2014 ~Hope, Dreams, Fears and Predictions of the New Year~

2013 is drawing to an end, and soon we shall all be celebrating the New Year of 2014! Of course for some that has already happened, but for others it is just a few hours of waiting!

Of course, the end of another year can only mean one thing on Okay! Musume Time... IT'S TIME FOR MY NEW YEAR'S PREDICTIONS!!! HELL YEEEEAH!!! The excitement ends here in 2013 with this post, but we begin a New Year with these Hopes, Fears, Dreams, Wishes and Predictions all in one place, either hoping that some come true, and others don't. This is the one post of the year where I bring forth what I truly wish for in the coming year, and like past years before this (er... two past years, actually) we shall be looking at what I would love out of 2014, wheter it is Idol related, or for my own personal life!

But before we get into the Predictions of 2014, I want to say that this year has been fun. I do think that it wasn't as good as last year in writing, but in my own personal life and with Idols, a lot has indeed happened. I started to become more sociable myself, and my Idols have also been a big part of my year too with their amazing comebacks into the Media, especially in the forms of Morning Musume and Houkago Princess.
 In terms of writing however, I do think that I have lacked in many places. I feel like I was weak his year, but in the New Year, I do hope to get a bit stronger. Fingers crossed...

So, it's time to bring on the Predictions, Dreams, Hopes, Wishes, Fear... all of it for the on-coming year of 2014! This will officially be my 5th (actually, 6th in August) year since becoming a Hello! Project and Idol fan! How exciting is that? I am already getting old... -sobs-

Bring on the Year, and bring on the Idols! Are you ready for it?

The Hello! Project x UFP
Hope, Dreams, Fears and Predictions '14

1. Niigaki Risa gets married... or at least a boyfriend

Given that our hopes and dreams of a Gaki-Ai wedding have now been shattered thanks to the realisation that our darling Ai-butt is into men and not our gorgeous Lord Gaki, I have come to realise that it would be nice to see my original Oshi settle down into a relationship, or even married life. Thing is, this is only a Hope, a Dream... in reality, I have a feeling she'll do a Yuko on us and marry someone then have a baby just before she hits 40. Boohoo!

Gaki, makes this Dream Come True!!!

2. Zukkini gets a PUSH!!! (Pushing the Chubby character, but whatevers, it's a PUSH!)

... Didn't I wish for this last year? Yeah, I did, and I am gonna continue to wish for it until it happens... and whilst it may have happened slightly in Egao no Kimi wa Taiyou sa, it was only briefly, and my terms of push is equal to that of the push Masaki has been given. So, a few more TV or magazine appearances, a little bit more screen time during videos, and possibly one or two solo lines. The push I want to see is clearly a visual one, because whilst I do adore Zukkini's gorgeous voice, it's clear that she won't get to sing when Masakins, Sakuranbo or Dayashi are there. So visually, on TV or in magazines, I want her to have a push. Give it to her. Nao.

I can Dream~

3. Iikubo Haruna gets a Solo PB

Last year it was Eripon who I wanted to have a PB, and whilst I still do, my desire for a PB this coming year goes to Harunan. Seriously, HOW has she not had a PB yet!? Like... DAYUMN! That body, that face, those legs, that stomach... she needs a photobook, and quickly. And if it has to be a dual photobook, then just snap her with Dawa in rather risky, provocative positions. The fans will love it!

4. Morning Musume get to Kouhaku 2014-2015!

This is pretty much Sayashi Riho's dream, and I know that this year, a lot of fans were disappointed when Morning Musume didn't make it on the show, but newer Oricon Idols did; like E-girls, or NMB48. Whilst I was also sad, Kouhaku generally doesn't affect me, but it would have been nice for Morning Musume to go on... so this coming year, I hope they do. It would bring Sayashi's dream to life, and I am sure many fans will revel in it too.

5. C-ute interest me more

I will admit that this year, whilst C-ute held more interest than Berryz in terms of their looks and PV's, they were one of the boring H!P groups this year. Sure, they didn't rile me up like Berryz and their crap group chemistry did this year, but they didn't exactly capture my undivided attention, either. S/mileage had the magic of Yattaruchan, Berryz had an amazing song in the form of Sayonara Usotsuki Watashi ni, and Morning Musume showed off their dancing skills and the fact that their songs were sounding better than ever. C-ute? They played on the safe side a bit, so I kind of hope that they just... dare to be different, rather than continuing down that sexy route.

I love the sexy route though, so if this doesn't happen, it'll be okay!

6. Michishige Sayumi Announces her Graduation (CALLED IT)

This is more a prediction than a Hope, Wish or Fear... I actually think that this year, Sayumi will announce her Graduation. Whether she graduates in the same year or the next will be up to her, but I do think that this year we shall see Sayumi say that she is leaving Morning Musume because she feels that the new members can now carry it alone. 2013 has been a fantastic year for her, and I am sure 2014 will be as well... but it does feel like this year, it is Sayu's time to announce her departure from the group she loves so much.

And if she doesn't announce it... YAY!!!

7. Morning Musume hold 12ki Auditions... AGAIN!!! (KNEW IT)

Given that I feel like Sayu will announce her leave soon, I think it would also be a good time to once again hold auditions for Morning Musume... but this is a Hope more than anything. I doubt they will do it, but it would be nice to see them hold auditions once again.

8. The Kenkyuusei debut more new groups

Everyone was hpyed for Juice=Juice, and when Tsunku had announced that 2013 would see more new groups, we kind of hoped for more permanent new groups... not just one + some SatoUmi units that won't ever do anything again in terms of single release for years to come. So yeah, I would like to see the H!P Trainees bring out a new group, because whilst I like what we have, Berryz are boring in terms of their visual aspect, and C-ute are getting a bit dull for my tastes... please, bring on a new group!

9. Mizukingdom becomes interesting...

Whilst I am sure many love Fukuhime and her two Mizuki empires on her chest, I find her rather dull. Currently, she is the least interesting member of Morning Musume for me, so I hope that in the new year, she becomes a lot more interesting.

... Oh wow, someone beat out Dayashi >o>

10. H!P/UFP gets a Soloist

This is probably one of those Dreams that will never come true, but hey, I can wish right? And I will wish for a new soloist, given that now UFP have halted Asahi's career in soloism to give her a new unit.

Put bluntly, I need a new Mano. STAT!!!

11. S/mileage bring out more fun songs

Do I even need to explain myself? I like their fun songs, and whilst their new direction is proving positive, this auto-tuned S/mileage ain't got nothing on the cute derpiness of Yattaruchan S/mileage!!! Bring on Fun S/mileage '14!!!

12. Either Berryz lose a member/disband, or C-ute disband (HALF HAS COME TRUE!)

In terms of C-ute disbanding, this is a fear, but also a prediction. For Berryz, it's a prediction; I have a feeling that either one of these groups will lose a member, or disband. It kind of scares me that this might happen. I hope it won't, but it might. Berryz songs are still strong, and the image of C-ute is strong too, but I do think that we may see the end of someone, or one of these groups, in 2014...

I kind of pray it doesn't happen though. Fingers crossed for good things, and staying together!

13. Berryz Kobo get better PV's

Don't pull the wool over your eyes; it's undeniable that out of all the groups except maybe S/mileage, Berryz have the worst videos... they also have the worst group chemistry on camera, so if they finally get a decent PV with a good budget, and better group chemistry, I will be happy. At least, for a while.

