Marc's JPOP Blog

new post after over 6 months!

2010-11-17T07:18:00.001-08:00

Hey guys, so I am finally back, trying to commit to this page once again. It's just that my current studies has taken a bit chunk of my life, and stress/busi-ness cloud over me from time to time, but today I woke up and decided to come here and post again, since people tell me they have been following my blog all these times. Therefore, here's also an opportunity for me to thank these followers :)

Anyways I guess jpop has evolved quite a bit this year. We've heard a few artists going on hiatuses (AI/Utada Hikaru/Nakashima Mika). Let's hope for their return in the near future. In the meantime, I would like to draw viewer's attention to Kimura Kaela, who probably has returned from a short hiatus due to her pregnancy. She has already returned with a new song titled "A winter fairy is melting a snowman." What a weird title, but it's not as weird as the PV.....have a look, but some might find it epileptic lol

木村カエラ - A winter fairy is melting a snowman (PV)
Uploaded by ChaOko_01. - See the latest featured music videos.

KOKIA - The Woman

2010-03-16T23:30:00.000-07:00

New PV from KOKIA's upcoming album. REAL WORLD. This song is called The Woman. The album is due for release on 31st of March.

Candy-fever: Hirai Ken vs. Nakashima Mika

2009-09-23T03:01:00.001-07:00

Hi there...haven't posted in a while. Today I have decided to post two videos at the same time. Coincidentially both of these songs have the word "candy" in it and they release a week after each other. Hirai Ken's "Candy" sums up to be a very quirky track with an edgy PV, showing him wandering around a love-hotel.

His single debuted number 7 on oricon

Nakashima Mika's "CANDY GIRL" comes across as a more daring approach to her new image which one can see since the release of YES. This single releases next Wednesday!

中島美嘉 - Candy Girl (PV)
Uploaded by Henrietta-Aime-Fumer_Tv. - See the latest featured music videos.

Shiina Ringo - Ryuukou PV

2009-07-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

From Shiina Ringo's newest album "Sanmon Gossip" - Ryuukou

My top 3 favourite track from her album <3

CLAZZIQUAI PROJECT - Mucho MUSICA

2009-07-10T14:54:00.000-07:00

I am writing this while taking a break from my thesis work >_<.....

Tonight I do not have a PV for you guys to enjoy. However I would like to bring up the new album from CLAZZIQUAI PROJECT. For those unknown to the group they are a Korean team featuring Alex as the leading vocal. If you like lounge/acid-jazz/house stuff then they are perfect. Their new album, Mucho MUSICA, was released on July 1st, 2009. Here is a clip from youtube of one of my fav tracks: Affection

J.A.M. - Jazzy Joint Ft. Jose James

2009-06-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

To all jazz fans out there: Is this piece amazing or what?

MISIA - Never Gonna Cry (DISCOTHEQUE ASIA Live Version)

2009-06-17T01:42:00.000-07:00

Another amazing MISIA clip, Never Gonna Cry.....such a timeless classic... <3

MISIA - Sukoshi Tsuzu, Taisetsu ni (2009 Arena tour version)

2009-06-14T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here is an amazing video of MISIA performing her newest track, Sukoshi Tsuzu, Taisetsu ni....during her 2009 Discotheque tour. She sounds a bit exhausted and scorched in this performance...but since this was the last song performed on the tour it is understandable....it shows how much she belted out during all the songs she performed previously <3

Shiina Ringo - Shun

2009-06-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

Extremely excited about her new album coming up on the 24th. This will be her first original album under her own name since KSK; Heisei Fuuzoku wasn't really totally an original album to be honest. Anyways there is much speculation as to what the new album will sound like. However, judging from her latest PV "Shun," it may well be a bit more mellow than her rockier albums.

The song itself is mellow and beautiful, especially the ending with the piano lines.

椎名林檎　ー　旬

Shiina Ringo new album - Sanmon Gossip (Superficial Gossip)

1 流行
2 労働者
3 密偵物語
4 〇地点から
5 カリソメ乙女
6 都合のいい身体
7 旬
8 二人ぼっち時間
9 マヤカシ優男
10 尖った手口
11 色恋沙汰
12 凡才肌
13 余興
14 丸の内サディスティック（EXPO Ver.)

Onitsuka Chihiro - X

2009-05-31T13:02:00.001-07:00

Wow I totally need to get back to this >_<

Onitsuka Chihiro's new single after her rumoured temporary recovery from her illnesses, it titled "X/Last Melody." X is quite a rocky track which is rare for Onitsuka. The PV is quite engaging, especially the dance moves....however she looks horribly skinny and worn out....wondering if she is still struggling with her health. Hope a full recovery Oni-san

[PV] Onitsuka Chihiro - X (japan)
Uploaded by waqwa. - Explore more music videos.

Mr. Children - ESORA

2009-01-01T12:28:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness

I have not updated this for so long >_<

First of all I would like to say Happy New Year and wish 2009 will be a peaceful and healthy year for everyone!

Let's start off the year with a cheerful song from Mr. Children (featured on their newest album SUPERMARKET FANTASY). I saw the PV for Esora for the first time when I spent my Xmas in Japan last week. I love the colours used in the PV....everything looks so elegant yet down-to-earth at the same time. the song itself is wonderful too. I bought this album because of this song, along with HANABI and GIFT. So here is the Esora PV!!!

PS: The PV is so nice all the booklet images from the album come from this PV:

Hirahara Ayaka - nocturne

2008-10-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

After a mediocre single, Hirahara Ayaka has returned with a new song called Nocturne. This song is 100% English (which I feel that I am violating my own rules because this is a jpop blog but what the heck!). Check this song out. It's an amazing ballad!!! <3

(HQ PV) Ayaka Hirahara - Nocturne
Uploaded by Gkone

Nakashima Mika - new single ORION 12.11.08

2008-09-25T03:33:00.000-07:00

New single from Nakashima Mika titled ORION. Currently there isnt a PV available for this song, but one can listen to the full track here:

Single out 12th November

JUJU - Sora

2008-09-24T00:54:00.000-07:00

After the success of the song that features her and Spontania, JUJU is set to release a new single on her own, titled SORA. Single will be out on the 8th next month. With three original new tracks this single is probably going to be another amazing one from JUJU, judging from the A-side.

JUJU - Sora
Release October 8th, 2008

Tracklist:

01 空
02 Missin' U
03 Street Life

Kawaguchi Kyougo - Tadaima

2008-09-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

First of all I apologize for the long delay of updating the blog....moving to a new country is a bit nerve-wracking.

Anyways one of my favourite male solo artist Kawaguchi Kyougo has a new single which was released last week and I didn't even know. "Tadaima" features 3 original tracks in addition to an alternate version of the A-side TADAIMA. It's what Kawaguchi does best; ballads.

Emonoto Kurumi - new single

2008-09-12T02:44:00.000-07:00

Enomoto Kurumi will come out with a new single this October. It will be a tie-up for a movie out next month. I like her music a lot. I think she has potential and is quite talented. The new song is "Taisetsuna Okurimono"

note: The PV has a lengthy intro but it's got a really nice chorus <3

Alan - RED CLIFF (Japanese Version)

2008-09-06T09:58:00.001-07:00

Upper : CD-only

Lower: CD+DVD

Another new single for alan coming up in October. We have already gotten the PV for her next single RED CLIFF even before her previous single KAZE NO TEGAMI is out (That single is out this Wednesday). RED CLIFF also has a Chinese version and is used as the theme song for, well, a movie with the same name. The RED CLIFF movie is the #1 movie in Asian history in terms of production cost.

Atari Kousuke - Kizuna

2008-08-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

This new track from Atari Kousuke is probably one of the most dramatic and beautiful ballads this year so far. His ballads are always nice to listen to on a regular basis but this new track is brilliant! "Kizuna" means ties and I love how the PV depicts the message "Atari is basically made up of fans" as his mosaic images are made up of pictures of his fans. As a matter of fact I myself submitted a photo for this campaign teehee >_< I didnt quite make it to the PV but I did make it to Kousuke's official website >_< Pretty freaky stuff <3

Kizuna - Atari Kousuke
Uploaded by satsukidabesa

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MISIA - Catch the Rainbow PV out!!!

2008-08-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

MISIA's latest track CATCH THE RAINBOW will be released as a digital single Asia-wide this coming Saturday August 30th. Full PV is out!!

