A Potentially Unpopular Opinion!! - So, I hear YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz are breaking up?

All opinions expressed here are my own. I'd prefer if you didn't go and judge how good a fan I was based on this, because, really, screw off, I don't have to love everything the man does to be his fan.

Thank you~

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz, the band formed by GACKT -y'know, the amazing-looking one in the front

So, it seems that YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz will be splitting up come the 4th July - which is also the 39th birthday of the man responsible for it all.

And, as cruel as it sounds, I almost sort of...rejoiced upon hearing that news.

Oh, that's right -  I was openly happy that the project my favourite artist had been working on for so long was coming to an end.

I invite you to work out why this may be - is it because I can't handle that isn't all about GACKT all the time; I can't accept that there's some white dude stealing the spotlight; I can't put up with all that English in some songs (god forbid!); is it because I'm not a true GACKT fan?

And, I can easily tell you, it's nothing like that at all.

In fact, I have nothing against Jon at all.

Jon Underdown - in case you couldn't work that one out on your own

Well, it's worth pointing out that I don't active love the guy, but he seems perfectly nice and I do like his voice. Besides, it blends a treat with GACKT's, so, I can't really complain. I mean, he talks like he's still stuck in the 90s ('Hey G, I'm stoked for the show tonight!' would be a typical Tweet from this guy), but that's no reason to dislike someone, now, is it? And, he seems totally enthusiastic about everything, too. So, all in all, I honestly do like Jon - even if my Mum disapproves of the fact that 'he isn't as beautiful as GACKT' (Oh Mum, it's cruel, but I agree). Jon is not the reason I feel a little relieved about the split-up - I'm not some weaboo who doesn't want boring old whites like me mingling with those perfect Japanese adonises (please, sense the sarcastic tone here). I'm not that kind of fan. 

And I refuse to hold it against GACKT that he did something different for once. I can accept that if I don't love it, no-one's forcing me to. I'm aware of how elitist some members of the GACKT fandom are, that there's this sense of having to belong in the fandom, having to be worthy of the fandom - honestly, all that puts me off sometimes. And, to be fair, I've never actually managed to fit into the fandom, somehow. I probably haven't tried hard enough, but I just don't think I can handle so much fandom drama. I don't mind drama, but in the GACKT fandom, it's a huge problem. There seems to be a bunch of fandom splits, after all. And, this sounds harsh, I know, but, those fans who go around acting like they own GACKT, like he's their man or even being slightly over-protective of him? Never liked 'em. Not even for a moment. There's a large fraction of the fanom that are like that, though, so, yay. Lucky me.

Image (c) j-music-confessions.tumblr.com - I didn't submit this, but it seemed pretty apt, right? Sort of summed up my feelings?

Fandom Civil Wars aside, the reason why I'm not so overly-enthusiastic about YFC?

It's pretty simple, really.

They're just not my thing.

Okay, I admit, I do like them, but, thing is, they're a tad on the generic side for me.

No, seriously, their songs are just like watered-down GACKT songs. It's like GACKT, with an extra voice but without that extra...extra...oomph that GACKT's solo stuff has. GACKT's solo stuff is special, it's original, it's like nothing else I've heard. Whereas YFC...sound like a band. Just a band. A band that has the honour of the powerful vocals of GACKT at their disposal, yes, but whatever. If I gave them a proper listen, I'd probably love all of their song, but they still wouldn't hit me in the same way as GACKT's solo stuff.

GACKT's solo stuff always had a stronger impression on me, even if it did sometimes involve him getting up on stage and belting out those tunes whilst being dressed as a Nazi commandant. Well, I'll give him that he wasn't promoting Naziism in anyway - rather, he was condoning war as a whole.

Another point is that YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz are too overly-erotic.

And, before you all start judging me and getting all like 'You idiot! GACKT's been erotic for years! And you call yourself a fan!' - I know that. I'm not stupid.

But, my issue with YFC is that it's too in your face erotic. Mind, the fact that Yamapi has an album coming out called 'Ero' doesn't bother me in the slightest.

I don't mind erotic stuff, though. If it really bothered me, I would have probably gone off GACKT the moment I saw anything from the D.R.U.G Party con, as opposed to ending up more drawn to him (I'm sorry, he was particularly gorgeous in that con). Or the famed live version of Vanilla, for that matter (or even upon reading the lyrics for that same song). Hell, I would have ditched KAT-TUN by now, and Kame would not be my favourite, if anyone!

Go, GACKT, go! HUMP THAT GACKTJOB MEMBER! - A screenshot from the live perf of Vanilla, well-known for its huge helpings of BoyxBoy Sexytime

A typical KoKame moment - Here's Koki (who's resposible for a collection of tracks loosely known as the MAKE U WET Trilogy, may I add) midway to shoving his face in Kame's crotch, just to further my point.

So, I have no problem with eroticism or suggestive songs or performances, especially if there's no misogyny involved whatsoever. This is a mould most of GACKT's more sexual solo songs manage to fit with great ease, but, as to YFC's stuff? I'm not so sure, due to the fact that I've heard of arguments within the fandom about GACKT being sexist. Obviously, I haven't looked into it in much detail due to lack of interest in the meanings behind YFC's music, but I'll just leave it as it is - whatever it's like, it probably doesn't rival that pile of shit Jin Akanishi came out with earlier in the year.

Despite him once being a favoured artist of mine, the moment I heard that disgusting excuse for a song, 'That's What She Said', I was well and truly put off, but that's another story for another time.

My point is that all is forced eroticism on YFC's parts make the more sexual songs seem pulpy. At least GACKT's solo stuff with suggestive lyrics had a general sensual feel to them. Like...they were unf as a song, for want of better terminology. Whereas YFC's don't have that same feel. I also adore the experimental nature of GACKT's solo work - YFC seems to be a bit safer where genres are involved. That's arlight, seeing as it's just a side-project and all. I mean, doesn't that just make them another product of GACKT's experimenting?

It's funny, though, considering that YFC started off as nothing more than a tour name, really. I missed both the YFC gigs in London due to being abroad on holiday, but, given the choice, I would choose the '10 gig over the '11 one anyday. After all, it was the '10 gig that was essentially just a GACKT gig in London, no offense to YFC. I think, really, part of the reason I'm glad that this is happening is because YFC meant less Solo GACKT. It wasn't that I wanted to see more of GACKT in the splotlight, it was just that I prefer his music by a long shot. YFC splitting-up basically means that GACKT may release more solo single or maybe even an album! His last solo album was released in 2009, after all - I'd say us Dears are due a new album. I'm not interested in any of this YELLOW FRIED CHICKLETz nonsense, I'm already a dedicated Hyphen on the side of being a Dear, what more do you people want from me?!

I preferred it when Yellow Fried Chickenz was just another one of GACKT's weird tour concepts, this time having been inspired by his grandad who, apparently, looks like Colonel Sanders

[ALBUM REVIEW] Tohoshinki's TONE, even though it came out ages ago

TONE

All opinions expressed in this post are my own, and are merely my opinion, so don't bother getting pissed off if you disagree. However, if there is some more factual area I have messed up on, feel free to point it out to me. But basically, if you don't like the post, you don't like the post. If you feel the need to tell me why I suck, I'd rather you screwed off. Right. Now.

