end of the year without a glut of new releases just in time for the holiday season? For Johnny's they have another release to add to their list with King & Prince releasing a new single on December 16th, titled I promise. And with the release news we have all the information for it except what the cover art will look like. The single will have three editions that can be purchased in stores, two limited editions and then a regular edition.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FUPCJ-9017" target="_blank"><img alt="I promise / King & Prince" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=UPCJ-9017" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FUPCJ-9017" target="_blank">I promise [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">King & Prince</div></div><p></p><p>The first limited edition will be a CD and DVD combo. The CD will have the title track and a B-side exclusive song titled Little Christmas. The DVD will have the music video and the first part of the making of video for the music video. The first press of this version will come with a sticker.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FUPCJ-9018" target="_blank"><img alt="I promise / King & Prince" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=UPCJ-9018" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FUPCJ-9018" target="_blank">I promise [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type B]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">King & Prince</div></div><p></p><p>The second limited edition will also be a CD and DVD combo. The CD will have the title track and a B-side exclusive song titled Happy Holy Night. The DVD will have the dance version of the music video and the second part of the making of video for the music video. The first press of this version will come with a clear poster.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FUPCJ-5006" target="_blank"><img alt="I promise / King & Prince" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=UPCJ-5006" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FUPCJ-5006" target="_blank">I promise [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">King & Prince</div></div><p>The regular edition is just a CD but comes with two exclusive B-side songs, Winter Love Story and Glad to see you, with the title track. The first press version of this will come with an eco bag.</p><p>There will also be a 7-11 version of the regular edition that can be purchased at 7-11 stores in Japan that will have a different CD cover. Though to get your hands on that version as an overseas fan you have to either use a proxy or wait to get it from a Japanese auction site.</p><p><br /></p><p>As the group's last CD release was their second album back in September this single is not surprising. It is plenty of time between releases plus it gives Kinpuri a new song to perform on music programs as those should start ramping up for the end of the year. And the tie-in with 7-11 stores in Japan will mean it will be hard to escape the advertising for this release.</p><p>I am tempted to get the RE of this single, though I really want to just get the group's albums so they can be affordable to follow for me. But I love goods that are practical and can be used for everyday things so the eco bag is tempting. Especially since I do not really have Kinpuri goods. </p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-55539467919572037392020-10-01T21:21:00.004-07:002020-10-01T21:21:51.335-07:00NiziU ready to step outAfter about a week of counting down to an announcement on their twitter, NiziU has a release date for their debut single. The single will be released on December 2nd, 2020 and the title track will be Step and a Step, which will be written by J.Y. Park. The single will come out in three editions, two limited editions and a regular edition. (There are even more but those editions are only for those a part of the group's fan club.)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjAQ_RT5WmFfJgV8zatdzPSpxtiur8Iy6v2hd2PDWEr0D28Za9tQg9UDb0G04oSh1y6VTWA9Ruk2Y4rXBLuW9cPjjOkGmJ8IW4Ht395BD_5V9Z_axhhm3pPwK_W9wXz8FGU8glewzOXM-/s900/stepandastep.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="850" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjAQ_RT5WmFfJgV8zatdzPSpxtiur8Iy6v2hd2PDWEr0D28Za9tQg9UDb0G04oSh1y6VTWA9Ruk2Y4rXBLuW9cPjjOkGmJ8IW4Ht395BD_5V9Z_axhhm3pPwK_W9wXz8FGU8glewzOXM-/s320/stepandastep.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>There are still some details about the release that are currently unknown, such as the only CD information for all the different editions is that they will all be 4 tracks in total with the first track being the title track but no further information about the other 3 tracks.