Sea*A Have Officially Disbanded

On July 1st, 2013, Sea*A's official Facebook announced that the Singaporean Anime Idol group would officially disband. Since their debut in August 2011, the group has gone on to release four original singles, a mini-album and their first album. The girls have sung for anime, and have also performed live at Anime lives.

Here are the messages left from the Sea*A staff team and Valerie regarding the choice of disbanding the group.

Sea* Staff Message:

Notification of Sea*A disbandment 

As of today, 01 July 2013, the disbandment of Sea*A has been decided.We deeply apologise for the sudden notification. 

From their debut in August 2011, Sea*A was founded as the first Anisong Idol group from Singapore, consisting of members that love Japanese culture and strongly wish to be a part that culture. 

With many thanks to their fans, Sea*A was able to be active in a country foreign to them even though they were unable to speak Japanese when they first arrived in Japan. 

Once again, thank you very much for your support for Sea*A.While Sea*A has been disbanded as of today, Valerie will continue to be active in a solo capacity. We sincerely hope for your unwavering support. 

01 July 2013From all staff of Sea*A

Valerie's Message:

Dear TEAM Sea*A, 

This is perhaps the last time I will be calling you guys this. We have decided together to end our official activities as Sea*A. On behalf of the other girls, I sincerely apologize for our sudden decision. It has been a life changing two years with everyone and we will remember all of TEAM Sea*A dearly in our hearts. We will never forget all the memories we had together. We also want to thank the people that have supported us through and through, not only our fans but also the staff that worked hard and supported us in these 2 years for our activities as Sea*A.  

This decision was made together because each of us has decided to take a different path in each of our lives. And I only wish for your understanding and support for our individual decisions. As of 1st July, I will be continuing this journey as a solo artist and I hope that you will join me in my new journey. The four of us are still great friends and they support me in making this decision. 

I am sad but also grateful that I have met these girls and have crossed paths with them in my life. It has been a truly amazing experience to grow together with them in this short 2 years. It was a heartbreaking decision for all of us to make. But they say if you are brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. We only part to meet again. 

Thank you for all the love and opportunities that all of you have given to us as Sea*A in these two years. 

Please continue to support us individually. 

Love, Valerie

  ...

To be honest, I don't know what to do. I don't know what to write... because I think that this is one of the worst things I could come across this year yet. I liked Sea*A, maybe not as much as Morning Musume, but I really liked them and enjoyed whatever they brought out. Heck, their songs and PV's have been a beacon of glory most of the time, and the girls are such a joy to watch as Idols... actually, it is hard to believe that they aren't Japanese sometimes, they are just so wonderful and professional about everything...

It was so sad and heartbreaking to see this news on my Facebook news feed and to realise that this is true, that they have disbanded... I'm still processing the idea that Sea*A, an amazing group made up of Singaporean and Malaysian girls, is not here any more. Seriously... they were so perfect together, and so dang talented... Why, why, why?

Of course I can't do anything, I am a fan and all I can do right now is sit back and wish them luck with what they want to do, but as a selfish fan, I just want them to stay together... Okay, their run has been a good one. Two years together, despite being a non-Japanese Idol group, is damn good! They have released four singles, a mini-album and a full album, and they have made a name for themselves. They have sang popular anime songs, made fans and sang for anime, and they have some damn good songs, too. They are an awesome group, and to be around for just two years and to have accomplished this much... yeah, it's amazing... but two years feels like it is too short.

I will miss them so much... they are an amazing group and I am so glad that I have been around as a J-Pop fan to see their run. They have brought me absolute joy with their songs and their bubbly personalities in their PV's. They are so talented and so wonderful, it is a shame that they are disbanding... but I can't stop it, no one can, because it has already been decided, and it has already happened. Sea*A is no more, and it saddens me so much.

Sea*A was such a good group, and I already miss them. I didn't realise how much I treasured them or their talent until now, when it is too late... goes to show that sometimes you may overlook something so great, for something that is nice, but not as good.