This album was actually released in September, so, based on release dates alone, especially considering we've got a couple of lovely tracks in there from last January, this album isn't even close to relevant. But, I don't remember there being any rules against reviewing old stuff, and it's a good album, and I feel I have enough to say about it.

1. Introduction ～ magenta ～

This song, at the very very start, sounds like a weird Christmas Carol. And then it just ends up sounding like a nursery rhyme, and then a Christmas Carol again, and then something from weird old cartoon musical from the past. I don't even know what I think of this song. It's an intro, so it's really short, but it's not a particularly catching intro. I like intros to be hard and fast-paced, in order to draw me in. Hm.

2. B.U.T (BE-AU-TY)

I love this song. Really.

I love the title, it's quite clever, in a weird way, I think xD

It's extremely catchy and has that awesome hard electropop that seems to be a signature of SMEnt. No complaints, I love that bloody signature. The 'dondondon' bits are little weird, at first, but, they're add a nice effect to the song.

And the 'B-U-T-T-T-T-Wow' bits are so cool xD And both members rap which is, as much Yunho's a muuuuch better rapper than Changmin anyway, always quite fun to hear. I love Changmin's voice, and I still love it when it raps.

But, I do agree that it sounds very SuJu-esque, as people said. But, I don't dislike SuJu or anything, so I can't say anything.

3. I Think U Know

This song...is...

Well, when I first heard it, I just...I dunno.

I thought it was really weird, somehow. But extremely catchy. Like...realllly catchy.

The instrumental break bits, with that one repetitive piece of music, scare me a little bit, though. I'm not sure why. I think they remind me of this gypsie folk-dance band I saw in a square at France, and they had these weird clips from really old cartoons, like Betty Boop and Pop-Eye and Felix the Cat, and those cartoons are....somewhat traumatising, I find xD Okay, an exaggeration, but I had a Felix the Cat video, and that was some messed-up shit, okay?

I was also quite surprised by how low Changmin's lines were in the verses. I'm used to him belting out those big high lines all the time, so, it was nice to hear another side to his voice. IT'S SO FECKING VERSATILE.

4. Duet

Oh god. I can't even explain how much I love this song.

It's so pretty sounding. These guys convey emotions SO well in their songs, their voices are so powerful. The blending and harmonies are all equisite.

I love how the chorus really picks up and gets pretty fast, but still retains that soft and reserved tone of the rest of the song. I don't even know what to describe this song as, cause it's not really a ballad.

I think my favourite part of the song is the second chorus? I don't why, just their voices fit their given lines so well in those parts. I also love how that chorus fades into the little part before the bridge. It has stunning harmonies and the melody there is so nice. Brilliant song,

5. Thank You My Girl

The opening of this song makes me thing of some kind of creepy-ass horror movie. With the weird tapping noises, which are quite...haunting. And then the weird fuzzy track that breaks of. Chilling. Sorta.

I absolutely adore how the mood just changes straight after, and turns into a proper poppy song. The backtrack is really nice. The chorus is very...how to explain?

It kind of fits this kind of creepy old-fashioned horror theme, with its strange synthesised violins and harmonies which make it sound almost...classical? And then having the one member, mainly Yunho, I believe, cause its Changmin doing the high parts, I guess, singing over the top. Agh, sound so good.

The weird 'Kiss me, you're my only girl' lines freak me out, though. What was that about? And then the instrumental reverts to the mood of the verses, only more dancey. I'll just say...this is one confusing song. But it's really good.

6. Telephone

This song is the perfect song for driving in a late Summer afternoon. Why am I so obsessed with drives? I can't even drive! I guess it's cause I always listen to a lot of music when I'm in the car.

It's a very mellow and emotional song, with a poppy backtrack accompanied by acoustic guitar. And, though, it appears to be a slow song, it has a very...warm feeling. Like, it makes me think of warmth of the colour orange and sun, while most ballads make me think of dark blue, rain, sun, and cold. It's a really nice feel. I love the cold songs, but warm songs are a nice chaning.

Also, I have no idea why, but this song reminds me of 'Roadtripping' (Red Hot Chili Peppers).

7. Back to Tomorrow

Speaking of slow songs that make me think of rain...

This song is a ballad, definitely, but it's a pop ballad, so it's not just piano. It's got the synthesised stuff going on and even hints of guitars. This is quite possibly my favourite track on the entire album, and out of the of the non-singles, it is DEFINITELY my favourite. I LOVE the bridge lines. The contrast of Changmin's power and Yunho's softness there is stunning.

The chorus is beautiful as well and the backtrack is one of the most beautiful things on the whole album. This group have one the best blends in the entirety of the K-Pop music scene, despite there only being two of them, and the harmonisation is always absolutely gorgeous! The adlibs behind the last chorus sound so sad and touching, and though Yunho sings them quite softly, they deliver such a powerful sense of emotion and feeling.

I honestly cannot fault this song, and it is definitely on of my favourite songs in TVXQ's entire discography. Note that I referred to them as TVXQ and not Tohoshinki (ignoring that I prefer the name DBSK to TVXQ). This means I'm including their entire huge-ass Korean disography, too, not just their Japanese stuff~

8. Why? (Keep Your Head Down)

This is the song that made me fall for this group. Before that, I only really knew Mirotic but, even though I really liked it, I had never thought to check out any of their other stuff. I heard this not very long after it was released, maybe a month or so after, and I was completely taken in by the sheer power of their vocals. Of course, I'd heard the Korean verison, but after hearing the Japanese version...I can honestly say I do not know which version I prefer. Because, sometimes Japanese versions don't sound as good because the lyrics sound trippy and don't fit the song as well as the original (example; SHINee's Lucifer), but they can also sound better to me than the original because the lyrics really fit in well the tune and sound of the song and it sounds so perfect (example; SHINee's Hello -just to clarify, I do not have a love-hate relationship with SHInee. I love them, and that's as far as it goes).

I love the rap to death in both versions, though, the Japanese one sounds weirder, and by weird, I mean in a way that makes it sound more original and, therefore, more interesting.

Changmin's adlibs in this song are absolutely brilliant. I saw the performance of this song on the MUSIC STATION SUPER LIVE and, by god, he rocked them so well, even after dancing. I was completely blown away, especially since his voice cracked a few times during the early performances of the Korean ones. Well, Mr. Changmin, I'm very impressed.

This song is ridiculously powerful. And it's probably my fav DBSK song. Ever.

9. MAXIMUM

Now, this song had never really left too huge an impression on me. Don't get me wrong, it's a brilliant song, but to me...it's just not anything outstanding. It's a song that's quite good, and I'm not sure what else to say about it. Only, I'll have to say something about it, otherwise that'd make for a really rubbish song review.
I could only imagine this song having some kind of....ridiculous stereotypical martial arts Dojo thingy as a setting if it were to have a PV, which would involve HoMin trying to beat each other and then it would have ridiculously epic dance shots thrown in and lots of drama. It's a really awesome song and all, but I only listen to it occasionally. Though, it's also one of these songs I never listen to much, but when it comes on sometimes, I can't skip. I swear I prefer the Korean version, too. I can't remember.