But in general these guys are a visual mess, so I hold out little Hope for this one to come true!

14. Ai-butt announces her pregnancy

This is more of a jokey prediction, but honestly, wouldn't it be funny if she did announce her pregnancy just after her marriage? Yeah, I'd laugh my butt off! And then I would be deliriously happy that Ai has a little prodigy running around, singing...

Oh wait, that's Oda Sakura I'm talking about. See! She already has a baby!

15. DaaishiPon get a Rap duo

Wouldn't it be just cool to see these two pretty terrible singers get a rap duet together as a coupling song? Yeah, it would be awesome. I kind of want it... a lot I want to hear that awakward, but still better than Miyabi, rapping! I wish for this sooooo much!

.. Wow, that's a short prediction list for H!P 2014!!! OH welp!

The '48 Family
Hope, Dreams, Fears and Predictions '14

... Yup, the '48's now have their own section here! Treasure it, 48 fans!

1. AKB48 get better songs

I hated their selection of terrible songs this year, I won't deny it, so next year I hope that AKB48 will produce better singles, songs with body, character and charm... not generic crap just to cash in on the popular members. Please, Aki-P, deliver some quality sounds! ONEGAI!!!

2. HKT48 appeal to me more

Much like my Hope last year where I wished to find NMB48 more appealing, the same now applies for HKT in the coming New Year. Really, I would like to like them, but despite their cuteness, I found the group too childish and much like a play group for toddlers. I want to find something I like about them... like Tentoumu Chu! I like them, despite their age range, but HKT... I have no clue what to enjoy about them yet.

Here's to hoping this one comes true!!!

3. Yamamoto Sayaka goes solo

Of all the '48 girls, I think that Yamamoto Sayaka is the one I would like to see go solo the most. She is cute, popular, and I am sure she has a really nice voice to boot! So yeah, I want to see her go solo... it would be a nice treat for the fans, and like many other girls in the '48's, she deserves it.

4. Matsui Jurina takes a break

Whether it is a hiatus or just a months break from activities, I don't care, this girl needs a rest! She works herself to the bone and is clearly the one member of the entire 48's who is the most overworked, and it shows a lot. She is a front girl for two groups, and then she has handshake events and more... and a lot of fans are worried about her, me included. I want her to have a damn rest, and I know she would be missed, but girl... you need a break and a hamburger! Go on, eat it and snooze!

5. Kojima Haruna Graduates

Much like I think Sayu will announce her impending graduation this year, I also feel like 2014 will be the year where Kojima Haruna jumps ship and sails away cackling. I know that may be a mean thing to think for some, but I can't help but feel like KojiHaru will leave AKB48 towards the middle of the year.

Yeah. Middle. I am getting damn specific here!

6. Watanabe Mayu wins Senabtsu (FUCKING CALLED IT!)

This is more of a prediction and possibly a fact; she's gonna win it this coming year I believe, especially given Sasshi won it this time around. I don't want her to win it, mostly because I believe she can't hold down the centre of such a large group, but I do think it will happen.

... And then we will just have a Creeper Smile filled video. Good Lord!

And I think that that is it for the '48's! Short, but sweet! ONTO THE OTHERS!!! 

The J-Pop x K-Pop
Hope, Dreams, Fears and Predictions '14

1. Yuuka Ueno continues her beautiful career

Soloists in Japan, especially younger ones who are new and fresh, are kind of dwindling right now, especially since Idols are so big on the market, so I really do hope and wish that Yuuka Ueno is able to stay on the market and make a name for herself and gain a good following. I adore this girl, she has a Heavenly voice and a charming approach, so I want to see her grow more in 2014 and watch her become a young adult. It will be nice to see more singles out of her too! Please!?

2. I get into SHINee more

There are a few groups I want to try and get into more, with SHINee being the one I want to get into most. They are K-pop, a genre I usually don't find myself looking into, but this year it seems that they have taken my interest a little more than usual, and I want to try and see if I like them more.

I also want to learn they names and faces off by heart too, which will be a challenge in itself, but you never know. It could happen!

3. I get into Idoling!!! a bit more

I'm not going to say that this is a big hope or wish, but I would like to get into Idoling!!! a little more, if anything for their music. I don't follow them like I once did, back in my earlier days of enjoying Idols, so it would honestly be nice to try and ease myself back into them and see if I like their music. If not, then I guess I just outgrew them.

But I want to try.

4. I love Dream5 even more!

This year, Dream5 caught my attention more, but in 2014 I want them to reign supreme! I already like them a lot, but I want to go to the next level; Loving them! They deserve it, so hopefully in 2014 my love for them will flourish! Here is to hoping!

5. READY TO KISS release a CD + PV

This one might not happen, given that it seems this group is more performance based than what HouPri are, but I would honestly like to see a solid single and PV release from this group, even if it is low budget and generic. I am pretty sure that many Sakipyon fans want this, too!

6. Houkago Princess introduce new members! (CALLED IT!)

This is actually very likely to happen, given that HouPri have added millions of members each year since their debut, so I would like to see it happen again... even if I do like the current line-up. Still, it's nice to see different, fresh faces once in a while!

Speaking of new members...

7. Michishige Saho becomes a full member

I want to see SahoShige become a full member of HouPri, though this one may just take a while; she's still an Apprentice, which means she needs to become a Cadet before she can graduate to full member status. Still, with HouPri's system it isn't impossible, and so I would like to see her become a fully-fledged Gen 6 member before the end of the year, or the start of 2015... either way, debut the girl fully!

8. HouPri bring out more singles and PV's, and go back TIF '14! (THIS BITCH CALLED IT!)

Another HouPri one!? Yeah, of course! I would honestly love to see Houpri release more in 2014, because this year they were so promising. I don't expect a major debut any time soon, but I would enjoy to see the girls release new stuff, and of course make it to TIF 2014! They went this year, so to see them there in 2014 again... that would be amazing! So bring it on, HouPri!!!

9. I watch LinQ more

Rather than getting into this group more, I actually want to watch them more. LinQ as a whole are interesting, they have a good look to them, and their songs can be really fun! But I just don't watch them enough, and I really don't think I want to get into them until I have seen more of stuff... sadly with LinQ, I go on/off them a lot, but if I try to watch them more, I think that I will pay more attention to them.

10. Fudanjuku bring in a new member

Given that Fudanjuku lost Renji this year, I really do hope that they bring in someone new even more now. I hoped for this last year as well, but instead of gaining a member, we ended up losing one, so this year I do want them to bring in a new face! I think that Fudanjuku are perfect as they are now to be honest, but I like the idea of a refreshing, new face joining this beautiful team. Someone who could be a little brother to Ryouma-kun, perhaps?

11. Ono Erena releases more amazing singles

I loved the releases from Erepyon this year, so of course I want more of it in the New Year... I just hope that she continues bringing out great songs. I don't hold out for a second album, that would be too soon, but another three or four singles would suffice... ;)

12. StylipS release more in 2014

This year, StylipS didn't realease much, and I felt withdrawn from them. So in 2014, I would love to see this glorious group give us more in terms of singles. They are a great group, and I know that YuiKaori's departure greatly hurt them, especially since they were the two most popular members, but I do want 2014 to be a brighter year for them.

Also, I know that Arisa has her solo career, and Maho has her side-band plus singing for games, but I truly would like to see more from StylipS. It's a shame that this year, they really did not shine as much as they did during their debut year.