Goodbye, Sea*A. I loved you whilst you lasted. Maybe not as much as others, but I did treasure you. It hurts to know that you won't be around any more... now, let me cry in peace as I listen to the most beautiful song that you produced, Friendship Birthday ~Arashi no Yoru ni~.



Ja ne...

Chiima~

PING!!! Idolminded Recommended Reading: July 1st, 2013

Okay! Musume Digest #43

This week's Digest is brought to you by no one! -insert random theme tune here- Da-i-ge-st~o

In this week's digest: Plenty of Up Up Girls news! Including another bloody Harlem Shake... Fujimoto Miki becomes a bird... kinda? Takahashi Ai to star in a new CM! Shimazaki Haruka aka Paruru stars in a CM or two! A lot of Morning Musume news! And more!!! Are you ready to D-i-ge-sto?

Welcome back to another week of Digest goodness! I hope you have all had a good week~ In random, out-of-blog news, I have been reading manga... again. It seems I am having frequent bursts of wanting to read manga lately, and once I get into it, it's hard to get out of reading it because I get so invested in the story... so much so that I forget what the time is, and therefore I nearly forget that, HEY, I have a Digest to maintain and update through the week! Not good!

Also, I have been incredibly lazy this week. But I'm just naturally lazy anyway...

Okay! Moving on time~ Wheeeeee!!!

Video of the Week

Te wo Nigitte Arukitai by Goto Maki

Yet again this week has been pretty mixed in terms of what I listen to, so it was hard to pick out what I could use for this week's video. So I figured why not use this song? It's better than Mermaid Melody (actually no wait, I love Mermaid Melody just as much...) or at least it is something you all might have heard, so yeah... here it is! It's such a fun song, and I love the energy and cuteness it has. The creepy tree though... I can pass on that! Seriously, what is up with that tree?

But it's a good song, I adore it and I hope that someone, possibly Zukki, Masaki or Akari, will sing it in a H!P concert once. It would be fun to see someone cute and high in energy (ZUKKI) perform this!

If you have a suggestion for a Video of the Week, please leave a comment!

Picture of the Week

Not amused

Clearly you do not know how to use photoshop, so why not quit and let the Wota do the damn editing!?

This week's picture is brought to you by the Colorful Character concert, where we can clearly see the incompetence of the UFP editing staff. Seriously, WHO THE HELL WOULD DO THAT?

And yet, this is UFP. I should not be surprised...

But still. Let's fire them ALL!!!

Poll of the Week

Because of the news of 12th Gen auditions this week, I will be basing my poll around that, so here's the question!

Are you looking forward to the 12th gen Auditions?

Simple question, with four answers lined up that you can choose. This won't be a multi-choice question, believe it or not, because really... you only need to answer once when it comes to these sorts of things, right? So answer whichever one fits you best!

ONTO THE NEWS!!!!

NEWS OF THE WEEK

Up Up Girls present DO THE HARLEM SHAKE Idol Edition #3.

URRRRGH!!!! Not even the first one was funny!!!!

I am not posting these damn things anymore...

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It has been announced that Juice=Juice will be the opening act for Morning Musume's Spring concert tour, including Nippon Budokan.

Sweet gig there, girls!

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The track list to Morning Musume's 53rd sinngle Brainstorming/Kimi Sae Ireba nani mo Iranai has been released. Please check it out!

Track list:

1. Brainstorming
2. Kimi Sae Ireba nani mo Iranai
3. Rock no Teigi – Tanaka Reina solo (Reguar A)
3. A B C D E-cha E-cha shitai (Regular B, Limited A, Limited B)
3. Tokimeku Tokimeke – Michishige, Fukumura, Ikuta, Iikubo, Ishida (Limited D)
3. Itsumo to Onnaji Seifuku de – Sayashi, Suzuki, Sato, Kudo, Oda (Limited E)
4. Brainstorming (instrumental)
5. Kimi Sae Ireba nani mo Iranai (instrumental)

DVD Track list:

- Brainstorming (Music Video) (Limited A and B)
- Brainstorming (Dance Shot ver.) (Limited A)
- Kimi Sae Ireba nani mo Iranai (Close-up ver.) (Limited B)
- Rock no Teigi – Tanaka Reina solo (Music Video) (Limited C)
- Brainstorming/Kimi Sae Ireba nani mo Iranai (Making Of) (Limited C)

The amount of B-sides seems to be a lot less, however as this is Reina's final single I am not surprised that the two shuffle songs on the single aren't smaller groups because the focus is supposed to be on Reina.