10. I Don't Know
I remember this coming out and it being really exciting. I hadn't gotten the chance to watch the PV for some reason, but I had managed to snag myself a copy of the PV Rip just before I headed off for France for a family holiday. The PV had been stupidly LQ, so it was a pretty rubbish MP3 >< But, when I got home,   once I'd gotten over the fact that KAT-TUN's new PV, which I had spent the entire holiday being excited over, had come out the day I got back, I found time to listen to and appreciate this song properly.
Honestly, I love this song. Again, as I keep saying, the harmonies were perfect. These guys really blend, it's amazing. And, they both rap again, which is always fun~
I really love the bits between the verse and chorus, with the low whispery voices and the harmonies. And I adore how the second chorus works, with Yunho doing the main lines and Changmin joining in, before it switches to an extended chorus with Changmin doing those powerful high lines. And Yunho's falcetto sounds fantastic, too.
I also really love the video. I know there are some people who aren't so into the dark colour-schemes, but, personally, I love them and think they look really cool. It's just a cool video.

11. Superstar
Somehow, I paid more attention to I Don't Know, but when I finally got round to listening to this amazing track, I found myself preferring it to the latter song. If you're not huge on autotune, it's probably not your thing. I mean, it's not overboard audio, but it's that kind of techno electropop-ish thing? Okay, I don't know genres, shut up. But there are so many layers of vocals for a duet, so it's really interesting to listen to. I mean, if you're willing to sit down and just pay attention to it all. If you like the group enough to do that kind of thing, I really recommend it. There are so many little background adlibs and it really adds something to the song. It makes it sound so powerful and full. I love Changmin's high notes in the back of the last chorus, too. It's a really catchy song. Like, seriously. It's got a damned memorable tune and it was stuck in my head for absoultely ages after I first got into it.
It's a brilliant song~

12. Shiawase Iro no Hana
This is a song I don't listen to as much as any other on the album. It's a ballad, and I think I've listened to it, like, once. I guess, normally, when I'm in the mood to listen to a ballad my first choice is GACKT or KAT-TUN. But it's a really pretty song. The chorus sounds amazing. I'm getting repetitive now, but the harmonies, the blending, the emotion and the power...
I'm sorry, but these guys really just nail all of those areas, and they're both amazing singers. I can't actually fault either of their voices, which is probably what brought me to love this group so much. I mean, I can't fault any member in the history of TVXQ's voices, they've all been exceptional singers. And, in this song, their voices are smooth yet powerful, and the final product is very beautiful and relaxing track~

13. Easy Mind
I had only listened to this song once until recently. When I listened to it again, getting on the bus to Glasgow one day, I found myself asking myself 'Why? Why haven't I listened to this song properly?'
It's just a happy, upbeat song and it's very J-Pop-esque, compared to rest of this very K-Poppy album. I mean, they're a K-Pop group, that's not shocking, but I always love when K-Pop artists have J-Poppy songs in their Japanese releases. It's really peppy and energetic, and sounds very Summery.
If this song had a video, I could only imagine it being like...a Summer party with unnaturally green grass and a weirdly blue sky outside of this big white house with inflatable swimming pools lying around and BBQ standing somewhere. And there'd be those little paper triangle flags, and the members would be spraying each other with water guns. Of course, I couldn't imagine HoMin pulling that off, because that's the kind of thing you see in Japanese all-girl idol groups not Korean boyband duos, hm.

----

RIGHT, I'M ONLY REVIEWING THE VERSION A CD, THE PINK ONE (like the pic)
This is because;

1. I'm lazy and can't be bothered reviewing the other 2 songs
2. The version of the CD I own is Version A (it had all the PVs, so I had to~)

 But, overall, this is a really good album. It was one of my favourite albums of 2011 (first place went to Yamapi with his SUPERGOOD SUPERBAD album, which I may consider reviewing one day because I have a LOT to say and praise regarding that album).
If you're a K-Pop fan, I RECOMMEND THE FUCK OUT OF THIS. Honestly, I've come across people who are diehard K-Pop fans and they haven't listened to a single song of TVXQ's. I even met someone who didn't know them! I found this a little shocking considering they were a huge group in the past. They were THE Korean boyband, before BIGBANG came along and worked their magic. And, even now, they're the biggest Korean act in Japan. They're bigger in Japan than in Korea, right now, from the looks of things. Which explains why so many new K-Pop fans aren't really aware of them -sighs-
This album is brilliant, though, and it sold extremely well in Japan. It sold so well that Hyphens everywhere were worried that the single they released after it (Winter Rose) would maybe beat KAT-TUN's BIRTH to the coveted #1 Oricon spot (which KAT-TUN have never lost). Of course, KAT-TUN got the #1, but, yeah. It sold really well. And it makes sense. It's obvious why. Yep.

[ALBUM REVIEW] KAT-TUN's 6th Album, CHAIN

CHAIN

All my opinions are my own. Got a problem with it? Then, screw you.

Also, WARNING, I'm biased 8D

Okaaay~ So, recently, as in about...2 weeks ago, KAT-TUN released their 6th album. As a dedicated Hyphen, I decided I should revive this blog by reviewing this album. So, how did this album fare with me, then?

1. LOCK ON

When the existence of this song was first announced, I had a pretty set idea of what it was going to sound like, y'know, like, what kind of song it was going to be and what elements it would include. And, when I first heard the radio rip of it, I was pleased to find that my guess been pretty much perfect, aside from the fact that I had expected more autotune. You could say I had almost 'Locked On' to song's sound, couldn't you? ;D /shot/

Anyway, I really loved the song. Like, really. Before the album's release, I'd already played the radio rip to death, but the PV and the prospect of hearing the song in full, decent quality got me excited again. It's such a great song.

It's got that weird electro-poprock thing that KAT-TUN have developed in the last few years, which I love. These songs are amazing. And no autotune means there's just pure voice. It's a good, powerful song, and it's damned catchy.

2. ONE DAY

Hopefully, I wont be as stupidly repetitive with this song as I was with LOCK ON xD

But, really. I haven't got a single complaint about this song, either. It's another total winner on this album, there's actually a high chance it's my favourite track. The chorus is ridiculously catchy, considering the words are pretty easy to remember and the tune totally gets in your brain. It's less rocky than LOCK ON, but it's got that little hint of electro blended in with pure hyper poppiness. It's a song with a somewhat serious sound, yet it's still a really upbeat and happy song. I'm a total fool for songs like that, so it gets my vote. I love successful blends of sounds, so...yeah.

3. BIRTH

The first single on the album. Ah~ The wonderful theme song of Yokai Ningen Bem.

This song automatically reminds me of Yokai Ningen Bem, so I really love it as a result. I mean, at first, I preferred STAR RIDER, when the PVs for that single were released, but...Bem did his beautiful work and converted me. Also, the drums in the song sound REALLY good on headphones, so that kind of drew me to it, as well. Furthermore, as they sang this song a lot live near Christmas, and a lot of big year-end music shows were on, this song has fond memories for me. Cause...I woke up earlier than normal just to watch the ones that KAT-TUN were performing on. I watched the whole things, as well, even after KAT-TUN had long buggered off.

4. ULTIMATE WHEELS

Another single.

I love the instrumental track for this song, it's so...dramatic xD More dramatic than the rest of the song, actually.

This song has an odd line distribution, but I like it. The whole duo line stuff is really awesome.

The 'Never Let You Go' parts...the tune has always reminded me of My Chemical Romance's Ghost of You xDD

5. FINALE (Junnosuke Taguchi)

This is the first solo song on the album.

