aki's Best Album

05.15.2008 - Tanja

translation : Lacy

source : Cesspit

related artist(s) : Laputa   aki  

··· Post a comment ···

aki will release his best-of album on August 13th. aki solo works '2005-2007' will come in CD+DVD format, but further details are not yet known.

alice nine.'s RAINBOWS

05.15.2008 - Tanja & Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : alice nine.  

··· Post a comment ···

alice nine. will release a new single on August 6th. RAINBOWS will come in three types, one featuring two tracks, a booklet and sleeve case, another featuring two tracks and a DVD with the PV for the title track and a third featuring three tracks.

Ringö Shéna 10th Anniversary News

05.15.2008 - Cage

source : EMI Music Japan

related artist(s) : Shéna Ringö  

··· Post a comment ···

In celebration of Ringö Shéna's 10th anniversary, EMI Music Japan has announced the artist's upcoming release schedule.

Watashi to houden, an album featuring all of the singer's b-sides and rare tracks, for a total of twenty-two songs on two discs, will be released on July 2nd.

On they same day, Watashi no hatsuden, a 10th anniversary PV collection, will be released. It will feature all her music videos from her debut up to her latest single, plus the brand new video, Mellow.

Ringö Shéna will also hold a special concert to commemorate her 10th anniversary. Ringö Shéna (Sei) Ringo Haku '08 -10shuunen kinensai-, will be held at the Saitama SUPER ARENA in November.

Additionally, on the date of her 10th anniversary, May 27th, a site featuring special content, will be launched to commemorate the event.

Aoi's Latest Album

05.15.2008 - Cage

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : Aoi  

··· Post a comment ···

Aoi, vocalist of BOUNTY, will release his first solo album on June 25th. Veil will be issued in both CD and CD+DVD format and will feature his previously released singles and brand new material for a total of ten tracks. The CD+DVD version will contain the music video for LUMIERE.

SCREW's New Single

05.14.2008 - Ruka

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : SCREW  

··· Post a comment ···

SCREW will release a new single on August 13th. It is currently untitled and will be available in two versions, the CD+DVD version featuring a new song, Kizuato ni fureru yasashiki senritsu and PV, and the regular version including three tracks.

More Visual Kei Releases

05.14.2008 - Cage, Kay

source : Official Sites, Brand-X

related artist(s) : Billy   Jully  

··· Post a comment ···

Jully has announced the upcoming release of their latest mini-album, "Gen" to "shin" no jitsu, for June 25th. The mini-album will feature five tracks, all of which are newly recorded material.

Visual kei band, Golden Bomber will release the second single in their five month consecutive release campaign on June 1st. Saite saite kirisaite will feature the title track, plus the B-Side, Masashi.

Also, Billy has announced the release of another new single. Barely two months after the release of Rocking Princess in July, they will release the Rebecca on September 24th. During the summer, the quintet will have a nationwide tour and, in October, they will play two one-man concerts titled Boys feel Rebecca.

News From L'Arc~en~Ciel

05.13.2008 - Chenka

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : L'Arc~en~Ciel  

··· Post a comment ···

L'Arc~en~Ciel has announced plans for a new single to be released this summer. It will contain two songs, with the title track, NEXUS 4, being used in the latest Subaru commercial, and SHINE having already be heard as the opening theme for the anime "Seirei no Moribito".

The band has also already announced plans for a 20th anniversary concert in 2011.

hide Official Book to be Released

05.13.2008 - Ruka

translation : Lacy

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : X JAPAN   hide  

··· Post a comment ···

OFFICIAL BOOK"hide BIBLE" will go on sale mid-July. The book will include comments from YOSHIKI, TOHSHI, PATA and HEATH regarding the Tokyou Dome 3-day live, a section called "ALL ABOUT hide", which will contain accounts from many of hide's friends, a hide interview from ARENA 37℃ and more.

New Album and DVD From Kiyoharu

05.13.2008 - Finja

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : Kiyoharu  

··· Post a comment ···

Kiyoharu's new unplugged album is scheduled for release on July 30th. He will also release a new live DVD on August 27th. The DVD will feature his upcoming May 21st concert, though few details are currently known about either release.

KOKIA's New Live DVD

05.13.2008 - Laurent

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : KOKIA  

··· Post a comment ···

Female singer KOKIA will release a new live DVD on July 16th. Simply titled, The VOICE, like her latest album, it will feature the live recording of her 10th anniversary concert in Japan.