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FESCL-5470" target="_blank"><img alt="Step and a step / NiziU" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=ESCL-5470" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FESCL-5470" target="_blank">Step and a step [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">NiziU</div></div><div><br /></div><div>The first limited edition will be a CD with DVD combo. There is no mention of what is on the DVD but it is probably safe to assume one thing that will be included is the music video for the title track. The limited edition will also come with a trading card randomly selected from a set of ten that is exclusive to this version.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FESCL-5472" target="_blank"><img alt="Step and a step / NiziU" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=ESCL-5472" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FESCL-5472" target="_blank">Step and a step [w/ Booklet, Limited Edition / Type B]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">NiziU</div></div><div><br /></div><div>The second limited edition is a CD and booklet combo. The booklet will be a 28-page photo booklet. The limited edition will also come with a trading card randomly selected from a set of ten that is exclusive to this version.</div><div><br /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FESCL-5474" target="_blank"><img alt="Step and a step / NiziU" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=ESCL-5474" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FESCL-5474" target="_blank">Step and a step [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">NiziU</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Then there is the regular edition that is just the CD.</div><div><br /></div><div>Different shops will have different first press bonuses included for pre-ordering the singles. For the CDJapan links I have in this post that bonus will be a clearfile for each copy. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>While the release date is a little later than the November debut that was announced it was not delayed enough to make too much a difference. What is more important is that the group has a new release to promote if they get on end of year music programs. I do think they have a good chance of that with how popular they have gotten with just their pre-debut release. And I have to speculate that this date may have been chosen in hopes they do not have strong competition that week and can get a #1 debut single with this. A hard feat to do near the end of the year as that is usually the time for Japanese artists to release new music to make use of the end of year programs and the extra spending that comes with the season.</div><div><br /></div><div>What I am most curious about is the full track listing. While there has to be at least one B-side I would be disappointed if that is it and the other two tracks are just karaoke/off vocal versions of the title track and B-side. Not to mention I would like to know if the different versions would have different B-sides as while I am willing to pick up the limited editions for this release, I want to know if the regular edition is something I need to budget for. At least there is a good amount of time before the release to make that decision.</div><div><br /></div><div>Overall I am just excited for this debut single to be announced, and hope we are not made to wait long to get to hear the title track.</div>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-29939461248228079252020-09-27T18:42:00.000-07:002020-09-27T18:42:00.548-07:00Idol Fandoms 2020: K-pop idols<p> Rounding out this series of posts with the K-pop idols that I follow. And when I say follow I mean I have actually taken the time to learn more about the groups (like learning the names of the members), pay attention for when they have a new release and watch non-music video videos of the group.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtrtLw4vQSKpg97VxhEdPfJwVB-XHnU2VJzA5ecEDvKSwO7yV2uAFSGtib1xzFCtMbJq5fgzUPGFLVk2osl5zDyYN7FI7kG22dho6RqXHh9rULnc6vtpJho_ELTcrWluVp-TPI_cVc3vf/s640/2pm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtrtLw4vQSKpg97VxhEdPfJwVB-XHnU2VJzA5ecEDvKSwO7yV2uAFSGtib1xzFCtMbJq5fgzUPGFLVk2osl5zDyYN7FI7kG22dho6RqXHh9rULnc6vtpJho_ELTcrWluVp-TPI_cVc3vf/s320/2pm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The oldest group that I still follow that is still technically together is 2PM. Of course currently the group is on hiatus as not all of the members have finished their mandatory military service but they will be all out next year. I look forward to the group's return then and am finding things to enjoy from the members' solo activities. I am completely in love with Jun. K's This is not a song, 1929 right now for example. But I do hope that by this time next year I will have some new 2PM songs to be just as in love with.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSkn5R0tPOJ4EI8oWjZ69Qovu9IkN97f-b8WuTdtFxv802ZV7h3bsJxROLSq0A5NoZC-Xa-jTbxNzGjmVYsCN9Y75q3tnaQkQQyroK_nxL_30RgwzmofH6zZ7v0kwqGAhA4HBZ3svSdzNQ/s656/dystopia.