12. Otome Shinto continue to amaze me and release catchy cute songs

I actually want to fully fall in love with this group in the New Year, but I do want them to also continue releasing cute and catchy songs that amaze me, too. They are very addictive, regardless of how untalented they are, and I really like their look and sound. Their childish ways amuse me in a way that no other kiddy groups do (Hi, HKT!) so I want that to continue into the New Year. Please make me even more addicted, Otome Shinto!

13. I get into more Japanese boy groups

... How long will it take me to actually go through with this one? Either way, I'm going to hope for this until it eventually happens, so there we go! Here's to hoping!!!

14. Nogizaka46 continue their amazing songs and PV streak

Is this asking/wishing for too much? No? GOOD!

Also, add in 'Fall for NG46' in there. Let's see if the year will be kind and shock me into falling for them properly!

15. Naaboudoufu@Nana release a new single

... Yeah, I kind of missed her this year. A lot. And I would love to see her release a new single! I still adore her vocals and her amazing ability to just bend those yummy legs.

Please, give me more Nana songs? Pweeeease? ;w;

My Personal
Hopes, Dreams and Wishes of 2014

1. I write more for other blogs that I am a part of

This year, I really did feel like I neglected the other blogs I am a part of, so one of the things I want to do the most in 2014 is blog more on those sites. Writing with others is a great opportunity, one that I have been slacking on so much this year, so I resolve to write more for these blogs. I really hope that I can do this.

2. I write more in general

Given that my future career plan is to become a writer, whether I am writing in script, Journalism or even stories, I want to write more this year, especially creative writing. I want to create stories again like I used to and basically just try and better myself in my writing. This is one thing that I desire to do the most for the next year, other than to write more on the other blogs I am a part of, that is.

3. I see my friends more + go travelling (HAHAHAHA OH YEAH CALLED IT)

I like seeing my friends, so I want to try and see them more in the New Year before I (hopefully) go to University. I also want to travel this coming year, as one of my friends has invited me to go travel with her to France. It would be nice to go, so that is a dream/wish I really want to come true.

4. Finish my Request Chronicles (before November '14)

This one is kind of self explanatory... xD And yeah, I need to finish them. As I said, this year I slacked, and I want to do better. So what better than to actually finish the requests?

5. I get into University (sexy face, Chii) and keep up with blogging

I have been accepted into my University of choice, but that does not mean I can go; I first need money, so I hope that I can get that together and then go off to University. It will be an amazing, scary opportunity, but I want to do it so that I can gain a bit more experience in the writing field (I will be doing Creative Writing and Film Studies, Joint Honors) and to try and grow a little more as a person. It will also mean that I have to fend for myself, kind of. That will be the scary part. But I want to try it.

I also want to go to University and continue my blogging, though I know I will be busier. It will be tough if it happens, but I want to try it. I really do!

And so, with that said and done, ends Chiima's boring year-end post... YAY!!!

So yeah, another year and another predictions/wishes posts. Hopefully 2014 will be filled with many fun surprises instead of chaotic ones, or ones that make us weep. I also hope that the year of '14 brings us even more Idol happiness than this last year has brought us! Here's to a New Year filled with Idols and love once again. KAMPAI!!!

Do you yourself have any New Year's Predictions, Hopes or Dreams for 2014? If so, let me know if you want! It will be fun to read! If not, then just enjoy what the New Year brings you all!

Here is to all of you and your New Year. I hope that it's a good one for you guys, because you are all amazing! -clinks glass-

Much Love from 2013 to 2014 onwards,

Chiima~

The Okay! Musume Time PV Awards 2013

All thoughts and opinions within this video are A) My own, and B) -shocker- MY OWN! Don't like? Simply put; Don't read! It's as magical as that!

Because of my blasted laptop and how it continuously dies when I attempt to create or save a video, I won't be doing a Video version of my Top PV's for 2013. However, my fingers still work, so guess who's gonna type it all out? Oh yeah~

Actually, I'm not doing a 'Top 10' of the best PV's' this year. I am instead going to be doing a PV Awards. Why? Because then I can title the categories in which the PV's come in, that's why! That, and I actually only had two PV's I hated with a passion this year, so they have the ultimate awards of being... well, just terrible.

Also, because of my indecisive ways, there is no certain order for this Award system, because I had no clue where I would place any of these. However, the Top of the Top and the Bottom of the Bottom will be at the very end, because we always save the best till last, right? RIGHT! So, let's go, shall we?

So, that said and done (wow, that was quick) let's get into the new PV Awards of 2013, shall we? What PV's will we see in this list today?

Jump for the rest of the Post and begin!~

Okay! Musume Digest #80

Minna, what time is it!? IT'S DIGEST TIME!!! Are you ready to get your Digest goin' on?

This week, in Digest Idol News...

Angela Aki to go on hiatus! Berryz to release a new single next year! Up Up Girls to perform in Taiwan! AKB48 to hold their 3rd Kohaku Utagassen! Shiina Pikarin to release a digital song, and a little more! Are you ready to Digest?

Okay! Musume Digest #74

Minna, Digest Dayo! Are you ready to Digest the week away?

This week, in Idol News...

Previews for Sayumi's up-coming photobook! The covers for Miyabi's photobook, revealed! Riho to get a third photobook!? Dream5 and E-girls reveal PV's for their new singles! Weather Girls to release their fourth single! Tasaki Asahi returns to her hometown! SKE48 watches!? Niigaki Risa in a new stageplay! READY TO KISS have their live debut! Bakusute Sotokande Icchome reveal covers to their new single! Yumemiru Adolescence to release their second mini-album, and more! Are you ready to Digest?

Okay! Musume Digest #73

Minna, Digest Dayo! Do you want to Digest with me?

In this Weeks Idol News Digest...

Houkago Princess members have been promoted! READY TO KISS to have their live debut! Beckii Cruel is releasing a game!? Song previews from Green Tea Amabassadors Airi and Yurina, and also Idoling!!! Palet's major debut PV Preview! Mitsui Aika is excited by topless Ikemen! A former NMB48 member returns as a Kenkyuusei, and more! Are you ready to Digest?

Chiima's Top 13 Idol Summer PV's of 2013

All thoughts and opinions within this post are my own and no one else's. You do not have to agree with me, but respect my opinion, and I shall in turn respect yours. Don't want to respect it? Then I will gladly be a cow to you about it! Have fun~

Summer is ending, and seriously, I am pretty sad about it, because this Summer was actually really damn awesome! It was sunny here in England (dafuq, I know!) and I spent a lot of time outside, attempting to tan when really, the only part of my body that tanned was my feet... that's a true story, bro. Oh, and we also had a lot of awesome Idol PV's for the Summer! What's not to like about the Summer gone bye, aye? So, that all said and done, shall we start the post?

Now, before we start the rank itself, I do want to say that I have not watched every Japanese Summer Pop PV that has come out through June-July-August time, though I have watched a good few, so if you don't see something in this list that you have seen and enjoyed, I do apologise... also, this is a Top 13, meaning that I probably have seen more than the 13 you see here, but I did not include them because they probably did not stand out to me as much as the ones I will present here did.

I would also like to note that I will not include any Hello! Project PV's in this because, whilst I do love that Umbrella of Project and Units, there are a lot of PV's that have come out, and if I were to do a Top 13, I would most likely make a separate post because there are just so many of them that have come out in time for the summer.