And, arguably, Junno's best. Even though I'm still partial to WIND, for some reason. It just makes me happy.

This song surprised me in the same way that GIRLS did, back when CHANGE UR WORLD was released. I was really expecting something akin to SAMURAI LOVE ATTACK, to be quite honest. So, when this autotune-filled techno-fest fully revealed itself, I was really surprised. Pleasantly surprised, of course.

I mean, it's not necessarily my favourite Junno solo, but it's probably the best. That makes sense, okay? xD I mean, I like other ones better because they're stupid and fun, not because they're really good songs.

Also, it's nice to hear Junno do a low, mature solo. It's really refreshing. This song makes me think of city nightscapes and bright lights, both of which I love, so, it puts nice images in my head. It also gives me this image of Junno chilling in a big shiny chair in a club like a boss ;D

6. STEP BY STEP (Yuichi Nakamaru)

Of course, nearly everyone already knew this song, thanks to the Shounen Club performance in September, when a new album had first been announced. No details were revealed whatsoever, except for that this song would be on it xD So, I guess, for me anyway, this song had a much smaller element of surprise than the other solos. But, at least, it meant that Maru's solo had been the first one I'd heard, because I have a habit of leaving his solos until last, and I don't even know why xD

However, it's a really nice song. We're back with the dancey electro stuff, but in a much softer form this time. This song sounds really flowy and fluttery to me, somehow. And makes me think of shiny things and bubbles. It's a very pretty song.

Maru's English pronunciation is really odd in parts, but he hits those hight notes amazingly. I mean, I don't care about the English, it's better than most of KAT-TUN's English xD And, like I said, oh my god, those high notes. I'm glad Maru has been singing higher songs recently, because a lot of his older songs were a lot lower, and, I hate to say it, but they didn't really suit his voice. Especially before their debut, because he always sounded like he was straining his voice a little. But he sings higher songs with such a totally natural-sounding ease.

7. RUN FOR YOU

This is another single.

Total autotuney electropop time, here~

This song...makes me feel Summery. I don't like that, cause it's not a Summery song xD It just came out in the Summer and I remember being in France, deathlooping the radio rip in the car, having a fangirl fit in a Virgin Megastore after watching the CM and HEY! HEY! HEY! performance on one of the display iPads...

But, I don't dislike the song in anyway. When I heard the first preview of it aaaages ago, when the first low quality SOLIO CM with it as a tie-in track came out, I thought it was going to be a peppy happy track. I couldn't hear the backing track well and 'LALALALA RUN FOR YOUUU~' sounds fairly...happy xD But, then I heard a better quality clip and realised this song was a lot more badass than that. Oops.

8. Ano Hi no You ni

This is one of the more balladish tracks on the album.

It's a really pretty and sweet song. And Kame's adlibs nearer the end are amazing.

It's the only group song on CHAIN I've seen a fancam of, and I can say, I'm excited for this track on the DVD. The performance wasn't exciting or anything, but it was stripped-back, pure and serene. I mean, if you can ignore the over-the-top sparkly, feathery suits they were wearing. (I think they looked good D8)

It's a really relaxing song, and the blending is amazing.

From what I gather, the lyrics are about some kind of change in a loving relationship where the song's speaker still wants to be with their love, and laugh with them again. I'm not sure what the change was, whether it was a break-up, death or even just their lover becoming a different or meaner person. Somehow, I like to imagine in like their lover themself changed. I dunno. Obviously, death is the most emotional one, but the mood of the song doesn't seem to fit like that, I guess. I don't know, I'm just using my extremely basic Japanese to speculate, but speculation makes me feel closer to the song.

However, it may be my least favourite track on the album, as much as I do like it. It's just...I dunno. Also, the verses are too soft for my taste. I like hard vocals, I guess xD

9. Zutto (Kazuya Kamenashi)

Obviously, as Kame is my favourite in the group, I'm going to sound a little biased here, but this song is absolutely beautiful.

I've also seen a fancam of it, and aside from the fact that I don't get his shirt, it was utterly stunning. However, I've heard that the Dome version of the performance is even better, so, really, this DVD cannot come quick enough. I can't even begin to imagine the beauty.

Anyway, this song, which has allegedly been inspired by 'healing music', was described by Kame as the kind of song you can listen to before you sleep, and, though I have yet to listen to it in such a situation, I can tell it will succeed.

It's such a peaceful song, it's got a really relaxing feel to it. It calms your tension on a loud school bus full of idiots when you're still tired because it's too early in the morning with commendable ease.

Also, Kame delivers the emotions of songs amazingly. As always, he really conveys the meaning of the lyrics in his voice. I mean, I've only read online translations, so it seems odd for me to say it, but...I still feel the emotions.

I can't remember but I swear the songs about deep and/or distance love, and it's really nice. It's just a pure and innocent song.

I did hear that Kame was either going to put this or Plastic Tears onto the album, but went with this, in order to stand out against the other solos, as they were mostly dancey or upbeat. As much as I LOVE Plastic Tears, I'm glad he made the choice he did. This song is really refreshing.

10. SMILE FOR YOU

This. Song.

This song is so...different from what you'd expect of KAT-TUN. It's so upbeat and poppy. It's more like...something you'd expect from NEWS, maybe Hey! Say! JUMP. But not KAT-TUN xD

It's so far from their normal badass or sentimental stuff, it's so...so happy. I know they've got other happy songs, but, still. It's so cheery and quite summery. Like, I could imagine this being used in a clip of KAT-TUN chilling in a really typical and unrealistic-looking beach resort, while they run around like the hyper guys they actually are, bullying Junno and pushing people into the water. That image alone makes me love this song xD

It's not one of my favourites on the album, but it just makes me feel happy inside. However, I prefer the badass and sentimental stuff, so...yeah.

11. Hakanai Yubisaki

Another ballad-esque track. It's a bit...like...harder than the others, though, I dunno? Like, there's more...beat. And bass.

This song's another good one for listening to before you sleep, it's really relaxing. It's got a kind of... synthesised drum beat, but it's also got this really nice piano melody in the back. And the high notes in the chorus are beautiful. It's a bit more...KAT-TUNy, in an odd way.

It seems to be a song...about separation or break-up, I'm guessing, from the 'Forget me not' lines. Also, there are references to being alone and wanting to see smiles again, so, that's what I'm guessing.

12. ~again (Tatsuya Ueda)

Typical Ueda rockiness.

No complaints.

Tatsuya suits this kind of song best, I've always found, so I really love that it's always the kind of song he goes for in his solos.

I hear lots of violins and things like that in the back. I love songs like that. The backing track would remind me of classic GACKT stuff, granted it were lower and a little heavier. But, I really love the backing track, there's a lot going on, but not too much and blends together perfectly.

This is a song I'd really like to see live. I mean, actually, in person. It would sound so good in a big dome, wouldn't it?

It's got that kind of feel to it. It's a song you can really...feel, in your chest. Okay, you may not agree or even know what I mean, but there are certain songs where I can really feel them in my chest, and they just kind of take over in a really nice way. And it's normally only rockier songs I feel this with. It's one reason why I'm so drawn to GACKT.

13. CHANGE UR WORLD

Ooh~ Another single ;D

This is actually my favourite 5-member single.