Fukui Mai - Ai no Uta

2008-08-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

She is one of the most anticipated newcomers of 2008. The A-side of her debut single, Ai no Uta, is the theme song for one high-profile movie "Koizora" (恋空). The single was released last week!

She strongly resembles ayaka. I think she has just as good of a voice if not better. I am interested to see in how she develops as a singer down the road.

Ai no Uta PV

immi - new album "Switch" out Sept. 10, 2008

2008-08-22T01:37:00.000-07:00

immi's album "Switch" is due to release September 10th. Strongly electronical pop, amazing album. I just gave the album a listen and it is stellar. My personal favourite track is Ups and Downs. However I cannot find that track on youtube so here is another great track which is also included in the new album, titled クラクション

immi - Switch
Release Date: September 10, 2008

収録曲
1. Go with the flow feat. Shigeo
2. Ups & Downs
3. Power Station
4. Hazy
5. 1 Upper
6. Milk & Honey
7. Klaxon (Album ver.)
8. Cosmic Pink (Album ver.)
9. Girlfriend ? feat. kNY (MGK)
10. Local Train
11. Anju
12. Lovesong - Cover of "The Cure" -
13.. クラクション

MISIA - Catch the Rainbow

2008-08-19T15:57:00.000-07:00

So MISIA is to promote her upcoming TOUR OF MISIA DISCOTHEQUE ASIA tour with a new track titled CATCH THE RAINBOW. The preview of the new song is available on http://www.misia.jp

The song will be released as a digital single on August 30th, 2008 legally in various locations across Asia.

CHEMISTRY - Life Goes On (Version ~K~)

2008-08-11T14:32:00.000-07:00

This is the newest track from the duo CHEMISTRY. This is a very amazingly excellent track, one of the better single tracks from them recently. The PV is produced by the same producer who does Kimura Kaela's JASPER and Namie Amuro's WHAT A FEELING PV. It's also a PV where you get to see Kawabata's hair, which is amazing considering I have been their fan for years and Kawabata always wears a hat. I think this is my first time seeing his hair after years >_<

The "Version Kawabata (K)" is out first. The single also includes a "Version Douchin (D)" which has the same name but is actually a different and more mellow track."

CHEMISTRY - Life goes on
Uploaded by mugen-pv

alan - Sora Uta

2008-07-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

So exciting times for this young artist. She has a beautiful and stunning voice. However before this song was disclosed I was worried that she is limited to the genre she can venture into. This worry was taken off when I heard this song. This is great proof that she can also perform upbeat songs while maintain her own unique, folk-like style. Single out August 13th.

Nomoto Karia - Jiyuudo

2008-07-22T17:36:00.000-07:00

Along the lines of Shibuya-Kei and Pizzicato Five is Nomoto Karia. I actually do not know much about her but I have her DANCE MUSIC album on my ipod, which I totally love. It's just a whole album of, well, dance music, without being trashy at all. It's very nicely produced, well accompanied, and oozes class. Well the music is, however if you take a look at the PV for one of the songs, Jiyuudo, you might say her PVs are strange/eccentric. See for yourself.

Pizzicato Five - old stuff

2008-07-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

I just digged up some old but cool stuff from Pizzicato Five. The song is called "Nonstop to Tokyo." I have recently been wanting to know more about them. They are pretty cool.

Fukuhara Miho - Himawari

2008-07-14T00:39:00.000-07:00

I think it is about time I talk about a newly-discovered artist.

Fukuhara Miho (福原美穂) was born in Hokkaido, the northernmost island in Japan. She has a really sweet voice and is amazing in lives.

Her second single "Himawari" will be out this coming Wednesday. The A-side with the same name is a nice non-cheesy ballad that was written to provoke the feeling of sorrow after the lost of a loved one.

As for the single, it's got 4 tracks with B-side entitled "Everybody Needs Someone," C-side "No Warning (When You're Hit By Love)," and the instrumental track of Himawari.

Here is the PV for Himawari:

Ikimonogakari - Blue Bird

2008-07-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Their newest single, Blue Bird, features A-side with same name. It is an upbeat with the slightest touch of rock. Currently #3 on oricon singles chart at time of posting (released two days ago). The PV itself is quite monotonous; them in a cage with an orbit-camera. It gives me slight headaches when they have bars and bars of cage linings in fast motion. The song itself is alright....please see for yourself.

MISIA - MISSING AUTUMN (EIGHTH WORLD Tour)

2008-07-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here is my favourite EIGHTH WORLD track performed during her live, MISSING AUTUMN. This is a very good live performance of the wonderful song!!!

Onitsuka Chihiro - Borderline (Live Version)

2008-07-09T15:27:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been getting very intrigued by the music of Onitsuka Chihiro. I have been told years ago by many many people that she is one of the best vocalists in Japan. At that time I never had the urge to try her out, and when I did, I loved her but quickly deleted her songs. A few weeks ago I downloaded her greatest hits album and now I am completely hooked.

My favourite song of hers is Borderline (mind you it's not on the GH album). The ending is so dramatic and climatic. I love how the piece ends with the tone of the crazy piano pedal. I have provided a clip of Borderline. Hope you will like it

Onitsuka Chihiro - 蛍

2008-06-20T23:50:00.000-07:00

I am recently on a Chihiro trance. Then I realize that she has a new single coming out!!! I went to her official website and love the preview.

01. 蛍
02. HIDE AND SCREAM

Official website: http://www.universal-music.co.jp/onitsuka/

Another MISIA EIGHTH WORLD Performance - Taiyou no Chizu

2008-06-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

I mean how can one not like watching MISIA on her concerts??? She probably is one of the best artists in getting the crowd into the whole show with her crazy strong voice and energy!!!!! Check THIS performance out!!! Taiyou no Chizu (I cannot wait to get this DVD in my mail after its release on the 25th this month

taiyo no chizu (live) - MISIA
Uploaded by satsukidabesa

MISIA - To Be In Love (EIGHTH WORLD Tour Version)

2008-06-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

DECIMO X ANIVESARIO DE MISIA:

Tour of MISIA 2008 EIGHTH WORLD DVD + BEST OF DJ REMIXES

Release Date: June 25th, 2008

I cannot believe this DVD will be delivered to my house in less than three weeks. I have been waiting for this for so long!!!! I am the happiest when I receive MISIA Tour DVDs from the parcelman xP

This clip will be included in her upcoming EIGHTH WORLD Arena Tour DVD. It's "To Be In Love." I never liked this song too too much on the EIGHTH WORLD album but this performance gave me new interest to the song.

To Be In Love (live) - MISIA
Uploaded by satsukidabesa

Shibasaki Kou - Yoku Aru Hanashi ~Mofuku no Onna Hen~

2008-06-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late update. I had been out of town AGAIN lately.....just to put things back on track here is a new A-side from the lovely Shibasaki Kou. This new track reminds me strongly of "invitation." The new track, "Yoku Aru Hanashi ~Mofuku no Onna Hen~" has quite a quirky PV, similar to what Shiina Ringo would do....not Shibasaki...so I was quite shocked when I watched the PV!!!

The single is out already, by the same name....if you like it please purchase the single!!!

Takaoka Ai - ごめんね　今でも好きで居ます

2008-05-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

So I just discovered her this morning and gave this song a listen, which is not too bad. She seems to have a nice voice. She is similar to Enomoto Kurumi but more timid and less rocky. This youtube song was released on the 23rd last month and was the ending song for the music show MUSIC B.B. Her new album is out on June 25th by the title of "Fiction." She does some composing and some of her works will be featured on this upcoming album!!!

For now enjoy her latest single A-side. Gomenne, ima demo sukide imasu.

Energizer Energi to Go product follow up

2008-05-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

So recently I made a post about the Energizer Energi to Go ipod charger. I have used it and I must say I am impressed with it. As I just got back from Tokyo and while I was on the plane back I really wished I had the charger with me on board (I guess I could charge it on my laptop but it was not on AC power >_<). When I returned home the parcel was waiting for me. In it includes two ipod chargers, a mini speaker that can plug into the ipod audio connection (which I TOTALLY LOVE!!!), and an Energizer bunny which my mom strongly dislikes (cute but do not understand the flipflops on the bunny). So the charger came with assembly instructions and was VERY easy to follow. I hooked the charger with my ipod and it charged very efficiently without much technical difficulties/glitches. Although right now I have it plugged back to my laptop, I am gonna be away once again next week and I will not have to worry about losing energy on my ipod on my flight - I will be carrying my energi2go charger with me on hand-carry!!!