That said and done, let's take a dive into my Top 13 Idol Summer PV's for 2013! Will any of your favourite PV's be present?

#13

Dream Catcher by Icle Girls


I have no doubt that you may be pondering over who the heck these 'Icle Girls' are, and honestly, so am I... I just happened to find this PV by chance and fell in love with this group upon first glance. Okay, so they can't sing for toffee (few Idols can) but I just found myself thoroughly enjoying this cute little PV and the girls themselves. They are nothing original, don't get me wrong, but they have a look and sound that I quite enjoy. This has actually been one of my well-looped songs, and whilst I originally found the add-on of the Hawaiian Hula music a tad odd and out-of pace, I have come to really enjoy the song and the quirky addition of the Hula music.

It's a nice PV in my opinion, and whilst it may be cheap for some, I actually like the setting of the PV in the swimming pool, and I like that they made it s summery as possible without getting in the pool or going to the beach. That, and all the girls are cute.

#12

Rappa RenshuuChuu by Watanabe Mayu


I have a feeling some of you will come at me with pitchforks and torches because of how low this PV is in the rank, but honestly, it's mostly because this is one of Mayu's more forgettable PV's... but in all seriousness, it is a fun and energetic PV. It has a lot of cuteness and charm to it, and is an enjoyable watch. I actually really like listening to the song when I remember it exists, too, but yeah... as a song and PV, Rappa RenshuuChuu is a boatload of fun, and really easy to get into. I'm actually surprised that I thought I would hate this when I first saw the preview (true story, bro).

What I like about this PV, other than the fact that it isn't a blatant Summery Bikini-filled PV (Surprising, considering Mayu is in AKB and all) but instead something fun and cute, and actually nt at all summer-themed. It's just childish and fun, and actually quite imaginative! It makes for a very nice PV if you ask me, and I like that Mayu looks like she is having a lot of fun as the little Magician Trumpet girl she plays as (once again, like previous MV's, she has something in her back to represent a bow or whatever... I do like it, though). I also like the pastels used in this video, making it pretty refreshing, but still colourful and fun to look at! It's a very nice music video from Mayu, and a nice addition to the abundance of summer PV's that we have been pelted with this year!

#11

Savage Heaven by Bump.y


Heading over to the darker side of Summer PV's, Bump.y's latest is a rather chilling and cool music video that shows a more mature side to the girls since their last PV, COSMO no Hitomi. Upon first seeing this video I was highly impressed with Bump.y, as I usually am when they bring out something new. Once again, these girls have grown as performers and brought another stellar performance, but also a new approach and look that I have never seen them take on before. It is rather scary how mature they have become, to be honest, especially Matsuri, who is still so little but somehow managing to make me believe that she is growing up into a radiant young lad... I mean woman.

Now that said, there really isn't much going on in the PV itself other than the girls travelling a cavern, alone with just a flash-light, and dancing in said cavern, but really, it is the atmosphere and the feel of the video that makes me enjoy it. The girls all look and sound amazing, and they really help give the video that chilling, lonely feel that is needed for such a dark and rather mysterious music video. I know it may be simple for some, but I like this PV... and I like that it is dark and different, as opposed to sunny and bikini-ridden.

#10

HANABI!! by LinQ


Returning to the summery side of Idol PV's, LinQ have produced one of my favourite loop-the-fuck-out-of-it songs for the summer, and the PV ain't half bad, either! Featuring a more traditional look in the form of Matsuri costumes (and plenty of Japanese Summer food favourites!) this is, to me, a great Summer PV that shows off a fun side to the hot weather... without the damn bikini's! It was honestly quite refreshing to see something like this come out of a bigger group member-wise, and not have to see the girls giving in to the fanservice just to present a summer single. What's more, it's all done in a studio, and yet still looks and feels like a Summer-filled PV that people can enjoy. I guess that is the power of props!

Also, the girls are darling in this - they really bring the video to life and make it what it is; fun, friendly and happy! It is an energetic video that just fits Summer perfectly and works well for LinQ, and for me, it is one of the best PV's of Summer 2013 because of that. Then again, I am a sucker for happiness and good group chemistry! Also... look at all those cuties! How can you not fall in love, aye?

#9

Manatsu no Tenta Kansoku by Tsuribit

One of the newest groups to grace 2013, Tsuribit have become a fast favourite of mine, and their summer PV for their physical debut single really won me over when I was able to find and see the full version! Whilst it may not have much to do with fishing (the groups concept is Idol x Fishing), the video is cute and well done, and makes me think of happy and breezy summers that pass by as you look for school romance. It is a rather bitter-sweet PV, though, which surprised me because most Idol PV's have a happy ending and a nice little storyline to make us feel happy, but in this one the girls either get their loved ones, or they don't, and for some it is more of a bitter, realistic ending, and you see them give up pretty quickly... horrible, I know, but it does make for quite a good storyline and allows the girls to try their hand at acting.

I enjoy this PV, because whilst it may be kids performing and acting, they do a very good job of it and make a pretty nice video. They may need to brush up on their dancing a bit, but I find the song a nice change from kiddish, poppy, loud and energetic summer songs, and the video isn't overly childish or colourful, which surprised me. Tsuribit as a whole are a pretty impressive group, and this Summer PV stood out to me because of the effort the girls put in, the bright look of the video, and the nice little storyline. Overall, it is a lovely Summer video that is enjoyable to watch for all!

#8

Love is in the Air by AAA

Now, really, did you think that this would not appear? Because it would be silly if you did doubt my love for AAA in this list! This was one of the first Summer PV's I saw, and I instantly fell in love with it I have a thing for AAA and their Summer songs, it seems. Okay, it may be generic and probably not the best that AAA have pulled out, but for me it has that refreshing, happy summer sound that is both pleasant and appealing to my ears. It also has a pretty fabulous, natural-looking PV that I pretty much go gaga over with any group when they are done right, and yes... this video has been edited and filmed to perfection!

It is airy, bright and gentle. The sun does not glare at you to the point where you have to wear sunglasses to simply watch it, and everyone looks fresh, summery and bright. To me, that is really all you need for a Summer PV. Nothing needs to be flashy, overly-colourful (though I do love me some colour!) or overly-happy and over-the-top... it just needs to be refreshing and simplistic, and AAA's Love is in the Air is simplicity at its best, and just so beautiful to watch. It is enjoyable, and makes me think of refreshing summers with my friends. It also makes me want to go out and find a tree to tie a tyre swing on. That will make me feel like a kid again, but hey! It'll be damn fun, you know?

#7

2 Gakki Debut Daisakusen!! by Otome Shinto

Remember when I talked about Tsuribit, and I mentioned how, despite their age, they didn't resort to childish and colourful videos? Yeah, well Otome Shinto are the complete opposite... then again, Otome Shinto are that one annoying group who, despite their inability to sing, still sing in an ungodly pitch that does not fit or suit them at all... and yet, I can't get enough of their second single that was released this summer.

Then again, I am a sucker for happiness and colour sometimes, and this is one of those times. Also, who can deny that wonderful lego-encrusted sailor fuku-esque costume, aye? I can't! Also, this is a pretty damn good PV, and I can't deny that it is one of my favourites of Summer 2013! Sure, the girls need to learn how to sing, but their performance here is pretty damn amazing, and I love the childish, happy feeling of the entire video. Everything about this just screams bubbly, happy, wonderful childishness, and I just can't get enough of it! I love it so much, and when I first saw the full music video I was highly impressed by how great it was! It looks amazing, the girls have a lot of energy and personality in it, and they really stepped up from their last single, which I did quite like as well... also, that ending. Gotta love it!