KLACK announces No.NAME

05.13.2008 - Anu

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : KLACK  

··· Post a comment ···

KLACK, a punk rock group that recently returned to the spotlight after several years of keeping a low profile, has announced yet another new single, though the latest just came out a couple of weeks ago. The new release is called No.NAME and fans can expect it to come out in July, though exact details are not yet known.

CELLT's One Man Tour and New Single

05.12.2008 - Ruka

source : Official Site

related artist(s) :

··· Post a comment ···

At the end of August CELLT will embark on a one man tour called Kaette kita ultra C. So far there are three shows on the schedule: August 27th at Nagoya ell SIZE, August 28th at Osaka CLAPPER and August 30th at Shibuya BOXX.

The new maxi-single, Lydia, includes three tracks and will first be sold on July 27th at an event that the band is holding at Takadanobaba Area to promote the tour. The official sale date is August 6th and the band will participate in several in-store events throughout August to commemorate the release.

Bespa Kumamero to Perform in Mexico

05.12.2008 - Cynthia

translation : Lacy

source : JapanFiles

related artist(s) :

··· Post a comment ···

Techno cyberpunks BESPA KUMAMERO will perform at Animex 2008 in Monterrey, Mexico July 5-6 at the Cintermex Center. They will be appearing courtesy of JapanFiles and Entretenimiento Creativo and are on the JapanFiles top ten selling artists list. Not only that, but they recently made their US debut at Anime Matsuri in Houston, Texas and were nominated for Best Japanese Rising Star in 2008 by Shojo Beat magazine. More information can be found, in Spanish, at the event's website.

GARI Postpones European Tour

05.12.2008 - Tanja

translation : Lacy

source : Soundlicious

related artist(s) : GARI  

··· Post a comment ···

Due to various circumstances, GARI's tour in Europe, which was to take place from May 29th to June 1st, has been postponed.

The tour is being rescheduled for the fall and new tour dates will be announced as soon as they are available.

European Release of MUCC's Shion

05.12.2008 - Anu

translation : Lacy

source : Gan-Shin

related artist(s) : MUCC  

··· Post a comment ···

MUCC's latest album, Shion, is set to be released in Europe by Gan-Shin this summer. Though an exact release date has not been confirmed, it is said that the album will be out in June or July.

THE ROYAL DEAD's New Mini Album

05.12.2008 - Anu

translation : Lacy

source : Cure Distribution, CDJapan

related artist(s) : THE ROYAL DEAD  

··· Post a comment ···

Goth/dark wave group THE ROYAL DEAD, who is scheduled to tour Europe this Autumn, is about to release their latest mini album. LOVE EXODUS will be out on May 28th and will include six tracks.

New From TegoMass

05.12.2008 - Matron

translation : Lacy

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) :

··· Post a comment ···

NEWS subgroup TegoMass will release a new single, Aiaigasa, on June 18th. The title track is being used as the closing theme to the anime series "Neo Angelique Abyss". Available in two versions, the limited edition will include a DVD with a music video and making-of footage, while the regular edition will include the bonus track Boku no Cinderella and a karaoke version of Aiaigasa.

mihimaru GT's Upcoming Album

05.11.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) : mihimaru GT  

··· Post a comment ···

mihimaru GT will release their fourth studio album on May 28th. mihimarise will feature the previously released tracks, Gazen Yeah!, I Should Be So Lucky, diverge, Girigiri Hero, Ai kotoba and a newly recorded version of Ee ga na, plus new material for a total of thirteen tracks. The CD+DVD version of the album will include the music videos for Gazen Yeah!, I Should Be So Lucky and diverge plus bonus footage. The first press of the CD-only version will come with a bonus track.

Ketsumeishi's Sixth Album!

05.10.2008 - Kay

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : Ketsumeishi  

··· Post a comment ···

The hip-hop/reggae quartet Ketsumeishi has announced the release of their sixth album. Continuing with their album series, the new album will be called Ketsunopolis 6. It's set for release on June 25th and, seeing as the former albums all have had the same design but in a different color, it's time again for the fans to wonder which color will be picked next!

chatmonchy's New Single

05.10.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) :

··· Post a comment ···

Three-piece rock band chatmonchy will release their latest single on June 25th. Kaze fukeba koi will feature the songs Suishin ryoku and three sheep in addition to the title track, with the first press of the single including an added bonus which has yet to announced.