I think if you were to buy this as a gift to someone, I would recommend you give it to a person who you know has an ipod, BUT someone who does not use the computer often. Those people would probably not get as much chance to charge their poddies on a regular basis; it is then good to give them the charger. Make sure you buy them extra batteries too....

Everything -junior Vasquez Remix- EIGHTH WORLD Tour Performance

2008-05-15T23:56:00.000-07:00

MISIA's tours are ALWAYS entertaining. I may be biased but one has to agree that her concerts puts a lot of effort into "sophisticating" the visual aspects of music and how it can blend it well with her music. Here is the Everything -junior Vasquez Remix- performance during her EIGHTH WORLD Tour final stop in Yokohama. Notice the super-small stage.....have such a small "workspace" for this song takes a lot of work to get the fans excited (she doesnt have a lot of space to run around the cheer on the audience), but the crowd seems to like the performance a lot. and of course the HDTV is superb.

uploaded by okra102

The DVD of this tour will be out on June 25th along with a MISIA Best-of Remix album. Please order now!

Itsco - Water Lily

2008-05-14T17:08:00.000-07:00

So sorry for the long delay in updating the page...I was actually in Japan for the past 9 days....

While I was in Japan I came across this artist by the name of Itsco and her album was being "pimped" in HMV. I started listening to the album and decided that it is pretty good. I gave it a few more listens after purchasing it and now I cannot stop listening to it <3 She reminds me of Nobuchika Eri a little bit...but more poppy.

Here is a song from her latest album (Album title "ITS"). The song is called "Water Lily." The album actually contains a remix version of the song. Highly recommended for people interested in something different from the millions of bland generic jpop female artists out there...

Maynard Plant's (MONKEY MAJIK) solo act - blanc.

2008-05-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

So Maynard Plant from MONKEY MAJIK actually has a solo side act known as "blanc." His brother Blaise also has his own solo project. This post will be dedicated to blanc. blanc. first appeared under freeTEMPO's "The World Is Echoed" album back in July 2003. This is followed by additional collaborations between Maynard and freeTEMPO and SOUL SOURCE PRODUCTION in 2005.

This year back in March (the 26th) blanc. itself released its debut album titled "New World." This following track is featured in the album (same name):

uploaded by TeriyakiSource

blanc. New World
Release March 26th, 2008

Tracklist:

1 new world
2 discovery
3 oddysey
4 rendez-vous
5 high tide
6 some days
7 cruise
8 only words
9 deep sleep
10 morning departure
11 new world

Official website: http://www.musiqueblanc.com/

DOUBLE x Amuro Namie - BLACK DIAMOND

2008-04-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

Amuro Namie and DOUBLE will collaborate on an "electrical and funky" dance piece called BLACK DIAMOND, which will be in DOUBLE's upcoming collaboration album (out on May 28th). There is only this preview on youtube uploaded by dd432t. The chorus is really catchy!!!

I am back, but first an announcement

2008-04-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

So I have finished my exam and summer is ahead of me, however I need to make an announcement...

NO do not worry I am not closing down the site...I love this place and love all the traffic here haha....thanks for all you guys visiting my site. It's just this promotion of a new product from Energizer I am going to talk about.

So basically they are coming out with a new iPod charger and with the use of 2 AA batteries you can charge your iPod (any ipod except for shuffle) anywhere, instead of having to find a USB outlet >_<. It is really good if you are travelling and you do not have a computer beside you to charge it. It's small and light which makes it easy to carry around too. I am one of the 50 individuals who will get this for free, in return for promoting the product. Hopefully I will receive my shipment of the product soon and can provide a more thorough overview of it :)

In the meantime please visit this site for more information about the new product:

http://www.matchstick.ca/energi/

off for about 2-3 days

2008-04-21T17:02:00.001-07:00

so i have this exam coming up in 2 days so i will not be updating the blog until after my exam. please stay tuned :)

Hirahara Ayaka - Kodoku no Mukou PV

2008-04-19T17:35:00.001-07:00

The PV is finally up on youtube!!! The single is already released and the song is very typical Hirahara ballad, and for sure it is wonderful!!!

uploaded by sdaf5

HY- HeartY

2008-04-16T23:00:00.000-07:00

Debuting #2 today onthe oricon album chart, HY's album HeartY seems to retain what they do best, extreme-poppy with the slightest touch of rock. They are probably what Ikomono Gakari wants to become. There aren't many clips of their new album on youtube. I was only able to grab this short clip of 366日 which is one of the tracks on the album. See if you like it!!! I discovered them on the 2004 MusicStation Superlive and I find them quite talented.

Tracklist:

01 - 散歩に行こう
02 - 未来
03 - 小さな優しさ
04 - ベンジャミンベンジャミン
05 - Ｃｈｅａｔｅｒｓ
06 - Ｙ＆Ｉ
07 - 二階の奥の部屋
08 - ０４５３
09 - 出会い
10 - この子達のために
11 - ビＬＯカナＶＥナスエル
12 - ３６６日
13 - 青い地球

aiko - Himitsu

2008-04-14T23:33:00.000-07:00

To celebrate aiko's 10th anniversary, she released a new album titled himitsu last week. It debuted #2 on the oricon charts, behind EXILE. I like her music but am not a die-hard fan of her music....I do listen to her stuff once in a while. Here is one of her tracks that you can find on her new album - Futari

MISIA - Yes Forever

2008-04-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

So the official PV for MISIA's upcoming single A-side is out. I personally am not too impressed with the PV, but the song is just too good!! I have a great feeling that this song will rock my heart when I get an HQ version of it >_<

Uploaded by kamichie1

Hirahara Ayaka - new single

2008-04-06T23:16:00.001-07:00

I am actually writing this at the midst of an emotional turmoil lol....I had been really stressed and a little depressed from schoolwork lately but right now I will spend some time into updating this blog.

Hirahara Ayaka will release a new single, titled "Kodoku no Mukou." It is due to release on the 16th of this month. Samples are not available yet, but the cover looks VERY pretty. Please stay tuned for more info.

Actually I apologize for putting in my little emotional vent here..... >_<

Just to provide a little bit of Hirahara's voice to people who do not know her, this is a 2007 live clip of her singing "Kansha" which was included on her previous original album "SORA." I love her voice and it's really nice to listen to he when you are not in the happiest mood and just want something pleasant to listen to.

MISIA - double treat

2008-04-04T23:37:00.000-07:00

What a great day!! My favorite singer MISIA has two new PV clips on youtube today. The official PV for Flying Easy Loving Crazy is out!!! Gladly MISIA is in it with Toshi as well!!!

clip uploaded by kamichie

MISIA's 10 anniversary single is also released later this month. YES FOREVER reminds me of "ANY LOVE" with a little bit of "Everything." I love the chorus a lot...and the intro really surprises me with the chorus starting right at the start!!

clip uploaded by kyotojihen

Kurosawa-san singing MISIA's "Everything"

2008-03-29T01:17:00.000-07:00

I do not have a clue what Kurosawa is singing but she is totally cracking me up when she sings MISIA's Everything @_@

Version 1:

Version 2:

Kubota Toshinobu + MISIA - Flying Easy Loving Crazy

2008-03-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

This is an article translated from oricon:

　久保田利伸とMISIAによるコラボレートシングル「FLYING EASY LOVING CRAZY」が3月26日（水）にリリースされる。昨年8月にリリースしたKREVA との「M☆A☆G☆I☆C」に続く、コラボ第2弾作品となる。

　発売2週前時点のアーティスト認知度は、全体で77.3％。男女ともに10代は過半数に満たなかったが、前作「M☆A☆G☆I☆C」の調査時も同様の結果が出ていた。楽曲をすでに聴いたことがあると答えた男性が目立ち、中でも40代が最も多かった。楽曲を“よいと思った”と回答した人も85.7％と非常に多く、興味関心度を見ても同層は45.9％の人が関心を持っているという結果が出ている。