#6

ERENA by Ono Erena


It feels like it has been ages since this PV and the album it is from came out, but really, it was only last June... and that's still summer to me, and also, I am totally in love with this song and video!

When it first came out, I cried out of pure happiness, because I loved it so much. To me, this is a really beautiful PV and just makes me incredibly happy when I watch it. Also, I have a major love for Ono Erena, so of course that makes this PV even better when watching it, but really... it is very visually pleasing with the green grass, the gentle, refreshing look it has the cute antics between Erena and a wolf. It is bright, open and sweet, and Erena looks stunning in this video! The song is beautiful as well, but the whole feel and look isn't overly summery or bright like other Summer PV's... in fact, if I had to gander a guess at the season for this PV, I would say it is a Spring PV, but given it was out in June, I kind of class it as a Summer music video, but a very pure and Angelic one. Certain scenes do, however, remind me of midsummer thanks to the sunset tone towards the end of it.

Overall, I do love it, and if you are wondering why it is only at #6 on my list despite being a video I love... honestly, there are better Summer PV's that have come out. This one just has my undying love beside it which helped it to rank this high! Haha!

#5

We are Dreamer by Dream5

Energetic, colourful, happy, sad at times in the storyline... yes, of course Dream5's latest single PV has to be in here! This is one impressive music video to me, and whilst I find Dream5 a talented bunch regardless, I think that this is their best PV to date! It shows the strength of the group beautifully, and is the first time I have actually seen them act in a video and portray emotions other than 'serious dancers' and 'happy dancers'. Also, damn, this PV is colourful, and whilst simplicity and beautiful backdrops in the form of hills and nature appeal to me a lot in summer videos, so do balloons and bright colours that pop and smash me in the face. Yep, I love it. And why shouldn't I? This video is just so... bright!

Given how poor their last song and PV was (sorry, Dream5 fans! But not a fan of that one!), I was extremely impressed and happy with the result of this PV! It shows great improvement in Dream5, and just shows that they are still amazing regardless of that one little burst bubble they had with their last single. This video is full of personality and talent, and it really made me sit back and take a good look at this group, and helped me to remind myself just why I enjoyed Dream5 as a group so much, and why I need to follow them more...

Long story short: THIS IS AN AMAZING MUSIC VIDEO! I would sell my soul for it, to be honest! XD

#4

Kimi to Ita Sora by Yuuka Ueno

One of my newer finds, Yuuka Ueno's debut single Kimi to Ita Sora is probably one of my favourite singles this Summer, but the PV is equally as beautiful as the title song is. It is gentle and soft, and has a pretty neat story line to go with it about a girl who is lost in chasing her own dream. The music video includes footage from a short movie that is included in the debut single, and creates a nice storyline that everyone can enjoy. Paired with the beautiful solo shots of Yuuka singing in the refreshing daylight outside of a school building, I find that the director has made a very beautiful PV which flatters Yuuka and fits the song well.

I am in love with the song itself, but I do think that PV does the song justice, and for a major debut, I think that Yuuka Ueno has really done well. She has a natural approach to the camera and just looks absolutely perfect in front of it. She has this passionate, earnest look about her that is translates well on camera, and she just looks so happy and at peace with herself. Yuuka Ueno as a whole is very refreshing, but she truly is a wonderful performer in this, and Kimi to Ita Sora is a PV and song that I highly recommend you all take a look at. Hopefully, you won't regret it!

#3

Girl's Rule! by Nogizaka46


Didn't expect that now, did you? Yes yes, I know, my reputation with extreme hatred for NG46 precedes me beautifully, but honestly, I can appreciate a good MV when I see one, and darlings, this is a damn good music video... in fact, one of the best I have seen this summer and one of the best from this ex-joke of a group. In fact, I would even go as far as to say that this was the first Summer PV that stumped me and impressed me greatly... and really, whilst I do like a lot of these PV's on here, very few actually impressed me and made me re-evaluate the group. Heck, this PV even impressed Nia, and she loathed this group as much as I did... to the point where she black listed them from her blog, and then reviewed them because she was that impressed.

Yup, this group killed two Bloggers with one PV. YAY!

That said, this PV is extremely refreshing and different from what I come to expect from an AKS group. It is fun, pleasant to watch, bright and summery without having to resort to bikini's! In fact, the girls wear a lot of clothes in this, normal looking clothes at that, which I find weird for an AKS group, once again... but the girls are dancing in dresses in a pool, which is actually quite nice to watch. I also love that the pool has a reason to be in the PV... given that the pool is the main plot point for the storyline in this. Ah, yes... the story... it is GOOD! I love it! Okay, it is about saving a pool from being demolished, but it is a pretty good storyline and shows how these girls come together to overcome the bad guy, and how they save the one thing they enjoy the most together in the stifling summer heat. Overall, this is a pretty damn amazing PV, and definitely a winner for me.

#2

Up Up Typhoon by Up Up Girls


I think I would be a tad crazy to not include this song in my Top 5 for this list, because I do love it... Hell, I even bought it, I love it that much! This is an amazing song, and the PV is pretty damn incredible! This brings together all elements that I love about Summer PV's in one video; colour, nature, happiness, energy and simplicity. Seriously, it's like someone threw skittles into a field for me (I am that easy to please, believe me) and added music to create this rainbow-filled video of happiness and wonder! Really, it is just so... so perfect! Okay, two of the members bore me to no end here, but the rest of the girls in this gorgeous video make up for their blandness and really pull together the video to make it perfect!

But not only does the video have wonderful elements that make me think of a fun and great summer, the song is also damn amazing! Everyone sounds great here (bar the bland ones) and all of the members have a great amount of energy and happiness, and you can clearly see that they are enjoying the video, and that in turn allows me to enjoy it along with them! There is so much silliness going on here that I can't think of a nicer Summer PV to enjoy for 2013! It is amazing, and has everything in it that I could ask for. I think that it helps that these girls are talented, too, so we don't just get a visually appealing PV, but one that has a lot of talent behind it, and not just pretty faces, like most other Idol groups and PVs.

It makes me happy, and that is why it is one of my Top 2 in this list of Top PV's for Summer 2013!

...

And so we have come to my Number 1 PV for the Summer of 2013! I have a feeling you al; *might* know what it is, so without further ado, here is my #1 PV of 2013!!!

#1

Bokura no Eureka by NMB48


Believe it or not, I was set to HATE this PV when it came out. Why? Well, I thought that it would go down the same route as Manatsu no Sounds GOOD by shoving in a blasted Bikini shot, totally ruining the atmosphere and tone of the video and destroying my love for it... but nope. AKS learned from a past mistake and didn't even put in one bikini shot here! Seriously, it is pure storyline and epic shots! The girls are all survivors of a shipwreck and are fighting for survival, kind of like Lord of the Flies or Battle Royale in a way, and are also trying to overcome their hatred of each other in some situations. It is a PV all about the girls coming together and trying to make a bad situation good, and getting over their differences in these dire times of pain and hunger.