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="656" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSkn5R0tPOJ4EI8oWjZ69Qovu9IkN97f-b8WuTdtFxv802ZV7h3bsJxROLSq0A5NoZC-Xa-jTbxNzGjmVYsCN9Y75q3tnaQkQQyroK_nxL_30RgwzmofH6zZ7v0kwqGAhA4HBZ3svSdzNQ/s320/dystopia.png" width="320" /></a></div><p>As someone that loves pop-rock you better believe I am a Dreamcatcher fan. I love their music and style, especially since I am a sucker for fantasy concepts. And their self-made MVs are a thing of dorky beauty that do so well to showcase the members' personalities that does not always shine through with their high budget official music videos.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREPyWgTVWV1DCYPl7QCUrrJfTo-LYg-G9IoqQEoNFFgN6LTwchxebDyGCaaBxbzKhPa1c6c4heun3MUiPuKHXOusNbpcks-BJV_KKVgc2JhvEOGSFIJ0-_NgxzeT73nu3esr5AkGBOtPh/s610/itzy-not-shy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREPyWgTVWV1DCYPl7QCUrrJfTo-LYg-G9IoqQEoNFFgN6LTwchxebDyGCaaBxbzKhPa1c6c4heun3MUiPuKHXOusNbpcks-BJV_KKVgc2JhvEOGSFIJ0-_NgxzeT73nu3esr5AkGBOtPh/s320/itzy-not-shy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I have had a soft spot for JYPE groups as some of the earliest K-pop groups I got into were from the agency, the already mentioned 2PM, Wonder Girls and Miss A. So I have always kept an eye out on the idols with the agency but no group really grabbed me until Itzy debuted. They are my go to group for songs that make me feel confident and they are just amazing performers to watch.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3AZZnS-2hS3DrtIcPSNd-9vPdcUI9rtBBk-l4ARyACn6f-Z6mhMK3FB2QQ_I3YWNVP-CxwWHkZKDEc500-l2FES3486WSHy6y3sWf1ltz1QdHjUuZZ8-urNeNlTBdGAI-5dgR9aFNLMp/s1000/TOMORROW-X-TOGETHER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI3AZZnS-2hS3DrtIcPSNd-9vPdcUI9rtBBk-l4ARyACn6f-Z6mhMK3FB2QQ_I3YWNVP-CxwWHkZKDEc500-l2FES3486WSHy6y3sWf1ltz1QdHjUuZZ8-urNeNlTBdGAI-5dgR9aFNLMp/s320/TOMORROW-X-TOGETHER.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Last year I was trying to see if I could find more K-pop groups to get into and ended up coming across Tomorrow X Together and found myself enjoying their music. It was also nice to see a K-pop boy group going for a fresh and cute concept instead of the usual cool concepts most tend to go for. TXT just felt like a breath of fresh air. Since they are a young a rather new group I look forward to seeing them grow as their careers continue and hope more people find them as they are so talented already and their performances are really technical and impressive. </p><p><br /></p><p>Other than that I am on the fence with Treasure. I think I will have to see how much I enjoy future releases from them even though I have enjoyed what they have released so far. But their releases are pretty slim with only two singles that are only two tracks each. There are a few other groups that I just listen to their music and that is just it, but there is always potential for me to get more invested in them. Until then though they will remain off this list.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-5830601924558537692020-09-25T22:12:00.001-07:002020-09-25T22:12:43.597-07:00TOMORROW X TOGETHER's 1st minisode<p>TOMORROW X TOGETHER are set for a new release on November 6th, 2020. The release is a minisode, an episode to go between their Dream Chapter of releases that have come before and the next chapter that will come after to keep with their concept. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5gL_Xm_UW4KYDZxbExiM8xb21ElS8wqnnUIXTOl_cYe8eAl43_oNzt9ON1Keuxlz_rRrq19IvHmXJY-kfF1yg23Wa4RWjEzYDDt2BeRFbLNnvuX2m_D-NIBJLNYOwIXsa9rMNQaoS9lP/s1200/txtminisode1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1140" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5gL_Xm_UW4KYDZxbExiM8xb21ElS8wqnnUIXTOl_cYe8eAl43_oNzt9ON1Keuxlz_rRrq19IvHmXJY-kfF1yg23Wa4RWjEzYDDt2BeRFbLNnvuX2m_D-NIBJLNYOwIXsa9rMNQaoS9lP/s320/txtminisode1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The full name of the release is Minisode 1: Blue Hour and it will be released in three versions, R, AR and VR. Each version will come with a photobook, CD, paper sticker, lyric paper, behind book, and photo card. For pre-orders only there is also a poster and limited photo to be included.</p><p>The CD is listed as having five tracks, but there are no titles for the songs yet. </p><p>I actually went and pre-ordered a copy of the <a href="https://www.target.com/p/tomorrow-x-together-minisode-1-blue-hour-target-exclusive-cd/-/A-81522549#lnk=sametab">Target exclusive edition</a> for this release. I honestly cannot get over the fact that I am even able to purchase this through a major chain store like Target, as I am so used to having to import releases. I hope going forward the rest of TXT's releases are released like this, as my bank account will definitely be less empty if I do not have to pay overseas shipping fees.