　一方、30代女性の数値も高く出ており、59.6％の人が“興味関心がある”と回答。楽曲評価と興味関心度の結果も、認知度同様に前作と同じ傾向が見られ、30～40代からの関心が高いようだ。
8 months after the release of Kubota Toshinobu's collab-single with KREVA "M☆A☆G☆I☆C," Kubota is collaborating with MISIA this time with "Flying Easy Loving Crazy." The new single will be released on the 26th of March.
2 weeks before the release date a poll was made. Of the surveyed, 77.3% knew the song, and half of the surveyers btw ages of 10-20 do not know about it. Within the males who know the song, males in the 40s took the greatest proportion. On average 85.7% of the people who heard the song like it, and 45.9% of the listeners held interest.
On the other hand, in the female catagory who heard the music, 59.6% of them belong to the 30yo age group. Seems like this single is more catered towards the 30-40 year-old audience :)
Here is the youtube video for the song "Flying Easy Loving Crazy." Mind you this is not an official PV. Uploaded by kyotojihen

Kubota Toshinobu + MISIA - Flying Easy Loving Crazy
Release Date: March 26, 2008

Shibata Jun - COLORFUL

2008-03-22T09:58:00.001-07:00

Shibata is one of my favorite jpop female artists all time. Her voice is just so beautiful. Here is one of her newest songs COLORFUL. Not as "colorful" as the title suggests but still very spring-like, perfect for this time of the year!!! :)

It seems like she has a new album coming up. On her official homepage under release it says "coming soon." Hopefully this album release will come ASAP. Please stay tuned for more info!

SUEMITSU and the SUEMITH - Shock the Piano

2008-03-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

HEART STATION by Hikki seems to have taken up most of the interest among today's album debut list, however since I have already talked about her release on a previous post AND I usually go for underdogs I will talk about another album release today.

SUEMITSU and the SUEMITH has released his second album today after the very nice debut album "The Piano it's Me." The second album is called "Shock on the Piano." Similar to the previous album, it will include a very nice fusion of classical piano and pop/rock. His music is very catchy and I highly recommend people to check out his new album.

This is a PV of his latest single A-track which is included in the album: Boyz, Boy Don't Cry"

Suemitsu & The Suemith - Shock on the Piano

Release Date: March 19th, 2008

1. Shocking "SUEMITSU & THE SUEMITH" (Also sprach Zarathustra Op.30 ～Einleitung)

2. Rock a Nova　

3. Teddy Bear　

4. The Island March　

5. It's a Brand New Day　

6. November is the Ballade　

7. Boyz, Boy Don't Cry

8. ID

9. Peppermint Blue Vespa

10. Chill is a Drug

11. Spellbound

12. The Indication

13. Sagittarius

Disc 2 (Limited Edition only)

1. Skyscraper (at the Venue in 1968 Version)

2. Mini Cooper (on the London Streets Version)

3. Petite reunion (25 Leichte Etuden Op.100 - 4) (Kidz, Kid Don't Cry Version)

4. The Entertainer (Astaire pt.2)

Tour of MISIA 2008 EIGHTH WORLD Tour Photos

2008-03-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

Please appreciate the amazingness of goddess MISIA right now. xP

Tour DVD will be released in June

Set list of Tour of MISIA 2008 EIGHTH WORLD:

1. 以心伝心
2. Royal Chocolate Flush
3. Dance Dance
4. MISSING AUTUMN
5. ANY LOVE
6. sweetness
7. la la la
8. めくばせのブルース [BACK BLOCKS(SINGLE)]
9. 君は草原に寝ころんで
10. 星の降る丘[Mother Father Brother Sister]
11. そばにいて...
12. To Be In Love
13. TYO （ver.TAIWAN)
14. Fly away [KISS IN THE SKY]
15. 太陽の地図
16. HOUSEmelody
-Everything(Junior+Gomi Club Extended Mix)[Everything(SINGLE)]
-Color of Life
-INTO THE LIGHT
17. 太陽のマライカ

Atari Kousuke - Haru

2008-03-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

I thought I wouldn't like Atari Kousuke as much once he switched his song collection to be more pop-infused in relation to the folky songs he released earlier in his career (Materia-era). Well it turns out that his newer poppy ballads arent bad either. He is able to retain good use of his distinctive Shima-Uta voice which he is famous for while catering to the mainstream audiences. Here is his newest PV, Haru (Spring). Single to be released April 9th, 2008. (top image uploaded by LNany from jpopmusic)

Atari Kousuke - Haru (uploaded by lnanymisc2)

Haru - Atari Kousuke

Release Date: April 9th, 2008

Tracklist:

1. 春

2. なごり雪

3. 旅立ちの日に

4. 花 (厳島神社Live Version)

MISIA - BELIEVE (Starlight Acoustic Live Version)

2008-03-13T23:28:00.000-07:00

Another MISIA live performance in Nagasaki during her Outdoor Starlight Acoustic Tour back in 2007 Summer!!! Check out her long note once again.....she totally amazes me live!! I love how she looks almost-dead towards the end of the song.....she is drenched in sweat singing this. >_<

MISIA - BELIEVE (Live Version)

Hirai Ken new album - FAKIN' POP

2008-03-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

So Hirai Ken's.....uh.......7th non-remix, non-concept original album FAKIN' POP will release in say about a few hours from the time of publishing this post. I have made a little review about the tracks I like from the album from jpopmusic forum....I will just copy and paste it here :)

Canvas : alright song but somehow it sounds better on the album, possibly because of where it is on the tracklist; it's right after KST and acts as a good contrast to the next track Pain

Pain: reminds me of his earlier songs like Yokogao, especially that high-pitch non-falsetto hold in the bridge towards the last chorus. The arrangement is a little bit awkward in the chorus but the melody is good

UPSET: I love this song only because of his singing style here. He's got that rolling tongue act in the early verse (like how Spanish people roll their tongues when they say arroz, which I can never do ) I dont think I have heard Hirai sing like that EVER....that thing in the song really turns me on lol (in a musical way, not in any other way -_-)

20!20!20! My favorite upbeat song of the album. Down-right poppy and I love the arrangements

Itsuka Hanareru Hi ga Kite Mo: longest song of the album. The intro doesnt really fit with the beautiful verses and chorus but I am not complaining. The last chorus is amazing with the strings and percussions, great contrast with the piano solo in the beginning.

Shashin: reminds me of the great Sentimental from SENTIMENALovers. A very apropros closing song

Japanartist has uploaded a clip where he performs acoustic versions of Canvas, which is included in the new album:

Hirai Ken - FAKIN' POP
Release Date : March 12th, 2008

Tracklist:

1. POP STAR
2. Kimi wa Su-te-ki♡ (君はｽ･ﾃ･ｷ♡)
3. Kimi no Suki na Toko (君の好きなとこ)
4. Canvas (ｷｬﾝﾊﾞｽ)
5. Pain
6. fake star
7. UPSET
8. Utsukushii Hito (美しい人)
9. Elegy (哀歌(ｴﾚｼﾞｰ))
10. Twenty! Twenty! Twenty!
11. Bye My Melody (ﾊﾞｲﾏｲﾒﾛﾃﾞｨｰ)
12. Itsuka Hanareru Hi ga Kite mo (いつか離れる日が来ても)
13. Shashin (写真)

Utada Hikaru - HEART STATION (DJ AMAYA REMIX)

2008-03-07T09:39:00.001-08:00

So Hikki's new album HEART STATION will be released in 2 weeks (March 19th) and to celebrate it I have provided on my blog the HEART STATION PV, but the song is in a remixed form. DJ AMAYA has made a really nice mix of the song. Personally I like this better than the original version; it gives some extra life to the song.

uploaded by dyamaya2007

Hitoto You - Key

2008-03-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

Hitoto You's new album "KEY" released today and debuted #4 on the Oricon album charts. It is a very relaxing and laid-back album if that is what you are interested. There so some amazing ballads in the album and if you are a fan of Hitoto like me or that you like to chill down a little bit then this album is for you.

One of her single A-sides "Tadaima" is included in this album. I have never seen the PV previously but it's pretty neat however the end sort gave me a little headache. The dimensions are all distorted and the rooms she enters are making me very dizzy heehee.