As a video, this is beautifully shot and directed, and there is a great location as well. It is so well done and has such a movie-like quality about it that is enjoyable and also epic. It leaves you wondering what will happen to the girls (especially at the ending climax) and how they will get through their troubles. The only issue I seem to have with the video is that it actually has a break in the middle, and honestly... it annoys me to no end! I like to listen to a song and have it continue without a break, but I guess if that is the only issue I have with it, then really, it isn't that bad of a PV, is it? Anyways, regardless of the break in the middle, this is an amazing PV. It looks good, the storyline is strong, the location is great, the girls all gave a stellar performance, and the ending is just wonderful and really sets a darker tone for the music video. Everything about Bokura no Eureka is amazing, even the song, which is so light and a lot more refreshing than other AKS summer songs... overall, this is a winning PV, which is why it is my Number 1 for the Summer PV's of 2013!

And here my Top 13 Idol Summer PV's of 2013 post comes to an end! These are my Top 13, and whilst I may not have really watched a lot of Summer PV's this year, these are the ones that really stood out to me outside of the H!P bandwagon. I'm sorry if one of the groups you enjoyed this Summer was not here, but again, I have not watched all Summer PV's... if I had, I would be one tired hermit in the basement!

So, that all said and done, do you have any Top Summer PV's that you enjoyed this Summer of 2013? Please comment with them if you like, but until next time... ja ne!

Chiima~

PING!!! Recommended Jpop♀ Reading: August 2013, Part Two

Dream a Colourful Dream with Dream5 in their new PV 'We are Dreamer'!

If you do not like what I write, then do not read. I can be crude and rash, and I swear like a sailor when I want to, so if you are offended by anything like that, simply turn away. If you can handle my idiocy and whatever I say, then stay and enjoy. Also, my opinions are my own, and no one else's. Don't like my opinion? Go suck a lemon, then!

For this review, I have focused solely on the PV and barely even mention the song. If I ever review the song, it will be when I have found a source for the single to listen to. Thank you~

Really, I should not be awake at this time, writing up a review... actually, I really don't care if I stay up late to do a review, but I have a car trip to another county tomorrow so that I can spend time with my friends from when I was in school, who I love dearly...

But I also love you guys, and I have been neglecting my review duties as of late. Also... I kinda found a PV that, when I watched it, I had the great feeling of 'wanting to review something so badly'. It is truly nice when that happens, you know?

Really, after how astonishingly bland and boring I found Hop! Step! Dance↑↑, I don't think that I had prepared myself for what We are Dreamer would be like... or, at least, I did not think that it would be as EPIC as it is!

Seriously... I did not expect it. At all. I was terribly disappointed with their previous single, and actually forgot about it because it was so disappointing, so I was quite surprised to see that this group had released something else, and without knowing what the heck I would be in for, I just clicked play on youtube... and yeah, I feel. Pretty damn hard. Seriously... this is just so good, and I have a feeling that this PV will be in my Top 10 PV's of the year because it is just so damn GOOD!!! Honestly, I am in love.

... and usually, I just listening to the song for a PV. I barely watch them unless they really draw me in, and heck, this drew me in.

... and, confession time guys, this PV kinda sorta made me want to screen cap it. A lot... to the point where I have 107 screen caps.

That's the most screen caps I have done, period. Holy cow! I will die in this screen cap-fest of a PV review, so please, pray for my soul if I don't make it...

So, that said and done, shall we take a look at this Monster of a PV review and see what is hip and happenin' withDream5 in their new song and PV We are Dreamer. Will you become a dreamer, too?

Dream5 Headquarters... where Dreams are made, clearly.

Oi, where's Dream5's shiny-ass plaque!? This paper is not befitting of their talent and awesomenosity!!!

Mikoto: "Kotori! I heard that you were bitching about me in the ladies' toilets earlier about my skirt! What the heck is wrong with it!?"
Yuuno: "... Ah shit."

Oh dang, look like a fight is a'brewing! And hey!!! I didn't know that Dream5 acted in their PV's? This is certainly a first, or at least it is for me...

Kotori: "Mikoto... I'm sorry, but... your skirt poofs out awkwardly from the back, and it does not look great. Really, you need to find a skirt with a better material..."

Women fighting over clothes is never a good thing, dear readers. Remember that.

... We women are scary beings.

Mikoto: "... But I like this skirt! ARGH, it's prettier than yours!!!"

Oh dear, Kotori, why must you offend Mikoto's skirt? Look, she's going to cry!

Mikoto: "Out of my way, peasents!!!"
Akira: "Nooo, my bouquet!!!"

Akira: "The bouquet I made with my own two hands... ruined!!!"

I was unaware that Akira was a florist on the side of being an epic dancer and the Harem Master of Idol groups.

Momona: "Oh guuuurl, no you di'nt!"

I don't think that Momona is overly impressed with this development of the flowers, either. Whoops!

Yuuno: "Oh crab cakes!!!"

Really, guys, Mikoto didn't mean it! It wasn't like she purposefully thought 'DEATH TO ALL FLOWERS!!!!!' now, did she?

Mikoto: "..."

Awww, poor Mikoto... she didn't ask to have her skirt made fun of... ):

I see the blood of the flowers... Oh wait, I mean the petals...

Okay, so first Mikoto kills the flowers, and now she is killing balloons? GIRL, get your act together!

And so the 'plot item' falls...

Oooh, Mikoto, I like your converse!

... are those... GIANT ASS BALLOONS???? *^*

Hey, it looks like someone has found Mikoto's diary! Hopefully they don't decide to read it and discover all of Mikoto's hidden secrets, such as her beauty regime or how she was able to infiltrate the Fountain of Youth...

Oh wait, it's only darling Yuuno! She would never betray Mikoto and read her diary or look in it at all, right?

Dream5, doing the Irish jig! A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see, people!

Yuuno: "... So THAT'S what a penis looks like!!!"

Oh dear, Yuuno uncovered Mikoto's hidden stash of erotic Yaoi pictures!!!

Mikoto: "... -sniff- I... I will DIE down here... serves Kotori right... -sniff-"

I do think that it is a tad melodramatic to be going into the storage room to hide out and cry, but to be honest, I would probably do the same if I was upset and wanted no one to see me XD

Mikoto: "And all dem girls go Blah blah BLAH!!!"

I want all those balloons, seriously o-o

Mikoto: "Gods of the Universe, please, let me know if I should forgive Kotori for her misdeeds..."

I am seriously loving Mikoto's hair in this PV.

Mikoto: "Nnnn... NO!!! I will NEVER forgive Kotori!!!"

Then again, I am really loving Mikoto herself. She is standing out a lot more for me lately...

To be quite honest, damn, this girl is cute!!!! Seriously, she gets cuter with every MV! I am amazed, stunned, even!!!!

Mikoto: "... -sniff- Ko-Kotori is so meeeean..."

This scene nearly broke my heart, I really felt like Mikoto was truly sad in this... Please, Mikoto... don't cry ; A; -hugs Mikoto close-

Momona: "Oh no! Kotori and Mikoto are fighting! Quick, everyone, what should we do?"

And here is another stand-out member. DAMN Momona is lovely to watch!

Momona: "Don't cry for them, dear readers, for everything will be okay!"

Momona as a performer... well, she's spectacular. I really like her.

Mikoto: "... Lonely... I'm Mr. Lonely... I have nobody of my ooooooooown..."

How miserable ; A;

Kotori: "I don't mean to be a Bitch... oh wait, yeah I do~"

I do like how this scene contradicts the sadness with these loud tones of yellow bursting forth with COLOUR, HAPPINESS and YEEEEEEELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW 8U

-loves Yellow-

Kotori: "... dumb cow."