Hopefully everyone can reserve a copy of the single that interests them the most.

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Juice=Juice now have a full profile on the Hello! Project website. Please check it out!

Sadly they do not have full body or mid shot profiles ); Just the face shots, boo hoo!!!

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Up Up Girls promote and leave their comments for the release of their single SAKURA DRIVE/Dateline in this video for Kawaii Girl Japan! Please check it out!

Once again Up Up Girls are as energetic and lively as ever! Please watch the video and consider buying their first Spring single and feel excited with the Up Up Girls for this release!

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Details on Tanaka Reina's up-coming Fanclub bus tour event have been released! The event will take place on May 25th and 26th in Aichi Prefecture.

The details include prices and such, so definitely check it out if you are planning on going! I'm too poor to go though... Oh wait, I don't care about Reina enough to even want to go!

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Live footage of Up Up Girls performing their new song, SAKURA DRIVE, has been uploaded! Please check out the performance and enjoy!

The song is a lot tamer (and cooler) than I thought it would be! It sounds really good, and I am really enjoying the rap that has been added into the song, it gives it a distinct feel but it still sounds fresh and spring like! Do you guys like it too?

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(From Top Left to Bottom Right: Limited A, B, C, D, E and Regular Edition)

The covers to C-ute's single Crazy Kanzen na Otona have been revealed! Please check out a sexier C-ute and see which cover is your favourite!

... THEY'RE NAKED o-O!!!! My lord what the HELL? I don't wanna see Maimi naked, or MaiMai for that matter!

... Nakky is a maybe though...

But seriously, wow, I did not expect the whole 'naked vibe' with C-ute. This is pretty, er, big for H!P. I never expected it... WOW!

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Takahashi Ai will star in a CM for ST's aromatic insect-repellent Mushuda.

Apparently, the cute little bug Noto Arisa will also star in the CM alongside her dressed as a cute Beedrill!!!

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Up Up Girls will be doing a collaboration titled Up Up Girls x Twintail Collaboration. T-shirts will be available that show cartoon images of the girls with twintails!

Twintails are damn wonderful, you guys! I am actually tempted to buy one of these because they look so good!

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There will be a Berryz Kobou x Pretty Cure collaboration television program airing nationwide! Regions and broadcasters will be available from the source.

They really are going all out to try and show that Berryz are somewhat relevant.

... Oh wait, it's just me who finds them irrelevant.

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Berryz Kobou will be guests at Tokyo Idol Showcase at Sibuya-AX on May 29th 2013.

Oh cool. Too bad I don't care... and Miya's hair looks awful in that profile pic still xD

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It has been announced that Fujimoto Miki will be the voice of the character Mia the bluebird for Disney's animated series Chisana Princess Sofia.

I forgot that Miki was still in work. I actually did... though she has had a baby, so of course she would be out of the entertainment business for a while. Anyway, congrats to Miki!

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The cover and track list for Sea*A's first album has been revealed and confirmed!Please check out the details and consider purchasing the single!

1. DELI-DELI☆DELICIOUS
2. Entry!
3. DREAM SHOOTER
4. Ding Dong Ding
5. Soda Sound Fountain
6. Happiness♪Run-Run-Run!
7. WAY TO VICTORY
8. God Knows... -Sea*A English Ver.-
9. Butter-Fly -Sea*A English Ver.-
10. Renai Circulation
11. Friendship Birthday ~Arashi no Yoru ni~

Bonus Track:

- DREAM SHOOT -English Ver.-

- Friendship Birthday ~Arashi no Yoru ni~ - English Ver.-

- Friendship Birthday ~Arashi no Yoru ni~ -Chinese Ver.-

It's great to see that Sea*A are still around singing! The girls are releasing their first album, which includes three cover songs including God Knows... from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. It's great to see that Sea*A are able to cover popular songs that all anime fans know and enjoy!