Dragon Ash Releases Velvet Touch

05.10.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) : Dragon Ash  

··· Post a comment ···

Dragon Ash will release their first single since 2006 on June 18th. Velvet Touch is currently being used as the theme song for TBS Oushuu Soccer and the release will be issued in a regular and limited edition format, with the limited edition coming with a bonus CD-EXTRA that will include the music video for Velvet Touch.

ANTI FEMINISM's Best Album and Single

05.10.2008 - Cage

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : ∀NTI FEMINISM  

··· Post a comment ···

ANTI FEMINISM has announced details for a couple of upcoming releases. The first will be a single, 15-sai, scheduled for release on June 25th. It will feature a new recording of material taken from the band's third demo tape and will also include a bonus patch and sticker.

The second release will be a best album, Kyousouroku, which will also be released on June 25th. The album will feature twenty seven tracks, two of which will be new recordings of Makeinu and Shakai. These two particular tracks will feature the current line-up of ANTI FEMINISM: KENZI, TAKO, RUIJI and YASU.

Sadie's Latest Single

05.10.2008 - Cage

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : Sadie  

··· Post a comment ···

Despite having only announced the release of their first compilation album a matter of days ago, Sadie has also released details of an upcoming single. Grieving the dead soul will be released on July 23rd in CD and CD+DVD format. The CD version of the single will contain four songs, while the CD+DVD version will feature three songs and one music video.

Moon -kana- to Make US Debut

05.10.2008 - Lacy

source : Wow Rock Records

related artist(s) : Kana  

··· Post a comment ···

Wow Rock Records, responsible for the ANTI FEMINISM and Hagakure coupling tour in the states last December, has announced that Moon -kana- will be making her US debut! No other details are currently available, but more information will follow as it is announced.

MaveRick's Name Change

05.09.2008 - Cage

source : Jishuban Club, Enter Brain

related artist(s) : EAT YOU ALIVE  

··· Post a comment ···

MaveRick has announced the release of a new single, JENNIFER/Hanamizuki, on June 18th. It will be limited to 1,000 copies and will feature the two previously mentioned songs plus a third, MAVERICK.

However, the most important news regarding this release is that MaveRick will be releasing the single under their new band name, EAT YOU ALIVE. This is not the only change that has been introduced to the band; two of the band members have also changed their stage names. Vocalist Kray has changed his stage name to Hiro and guitarist, 696 has adopted Ryouhei as his new name.

Another New Single From Sugar

05.09.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan, Brand-X

related artist(s) : Sugar  

··· Post a comment ···

Despite Sugar only recently announcing the release of antlion, the band has another single coming out shortly afterward. ruddy afterglow will be available on July 16th in both regular and limited editions. The regular version will feature three tracks, one of which will be a live take. The limited edition will contain four tracks, two of which will be voiceless versions. This version will also include a DVD, although information regarding what it may contain has yet to be announced.

Avex Artists Available at US iTunes Store

05.09.2008 - Lacy

source : Avex

related artist(s) : Janne Da Arc   BACK-ON   TRF   kannivalism   Do As Infinity   the pillows   Kirito   Oblivion Dust   PENICILLIN   globe   Every Little Thing   Hamasaki Ayumi   Otsuka Ai   J  

Those wanting to find more Jpop and Jrock on iTunes should know that Avex is the ONLY Japanese record company supplying the US iTunes store with official content from a wide variety of Avex artists. Not only can listeners find some of the lesser known acts, like JAMOSA, BACK-ON, FAT PROP, YUSAKU KIYAMA, SUILEN, SEVENTH TARZ ARMSTRONG, YMCK, NINE MILES, JACKSON VIBE and m.c.A.T, and help them rise in popularity, but Avex has also recently added some of their Jrock and visual kei bands to the store.

Bands and artists such as kannivalism, J, Kirito, Oblivion Dust, Masaki Project, Janne Da Arc, Pencillin, the pillows and Wrench can all be found using a simple search, with more content from these and other artists, like D, who recently made their major debut on Avex, coming in the future.

Not only these, but music by many of Avex's A-ranked artists can also be bought at the US iTunes store: Ayumi Hamasaki, Namie Amuro, BoA, Ai Otsuka, Every Little Thing, Globe, TRF, Do As Infinity, M-FLO and more!

miyavi to Perform in London!