Tadaima PV (uploaded by S9829):

一青窈 - Key
Release Date: March 5th, 2008

Tracklist:

01 -Ｋｅｙ
02 -空中ブランコ
03 -宙ぶらりん
04 -つないで手
05 -幻月
06 -シャンデリア
07 -ｍｏｏｎｌｉｇｈｔ
08 -ひとりでに
09 -ｄｏｏｒｗａｙ
10 -ドミノ
11 -受け入れて
12 -茶番劇
13 -栞
14 -「ただいま」ｉｎｓｉｄｅ　ｖｅｒ．

Amuro Namie - PLAY Tour DVD

2008-03-04T20:12:00.000-08:00

So yesterday I just received my copy of Amuro's PLAY DVD. I am having an exam this week so I cannot watch it religiously but I do find the opening to be very interesting and energetic. Her FULL MOON/It's All About You segment is very good. FULL MOON sounds really good on the tour and IAAY uses really good lighting effect that is rarely seen in Amuro tours <3.

uploaded by fabiovalente1981

Amuro Namie - PLAY Tour 2007

Tracklist:

1 Hide & Seek
2 Full Moon
3 It's all about you
4 butterfly
5 Darling
6 Come
7 Luvotomy
8 Should I Love Him?
9 Girl Talk
10 FUNKY TOWN
11 Hello
12 人魚
13 Baby Don't Cry
14 Step With It
15 Chase the Chance
16 CAN'T SLEEP,CAN'T EAT,I'M SICK
17 WANT ME,WANT ME
18 Violet Sauce (Spicy)
19 Top Secret
20 Pink Key
21 can you celebrate?
22 Say the Word（Breez House mix）

MISIA - Ishindenshin slideshow

2008-03-03T10:36:00.001-08:00

So I strongly believe MISIA's opening track on her newest album EIGHTH WORLD is underrated without an official PV, so I have decided to make a cheap slideshow with Ishindenshin as the background music.

Amuro Namie - What A Feeling (80s Song)

2008-02-29T22:00:00.000-08:00

Avex has released the PV of Amuro's final track on her upcoming single. "What A Feeling" represents the "80s" phase in her single "60s70s80s." Collaborated with Vidal Sassoon, this track is truly the most amazing of all. The lighting in the PV as well as, of course, the vesatile hairstyles exhibited on Amuro's head is very refreshing. I personally love the hair in the second scene where she has the dance-off with the robots. 20 thumbs up!

For the 60s and the 70s song, please check my Amuro tags...as they are in previous posts.

Hirai Ken - Kimi wa Suteki PV

2008-02-28T18:42:00.000-08:00

Hirai Ken's latest single contains a double A-side, one of which being Kimi wa Suteki. This song is not liked by a lot of listeners but I happen to like this track a lot. I find this track to be his best upbeat work since "style" back in 2004. The chorus is just very strange and for some reason I am intrigued by it. The song is featured as the newest Lipton LEMONE commercial. Check out the PV

BoA - AGGRESSIVE

2008-02-25T10:57:00.000-08:00

So the much anticipated BoA album will be released tomorrow. I have already made my pre-order for the CD+2DVD version and even though the album leaked weeks ago I am really looking forward to receiving my shipment because first of all the leaked version had mediocre audio quality and my DVDs would include so much goodies!!! OVER 2.5HOURS of visual treats!!! This is what the 2DVDs will have to offer:

uploaded by myself:

BoA - THE FACE

Release Date: February 27th, 2008

DISC-1：CD

AGGRESSIVE ★「モッズ・ヘアヒートサロンエステ」TVCM タイアップソング
Sweet Impact ★コーセー「FASIO」CMソング
My Way,Your Way feat.WISE
be with you. ★映画「犬と私の10の約束」主題歌
LOSE YOUR MIND feat. Yutaka Furukawa from DOPING PANDA ★東芝製携帯電話 W55T(au) TVCMタイアップソング
Girl In The Mirror

Happy Birthday ★東芝携帯電話W56T(au)TVCMタイアップソング
Diamond Heart ★東芝携帯電話 W53T(au) &W54T(au)TVCMタイアップソング
LOVE LETTER ★日本テレビ系「いただきマッスル！」9月エンディングテーマ、music.jp TV-CFソング
BRAVE
ギャップにやられた！

Style

Smile again ★テレビ朝日系「土曜ワイド劇場」エンディングテーマ
Beautiful Flowers ★TBS系列プロ野球中継「ザ・プロ野球」テーマ曲
Best Friend ★日本テレビ系「THE・サンデー」エンディングテーマ

Bonus Track　＜AVCD-23497/B～C＞のみ

Hey Boy, Hey Girl feat.BoA／SEAMO ■ DVD 収録曲 ■

DISC-2：DVD■ Music Clip

Sweet Impact
LOVE LETTER
LOSE YOUR MIND feat.Yutaka Furukawa from DOPING PANDA
be with you.（Original Version）

■ Special Contents　＜AVCD-23497/B～C＞のみ
BoA TV -THE FACE of BoA-
THE FACE全曲解説

DISC-3：DVD　＜AVCD-23497/B～C＞のみ【BoA 2007 LIVE WORKS!】

■ from [BoA THE LIVE "X'mas"]
LOVE LETTER
キミのとなりで
Winter Love
First snow
make a secret
コノヨノシルシ
Diamond Heart
LOSE YOUR MIND

■ from [BoA ARENA TOUR 2007 MADE IN TWENTY(20)]
DO THE MOTION
Lady Galaxy
七色の明日～brand new beat～
Sweet Impact

■ from [m-flo tour 2007 COSMICOLOR]
the Love Bug/m-flo♥BoA

■ from [Rhythm Nation 2007]
LOSE YOUR MIND
QUINCY
メリクリ

MISIA new song featured as movie tie-up!

2008-02-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

So MISIA has once again disclosed another new song recently. This song is called "Yakusoku no Tsubasa" and it is the theme song for the movie "Boku no Kanojo wa Cyborg" (My Girlfriend is a Cyborg). Here is the movie trailer. Seems like another ballad and more mainstream than her previous ballads like "Angel" and "To Be In Love." Rumour says that a new MISIA single will be released sometime near April/May.

Koyanagi Yuki -> Yuki-K???

2008-02-21T19:08:00.000-08:00

So it was only this morning that I realize that Koyanagi Yuki has changed her stage name to Yuki-K and has released an Amy Winehouse's cover single REHAB. I do not like it too much. I much prefer her usual rnb/urban sounds. Maybe because this is a cover single it was not bound to succeed....Come on Yuki...change your name back to your real one and release something you are real good at :)

More info about the single is at hmv.co.jp, previews of the single tracks available.

http://www.hmv.co.jp/product/detail/2001626586

KOKIA - The VOICE

2008-02-20T17:09:00.000-08:00

So KOKIA has released another album recently, as a matter of fact TODAY! It is called The VOICE and oh boy that is totally the best thing about her, her VOICE! Contains 13 tracks including this song, Follow the Nightingale, which I totally love.

credits: kalen56

MISIA - Tsuki @ Hoshizora no Live Classics 4 Concert

2008-02-18T17:35:00.000-08:00

IT was up on youtube a while ago but it disappeared so I am determined to up it again. Here is Tsuki from MISIA on her Starlight Acoustic Concert in Nagasaki. Amazing ending once again, just like everytime she performs this song live. For non-MISIA fans who would like to know, this song is in her previous album ASCENSION, the live versions are much better tho IMO.

MISIA - Hoshizora no Live Classics 4 @ Nagasaki + MISIA in Kibera Slum, Kenya

Tracklist:

◆ DISC-1 (DVD：通常盤共通) 1. KIBERA SLUM 2. MISIA 星空のライヴⅣ CLASSICS in NAGASAKI 　　1. OPENING 　　2. Everything 　　3. BELIEVE 　　4. BACK BLOCKS 　　5. ANY LOVE 　　6. 月　　7. 裸足の季節　　8. そばにいて. . . 　　9. Chandelier 　　10. 星の銀貨　　11.One! 　　12. We are the music 　　13. 太陽のマライカ

◆DISC-2 3. TSUNZA VILLAGE 【SPECIAL CONTENTS】 1. KIBERA SLUM & TSUNZA VILLAGE COMMENTARY (MISIA & DIRECTOR) 2.「ANY LOVE」MUSIC CLIP

Hirahara Ayaka - Jupiter ~Hirahara Ayaka Best ~

2008-02-17T10:38:00.000-08:00

Hirahara Ayaka has released her first best-of album called Jupiter ~Hirahara Ayaka Best~ featuring 15 tracks. The rather special aspect of this album is that it is not a singles-best collection, rather it includes much album tracks that could only be found on her original albums, so people not too familiar with her wouldnt find this a completely recap of her A-sides. I think this is a really smart move from Dreammusic to have such a mix of A-sides and album tracks. Even though I have heard of all the songs already I would still like to give it a listen and see how the order of the tracklisting effect the flow of the songs.