The album will be available from 27th March 2013.

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Here is a performance of Sea*A performing their English cover of God Knows... Please check it out and enjoy the performance!

Sea*A have become really strong singers, it makes me so happy to see them perform like this. Ahh, I feel happy that they have come so far since debuting~

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THE Possible have released the MV for their new single Zenryoku Banzai! My Glory! Please check it out and enjoy!

I love that it's outside, but I can't help but notice the Seishun no Serenade choreography thrown in there. Mano's not been gone that long, guys! Also, Seishun Collection makes an appearance in the jumps! Is this a Seishun thieving video or what?

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Michishige Sayumi and Tanaka Reina promote their upcoming fanclub tours through the UFfanclub youtube channel, so please check it out!

I swear, Reina tells Sayu off too much XD But it's cute and funny so I don't mind~ Keep entertaining me till you leave, Reinyan~

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C-ute's Suzuki Airi has been featured on the cover of Young Jump magazine!

Holy fuc---- WHAT THE HELL DID THEY DO TO YOU, AIRI?

That is probably one of the worst images I have ever seen of an Idol in or on a magazine... minus Kasai Tomomi's hand bra child cover... yeah.

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C-ute's profile images have been updated!

Mai is still the hottest.

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UFactory's youtbe channel have uploaded a digest for Tanaka Reina's Graduation Memorial DVD. Please take a look and consider purchasing the DVD!

I want her sweater... that is all.

Actually, I do love her hair in this. And her smile. And I want to know... is Kamei gonna randomly appear? Please say that she will. That will make me cry tears of absolute happiness.

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The digest for Morning Musume's Morning Musume DVD Magazine Vol.49 has been uploaded to the UFactory youtube channel. Please check it out!

Content included: Eripon awesomeness, Oda Sakura is revealed, Reina acts cute and some Zukki fun. Also, there's a lovely bit where we see some of the girls react to Reina's graduation announcement. But it isn't that long I think.

Actually it's a cute little digest... and there's a nice bit with Sayu in it that I like haha.

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The digest for Morning Musume's Morning Musume DVD Magazine Vol. 50 has been uploaded to the UFactory youtube channel! Please check it out!

I want this DVD Magazine, for the pure fact that there is content including performances from the girls that are not included on the Colorful Character performance DVD. I want that Sayu/Haruna duet! Yes please!

Zukki is also helluva cute in this, and so is Haruka haha xD

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Up Up Girls promote their new single SAKURA DRIVE/Dateline on their yutube channel. Please check it out!

As lively and energetic as ever, I see~

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The CM for Berryz Kobou's Berryz Kobou DVD Magazine Vol.31 has been released, so please check it out!

Did Yurina scream and stomp off!? AWESOME!!!

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MAiDiGi TV have released footage from Berryz Kobou's release event for Asian Celebration at Ikebukuro Sunshine City. Pretty Cure make a guest appearance at the event.

I want to rip those horrible, ugly pigtails off of Momoko's head and slap her with them. They seriously infuriate me XD

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It has been revealed that Mano Erina will appear in Gravure the Television Vol. 26, out on the 16th of March.

Does this mean underwear shots?

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MAiDiGi TV have reported on C-utr's Sakura no Hanataba stage play. Please check out the footage!

That is one empty classroom, just saying. The sound is also too damn quiet, I can barely hear what they are saying!

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Footage of the Up Up Girls' photoshoot for Young Jump magazine has been uploaded! Please check it out!

How old is this exactly? Also, Akari <3 Legs <3

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It has been revealed that LoVendoЯ will perform at NAON no YAON 2013 on April 29th 2013 along with other acts such as SCANDAL.

... They're getting an awful lot of perfomances aren't they? It makes me happy though! I'm glad that the group will be able to perform a lot and show off their skills and a squirrel voice! YAY!