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-15684562124687727142020-09-25T17:05:00.000-07:002020-09-25T17:05:11.965-07:00NHK World's Songs of Tokyo line-upThe line-up of artists that will be performing on the NHK World Japan Songs of Tokyo 2020 program have been announced. The program will be hosted by Murakami Shingo from Kanjani8 with Horan Chiaki as co-host. <div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.nhk.or.jp/music/special/436070.html">NHK World Japan announcement with full list of performers.</a><br /><div><br /></div><div>NHK World Japan is an app available in iTunes and Google App stores globally. So the artists that have been selected are those that are thought to have global appeal, which makes the number of anime related guests no surprise. The acts I am looking forward to are BABYMETAL, Hyde, NEWS, Perfume and SixTONES. </div><div><br /></div><div>Though out of all the acts listed the only one I am surprised to see on the list is NEWS. I love the group and all, but I am not sure if they would be considered one of the Johnny's groups with a strong international fanbase. Especially with the lack of international promotion. Though perhaps this is the start of Johnny's promoting them internationally, which I would love. </div><div><br /></div><div>Of course I cannot help but amuse the thought that this is happening for NEWS after Tegoshi Yuya leaving and complaining about how Johnny's not pushing for a more international exposure was one of the reasons he wanted to leave. I doubt Johnny's is being that petty and is more looking at it as NEWS is going to have another restart after a membership change so it would be good time to do something new with them to go with that.</div></div>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-7016860256638193442020-09-25T00:18:00.001-07:002020-09-25T00:18:16.247-07:00New Era's release date<p>The release date for SixTONES upcoming single, New Era, has been announced for November 11, 2020. With this release it looks like we have a release pattern in what to expect to be how SixTONES' singles as like with their previous single, Navigator, this single will be released in the same manner of two limited editions and a regular edition.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-11" target="_blank"><img alt="New Era / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=SECJ-11" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-11" target="_blank">New Era [CD+DVD / Limited Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p>The first limited edition will have a CD with the title track and an exclusive B-side track to this edition. It will also have a DVD that will have the music video, making of footage for it and solo angles of the music video for all the group members.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-13" target="_blank"><img alt="New Era / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=SECJ-13" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-13" target="_blank">New Era [CD+DVD / Limited Pressing]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p>The second limited edition is also a CD and DVD combo. CD has the title track, an exclusive B-side track and the TV size edited version of the title track. The DVD has another version of the music video for the title track. It will also be a limited run with the pressing of this version stopping January 2021.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-15" target="_blank"><img alt="New Era / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=SECJ-15" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FSECJ-15" target="_blank">New Era [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p>The regular edition is just a CD with the title track, two exclusive B-side tracks and the instrumental version of the New Era. It will also have a 20 page booklet.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FNEOIKT-1435" target="_blank"><img alt="New Era / SixTONES" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=NEOIKT-1435" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FNEOIKT-1435" target="_blank">New Era [Bundled Set of 3 Editions]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">SixTONES</div></div><p>All three versions have slipcase covers and come with clear files as first press bonuses.</p><p><br /></p><p>It is nice to have a release date now and nicer still that the only information missing are the titles of the B-sides that will come with this release. I do hope that like with the previous single it is a mix of new songs and songs from their Junior era for the B-sides. </p><p>Now that we have the release information hopefully next we can finally get to hear a preview of the title track.