I really love the heaviness of it, and stuff. The guitars are just wow. As are the voices and stuff. Kame's high note? Oh, yeah. A.Ma.Zing.

I have but one complaint about this song. Okay, two complaints.

First, the lines distribution was unfair on Ueda. I mean, KAT-TUN aren't great for lines but they almost were, and then they weren't. Whatever.

And, second, the CD versions don't have the super amazing epic wow instrumental break after the rap in them. Only the PV and some live versions have it.

Sorry, that instrumental break was perfect. It just was.

14. DANGEROUS CAT ~MAKE ME WET~ (Koki Tanaka)

The third, and, apparently, final, chapter in Koki's famous Make U Wet collection.

However, this time, the tables have turned, and we found out about how the person Koki keeps insisting in soaking with all his cum feels about...well...being soaked in cum. Seems like they're having fun ;D

At least he's not essentially glorifying rape culture like some people *coughJincough*

And, I can deal with Koki's erotic songs. Like, somehow, they aren't objectifying, cause there's still some hint of romance in the lyrics, and he doesn't continuously point out that his partner is a 'sexy lady' or something. I mean, sex is harmless. It's objectification and misogyny that are the issue.

However, political correctness aside, this song is...

Well, it's on crack.

It opens with dogs, Koki's dogs, actually, barking and then Koki says, in this weird-ass voice, 'Quiiiet, doggy boys! Oh...Good boys'

It's a pretty creepy song, just cause of all the meowing and growling, and the odd voice he uses, but it's creepy in a strangely entertaining way. It's somehow...fun to listen to xD

Aside from the fact the line 'My name is Dangerous Cat' reminds me of something...like, the tune. I swear it's from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Ah, well, it's not important.

15. Hodoukyou

Another ballad. The most ballady of the album's ballads. And so, I think of it as THE ballad of the album. And THE ballad of the CHAIN tour. It's, like, a rite of passage for KAT-TUN have this one special ballad in their cons, and this one must be it.

I heard Kame insisted that this song MUST be used on the album, and I can see why.

This one is DEFINITELY perfect for falling asleep too. I mean, I've done it a couple of times, already.

Everything about this song is pretty. It doesn't reach a climax, and is consistently relaxing.

It is slightly...happier than most of KAT-TUN's ballads and a little more upbeat, but it's still really beautiful. Not my favourite ballad, though it would take something amazing to beat NEIRO.

16. WHITE

The last single on the album.

This song is absolutely brilliant for...like, going for a walk on a sunny day. Or going for a drive on a sunny day. Or just some kind of travel on a sunny day. Or a bright place. You get my drift, right?

But, like, if you're going for a relaxing walk or drive or whatever, I recommend this song. It sounds best through headphones, mind. You can really hear the vocals, instruments and beats blend together in their full glory that way. It's a really uplifting song and never fails to bring a smile to my face.

It's just...such a nice song, without having to be all soft and laid-back.

It's still fast and cool but also light and...uh...nice.

17. SOLDIER

Another favourite.

This song...is probably the coolest on the album.

The changes in beat make for high tension - the nice kind.

It switches between fast & hard and slow & elegant. It's really awesome.

And I adore Kame's 'itainda' line, it sounds so...nice. I don't even know why. It's just. Yeah.

There's so much power in the song, though, and the chorus has such perfect flow.

If there was a PV, there'd be black coats and big boots and cool shiny crap, and then random flashy spinny lights. And there'd be fancy looking dance scenes, and the close-ups would have really cool lighting, and some apparently shocking stuff would happen. And Kame would bend over a lot during his adlibs and there'd be some kind of confusing ending that doesn't make sense. Yeah, that should some up what kind of feeling this song gives off to me.

18. CHAIN OF LOVE

When I first heard this song, I was confused as fuck. I mean, it's a bonus track, so I didn't know it was there.

Like, a real bonus track which isn't on any of the track listings.

But, it's another favourite. The first time I heard it I was like 'Where'd this come from? Oh, but it's so good'

It's another upbeat song, but, it's kind of low and cool and electro-ish at the same time. But, it's more energetic than the likes of ONE DAY. It's the same kind of thing as MAKE or BREAK without the autotune, or Yoake Made. Like, it's the kind of song that should have a really awesome dance, but doesn't.

Also, the little background shouts are...like, cute. Not cute, but, they're...like...d'aw. Especially in the chorus. I mainly just love how Kame says 'of' but stiillll~

I mean, this song is super amazing.

It reminds me of Arashi's harder sounding songs, which is weird, cause it's a softer KAT-TUN song xD

But, it's still very KAT-TUN. It's hard to explain.

So I wont explain. I give up.

So, overall...I hate this album for being so fucking long and therefore hard to write about.

Okay, I lied.

I love it. I love that it's long. It means there's more songs to fangirl over.

But, it's not their best.

It's on the same level as NO MORE PAIN for me, which is 3rd, after the joint 1st of Break the Records and Queen of Pirates.

It would beat NO MORE PAIN if the slower tracks were better, I think. But, it's still amazing. I think, I expected more, but after reviewing it, I've realised how much I REALLY like this album. So, yeah.

It's good.

Go listen to it.

[REVIEW] Kim Hyun Joong - Lucky Guy

Hurm...me gusta ;D

LUCKY
All opinions expressed are my own. You wanna complain about other people's views, then quit reading blogs or whatever. And considering the inevitable bias of this post, you're probably a hater, anyway, if you disagree enough with my opinions enough to get annoyed.

So, Kim Hyun Joong, my favourite person in the entire K-Pop business, recently came out with his 2nd mini-album and 4th MV as a solo artist. Of course, as much as I want to see SS501 back together again, despite the fact I became a fan in the middle of their current hiatus, I'm really loving Leader's solo stuff. Out of all the SS501 members' solo stuff, his is definitely my favourite. Though, as always, I may be biased. But, I think it's mostly that I like his general style of music best. Not that his style is perfectly consistent, but all the genres he's tackled so far have been pretty awesome genres and the songs have gone down brilliantly well with me. His voice isn't the strongest I've heard, but it's really nice and listenable, and I'd listen to it over plenty of better singers, (though, his voice is GOOD, I'm not denying that). The way I feel about his voice is probably similar to the way I feel about Yamapi's, only...the feelings aren't as strong as compared to those which I have for Yamapi xD Though, that being said, Hyun Joong has always looked kind of like a Korean Yamapi to me, anyway.

Right, now, tangent over, on to the actual reviewing part.

First off, the song.
Their seems to be an almost spy/surfer-ish guitar riff playing in the background throughout the song's verses. And lots of big brass instruments in the chorus and stuff. It's not a totally new or original style, but it sounds good. It gives the song a fun and lively feel.
The song is also really catchy. I've heard the song about 3 or 4 times, and the chorus is already completely stuck in my head. It gets under your skin, but in a good way. The vocalisation thingies in the chorus sound really good, too. I love when Hyun Joong does those. Actually, he's one of these people who should just hold notes all the time. He sounds really awesome doing it.
Well, not all the time. I'm exaggerating. But, whatever.
I don't know what else to say about the song itself. It's good, it's catchy, it's lively, it's danceable, so-on so-forth.