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A Brainstorming/Kimi Sae Ireba Nani mo Iranai boxset will be available for purchase. It will come with a photo session ticket.

Bosxets are really becoming the norm with Hello! Project now, so I really am not surprised. I wish I could afford a boxset, though!

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Yamaguchi Miran, Shiraishi Rika and Saori Kizuki have been promoted to full members of Houkago Princess!

This news has been around a while, I just don't bother updating with HouPri because they're annoying me with the little amount of public news they have, and their lack of PV releases... -cries-

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MAiDiGi TV have released more footage from C-ute's Sakura no Hanataba stage play. Please check it out and enjoy!

Nakky's character looks freakin' wonderful. She's so over the top and cute, I want her XD

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There will be individual handshake events for Brainstorming/Kimi Sae Ireba Nani mo Iranai. Please pre-order through Chara-Ani!

I want to go see Zukki, Eripon and Haruna! I would cry if I got to see Zukki in person!

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It has been announced that Okai Chisato will appear in the June issue of CanCam magazine. The magazine will go on sale on April 23rd 2013.

Is CanCam a big deal? Wait, it's Chissa in a magazine on her own! Of course it's a big deal! YES!!!!

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Bakusute Sotokande Icchome, THE Possible and Love La Doll will perform at Nagoya Idol Style 2013 Vol.2 on March 24th along with other Idol groups including ALLOVER, Danceroid, Nagoya-Clears and many others!

I have Love La Dol's Love Magic stuck in my head now... yay! Anyway, I am happy with this news. It means more exposure, and also, Love La Doll goodness! If you can attend then I highly suggest you do!

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Up Up Girls, Dorothy Little Happy, Dempagumi Inc, 9nine and SUPER☆GiRLS will attend Kawaii POP Fest 2013 Hong Kong from May 17th until the 20th.

Are they actually going to Hong Kong? Please say that they are going to Hong Kong because this is an interesting line-up... well, if you don't count DLH that is.

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UF LICKS Episode 5 has been uploaded! Please check it out and enjoy the show!

Tasaki Asahi takes on presenting by herself in this weeks episode and promotes her singles, lets us in on another sneak peak from the SATOYAMA Music Festa Vol.0 that includes LoVendoЯ and their performance! Also plenty more performances from the Music Festa. There is also a CM for Peaberry's Cabbage Hakusho ~Haru Hen~. Another great week of updates from UF LICKS!

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JIJIPRESS have uploaded footage containing a short performance performance and interviews from Berryz Kobou's recent Ikebukuro Sunshine City release event for Asian Celebration. Please enjoy!

Those costumes are ugly as heck, but whatever... at least the song is catchy, and Risako looks better than ever.

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MAiDiGi TV have released more footage from C-ute's Sakura no Hanataba stage play. Please take a look and enjoy!

With the amount of Chissa, Mai, Airi and Nakky the previous video's have shown, I actually forgot that Maimi existed.

By the way, I love the set that they have! Amazing!

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The official blog for LoVendoЯ has been opened!

I did not expect this... but I am happy. I also think that the font looks tacky, but then again... isn't that what Reina is all about?

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Ogawa Mana has opened up a Twitter account and created a youtube channel!

Wait, OgaMana is still around!? I thought that she and Canaria Club had become defunct and sucked into oblivion... Well, I am happy with this news, though extremely surprised! I really enjoyed OgaMana's music back when I was a H!P noob. OgaMana... welcome back you cute, chubby cheeked cherub you! Let's hope you will produce more fabulous music video's and single content for your fans!

I hope that these accounts mean that Tsunku is going to give her more today. That or she has a new agency

Twitter | Youtube

Tsugunaga Momoko has been featured in the latest PIZZA-LA CM!

I would watch it, but I noticed those disgusting pigtails in the thumbnail and decided to save myself from wanting to slam my head into the desk.

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MAiDiGi TV have released footage from the first day of Morning Musume's spring concert tour, including performances from LoVendoЯ and the Mirai Shoujo audition announcements.