05.08.2008 - Kay

source : Rock Identity

related artist(s) : miyavi  

··· Post a comment ···

To the joy of many fans who thought the United Kingdom was going to be excluded from miyavi's upcoming world tour for sure, Rock Identity has announced a concert in London!

The concert will take place on June 25th at the ASTORIA 2 in London. Tickets are 26,- GBP, and will be sold from May 9th at ticket 9 AM. More info should be available on SJM Concerts soon.

Shimatani Hitomi's Latest Singles

05.08.2008 - Cage

source : mu-mo

related artist(s) : Shimatani Hitomi  

··· Post a comment ···

Pop artist Shimatani Hitomi will release two new singles on June 25th. The first, WAKE YOU UP/Ame no hi ni wa Ame no naka wo Kaze no hi ni wa Kaze no naka wo/Marvelous, will be released in CD+DVD format only. The CD will feature the aforementioned tracks plus the music video for the songs compiled into one clip for a running time of ten minutes.

The second single, Ame no hi ni wa Ame no naka wo Kaze no hi ni wa Kaze no naka wo, will feature the track as an individual CD. This release will be a collaboration between Shimatani and Mitsuo Aida, a popular brush-and-ink calligrapher and poet who passed away in 1991. This version of the single will feature the B-side, Ameoto, plus a bonus duet, a rap and piano version with an artist who has yet to be identified.

More Visual Kei Releases

05.08.2008 - Cage

source : SPEEDDISK, Brand-X

related artist(s) :

BRANCH will release their second maxi-single, Cherish, on June 25th. The single will feature three tracks and will be limited to 1,000 copies. SPEEDDISK has announced that those fans who order the single via mail-order will receive a message DVD.

LiZ has announced the upcoming release of the second single in their campaign release. Manatsu no yoru no yume will be released on June 25th and will be limited to 1,000 copies. The single will contain the title track plus the B-side, DOPE-CANDY SATELLITE. Like the previous single in the campaign, the release will also include a bonus trading card, chosen from five variants.

For those fans who order the single via mail-order on SPEEDDISK, the release will come with a bonus message DVD.

Moran's First Singles

05.08.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, Brand-X

related artist(s) :

··· Post a comment ···

Moran, the band formed by Kanoma (ex-Fatima), has announced their first single campaign. The first release, Element, will be come out on June 25th and contain three tracks. However, those who are are planning to purchase a copy of the single should act quickly, as there are only 2,000 copies available! For those of you who are in Japan, Brand-X will be hosting an in-store event for the release on July 20th at 6:00PM.

Their second single, which is currently untitled, will be released on July 23rd. This single will also feature three tracks and have a 2,000 copy limitation. Brand-X will host an in-store event for this release as well, on August 9th at 6:00PM.

Yuzu's Latest Single

05.07.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site

related artist(s) :

Yuzu will release a new single, Yesterday and Tomorrow, on June 25th. The single will feature two tracks, the title being used in TOYOTA's Ractis commercial. The B-Side, Business, will be penned by band member, Iwasawa Kouji.

the GazettE's Live Photobook

05.07.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) : the GazettE  

··· Post a comment ···

For those die-hard fans of the GazettE, ARENA 37C has announced the release of a special photo book. ARENA37C 2008.6 Zokan the GazettE in YOYOGI will be released on May 29th and will contain photographs taken from their tour final performance at the National Yoyogi Daiichi Taiikukan on April 19th and 20th.

Alongside these photos will come an exclusive live report of the event, backstage photos and a live report of their performance at Osaka-jo Hall. As if this wasn't enough, the photo book will also include post-concert interviews with each member, accompanied with photographs of their latest on-stage costumes.

This release will also include an A2 size the GazettE poster. The photo book will be A4 size with wireless binding and include eighty-four pages.

HIGH and MIGHTY COLOR's New Single

05.07.2008 - jinshen_ka

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : HIGH and MIGHTY COLOR  

··· Post a comment ···

The upcoming single from HIGH and MIGHTY COLOR will be out on June 25th. HOT LIMIT is a cover of T.M.Revolution's 1998 hit of the same name. The first press version of the single will contain a DVD featuring the HOT LIMIT PV with an appearance from T.M.Revolution.