Her sales have been declining ever since she released her earlier albums so I hope she continues to release new tracks after this best album. Something tells me that this release is a sign of Dreammusic refusing to give her anymore songs to release :( and that is a big shame; she has such a soulful voice and she deserves way more popularity.

Here is one of her tracks featured on the album "kimi to iru jikan no naka de." It's a really nice ballad, which is what she does the best. Uploaded by "Exceedingthetimesky."

Hirahara Ayaka - Jupiter ~Hirahara Ayaka Best~
Release Date: Feb 13, 2008

Tracklist:

01 - Jupiter
02 - 明日
03 - 今、風の中で
04 - 誓い
05 - Ｅｔｅｒｎａｌｌｙ
06 - 虹の予感
07 - Ｒｅ：ＰＥＰＰＥＲ
08 - あなたの腕のなかで
09 - Ｓｍｉｌｅ
10 - 星つむぎの歌
11 - ＢＬＥＳＳＩＮＧ　祝福
12 - 君といる時間の中で
13 - ｍａｍａ（Ｏｒｃｈｅｓｔｒａ　ｖｅｒｓｉｏｎ）
14 - シチリアーナ
15 - スタート・ライン

salyu - to U (salyu version)

2008-02-15T18:51:00.000-08:00

I just felt like digging up old stuff today and I found a live performance of salyu's cover of Mr. Children's "to U." Her version is also included in her TERMINAL album released early last year. I totally love this song. The recorded version is over 8 minutes long but I do not feel any part of being too dragged out....at first I even thought there would be a bonus track after the song without realizing that the song actually took 8 minutes haahaa.

In contrast to the studio piano-only version this JAPAN MUSIC COUNTDOWN 06-07 version is more drums/guitar based. I guess this would sound better in an outdoor setting but I prefer the piano-only studio version :)

Enomoto Kurumi - Mirai Kinenbi

2008-02-13T22:38:00.000-08:00

After the successful debut album (I personally think it was the best album of 2007), Enomoto Kurumi has released a few new singles including リアル、夕陽が丘、and now 未来記念日 will be her latest single to be released on the 20th. A lot of her newer pieces sound less romantic but rather more hopeful and colloquial, whereas most ballads in the debut album were romance-related. I much prefer her later works to her debut tracks. I am sure to make a purchase of her 2nd album when it comes out.

PV from Mirai Kinenbi

New Artist: Okano Hironori

2008-02-11T15:38:00.000-08:00

Well he is not TOO TOO new. His debut single LEMONADE was released October last year and his second single PHOTOGRAPH will hit the stores in three weeks.

Okano Hironori (岡野宏典)

DOB: April 4th, 1981

Born in Shizuoka

Plays violin at the age of 6, picked up guitar during his high school years

Debut single: Lemonade

Tracklist:

01 - Lemonade

02 - Migi Te (Right Hand)

03 - Hana Uta (The Flower Song)

04 - Hikari (Lights)

05 - Lemonade (Insuto)

Here is the PV of his debut A-side, LEMONADE

His new single will be released on the 27th, containing two tracks + two insutos

Okano Hironori - PHOTOGRAPH

Release Date: Feb 27, 2008

Tracklist:

1 フォトグラフ
2 道
3 フォトグラフ（Insuto）
4 道（Insuto）

My other blog ;)

2008-02-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

This is a little bit unrelated to JPOP but just want readers to know that I have made another blog. This new blog will be like a diary for me where I keep track of random photos I take and then commenting on them....since I will be leaving where I am staying to a new environment soon I would like to leave a record of where I have been in this place. Please check it out and make comments please :) Thanx

PS: Do not worry, this JPOP blog will not be shut down at all and will continuously provide you with cool JPOP music and PVs on a regular basis :)

My new blog:
http://marcschronicles.blogspot.com/

Amuro Namie - NEW LOOK (60s)

2008-02-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

Alright I am writing this entry while I am crazily in love with Kimura Kaela's JASPER song!!! I am a little hyper right now but life must go on lol....

alright onto Amuro now...

So earlier I uploaded the ROCK STEADY video which was supposedly to be her 70s song in the series of Vidal Sassoon promotional songs. This morning I was looking at the NEW LOOK (60s) song and even though it has been out for so long I suddenly became infactuated with the PV. It's very nicely done and the colours ooze innocence just like the melody in the song...I think I am going to get her next album once again...it seems like Amuro has gotten into my "if they release any album I must buy" list of artists.

Without further ado, here is the NEW LOOK PV

Porno Graffiti - Anata ga Koko ni Itara

2008-02-08T19:28:00.000-08:00

This new Porno Graffiti song is used for the theme song for the movie "Naoto." I have never heard of the somt before. As a matter of fact I am not a big fan of Porno Graffiti but I do remember liking a few of their songs. This one seems a little dragging but I am sure it will grow on me :)

The song will be the A-side of their upcoming single. To be released next Wednesday on the 13th :)

あなたがここにいたら
ポルノグラフィティ
SECL-587／シングル／2008.2.13／¥1,223(税込)

1. あなたがここにいたら (Anata Ga Koko ni Itara)
2. ホール (Hall)
3. オニオンスープ (Onion Soup)

alan - ひとつ

2008-02-07T23:48:00.000-08:00

After the success of he debut single ashita e no sanka, alan is back with a second single named HITOTSU (ひとつ). It is more mellow than ashita e but more rich in emotion. I really like this song and have listened to it many many many times. The PV is also very beautiful.

Utada Hikaru - HEART STATION

2008-02-07T19:22:00.001-08:00

Yup! This is the name of Utada's new album. HEART STATION. What do you guys think of the name? I find it a little bland. The album would contain the song of the same name HEART STATION. At first the song was a bit boring but now after a few more listens I have grown to like it, especially the intro and the chorus! It's quite amazing actually. The PV also reminds me of her earlier work, Traveling, mainly because it takes place in a train too.

PS: wow this is my first Hikki post >_<

Kimura Kaela - Jasper

2008-02-04T00:50:00.000-08:00

OH

MY

GOODNESS

I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS PV!!!!

No explanation needed. Kimura Kaela is one of the, if not THE, artist with the best PVs in jpop. She may not have the most high-budgeted PVs but they are definately one of the most interesting and entertaining. Here she wows us once again with her new PV, Jasper!! The single is coming out this week.....the single cover is also amazing....

Hitoto Yo - Ukeirete PV

2008-02-04T00:38:00.000-08:00

Hitoto Yo released her 11th single called Ukeirete (受け入れて) last week. I actually have not listened to the track yet so I will provide the live youtube clip here and let you guys see if you guys like it...I really liked her previous works Tsunaide Te and Tadaima. Btw her Tsunaide te PV has been nominated for best female video.

Now going back to this new single. The new A-side was actually previously released as an acoustic version and was available legally to be downloaded free of charge. This is a full version featured in the new single, hoping to provide a fresh feel to the song.

2008.01.30
Hitoto Yo 11th single "Ukeirete" (受け入れて)
COCA-16074　\1,260(incl.tax)

1. Ukeirete (受け入れて)
2. Kuuchuu Buranko (空中ブランコ)
3. Megumu (芽ぐむ)

Ukeirete (M-Ste live version)

Amuro Namie - ROCK STEADY PV

2008-01-31T14:20:00.000-08:00

Alright so I think this is actually my first Amuro post.....which is very rare as I like her music and own numerous albums of hers. Anyways this has been out there for quite some time now but it seems that now I am really craving for the triple A-side new single. This is one of the song featured in her newest single ROCK STEADY. Her new single features a strong collaboration with Vidal Sassoon. Amuro fans can fill me in on the specific infos....for now just enjoy the PV

CHEMISTRY - Sora no Kiseki PV

2008-01-29T20:28:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the release of CHEMISTRY's new album "Face to Face," I have featured their <> PV today. To be honest they are not known for their PVs but this one is decent :)

Album will be released tomorrow...well actually it has already been released in Japan as of typing!!!! They will probably debut at #2 after Koda Kumi xP

HALCALI - LOOK

2008-01-28T01:16:00.001-08:00

Here is another HALCALI that I am in love with!!!!