Tsunku's rendition of Help Me!! is perfect, though not as wonderful as Uchoten Love was. Also, Zukkini's reaction to the audition announcement was perfect. You run up them steps, girl!

Also, why was Sakura crying?

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JIJIPRESS have released footage containing making of clips and comments for the CM for Dancing Good which includes their song Hop! Step! Dance↑↑. Please check it out!

They are all so cheerful, I love it!

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MAiDiGi TV have footage that contains an interview of C-ute concerning their stage play Sakura no Hanataba. Please check it out!

I liked the footage of the play, but it's nice to see the comments as well... even if I can't understand what the girls are saying.

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Up Up Girls and other artists such as Negicco and Tokyo Girls' Style will perform at Yatsui Festival 2013 on June 22nd 2013.

Up Up Girls perform a lot, don't they? Then again, they're pretty damn awesome live.

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LinQ will release their documentary LinQ Zero ~LinQ Link Vol.0~ on April 10th 2013. The documentary follows their 2011 debut to Uehara Asami's graduation concert in February 2013. It also features footage of their auditions and live performances.

I had no idea that LinQ were creating a documentary, but it's great; hopefully all fans can buy a copy of it and enjoy watching LinQ's journey as they have worked hard to earn their major debut.

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The short PV for Alice Project's Steam Girls HIGH and LOW has been uploaded, so please check it out!

The weird and wonderful world of Alice Project is here! Hopefully you will enjoy their colourful and... well, weird, PV!

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The short PV 9or CM) for HKT48's major debut single Suki! Suki! Skip! has been revealed! Please take in all of the colour and youthful cuteness of the video!

This seems extremely childish and cutesy for something produced by AKS, however HKT are currently the baby group with the youngest member ratio, right? So it's all good! The song is so-so, very safe and typical of AKS, but not terrible. Quite catchy, actually!

Who's looking forward to the release? pssst the B-sides sound the same as each other, and like toned down versions of Suki! Suki! Skip! to me

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GREE has released the TVCM for the social game for smartphones AKB48 no Yabou. The game takes place in the fictional world of La Chante and features AKB48 membrs taking on the roles of sorceresses. Players will battle in order to fulfil the ambitions of the girls.

The CM stars Shimzaki Haruka as a Samurai. Please take a look!

Paruru looks so cute... I want to hug her. Lots. I also want to play this game, it sounds so cool!

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AKB48's Shimazaki Haruka and Kikuchi Ayaka serve as the CM characters for fashion brand WILLSECTION's new line Disney Marie Collection. The girls get to wear cute clothes with themes of Paris for this CM and show off their elegant and feminine fashion through the new collection, so please take a look at the CM and enjoy!

The girls' comments on the CM:

"I feel my girl’s power up!" - Kikuchi Ayaka  

"I feel as if I were a noble girl in such a dress-like costume!" - Shimazaki Haruka

I love the CM, but that natural lighting is killing me... Ooooh I love the cute Paris inspired skirts!

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Itano Tomomi and members of Nogizaka46 will appear in the up-coming drama BAD BOYS J which will star Sexy Zone member Nakajima Kento. Itano will take on the role of Naki Kaori, the boss of a female delinquent group.

Nogizaka46 members Hashimoto Nanami, Matsumura Sayuri, Akimoto Manatsu, Ito Marika and Ito Nene are the members that will appear in the drama. Hashimoto Nanami will play the role of the heroine Yoshimoto Kumi, who is also the love interest of Nakajima Kento's character, Kiriki.

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The 30 second CM for the aromatic insect repellent Mushuda starring Takahashi Ai has been released! The CM includes a song sung by Takahashi Ai as she tries to find the perfect scent. Prepare for random dancing and Ai goodness!

Okay, I like this CM more than I anticipated. Ai is so random and fun, it's amazing! xD

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Fujimoto Miki appears in the CM for Kao's Merit shampoo. Please check it out!

Because she's worth it! -flips hair-

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JIJIPRESS have provided footage from the first day of Morning Musume's spring tour, including the audition announcement and press conference clips. Please check it out!