I don't know if this is relevant at all, but is it bad that I immediately noticed the make-up in this sene and tried to figure out the brands? XD Cos seriously, I swear that I can see a Maybelline mascara there o-O

D'awww, poor Kotori! She looks so depressed...

Also, Kotori is seriously pretty in this.

YUUUUUUUUUUUUNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!! -bows for eternity-

This girl is damn cute, no question. How is it that someone this adorable exists!? And she's a fierce dancer to boot!

Momona: "Aye, whadda'bout ME?"

Momona, you are one fierce performer... MY LIEGE!!!! -bows for eternity-

Momona: "... My spidey-senses are tingling, Akira..."
Akira: "Momona, you'e not Spiderman."

I wonder which Dream5 member Akira will end up getting with when he's like, 20? Then again, he may be put off of them since he works with all of them...

Momona: "... I hope Mikoto is okay..."

How come I never noticed how seriously stunning this girl is, aye? She is gorgeous!!!! o-o

Are Dream5 going to launch into the legendary Can-can any moment now?

Dream5: "Put yo hands in the AIR like yo' just don't CARE!!!"

YES!!!!!!! YES, THEY ARE!!!!!!! WOOHOO, CAN-CAN DANCE!!!! Kick those legs, Akira!!!!

Yunno: "PEACE!!!!"

The enthusiasm and cuteness of Yuuno is just so... <3

I do love this shot. Simple, but sweet... and d'awww, Mikoto ; A; don't cry, dry your eyes...

Morning Musume is always relevant when crying is about xD

How many peace signs can one kid do in a PV!? Seriously, any more of these peace signs, Yuuno, and I may just have to start another drinking game, not with winks this time, but peace signs! Do you want all of my readers drunk and on the floor? DO YA????

Yuuno: "... Yes~"

o-O

Akira: "And... WALK!!!"

Looks like they want to take a walk to the left and leave the studio, to me XD

Kotori: "Heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey, look at that... it's Mikoto's ugly skirt, on ebay!"

I like how over-the-top Kotori's expressions are in this. It is pretty darn funny to watch.

Kotori: "... Hmph! I will never speak to Mikoto or her ugly skirt again..."

I am not as convinced with Kotori as I am Mikoto when it comes to acting through their expressions, to be honest.

In terms of acting through expressions, Mikoto wins hands down. She really knows how to use her face in a situation like this. Speaking, though... she's okay xD

Momona: "Mufufufu... Chiima WILL be my fan, I am sure of that!"

I love how confident Momona seems when she dances... really, she just owns it!

It looks like this is a 'Who has the biggest boobs' contest.

Momona: "Should mine be THIS low???"
Mikoto: "Awww no, no... WHERE ARE THEY!? WHERE DID THEY GO!!!?"
Akira: "Hey, don't look at me, I'm a guy!!!"
Kotori: "WHHHHY? WHY DO I HAVE NO BOOBS?"
Yuuno: "Hah! Puberty, bitches!"

Is it just me, or does Akira look mega awkward through most of this? XD

Momona: "WAAAAAAH!!!!"

When Momona tries to be spontaneous and, in my opinion, fails XD

Pfft, show off...

o-O WOW!!! That is some damn upper body strength!!!

Yuuno: "Hey, aren' I cute!?"


... So we quickly go from awesome upper body strength to the cutest thing on Earth? Works for me!!!

Mikoto: "HOLLAH!!!!"

The sheer cuteness of this girl is absolutely shocking...

Mikoto: "One, Chuu, Three... CHUUU~~"

D-DOKI DOKI!!!!! -dies of infatuation- This girl... so... CUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wait, why is Akira biting his lip? This is not a sensual moment, boy!!!

According to my sister, it is because Mikoto and Kotori are actually fighting over him, and he is actually dating them all... hence the lip biting... XD

Momona: "... There is no more hope, Akira... Mikoto... she will not forgive Kotori..."

Akira: "What...? No, Momona, you must be wrong, your Spidey-senses..."

Akira: "... Oh yeah, I forgot, they don't exist, do they? Damn..."

Admitting defeat already, Akira!?

Yuuno: "Hm, one balloon, two balloon... too many balloon!!!"

Yuuno: "OKAY, that's enough of that!!! Lt's get back to the storyline, shall we?"

Yuuno's smile seriously lights up my world... <3

Kotori: "... What do you want, Yuuno?"
Yuuno: "I found something of Mikoto's you might wanna check out..."

Hey, Yuuno... DON'T show Kotori the yaoi, please!!!

... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA OMFG!!!!!! YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is why Kotori is an amazing person XD OMG HER EXPRESSION!!!!!!!!!!!!!! <3

Be right back guys, dying XD

Awww Momona, how sweet... wait, yellow notebook... isn't Kotori's member colour yellow?

Kotori: "Hey... is that book... yellow?"

Like a magpie to a shiny ring.

Yuuno: "Yes, Kotori, it is yellow... like your member colour."

Does this mean... could it be...? MIKOTO IS IN LOVE WITH KOTORI!?

Yuuno: "The Pink member fell in love with the Yellow member, but as they were Idols, t'was never meant to be, so the Pink member locked all of her love away in her heart, deep down..."

Yuuno: "Hoping that maybe, one day, she would be able to unlock that love and give it out to the Yellow member in full, wishing for love in return..."

Hey, can I get myself a Yuuno, please? She is so cute, I want one ; w;

It looks like Dream5 are Zombies trying to take flight XD Well, all but Akira. Akira is raising his pet budgie to the skies XD

This girl... she is a serious beauty. To me, she is the most beautiful member of Dream5! Momona~!!!!

Momona: "I hope that one day, someone will love me as much as Mikoto loves Kotori... ahhh... I hope it is Akira..."

That look of longing and passion... ah, Momona... please hold onto that look for me... <3

Kotori: "It's the same colour as my nail polish... huh, what's this picture?"

Really, if this is Mikoto's notebook, why not give her a pink one? Obviously being a key item, it has to match Kotori because it has everything to do with Kotori!

Kotori: "... huh? What the heck... is this?"

OMG!!! CHIBI DREAM5!!!!!!!!!!!!!! KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

Wow, Yuuno has not changed XD

I actually wonder how the heck those balloons manage to stay there? They must be glued to something, surely.

Mikoto: "Chu~u!"

... And I am gone again. Sorry, guys! The cuteness got to me!!!

... Okay, I might have to start a drinking game for however many times Yuuno does a peace sign in any Dream5 PV. I apologise if you all get alcohol poisoning because of this.

Yuuno: "YEEEEEEEAH ALCOHOL!!!!"

... o-O KOTORI!? Darling, are you okay!?

Kotori: "Y-yeah... damn dust... -sniffs-"

Kotori: "Yuuno... this is Mikoto's?"

Clearly, Kotori needs clarification that the notebook/diary is actually Mikoto's

Yuuno: "Yes, it is... she has it because of you, Kotori. She loves you."

I do like Yuuno's role in this, because she seems to be their 'voice of reason' or, at the very least, the one who tidies things up.

That, or she's a match maker. (starts to play Mulan's Honor to us All song)

Momona: "Oh no... are we too late!?"
Akira: "NO! We can't be, I refuse to believe it!!!"

The worry on their faces looks real... d'awwww... ; A;

... Oh crap, I think they are truly too late! No, Mikoto! DON'T GO TO THE LIGHT, IT IS BAD!!!!! STOP!!!!