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-7714211737624553292020-09-23T18:08:00.002-07:002020-09-23T18:08:19.306-07:00Idol Fandoms 2020: NiziU<p>I have to confess I completely forgot to put this group on my previous post about J-pop idols I follow. And to make up for the oversight they are getting their own post. Because yes, I do consider NiziU to be a J-pop group as so far everything points to Japan being their original market they will be debuting in.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf_OQoS_jRme1TyiMvWXMOMPGktTZym-WY1QrZnd2Y1K0rfaXreS_IWVo7CGylMJy26-sV5_bEQh0IxqpKwJSPDGSEuslyiBPTo3-WEIytfeOCvzRi6X86LTSTmM8HNQN6PQ4Bkwih-VT/s610/niziu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf_OQoS_jRme1TyiMvWXMOMPGktTZym-WY1QrZnd2Y1K0rfaXreS_IWVo7CGylMJy26-sV5_bEQh0IxqpKwJSPDGSEuslyiBPTo3-WEIytfeOCvzRi6X86LTSTmM8HNQN6PQ4Bkwih-VT/s320/niziu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>It was on a whim that I started to watch the Nizi Project on youtube as I tend to like JYP groups and I thought the idea of a J-pop group being created with a Korean idol company (in conjunction with Sony Music Japan) was interesting. The girls won me over as I watched the project and I definitely want to support them. Especially as I really enjoy the pre-debut songs they have released. </p><p>I am also very interested in how their debut single will do, as the pre-release single seems to be forever in the top 10 on Japan's iTunes charts. Plus the fact they have performed on music programs in Japan not only can be a good sign that they have interest behind them but also helps promote them to those not familiar with them before. November still seems so long away so I hope it will be an early November release if plans do not change.</p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604609834681192384.post-25344879534531831622020-09-21T11:02:00.003-07:002020-09-21T11:02:35.130-07:00Sexy Zone Not Found<p> Johnny's has announced that Sexy Zone will be releasing a new single on November 4th, 2020. The title of the single will be Not Found, which will be the title track as well. It will come in two limited editions and then a regular edition. In fact this single looks to follow the same pattern as their previous single.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJMCT-19003" target="_blank"><img alt="Not Found / Sexy Zone" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JMCT-19003" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJMCT-19003" target="_blank">Not Found [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type A]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Sexy Zone</div></div><br /><p></p><p>The first limited edition comes with a CD and a DVD. The CD has the title track as well as an exclusive B-side song that has yet to be titled. The DVD has the music video for the title track as well as the making of footage, plus the dance shot version.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJMCT-19004" target="_blank"><img alt="Not Found / Sexy Zone" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JMCT-19004" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJMCT-19004" target="_blank">Not Found [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type B]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Sexy Zone</div></div><br /><p></p><p>The second limited edition is another CD and DVD combo. The CD is two tracks, title track and an exclusive B-side song that also currently has no title like the rest of the B-sides. The DVD will have a special video which from what I can gather from the title is the group members having a barbecue together.</p><p></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJMCT-15002" target="_blank"><img alt="Not Found / Sexy Zone" border="0" src="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/image.html?id=JMCT-15002" width="100" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/aff/click.cgi/e86NDzbdSLQ/5655/A607011/product%2FJMCT-15002" target="_blank">Not Found [Regular Edition]</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Sexy Zone</div></div><br /><p></p><p>The regular edition is just a CD but comes with two exclusive B-sides as well as the title track. </p><p><br /></p><p>I am so excited for this release. It will be great to see the full group once more. And considering the release date I feel certain the plan was to have Matsushima So perform something at the Yokohama Arena with the rest of the group if everything was going well with his return to a full idol schedule again. Of course all that is on hold for now with it being difficult to gauge what can be done with the pandemic still going on. But I can see them doing an online concert like other groups have and what could have been can probably be seen then.</p><p>Yet overall I am just happy that So is back and will be getting all three versions as my way to show support. </p>Thennary Nakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08091740635880337469noreply@blogger.com0