Kanon, why were you running and flapping your arms? Are you being a butterfly?

I also love their 'racing' costumes. Why can they not wear these in a single!? They are amazingly cute and wonderful!

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Tokunaga Chinami will hold a birthday FC event on May 22nd 2013.

Okay, it is SERIOUSLY weird to believe that 1) She will be 21, and 2) SHE'S OLDER THAN ME!?

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Sato Masaki will hold a birthday FC event on May 7th 2013.

Masakissu will be 14, huh? She's gettin' old! xD I kid! But it's amazing to think that she's grown up... okay wait, I lied, she hasn't. She still acts like a kid regardless.

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Episode 7 of Hello! Project Stations has been uploaded to the official Hello Pro Station channel. Please check it out!

In this weeks episode, there is an amazing amount of coverage on Morning Musume's opening day of their Spring Concert tour, including the 12th generaion audition announcement, some backstage footage and performances of the new songs! Also Aruiteru, sung by Fukumura Mizuki and some Sakura no Hanataba footage for C-ute lovers at the end of the episode!

Enjoy it, my dear Chimians!

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And that is all we have time for this week! Please stay tuned for another week of digests in the Idol world! But for now... Ja ne~!

Chiima~

PING!!! Idolminded Recommended Reading: March 19th, 2013

Okay! Musume Digest #34

It's D-D-D-DIGEST TIME! What has the week been like this time in the Land of the Winking Wota?

This week we have had a lot of Idol news, including Illnesses! Short PV's! A major Debut! A group is returning to their activities and so much more! Yes, this week has been filled with a great amount of Idol news, and seriously, I could not be happier. I was truly kept on my toes this week with the amazing amount of fodder coming through to feed this blog. Woohoo!

In life-related news, I am also ill! Much like my beloved Idols I am down on my luck, though I only have a cold and currently sound like a man... Well, whatever, I don't mind. It means I just sleep more and have an excuse to wake up late! Lazy cow

Anyway, enough has been said! Let's get onto the next part of the Digest!

Video of the Week

Shekimeki by Dream5

I really had no clue what PV I would use for this week's Video, but then I thought about how much I love this freakin' song and how I really need to post more Dream5 on this blog... that and I was jamming to Shekimeki at some point this week and decided to let you all know just how fantastic this song is! Seriously, you need to check it out - their energy is out of this world and it's just so wonderful!

Ah, Akira, Yuuno, Kotori <3

Picture of the Week

There is no poll of the week this time around, however I do have a beautiful gif to share with you al! Just take a look at it in all its glory!

This gif really makes me think that Eripon will, at some point, become the boyfriend character in Morning Musume, much like JunJun was the boyfriend character to Reina's Girlfriend character. To be honest, I would actually love to see some skits of Eripon as the boyfriend character for either Fukuhime, Sakura or even Zukkini!

Such an adorable couple, though~

Okay, that's all of that done! Now let's get to the important part!!!

NEWS OF THE WEEK

Hello! Project and STARdigio are collaborating for the 15th Anniversary of Hello! Project.

Hearing about a collaboration is great news, especially when the collaboration is outside of Tower Records and B.L.T. This time it seems that Hello! Project are collaborating with a radio show where the members of each group will be able to pick their favourite songs to play. It seems that fans will also be able to send in questions to the show.

This is a great opportunity for Hello! Project. Hopefully fans will be able to tune in if they are interested!

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JIJIPRESS have uploaded footage from Morning Musume's recent Tower Records event where the girls promoted their new single, Help me!!.

Someone please get Riho some damn auto-tune until she grasps some form of control over her voice, and for now, get me some ear plugs. Thanks.

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JIJIPRESS have uploaded footage from Suzuki Airi's release event for her book Perfect Book ~Airi Al~.

Let's just say that Airi is perfect, as an idol and a singer... Airi~i.

The book looks like it is full of win, by the way.

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It has been decided that Bakusute Sotokande Icchome will be having their major debut!