UnsraW to Pause Activities

05.07.2008 - YURA-sama

translation : Lacy

source : Official Blog

related artist(s) : UnsraW  

··· Post a comment ···

Due to Yuki's ongoing illness, UnsraW has decided to pause activities for the time being. The band has been performing without the vocalist for the last couple of months and will finish up their schedule with a live at Takadanobaba AREA on May 30th before the pause. The members plan on resuming activities once Yuki's health allows it and they, along with the fans, are praying for his speedy recovery.

Various New Releases

05.07.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, CDJapan

related artist(s) :

Hybrid group Genki Rockets will release Star Line/Smile on June 11th. Star Line is rumored to be a rock style track, while Smile is said to be a mid-tempo number.

Onsoku Line has announced the release of their tenth single, Loletta, on June 11th.

COLOR Single and DVD Release

05.06.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan, Hakucho

related artist(s) :

COLOR will release Midnight call on June 18th. The single will be released in CD and CD+DVD format and will feature the title track alongside currently unknown tracks. The DVD will come with the music video for Midnight call.

Although previously scheduled for release on May 28th, COLOR's first live DVD has now been pushed back to June 18th. For those who purchase both the single and DVD on the same day, an exclusive mini-poster is available.

New Visual Kei Releases

05.06.2008 - Cage

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : Billy   -OZ-  

··· Post a comment ···

Following the release of Bouquet in January, Billy's next single, Rocking Princess, will be out on July 30th. The single will feature the title track plus two new songs.

-OZ- has announced their upcoming release schedule as well. The band will release two limited edition singles, one in July and the other in September. The first, Bulk, will be released on July 30th and, although a track list is not yet known, the single will come with an original artist card.

The second single, Spiral, will be released on September 3rd. Like the first, no announcement has been made regarding a track list, although the single will also come with an original artist card.

Dolly's Latest Single

05.06.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, Brand-X

related artist(s) : Dolly  

··· Post a comment ···

Dolly has announced the upcoming release of a new single, JULIET. The single is scheduled for to go on sale on June 25th and will be released in CD+DVD format only. The single is currently known to feature the title track plus two new songs. Meanwhile, the DVD will feature the music video for JULIET.

Sadie to Release Compilation Album

05.06.2008 - Cage

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : Sadie  

··· Post a comment ···

In answer to fan requests, Sadie has announced the upcoming release of a compilation album for June 25th. Although the album is currently untitled, it has been revealed that it will come as a CD+DVD with thirteen remastered and reworked songs. The songs that are confirmed to be featured on the release include GRUDGE OF SORROW and a holy terrors. The DVD is said to contain the promotional videos for Meisai, a holy terrors, Silent Eve and Crimson Tear.

Wizard Releases Indies Best

05.05.2008 - Cage

source : Brand-X

related artist(s) : Wizard  

··· Post a comment ···

Wizard has announced the release of with -Indies Best-, a compilation of remastered songs from their early days, for July 23rd. The album will be released in two versions and will contain eleven reworked tracks plus one new song, with. The limited edition will come with an exclusive photo book, while the regular edition will come with a DVD, which will contain around thirty minutes of footage.

Various Upcoming Releases

05.05.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, CDJapan

related artist(s) :

CAPTAIN STRAYDUM will release their fourth studio album on June 25th. The album, Ongaku ni wa kibou ga aru, will be the band's first in over a year and will feature twelve tracks.

Sista Five has announced the release of two upcoming singles., the first of which, Chikyu kyodai/Okonomiyaki Funky Soul, will be released on June 4th. This particular release will only be available in CD+DVD format with the DVD containing the music video, making-of and off-shot footage.

The second single is currently untitled, but scheduled for release on July 30th.

Merry's Latest DVD

05.05.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : Merry  

Merry has announced the upcoming release of their latest live DVD, Many Merry Days FINAL Yokohama Bunka Taiikukan, on July 23rd. The DVD, which will be released in a regular and limited edition, will feature footage taken from their performance at the venue on May 3rd.

Both versions of the DVD will come with one disc containing the performance and the limited edition will come with a bonus disc entitled Many Merry Days THE MOVIE.

Second San Francisco Date on miyavi's Tour

05.05.2008 - Kay & Lacy

source : Official Myspace

related artist(s) : miyavi  

··· Post a comment ···

Another date in San Francisco, California was added to the USA circuit of miyavi's World Tour 2008. He will play a second show at Slim's on May 19th.