Akira: "... There truly is no more hope..."

Ah damnit ; A;

Kotori: "Oh welp, more lines for me!"

Akira: "Er, hello, Kotori? Remember me, the Guy? Yeah, I want Mikoto's lines now. I kinda think I deserve them..."

Oh my God, HIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Akira!!!! He looks so happy!!!

Momona: "Bitch, please, this balloon deserves the lines more than you. If anyone's gonna get 'em, it's ME!!!!"

Wow... cute... so... damn... CUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUTE!!! -dies-

Kotori: "Mikoto!!!"

Kotori to the rescue!!! WOOHOO!

Mikoto: "... Huh? Ko-Kotori?"

YES!!! Mikoto woke up!!! Thank the Lord!!!

Yuuno: "The Pink member snapped out of her trance upon hearing the Yellow member call her name! It was as if fate had brought them together... RAWR!"

Akira: "... Ah, fuck. Does this mean Mikoto's still getting lines?"

That awkward smile... gehehe XD

Mikoto: "You better believe I'm getting the lines, bub!"

Mikoto: "Kotori... what are you doing here...?"

Oh wow, Mikoto looks a little bit stunned at the presence of Kotori. Why is that, Mikoto?

Yuuno: "Guys, we've done it! We've broken the spell and brought them back together!!!"
Momona: "Girl, do you know what you've done!?"
Akira: "Now we shall never have the lines!!!!"

Kotori: "Mikoto... I'm sorry... I... I didn't know that making fun of your skirt would offend you so..."

Wow, that skirt truly is awkward, isn't it?

Kotori: "But now I know your true feelings, Mikoto, and I don't intend to let them go... to let you go..."

The look of pure love is on Kotori's face, people.

Mikoto: "Kotori..."

Mikoto is unsure of whether or not to believe it. Is Kotori truly in love with our Pink heroine!?

Yuuno: "Please, Mikoto... accept the love of Kotori..."

LIP BITING!!!!!!

Momona: "Welp, there goes my lines."

Kotori: "This is yours..."
Mikoto: "..."

D'AWWW, CHIBI!!!!!! <3

Kotori: "Come on, Mikoto... let's get outta this joint and marry!"
Mikoto: "Aaaah, Kotori! <3"

Oh wow, they made up quickly o-O

Mikoto: "Kotori... I LOVE YOU!!!"
Kotori: "I know... who doesn't!?"

Their happiness is rather elating, isn't it?

Kotori: "Waaaah, BALLOONS!!"

... Kotori's face XD AMAZING!!!! <3

Mikoto: "... I think I ran into that guy earlier..."
Kotori: "Ahahahaha I ain't picking that up!"

Is it just me, or are those spotlights a tad annoying?

Yuuno: "FINALLY!!! The couple have arrived!!!"

Running into the loving embrace of their friends, d'awww <3

Yuuno: "Now, which way shall I swing?"

Okay, that is cuteness overload! Yuuno and Mikoto hugging is sooo cuuuuute!!!! <3

Mikoto; "... Please give me back to Kotori, now, Yuuno... please..."

Yuuno, the matchmaker, rightfully in the middle... HUZZAH! And wow, I do like Akira's pants...

BALLOONS!!!!

... Holy cow, that took around an hour to complete. Then again, I did kind of screen cap over 100 of these bad boys, so yeah... my bad there.

But, to me, I do think I had good reason to screen caption so many pictures of this PV, and that good reason is that really... it was just such a fun PV! How could I not screen caption so much of it? This PV right here, it is a true delight to watch... in fact, it is one of the few PV's this year that I have seen and wanted to see more of, because in general, PV's can impress me to a certain extent, but they don't impress me so much that I want to quickly flit back and watch them all over again to take in how glorious it is.

We are Dreamer is a PV that, for me, is one I can flit back to and watch over again, and still be amazed and affected by it the same way I had been affected and amazed the first time I watched it.

Usually, for me, I can listen to a Jpop song over and over again, and not really watch the video again because I am quite content with the song. In all honesty, Jpop videos are not really that great... sure, they can be fancy and wonderful to watch a few times, but very rarely do I find a PV that sticks with me and makes me want to watch it over and over again because it is just so fantastic. Most PV's stick to a certain formula and style, unless they are AKB48, who switch up their styles and stories every now and again. With Dream5's We are Dreamer, however, I have found myself compelled to watch the video over and over again. It draws me in with its colour, vibrancy and also with how fantastic it truly is. This, for me, is something new from Dream5, because a different direction has been taken with We are Dreamer - I have never really seen this group as one that acts out their videos, but more so as a group that perfects their dance and technique to deliver quality to their videos, and yet here they are acting, and have proven themselves to be pretty good at it - especially Mikoto. Whilst simple, the storyline is relate-able to many people, especially teenage girls who fight with their friends, and also loveable. Upon watching this PV for the first time, I don't think that I could ever imagine seeing Dream5 do a video like this, one with a story and a nice meaning behind it, and I was surprised by it.

Dream5 are already a pretty extraordinary group in my opinion. They are a group filled with talent and personality, and they have a lot of skill and quality behind their performances in their PV's which truly shines, but adding acting has really made them stand out for me after watching We are Dreamer. I would have just been happy with a video that was dance and close-up based, you know, the groups usual formula, but to see them take on a storyline and act it out so well has made this PV stand out for me in a way that no other Dream5 PV has, and right now, I regard thiss PV very highly. It is enjoyable, amazing to watch, relate-able, and something that I go back to because I just enjoy it so much.

Looking at the visual aspect of the video itself, I really love the contrast between the storyline scenes and the performance scenes. When it comes to the storyline, we see the worry everyone else is feeling, and the sadness between Kotori and Mikoto who have a fight, whilst the performance scenes portray the happy, vibrant and colourful characters that is Dream5 and its members. This contrast allows us to see that, despite the sadness we have in our lives and the fights we get into, we can overcome it and become colourful and happy people who enjoy life and forget their worries, and dream of the future and what it brings. Whilst the acting scenes may be sad for us to watch, these performance scenes bring us back to how happy and energetic the song is, and how we should feel towards the song, and reminds us that everything is all right.

An aspect that I like about this PV, other than what I have already mentioned, has to be how the dance portion of the PV seems to be the group in the present. Towards the end of the video, we see Mikoto and Kotori run to Akira, Momona and Yuuno after they make up, and they join each other in the studio filled with balloons; it feels like the group reunited, and then began to perform the song together because they were united again and were no longer fighting or worrying over each other. I liked that, during the entire video, we are unaware of the fact that the dancing Dream5 are the Dream5 of the Present, whilst the Dream5 worrying over Mikoto and Kotori are from the past. I felt that this was a nice touch, and worked well with the PV, and I do think it was executed beautifully.

It is a wonderfully directed music video. It has personality, colour and really stands out, and the storyline is simple but sweet, and works effectively. I love the direction that Dream5 have taken with this video, and I think that this is one of the groups best PV's to date as it shows off their skills as dancers, performers and also shows off their unity as a group and the different personalities that they have, and how well they work together, and the hurdles they can overcome when they are together.

This PV is worth the watch, and if you have yet to check it out... well, please, check it out! It is certainly something that you should not miss.

Will you become a Dreamer, too?

Chiima~

PING!!! Idolminded Recommended Jpop♀ Reading: August 2013, Part One