So, then...
On to the MV.
It's mostly really awesome.
Only possible complaint is the beginning where the girl's in her bikini and Hyun Joong's totally checking her out. Not because I'm the kind of fan who gets annoyed by her favourite male celebs checking out girls, I feel that getting jealous over celebrities is pathetically futile. Ah, so this is where the 'My opinions are my opinions' thing comes in. Because, yeah, I feel strongly about that crap. And more very opiniated stuff here.
If jealousy isn't why I dislike the scene, what is?
Well, a women standing about looking attractive in a bikini...slightly objectifying. I can't be bothered going into my reasons why, cause that will cause another ramble session, but, yeah, that's my only criticism.
I mean, Hyun Joong looks great throughout the MV, the colour scheme is really nice and effective.
My favourite thing about the whole MV is probably the dance shot scenes. The choreograhpy is really awesome (and fun - I tried the dance and it was fun <3), and his facial expressions during them are so awesome. Also, it's one of these dances taht has like...interaction and stuff. Like, with the female dancer, who is the girl he's trying to hook up with in the video. He interacts with her in a way that almost tells a story, but not quite. I really love dances like that, and I don't know why. I think it's because it makes them more than just dances. It adds character to the dance.
Also, I really love the Mic shots. His hair is gorgeous, and his smile looks amazing! *____*
I'd picspam. But I'm lazy as hell 8D


All in all, love the video, love the song, love the dance, love the man~
This song has managed to score itself a big fat
9 out of 10!

((This was meant to be posted a month ago. Don't I fail? 8D)

[ALBUM REVIEW] Morning Musume - 12, Smart

12, Smart

Okay...so this is my first time doing a proper, though-out review of...well, anything, to be all that honest. I've done simple reviews, but nothing proper.
I felt like starting with MoMusu's new album, which released today~
I just downloaded it and am giving the whole album a good listen, so, yeah...
Here are my opinions on the individual songs

1. Give me Ai - 9/10

This song has all the ingredients to be 'that one song off the album I really love', a phrase that only really applies to H!P albums. For me, there's always this one kind of song that I like above all the others. I dunno how to explain it but I can think of examples; Moonlight Night, Fantasy ga Hajimaru, Midnight Temptation (C-ute), Magical Future! (Berryz)
On top of that, it's pretty much a total Ai linewhore fest. I mean, in most cases, linewhore fests sucks (at least, in H!P. J-Ent linewhore fests are still amazing, such as Bokura no Machi de by KAT-TUN. No bias included in this comment >.>), but, I like Ai's voice a LOT. Seriously, make her a soloist NOW~ That way she can get all the lines, and no-one will ever complain!
But, yeah, the song's catchy, the chorus has a great beat~ I love it. It's a good album-opener. Maybe creates false expectations for the rest of the album, but whatever.
Only criticism is...why in the hell did anyone think it was a good idea to give Sayu that high-ish wail note? Seriously...I mean, I like her, she's cool...but she can't sing >.> For shit.
Also, yes, Give me Ai. Now. /shot/

2. Only You - 8.9/10

Well...this was a single, wasn't it? I can't say much about it...Whatever there is to be said has already been said.
All I can say is that I've grown to accept Riho's linewhoring in general, but still keep to the view that this song is beyond her years.

3. Silver no Udedokei - 7.5/10

The opening of this song...reminds me of your typical K-Pop boyband opening. With the soft ballad style piano, and the guy saying random English words in a mixed accent on top. But, then, the beat speeds up and it becomes a oh-so very H!P-esque song.
My opinion of this song, is that it is a pretty good representation of the MoMusu we will be seeing now. That's right, no Sayu, thanks?
Riho's a little too squeaky for the song, I feel, and I'm disappointed that all of her lines weren't Ai's. That's Riho, right? It's clear they're trying to make a transition here, showing us what it's like without Ai...but she would have suited this song beautifully. Ah well, this song is perfect for Reina's voice. And, at least Riho can do decent high notes...
The rapping...it was unexpected, I guess. But, I'm cool with rap, so it's good. I mean, the girls aren't exactly awesome rappers, but they're good enough.
Also, the random guy returns in the instrumental...and I realise he sounds kinda like he's just been whipped straight out a classic YG Entertainment song. I know what that sounds like, cause I'm Old Skool.
Okay, I lie. My younger sister is an avid YG fan, that's why.
Also, the last solo before each chorus...reminds me of a NEWS song, but I dunno why. Or was it a Yamapi solo? Something with Yamapi in it...

4. Suki da na Kimi ga 5/10

This song...really isn't for me. It's too squeaky, and something about the chorus' tune bugs me.
And the random background voices in the instrumentals sound like they're saying 'Jizz, I wanna jizz', which is a bit off-putting >.>
Anyway, the song's got one of those dance-techno beats, that I guess I wouldn't mind, but this song...doesn't work for me...
Sadly, I think the overdose of Sayumi is to blame. Sayumi and other squeaky members. I do like squeaky people, my fav H!P member is Morning Musume...maybe it's the song is trying to be super-cutsey, while being too squeaky at the same time, and I want to kick the song in the face? It's part of the reason why I don't like S/mileage as much. But S/mileage kick this song's ass.
I like the instrumental, though~
Maybe cause I know I can listen to it without fearing those annoying Sayu-squeaks.
I'm not a Sayu-hater, trust me. But, her as a linewhore...doesn't work for me...

5. Kaiketsu Positive A - 9/10

I love this song like I love I'm Lucky Girl. It's got a similar feel to it, I guess~
Morning Musume needs more singles like this. Quit saving them all for the albums, Tsunku! Also, this song signifies the long-awaited (for me, anyway) return of Ai as a person who gets lines, and I can hear in the chorus.
The tune is really catchy, the song's energy is really powerful, and everyone gets lines. The Kyuukies all get multiple. ALL OF THEM!
I don't think Mittsi's so lucky. But she's not Kanon, so w/e. 8D


6. Kono Ai wo Kasanete - 8.9/10

From what I can gather, this song is a TakaGaki duet. I love these together. They blend so perfectly. And the song is really sweet sounding. Somehow, it reminds me of Kame and Junno's SPECIAL HAPPINESS of the first KAT-TUN album. Not really sure how, though. But it gives off the same kind of emotion, almost.
Both their voices sound really beautiful here~ I love Ai's annunciation in the song. This song is really nice. Another favourite off this album for me. And the high notes sound absolutely beautiful~ They're perfect (and there's no Sayu runing them /shot/).
Thank you, Tsunku, for giving these girls another duet. It was genius of you.

7. Kono Chikyuu no Heiwa wo Honki de Negatterun da yo! - 9.2/10

This is probably one of my favourite MoMusu singles in a while, and it's a brilliant last song for Ai~ Of course, since it's a single, I'm too lazy to say anything about it. 8D

8. Kare to Issho ni Omise ga Shitai! - 8.5/10

I also really love this song, but not as much as the previous one. Again, too lazy for singles...