Tokyo Decadance European Tour

05.05.2008 - direnwe & Anu

translation : Lacy

source : SiSeN's Myspace

related artist(s) :

The Tokyo Decadance event will make its way around Europe starting on May 15th in Brest, France. The full schedule is as follows, though locations for some dates have yet to be posted:

5/15 - Le Vauban - Brest, France
5/16 - La Locomotive - Paris, France
5/17 - Centre des Arts d'Enghien-les-Bains - Paris, France
5/23 - Ninkasi kao - Lyon, France
5/24 - TBA - Madrid, Spain
5/30 - TBA - Berlin, Germany
5/31 - Les Docks - Lausanne, Switzerland
6/6 - Gloria - Helsinki, Finland
6/7 - TBA - London, England

More information can be found at the event schedule.

machine & AciD FLavoR at Japan Expo, Paris

05.05.2008 - Tanja

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site, Official Myspace

related artist(s) : PENICILLIN  

machine has posted on their official site that the band will be performing at JAPAN EXPO in Paris on July 4th.

Also, melodic rock band AciD FLavoR has posted on their official Myspace that they will also perform at the event, which takes place July 3rd - 6th.

As a note: JAPAN EXPO has yet to update their site with information regarding either of these two bands' attendance and further details are not yet available.

Book Releases From An Cafe and Nightmare

05.05.2008 - Finja

translation : Lacy

source : Sony Magazines, CDJapan

related artist(s) : Nightmare   An Cafe  

··· Post a comment ···

An Cafe will release a photo book on June 27th. An Cafe Album in Europe will include pictures from the band's concerts and photo shoots. It will also come with a DVD featuring backstage footage.

On June 22nd, Nightmare will release their first history and artist book. It will be a two volume set, one including the band's history and the other featuring photos. The set will look back over the band's eight year history from the members' childhoods until the present with interviews and more. The photos included will feature some new shots as well as those from live performances, video shootings and more.

Love Psychedelico to Perform in Los Angeles

05.05.2008 - Cage

translation : Lacy

source : Tokyograph

related artist(s) :

Love Psychedelico's This Is Love Psychedelico, originally scheduled for release in the US digitally, on April 26th and on CD, May 6th, has been rescheduled to May 13th and 20th, respectively.

To commemorate the duo's US debut, Love Psychedelico will perform an unplugged set at Bordello in Los Angeles on May 14th. Those interested in attending must RSVP at: psychedelico@hacktone.com

New Releases From Kaya

05.05.2008 - Yosab & Lacy

source : Official Blog

related artist(s) : Kaya   Sugar  

··· Post a comment ···

It seems that in July, Kaya will re-release his Glitter album, remastered and with newly recorded vocals and song arrangements. Also, in August, he will release a DVD of his Salon de Chocolat one man major debut featuring Sizna of Sugar on April 23rd.

X JAPAN to Perform in Taiwan

05.04.2008 - Tanja

translation : Cage

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : X JAPAN  

··· Post a comment ···

X JAPAN has officially announced the plan to venture to Mainland Asia as a part of their upcoming tour schedule.

The band is already set to make an appearance in Paris on July 5th and Madison Square Garden in New York on September 13th. Further plans have now been made for a performance at the Taipei World Trade Center on August 2nd.

jealkb's Latest Single and Live DVD

05.04.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site

related artist(s) :

··· Post a comment ···

jealkb will release their third single and a live DVD on June 11th. The single, Hana, will feature two songs, Reijuu and Mousou Amelie, alongside the title track. Secondly, Fuyubara no chikai at ZEPP Tokyo 2008.01.26 will contain 174 minutes worth of footage taken from the aforementioned performance. For those of you in Japan, the following prizes are available for purchasing both items.

Prize A: LIVE TOUR 2008 "Kurobara no shiro" Backstage Pass. Invitation to the band's dressing room with a commemorative photograph taken with the group. You will also receive a signed poster in a frame as a bonus present. However, you must purchase your own ticket for the event and those who wish to apply for a place in Osaka must apply by June 18th. Those elsewhere must apply by June 30th.

Prize B: jealkb special collectibles (which will be announced via their official site at a later date). Applicants for this prize must apply before July 31st.