LOOK:

HALCALI - It's Party Time

2008-01-28T01:03:00.000-08:00

Ok I have just discovered another cool girl-band/group by the name of HALCALI. Whoever knows them please fill me in about them...they seem intriguing. Usually I get turned off by music like this but somehow they are quite captivating.....there is this originality in them. From the few clips I hear of them they like to make use of the Japanese language and use long sentences in their phrases, resulting in quick verses....i guess that somehow increases the excitement of the songs....

Without further ado, this is "It's Party Time" featured in their latest single released summer last year. Subsequently they released an album right after this A-side....name is Cyborg Oretachi.

Fuji Fabric - Wakamono no Subete

2008-01-23T11:35:00.000-08:00

Their album TEENAGER just released today. I think I am going to give their album a listen. They seem to be a promising group. I have no experience with their music before but their name seems interesting and I checked out this PV of their recent song "Wakamono no Subete" which is featured in the new album. I seem to like it. They remind me a little bit of Sukima Switch and Porno Graffiti, with a little more subtle and comventional tone to it. Hope you guys will like it.

Wakamono no Subete PV

Official Website: http://www.fujifabric.com/

Nobuchika Eri - Kodou

2008-01-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

This is a rather old song (back in 2005) but comes from what is considered one of my favorite jpop albums EVER in history lol...This is Nobuchika Eri's debut and the only album "nobuchikaeri." The album is produced by Mondo Grosso which I highly respect. One of the featured songs here, Kodou.

Please enjoy the amazingness of Nobuchika Eri and Mondo Grosso

MISIA - One! @ Hoshizora no Live 4 Classics

2008-01-15T22:44:00.000-08:00

Sorry guys I was again out of town so I did not have the time to update my blog. I should not be travelling as I have school now so I will be able to update this site more often.

I have received my MISIA Hoshizora no Live 4 Classics Nagasaki Tour DVD and have ripped one of the performances. MISIA rarely performs One! in her lives (as a matter of fact I do not know if she has ever did this song live)....this is a very good and lively performance of the song. Please enjoy.

Uploaded by myself :)

Matsu Takako

2008-01-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

She is both a dorama actress as well as a singer. She has appeared in lots of well-known dramas like Love Generation and Hero. I did not know her until last night where she was performing in her most recent tour <> and I fell in love with her "Oyasumi." Last year marked the 10th anniversary year for her. She released an album of the same name CHERISH YOU last year.

This youtube clip is probably from over 10 years ago. I believe this is her debut song. Ashita, Haru ga Kitara (even though talks about Spring) is rather Summery for me. This is a live clip of the song....this song is also featured in her latest album Cherish You.

Official website:

http://www.matsutakako.jp/top.html

Nakashima Mika - LIFE (2007 Tour Live Version)

2008-01-01T21:17:00.001-08:00

I have a thing for live performances. I think the best music should come from the very moment a singer performs, so I have always enjoyed watching live clips more so than watching PV and listening to studio tracks (only if the singer is competent lol). Here I have purchased the Nakashima Mika YES MY JOY 2007 Tour and this version of LIFE has got to be her best yet. The vocals are close to flawless as even her higher registers are right on pitch (most of the time her higher notes are a little off). The accompaniment is more energetic..the crowds are happy and everything seems to fit very harmoniously :) So without further ado here it is.

MISIA - ANY LOVE (Live Version)

2007-12-31T20:23:00.000-08:00

First of all I would like to wish everyone a happy new year.

As I am back from my vacation I feel the duty to update the blog once again. So here I have found you guys once again my favorite MISIA. MISIA will be entering the 10th year of her career in 2008. Here she is performing one of her newer songs ANY LOVE live in Nagasaki during her Hoshizora no Live 4 Classics Tour. This tour is available on DVD. ANY LOVE will also be on her upcoming album "EIGHTH WORLD."

Taking a 7-day break

2007-12-22T00:26:00.000-08:00

Hi all

As you notice there hasnt been much activity on this blog lately....I am currently on a holiday in the sandy beaches of Malaysia...I will be back New Year's Eve and by then the blog will be updated once again :) Thanks and have a wonderful Xmas

Shimamiya Eiko - ひぐらしのなく頃に

2007-12-13T19:56:00.000-08:00

Check this song out for people who do not know Shimamiya Eiko....I did not know her until I listened to this amazing song. The title is Higurashi no Naku Goro Ni (When the Cicada Disappears). Amazing song.....seriously lol

CHEMISTRY supported by MONKEY MAJIK - Kagayaku Yoru

2007-12-07T18:36:00.001-08:00

My favorite jpop duo CHEMISTRY has teamed up with MONKEY MAJIK to come up with this very summery song titled "Kagayaku Yoru" (輝く夜). This is VERY MONKEY MAJIK in terms of style. Love it at first listen.....The PV seems a bit dull though. I can see Dochin (the guy on the left) being a little bith bored with playing the drums, not as fun as Kawabata with the guitar....

This single was released on Dec 5 and debuted #5 on the oricon singles chart, which is not bad comparing to their previous releases. The single contains a B-side which is a jazz remix of THIS NIGHT which the original version was released two singles before.

Tracklist

1　輝く夜
2 This Night [EQUIP Remix]
3 輝く夜 [Less Vocal]

SATOMI' - Darlin' x2 feat. COMA-CHI

2007-12-04T22:38:00.000-08:00

I just bumped into her newest song on youtube. She debuted back in 2005 and has released numerous singles and a full album to date. She is heavily RnB and after her debut album she compiled a cover mini-album performing classic jpop songs such as Rakuen by Hirai Ken and MISIA's It's Just Love. Her newest single was released on Nov 21st called Darlin' featuring COMA-CHI. The song is somewhat groovy but it is not grabbing my attention too much at the moment...honestly I listened to it once and it is quite forgettable. I still talk about her here because I do see that she has potential and some viewers might like the musical direction she takes. So without further ado, here is SATOMI's Darlin'

Check out her official website for more information:

http://www.satton.jp/domestic/

JUJU - Wish for snow

2007-12-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

Another Xmas song in jpop. Having just released her debut album with good sales and charting positions, JUJU is back with a new maxi single, titled Wish for snow. It's got a reggae feel to it, which is rare given that it is an Xmas song. The PV reminds me of Hikki's Boku wa Kuma and MISIA's IN MY SOUL PVs. As for the song, this will be quite a grower for me personally.

Her new single will be released on the 12th of December, includes a new version of her hit song "kiseki wo nozomu nara"

JUJU - Kiseki wo Nozomu Nara - A Christmas Story

Date of release: Dec 12 2007

Tracklist:

1 Wish For Snow
2 奇跡を望むなら... Xmas Story
3 Last Christmas
4 ｸﾘｽﾏｽ･ｲﾌﾞ

Crystal Kay - Shining

2007-12-01T17:09:00.001-08:00

So today it snowed in Vancouver so I figured it would be perrrfect occasion to present CK's newest PV "Shining." It is basically the perfect Xmas celebration song if that is what you are craving recently. This song is the promo song for the newest series of PARCO (department store) commercials which also feature CK, hence you can see the PARCO signs throughout the PV. This song is a grower for me. At first I find the chorus a little deflating with a not-so-strong melody, however now it seems rather engaging, and I love the accompaniments used in the chorus....especially the bass :)

The song is featured in her latest mini-album by the same name, released on Nov 28th.

Crystal Kay - Shining

Tracklist:

1 Shining
2 Snowflake
3 Happy 045 Xmas
4 No More Blue Christmas
5 Shining -jazztronik Remix-

Hirahara Ayaka - Ima Kaze no Naka De...

2007-11-29T23:09:00.000-08:00

This is Hirahara Ayaka's newest song, another one of her gracious-like power ballads. Title's Ima, KAze no Naka De (今、風の中で). I am somewhat disappoionted by this piece. The intro and the build up to the chorus is real great however it quickly deflates at the chorus I find.....to be fair I have only listened to it a few times, but usually Hirahara Ayaka's pieces grab my soul at the first few listens. This song isnt doing much to me yet..... :(

Single was released two days ago on Nov 27 07 containing 3 new tracks. I have yet to listen to the other two so I cannot provide a critique to it but here is the PV to her A-side!!! The piece is a theme song for the movie マリと子犬の物語 (The Tale of Marie and the Puppy).