9. My Way ~Joshikou Hanamichi~ - 8.5/10

To me, something about this song seems very Berryz-esque. Probably the guitars, to be honest. Though, the instrumental break thingies remind me of Spyro music, and that makes me feel all happy and nostalgic. The chorus has a typical H!P sound kinda blended with some anime thing. And I swear I can hear Kame, depsite how impossible it may seem. And I mean Eri, not Kazuya. That would confuse me too much...
Line distribution seems fair enough. Or at least, Kanon gets a line or two, I think. And Sayu gets a shouting line. Which I approve of, btw. See, I don't hate her. I'm just not so crazy about her.
Anyway, this song is nice~ Not super original and doesn't stand out to me, but has a nice refreshing and energetic feel to it. I like it <3 And it sounds so H!P-ish. Also, on top of Berryz and anime, the chorus has a Buono!-ish feel to it~ Like, classic Buono! stuff~

10. Otome no Timing - 7.8/10

Starts seems like another song that wants to barf bubblegum on me.
And, then, the singing starts. This mus be Aika and the Kyuukies' song? Is it all of the Kyuukies or just some?
I only recognise Aika and Kanon, cause I fail.
And maybe Erina?
Though, I do know what Mizuki sounds like. What?
Regardless, the song sounds really nice, and it's nice to hear what these members sound like. And one of them sounds like Nakky, but which one, dammit ><
But, the song has a nice sweet feel, and no longer sounds like it's barfing bubblegum, but instead candy floss. Which is nicer, any day.
Anyway, though I did like the song, I dunno if it has a lasting impression on me, and I mostly liked the fact that Aika got a chance to linewhore. How nice for her~ ^O^

11. OK YEAH! - 8.9/10

This song just from the very first line is another favourite from this album. It's got an awesome ParaPara sound.
Though, it sounds a bit like a heavier version of S/mileage's Uchouten Love in some bits. But, it also such a typical MoMusu song. At least, the Ai-leader era. Or whatever.
But, the verses sound really awesome. And the chorus sounds even awesome. The blending in is too perfect, and the shouting in the background sounds great. It's a really powerful-sounding song. And Gaki's voice sounds really pretty. Of course, so does Ai. But that's a given. At least when you're as biased towards her as I am. Some lines of this song have an almost classic anime sound to them. Well...not classic. That inbetween thing.
Though, the stupid voice halfway through annoyed me. But he turned into a noise that reminds me both of 2NE1's Can't Nobody and BIGBANG's Hands Up! in one go...
Anyway, yeah, that's one catchy chorus. And Reina's last soloin the penultimate sounds really awesome. Unfortunately, like Kono Ai wo Kasanete, despite the awesomeness, it doesn't quite hit a 9, but it's too awesome to be any lower than 8.9. So, there you have it xD

12. Maji Desu ka Ska! - 7/10

There is only one thing for me to say. And that is...I like this single less than when it came out. When it came out it was a dead-on 9, but I suppose the song's been a bit overdone...or something...

OVERALL ALBUM SCORE
8.2
This was actually an Average Score. I put the Scores into a calculator, added them and divided them by 12, the number of scores. Just in case you didn't know how averages worked >.>;;
So, basically, yeah, it was a good album. But I still preferred the last 3. 'specially 10 MY ME. So, yeah, the album's good. Really good. But not great or super-amazing. I think it would have been better but that one song let me down...
Ah well~
It's Ai's last MoMusu release ever, better enjoy it while I can...
I'll miss you, Ai~
Go solo please? /shot/

A new chapter begins in the Never Ending Wonderful Story...

This is no news (pardon the pun) to any Johnny's fan now, but I felt like posting my views on the matter.
I mean, that's what blogs are for, right?

First off, basic summing-up of the dealio with this

Mr Pi decided his best of course of action was to focus on his up-and-coming solo career, and y'know what? I don't really blame him - NEWS have been pretty damn inactive for some time, and he's been doing way more solo work than group work. Might as well go with the one that's most likely to go anywhere, right? Ryo's reason for reason, however, or so I like to believe, seems to boil down to pure Osaka Love. Or maybe it was the same reason I've given Yamapi? He left because being in two groups was getting a bit too much for the poor chap, so he decided he had to drop one. Of course, he went with the one which lacked in sheer Kansai awesome, or rather, the one that was inactive. This year's been pretty active for the Kanjanies, whereas, for NEWS, it's been a rather...dead year (unless you're Tegomass). So, I believe they both had good reason to leave. Not saying I wanted them to, but I'll go into the more personal emotion-based side of stuff later.

Here, I've decided to take a look at the dramatic line-up change since 2003, and each ex-member's reason for leaving, if you can read it. Kusano's is still probably one of the best reasons ever - caught drinking 'something' out of a can. Bless, being an idol can be harsh? I don't blame the guy for buggering straight off to another company when that's your treatment. Ah, well, at least the old Johnny's kind to some of them -coughJinandRyocough-

It may take some getting used to...4-member NEWS. Even when Jin left KAT-TUN, as upset as I was by the whole affair (mainly due to my huge-ass Jin-bias), I adapted quick enough. At least to the image of the group. I was already familiar with 5-member KAT-TUN thanks to Bokura no Machi de and Cartoon KAT-TUN II : YOU - admittedly, it took me longer to accept that Jin was gone forever, but whatever-, but I've never seen this lineup together for NEWS. I imagine it may be hard for me to adjust. I will still support the group - they're my 2nd favourite group, and they're going to stay as such, no matter who leaves. Unless, Jin & Pi miraculously form some kind of wonderful duo group. Though, fortunately for NEWS, the chances of that are pretty damned slim ;D

Now, how I feel about this...
Well, I didn't want it to happen. At. All.
I mean, I'm sure everyone feels that way. Well, except my friend, who is apparently glad that Pi's gone. I wanna hit her round the face for that.
Cause, yeah, Yamapi is my favourite member. By a looooooong shot. He's my 4th favourite singer. Full stop. Though, I absolutely adore him as a soloist, so that's some consellation, at least. Ryo is my 3rd favourite in the group, losing to Tego. I really love Ryo and his voice, but I don't listen to Kanjani8 as much. I mean, I like them, I do. Trust me. It's just...I haven't heard any of their new songs since...TWL...I don't even know their names. Except that one had something to do with...homes? I don't know. Ah well...That's my own fault, I guess.

All in all, I'm totally gutted about the whole situation. I read the title of the article over on tokyohive and sincerely hoped it was some kind of April Fool's joke. Then, I remembered it was October...And, tears actually welled up in my eyes. xD No joke.
I mean, I knew everyone kinda saw the Pi thing coming eventually, but most of us didn't want to accept the rumours. But, it wasn't just that. The double-departure bit got me especially. I mean, 2 out of the 3 Johnnies in my Top 10 Johnnies Ranking had left my 2nd favourite group at once! It was a shock, really.
And to add to the suckiness, this signified the second departure of my favourite from a Johnny's group...And it also happened exactly a week after Ai Takahshi's graduation from Morning Musume, Ai being my favourite. Also, the month just before, Heechul, my favourite SuJu boy, had just left for his 2-year army training.
How fun xD

Well, I plan on supporting all members in all their fields, even the older ones. Not that I know how to support Kusano. I still support Uchi.
But, I don't support Taka. But he's not really anyone but 'That Guy-wait, who?' to me. :/ So, yeah...

RELEASE SOMETHING SOON, PI!

Taking US Success for a...TEST DRIVE

So, yeah, most Jin fans know already but the dates and details for Jin's US debut were released today, as well as the promo pic.

So, details. I shall go into them. Yes.

The single is called 'TEST DRIVE ft. Jason Derulo'. My opinions on Mr Derulo...I'll go into them slightly later.