Various Upcoming Releases

05.04.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, HMV

related artist(s) :

INFINTY16 will release their fifth single, Senkou hanabi, on June 4th. The single will once again feature the talent of GOKI and is said to be a single centered around creating a sense of nostalgia and invoking a love for music in youth once again.

THE LOOSE DOGS will return with their latest single on June 4th. Ame nochi niji iro will also feature the talent of Maki Ohguro and will be used as the fourth season opening theme for the anime "Major". The single is set to be released in both CD and CD+DVD format with the CD featuring the title track, Ame nochi niji iro -MAJOR TV ON AIR Ver- and the title track's instrumental counterpart. The DVD will include the music video for Ame nochi niji iro.

Takahashi Hitomi will release her upcoming single, Atashi no machi, ashita no machi, on June 4th. The single will be her first this year and will have the title track featured as the opening theme for the anime "Toshokan sensou". The release will be issued in CD format with the single featuring the title track, mother's car and Miss Lady and the first press including a bonus anime, wide-cap sticker.

Oohashi Takuya of Sukima Switch will release his third solo single, SKY, on June 11th. The song will be featured as the theme song for the movie "DIVE!!", which will premier in Japan on June 14th. The release will be issued in CD and CD+DVD formats with all songs featured on the release produced by Oohashi. Both versions of the release will feature the tracks SKY, Loopy! Loopy!, Eien no hate ni and the backing track for SKY. The DVD will feature the music video for SKY alongside other special content.

Hip-hop trio, SCHADARAPARR has announced the upcoming release of their latest single, Lights, Camera, Action, on June 11th. The title track will be used as the ending theme for the drama "Shukan Maki Yoko".

AI's Latest Single

05.04.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : AI  

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AI has announced the upcoming release of Taisetu na mono for June 4th. Despite the song previously being featured on her latest album, DON'T STOP A.I., the song will be "re-cut" for the release. In order to promote the single, the title track will be used as the theme song for the drama "HEROES" as well as featured in the commercial for AIU Hoken "Ganbare Nippon!". Taisetsu na mono will be released in a regular and limited edition, the first press featuring two new songs and the limited edition containing a bonus track.

Guy's Family Disbands

05.03.2008 - YURA-sama

translation : Lacy

source : Bloom Music Act

related artist(s) :

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Guy's Family has officially disbanded as of May 1st, after not even two years of activity. The band will release a final, best-of album, Final Party, on July 2nd.

Aiko to Perform Insert Song

05.02.2008 - Cage

source : Tokyograph, barks

related artist(s) : aiko  

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aiko, one of Japan's most revered pop artists, will compose an insert song for the upcoming movie, "Hana Yori Dango Final". The song, which is currently being referred to as Tsukushi's Theme Song, will be comprised of previously unpublished material from aiko and will be given an official title in the upcoming months before the film's roadshow commences on June 28th.

Akiko Wada to Perform in the US!

05.02.2008 - Cage

source : Tokyograph

related artist(s) :

Popular singer and actress Wada Akiko will hold her first concert outside of Japan on September 29th. Venturing to Harlem, New York, Wada will perform at the famous Apollo Theater, less than a month before her 40th anniversary in the music industry. She is reported to be the only Japanese artist to have ever achieved a solo concert in the venue.

One of the memorable features of the show will be the guest appearance of the ARC Choir, a unit formed by Addicts Rehabilitation Center, for whom Wada previously worked alongside on the television show aired four years ago. Despite further special features being organized for the event, Wada has expressed her sadness that she would not be able to perform with her idol, Ray Charles.

X JAPAN Release Commemorative DVD Box Set

05.02.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) : X JAPAN  

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X JAPAN will release a commemorative DVD box set titled X VISUAL SHOCK DVD BOX 1989-1992 on July 23rd. The limited release box will feature nine discs spanning the live performances of X JAPAN during their time on Sony Records. The release will also come with an exclusive booklet, which will contain images of promotional flyers and invitation cards from the time of the band's debut.

SID's First Compilation and Major Debut!

05.02.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, CDJapan, Oricon Style

related artist(s) : SID  

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SID has announced the upcoming release of their first compilation album, Side B complete collection -e.B-, which will be released on August 13th. The album will be available in three versions, one CD and two CD+DVD, and will feature new recordings of previously released songs plus one new track. The DVD material to be featured on either the A or B version of the release has yet to be determined.