Tracklist

01 - 今、風の中で

02- To be free

03 - シャホツ玉

04 - 今、風の中で (Instrumental)

Ikimonogakari - Akaneiro no Yakusoku

2007-11-26T18:18:00.000-08:00

I was watching an old episode of MUSICSTATION which featured this group consisting of the female leading vocal and two dudes behind her with guitars. They performed this "Akaneiro no Yakusoku" song and I immediately fell in love. I remember me running back to my room and listening to it many times after watching M-STA. Well anyways that is their newest A-side from the single by the same name, released October 24th, 2007. The single also comes with two other original tracks, a light upbeat track (心一つあるがまま) and a slow relaxing track (月夜恋風). All three tracks give such different feelings you can basically listen to this single under ANY mood!!

Here is the PV for Akaneiro no Yakusoku (茜色の約束)

Ikimonogakari - Akaneiro no Yakusoku

Release Date: Oct 24, 07

Tracklist:

01 - 茜色の約束

02 - 心一つあるがまま

03 - 月夜恋風

04 - 茜色の約束 (Instrumental)

BoA - LOSE YOUR MIND feat. Yukata Furukawa from DOPING PANDA

2007-11-23T22:16:00.000-08:00

This must be one of BoA's best, if not THE BEST, upbeat song/PV combination yet! I totally love the dance moves in this song....

New single will contain this song as well as power ballad Smile Again which will be a theme song for the Asahi TV programme "Doyo Wide Gekijo." Release date is December 12th.

BoA - LOSE YOUR MIND feat. Yukata Furukawa from DOPING PANDA

Release Date: 12/12/07

Tracklist:

1. LOSE YOUR MIND FEAT.YUTAKA FURUKAWA FROM DOPING PANDA
2. SMILE AGAIN
3. LOSE YOUR MIND FEAT.YUTAKA FURUKAWA FROM DOPING PANDA (INSTRUMENTAL)
4. SMILE AGAIN(INSTRUMENTAL)

MISIA - Royal Chocolate Flush

2007-11-21T18:37:00.001-08:00

My favorite singer (lol) MISIA is due to release her single ROYAL CHOCOLATE FLUSH on Dec. 5th 2007. In addition her Hoshizora no Live 4 Classics DVD will be released on that day too.

I just listened to the full version of Royal Chocolate Flush. It is, despite being biased, absolutely gorgeous! The intro is very hip and cool. Although MISIA shows less of her vocal ability in this song, most of her fast songs are not too technically demanding anyways.

MISIA - Royal Chocolate Flush
Release Date: Dec. 5 07

Tracklist:

01 - Royal Chocolate Flush
02 - 太陽の地図 (Taiyou no chizu; Map of the sun)
03 - Chandelier
04 - KISS AND HUG

PV : Royal Chocolate Flush

Onitsuka Chihiro - LAS VEGAS

2007-11-17T20:29:00.000-08:00

Her latest album is a great listen!!! I did not pay too much attention to her more recent songs except for <> Then I had a listen to the album and most of the songs are so great!!! My favorite track has to be 僕等バラ色の日々; the strings/keyboard is just too relaxing.

Release Date: Oct 31, 2007

Tracklist:

1. Sweet Rosemary

2. bad trip

3. 蝋の翼 (Rou no Tsubasa\”Wings of Wax”)

4. 僕等　バラ色の日(Bokura Barairo no Hibi\”Our Rose Colored Days”)

5. amphibious

6. MAGICAL WORLD (album version)

7. A Horse and A Queen

8. Rainman (album version)

9. Angelina10. BRIGHTEN US

11. everyhome

Here is the PV for my favorite track off the album: 僕等　バラ色の日

Atari Kousuke - Tane wo Maku hibi PV

2007-11-17T00:37:00.000-08:00

Atari Kousuke, one of my favorite male solo artists, has released his new single <> this week. This is the PV for the A-side song with the same name. It is more pop-mainstream from his previous works, still good though!!!

His new single comes with 4 new songs for album cover check my earlier Atari Kousuke post :)

1. Tane wo Maku Hibi (種をまく日々)
2. Michi no Tochuu (路の途中)
3. Kotoba wa Iranai (言葉はいらない)
4. Chikyuu Kyoudai (地球兄弟)

Marc's JPOP Blog

new post after over 6 months!

KOKIA - The Woman

Candy-fever: Hirai Ken vs. Nakashima Mika

Shiina Ringo - Ryuukou PV

CLAZZIQUAI PROJECT - Mucho MUSICA

J.A.M. - Jazzy Joint Ft. Jose James

MISIA - Never Gonna Cry (DISCOTHEQUE ASIA Live Version)

MISIA - Sukoshi Tsuzu, Taisetsu ni (2009 Arena tour version)

Shiina Ringo - Shun

Onitsuka Chihiro - X

Mr. Children - ESORA

Hirahara Ayaka - nocturne

Nakashima Mika - new single ORION 12.11.08

JUJU - Sora

Kawaguchi Kyougo - Tadaima

Emonoto Kurumi - new single

Alan - RED CLIFF (Japanese Version)

Atari Kousuke - Kizuna

MISIA - Catch the Rainbow PV out!!!

Fukui Mai - Ai no Uta

immi - new album "Switch" out Sept. 10, 2008

MISIA - Catch the Rainbow

CHEMISTRY - Life Goes On (Version ~K~)

alan - Sora Uta

Nomoto Karia - Jiyuudo

Pizzicato Five - old stuff

Fukuhara Miho - Himawari

Ikimonogakari - Blue Bird

MISIA - MISSING AUTUMN (EIGHTH WORLD Tour)

Onitsuka Chihiro - Borderline (Live Version)

Onitsuka Chihiro - 蛍

Another MISIA EIGHTH WORLD Performance - Taiyou no Chizu

MISIA - To Be In Love (EIGHTH WORLD Tour Version)

Shibasaki Kou - Yoku Aru Hanashi ~Mofuku no Onna Hen~

Takaoka Ai - ごめんね 今でも好きで居ます

Energizer Energi to Go product follow up

Everything -junior Vasquez Remix- EIGHTH WORLD Tour Performance

Itsco - Water Lily

Maynard Plant's (MONKEY MAJIK) solo act - blanc.

DOUBLE x Amuro Namie - BLACK DIAMOND

I am back, but first an announcement

off for about 2-3 days

Hirahara Ayaka - Kodoku no Mukou PV

HY- HeartY

aiko - Himitsu

MISIA - Yes Forever

Hirahara Ayaka - new single

MISIA - double treat

Kurosawa-san singing MISIA's "Everything"

Kubota Toshinobu + MISIA - Flying Easy Loving Crazy

Shibata Jun - COLORFUL

SUEMITSU and the SUEMITH - Shock the Piano

Tour of MISIA 2008 EIGHTH WORLD Tour Photos

Atari Kousuke - Haru

MISIA - BELIEVE (Starlight Acoustic Live Version)

Hirai Ken new album - FAKIN' POP

Utada Hikaru - HEART STATION (DJ AMAYA REMIX)

Hitoto You - Key

Amuro Namie - PLAY Tour DVD

MISIA - Ishindenshin slideshow

Amuro Namie - What A Feeling (80s Song)

Hirai Ken - Kimi wa Suteki PV

BoA - AGGRESSIVE

MISIA new song featured as movie tie-up!

Koyanagi Yuki -> Yuki-K???

KOKIA - The VOICE

MISIA - Tsuki @ Hoshizora no Live Classics 4 Concert

Hirahara Ayaka - Jupiter ~Hirahara Ayaka Best ~

salyu - to U (salyu version)

Enomoto Kurumi - Mirai Kinenbi

New Artist: Okano Hironori

My other blog ;)

Amuro Namie - NEW LOOK (60s)

Porno Graffiti - Anata ga Koko ni Itara

alan - ひとつ

Utada Hikaru - HEART STATION

Kimura Kaela - Jasper

Hitoto Yo - Ukeirete PV

Amuro Namie - ROCK STEADY PV

Takaoka Ai - ごめんね　今でも好きで居ます