Promo Pics

Single Cover. Not sure what I make of it. Features a class Jin epicface. Is his mic...exploding?
Poster at Shibuya. Looking pretty effective against the night sky. Has the dates on it, which ruins the surprise when I type them up later on -.-;

This picture's kinda like...'Look at NYC be replaced by Jin, ahaha!' Is it okay that it entertains me for that reason? I love NYC, but, yeah...xD Also, Kis-My-Ft2 seem to be getting replaced by...Sexy Zone, maybe? Cause that's a Fuma...or a Kento...if I ever did see one. They're from B.I.Shadow, anyway...>.>

Release Dates
Yeah, the pictures above didn't ruin that part for me xD
So, looks like their are two versions, the US Ver and the Japan Ver. I'll go into the differences in a minute.
First off, the dates themselves;
US - 8th November (I spent all of September wanting it to be October, but I want it to be November! Or at least, the end of October...)
Japan - 7th December (A week after GACKT & KAT-TUN. This fortnight...it satisifes me =w= I mean, aside from the fact my birthday happens within that time, too...)

Info
As stolen from Tokyohive who stole it from Sanspo
'Singer, Akanishi Jin (27) will distribute his new song “TEST DRIVE Featuring JASON DERULO” in the U.S. on November 8th, officially making his U.S. debut. The new song will be a duet song with Jason Derulo. The track is described as an up-tempo R&B song.

Akanishi commented, “I’m happy to be able to receive this opportunity. I’m looking forward to sharing my music with many people.”

Though it will only be released as a digital song in the US, he will release the song in Japan on December 7th, as part of an upcoming mini album, which will include three other tracks. It was also reported that Akanishi is currently recording an album he is planning to release in the US next year.'

That's right. There is no physical version of the US single. A letdown? Kinda. US Release => UK Release, and Derulo-Boy's more popular here than in the US, anyway. But, there's a physical Japanese release, so, yeah. At least there's something there with substance.

Now, are any of you wondering why this is the case, this whole business with Digital Singles and stuff? Well, even though I only worked this out myself...well, look at the title of the song. Or rather, the title of this post. Worked it out yet?

Well, basically, the deal is, Jin is planning to release 2 singles and an album in US in the near future. Thing is, this is a case of 'if'. Not even maybe, if. 'TEST DRIVE' will be put up on iTunes for download - like, paid download, obviously - which sucks, I don't have an iTunes account and generally don't do that whole...er, paying for downloads thing...Anyway, so...the market will be tested by number of downloads and radio coverage. Basically, if it does well, that will show that there is an open market for Jin, and the 2nd single and album will be released. However, if this doesn't go so well, then...well, it'll prove that there isn't really a market for Jin in the US, and the 2nd single and album will be scrapped. Or in the US, at least.

For those reasons, I think 'TEST DRIVE' is a pretty clever name. Though the song, from what I've heard, is clearly about women or whatever, the title itself has a double meaning, also referring to the fact this single is Jin test driving the possibilities of his success in the Western market. Or that is what I believe. And, I don't believe I'm looking too much into things. Y'know, Bakanishi can be smarter than he looks...sometimes ^o^

Furthermore, I think this is a pretty good method. It's better than just jumping in, investing money into something, then watching it all crash and burn. Now, I'm not saying Jin's going to fail, by the way. In fact, using these methods, I don't suspect great failure, at all ;D

Urp, I rambled...(NOTE : I go off on tangents)

Tracklist

US Single

1.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (7th Heaven Mix)
2.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (Main Mix)
3.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (Funky Stepz Mix)
4.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (Static Revenger Dub)

Japan Mini-Album

First-Press Limited

CD
1.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (7th Heaven Mix)
2.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (Main Mix)
3.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (Funky Stepz Mix)
4.MY MP3
5.PAPARATS
DVD
1.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO ( MUSIC VIDEO )
2.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO ( MAKING OF THE MUSIC VIDEO )

Regular

1.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO (7th Heaven Mix)
2.TEST DRIVE featuring. JASON DERULO（Main Mix）
3.TEST DRIVE featuring JASON DERULO（Static Revenger Mix Show Edit）
4.MY MP3
5.PAPARATS
6.TIPSY LOVE

Basically, you want that PV? Pre-order the damned thing! I know I'm going to ;D (Just lucky that's the time of year when I get money ;w;)

Now, for the tracklisting.
ZOMG PAPARATS!!
I would have reallt loved Magnitude to be on there, but, whatever, PAPARATS is amazing, too~ And MY MP3. God, jizz, much?
I do like TIPSY LOVE, but, ehh, never really had the same effect on my. Though, the other two are my 2nd and 4th favourite of the YELLOW GOLD tour songs~ Gya~
As for all these 'mixes'...Imma assume that 'Main Mix' is the normal version? xD I DON'T KNOW!
This is confusing business.

OPINIONS TIME

WARNING - Ranting shall ensure

Derulo
What do I make of Mr Derulo? Mr Jason The Loo Roll /shot/
Okay, I'll be honest. Before Jin's collab was announced, I had no idea who Jason was xD
I asked some friends at school about him and the responses I got were interesting;
'He's some guy who always says his own names in his songs';
'Jason Derulo is a twat'
Not quite the answers I was looking for, but, fine.
However, since then, I've gotten a better idea of who he is, and I understand that I'm not a fan.
That 'It Girl' song is on the TV a lot, when my sister surfs through channels in desperate pursuit of whatever Example song she can find...and I can say, I don't really like it.
Plus, he's stupid. Like, not actually, I dunno about his academic qualities. But, I saw this interview, and the interviewer's all like, 'So, are you doing any more collaborations soon?' and he's like 'Ah, no, I am not. I may releases remixes and stuff, though'
Watching this, I'm just sitting there like, 'Huh? Did I hear that right? WHAT ABOUT FRIGGEN JIN, YA...Ughhhhh'
Not a way to impress the Phob, no way, Mr Loo Roll.
He can sing, though, so, whatever...

Will I buy it?

Of. Course. I. Bloody. Will. 8D.
Not the US one, though. Like I said, I dun do the whole iTunes thing. I have some kind of contempt towards Apple. I mean, aside from the fact that I hear that they don't treat their workers well, but I just dun really like their products. They're over-rated. I mean...the iPod? I'm fine with a SONY WALKMAN. I dun see how they're a worse choice. I mean, first off, they 100% less prone to breaking than those god-damned iPods. Besides, recent models for iPods. Are. Ugly. Especially the new iPod Nano. It's hideous, wtf? I mean, I had an MP3 Player the same general shape. But he looked nice, difference (he deserves a gender). And whoever decided that 'the iPad is beautiful' is stupid. It's a giant touch screen. I hate touch screen. I don't mind iTunes itself, but I'm more of a Windows Media Player person, but whatever. I don't do paid downloads either.
So, yeah, Anti-Apple rant aside, I'll be buying the Japanese mini-album. With my birthday money *____*
Though, I only plan on buying the DVD version. I mean, remixes don't excite me, and if I really want TIPSY LOVE, I can just download it individually. Besides, I have a feeling the Making-Of will be mostly in English. A bonus for us English-speakers ;D

So, that's all for now. I'll come back to this topic when more news is released, or when the single releases.

Also, if you read all of this...you must be either bored...or...I dunno xD