Perhaps more exciting however, is the announcement that SID made their major debut on May 1st. Despite their attachment to an independent label, the group has established itself as one of the up-and-coming bands of recent years and will embark on a final tour as an indie group on June 2nd and will commemorate their shift to a major label by holding a concert at Nippon Budokan on November 2nd.

Hamasaki Ayumi's Countdown Live DVD

05.02.2008 - Cage

source : Official Site, CDJapan

related artist(s) : Hamasaki Ayumi  

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Hamasaki Ayumi has announced the release of ayumi hamasaki COUNTDOWN LIVE 2007-2008 Anniversary, to be released on June 18th. The artist is well known for her New Year's performances, which to ring in 2008, was held at the National Yoyogi Kyogiba Daiichi Taiikukan before nearly 12,000 fans. For the first time, Hamasaki sang notable songs such as Sotsugyo Sashin, Together When..., untitled -for her- and RAINBOW. The set for the countdown boasted a main stage, plus three additional special stages and six costume changes, of which Hamasaki is also famous for.

Aside from the main performance, the DVD will also come with making-of footage plus bonus material.

Takako Matsu's 10th Anniversary Best

05.02.2008 - Cage

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) :

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Takako Matsu, who is known as both an actress and a singer/songwriter, will release an album celebrating her 10th anniversary on June 28th. The album, footsteps -10th Anniversary Complete Best-, will be released in both triple CD and CD+DVD format. Two CDs will contain tracks taken from her singles over the past ten years, while the other is rumored to feature several of Matsu's personal favorites. The DVD will come with the music video clips for several of her songs plus rare footage of the artist.

hide Memorial

05.02.2008 - JaME Team

related artist(s) : hide  

Ten years have passed since the death of Hideto "hide" Matsumoto. In honor and memory of this talented and highly influential individual, JaME, with the cooperation and support of countless artists and industry professionals, along with our dedicated team, has put together a hide memorial. Over the next few days, we will feature numerous articles on hide amongst them a special hide memorial series of articles featuring comments from various artists and industry professionals about the impact hide had on them and the music scene. We would like to invite our readers to experience hide's music and the impact he still has, through the words of the many people who made this memorial possible.

Readers are welcome to visit the JaME WEBLOG to read what team members have to say, and join our forum where everyone can share their own thoughts and memories regarding hide.

VAMPS' First Release

05.01.2008 - Chenka

translation : Lacy

source : CDJapan

related artist(s) : HYDE   Oblivion Dust  

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VAMPS, the new name for HYDE's solo activities with K.A.Z, will release their first single, Love Addict. The single will include two songs and be available in CD and CD+DVD versions, the CD+DVD version containing the PV for the title track.

ELLEGARDEN Suspends Activites

05.01.2008 - curi

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : ELLEGARDEN  

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An announcement regarding ELLEGARDEN's decision to suspend activities has been posted on both the English and Japanese versions of the band's website.

Band leader Shinichi Ubukata stated the following:

"ELLEGARDEN has been in the process of creating a new album since last year, However, during the band's activities, there arose a difference in opinion regarding the motivation for creating a new album. We no longer feel we are able to create an album that we would be satisfied with, and after much discussion we arrived at the conclusion to end the creation of the album and suspend the band's activities indefinitely.

Whether the band will resume activities at a future point has yet to be decided.

All previously decided shows (including shows not yet announced) up until early September 2008 will still be performed.

We want to thank everyone who has supported ELLEGARDEN from the bottom of our hearts. In order to once again create new music as ELLEGARDEN, each of us wants to work on our own personal growth and development. Thank you for everything."

ayabie's New Single and Live DVD

05.01.2008 - Finja

translation : Lacy

source : Tower Records JP, CDJapan

related artist(s) : ayabie  

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ayabie will release a new single on June 25th. Mikazuki no kiseki will be available in three versions, one of which will include a DVD. A few weeks later, on July 9th, they will release a new live DVD, spring tour Mizu ni tokeru yuki - 2008.04.30 at Shibuya-AX.

Ex-Fatima Members' New Band

05.01.2008 - Finja

translation : Lacy

source : Official Site

related artist(s) : Fatima  

Two former Fatima members have created a new band together. Obscure consists of Cake (Lay) and Zizi Makia (4ge), along with female vocalist Nobara. The band just launched their official site, which is available in Japanese and English, on April 30th and also has a Myspace that readers can check out.