To be honest, I am genuinely surprised that BSI will be getting their major debut so soon! I was actually expecting the girls to announce their debut later on in the year, or even in 2014, but certainly not now! Regardless of how I think, it's wonderful to hear that the girls have been able to impress their managers enough and to progress so much for them to result the group with their major debut! Congrats to the Bakusute girls!

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A blog has been opened for 2nd generation S/mileage's radio show! Please check it out~

It's surprising to see that the S/mileage 2nd gen girls will be getting a new blog specifically made for their radio show, however this will be a great way for fans to follow the girls and their radio podcasts!

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From a recent Asian Beat article, it has been revealed that LinLin will be debuting as a solo artist in China this Spring. LinLin also hopes to one day sing for an anime in both Chinese and Japanese to bridge the two industries together and break down the cultural barriers.

It's been a while since we have heard from LinLin, though most will already know that she is very strong in the cosplay world right now. Of course hearing about her solo debut is amazing, and since she has had to train and work hard in a different music industry, it will be interesting to see how her debut album will turn out.

Here's to hoping a few snippets of songs will come out soon!

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Morning Musume's Dance video for Help me!! reached over 1.5 Million views!

Congrats to the MoMusume girls!

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It has been announced that Kitahara Sayaka will be releasing her first album on March 6th.

SAY WHAT? Sayaka lives? She's releasing something? Hallelujah!!! I actually thought that she had skipped out on me like Bump.y...

Damnit, these girls are like ninja's! o-O But by god, I am happy!

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Bakusute Sotokande Icchome now have an official Facebook page, so go check it out and like it if you are a fan!

I'm surprised that Bakusute have a facebook page now, but considering the announcement of their major debut, it seems like a great opportunity to connect with the fans through social networking. Too bad Morning Musume or the rest of Hello! Project haven't jumped onto this bandwagon... well, other than C-ute...

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The UFP Profiles for Tasaki Asahi and Miyazaki Yuka are now available.

I was actually wondering where these profiles were when I was stalking the UFP profiles a while ago...

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A 30 second preview for Station♪'s up-coming single, TO・KI・DO・KI Fumikiri has been released through Station♪'s official youtube, so please check it out!

The song is very cute and quite bubbly in a way, and the video seems to have a very playful, friendly feel to it, showing the connection between the girls and their friendship as they play around and spend time together. It looks like a really cute video, and I look forward to seeing the rest of it when it is eventually released!

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A 30 second CM for Morning Musume's up-coming single, Help me!! has been revealed, showing a faster-paced version of the vieo.

... I doubt the real video looks as good as this (sadly), but if it does, then YAAAY, though MasaKissu looks so damn worried, as if she wants to bawl her eyes out. Reina looks normal... Fukumura is sexy, Zukki is adorable, Sayu is sexy, Ayumi is Ayumi with cool hair, Riho looks as bored as ever, Eripon is simple GORGEOUS, Haruna looks adorbs but out of place (admittedly), Haruka is so damn boyish and beautiful, and Sakura looks cute but moody...

Yurp.

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AKB48's 30th single will be titled So Long! and will be released on February 20th, 2013. There will be three CD+DVD limited and regular editions in Type A, K and B as well as a CD only Theatre edition. Type B will also contain the music video to AKB48's song Sugar Rush.

Track List:

1. So Long! (All Editions)
2. Waiting Room (Undergirls) (All Editions)
3. Ruby (Shinoda Team A) (Limited+Regular A)
4. Yuuhi Marie (Oshima Team K) (Limited+Regular K)
5. Sokode Inu no Unchi Fun Jau ka ne? (Umeda Team B) (Limited+Regular B)
6. TBA (Kenkyuusei) (Theatre Edition)
(Plus Instrumentals)

DVD Track List:

- So Long! PV (All Editions)
- Waiting Room PV (All Editions)
- Ruby PV (A Edition)
- 2nd AKB48 Kouhaku Taikou Uta Gassen ~Compilation~ (A Edition)
- Yuuhi Marie (K Edition)
- 2nd AKB48 Kouhaku Taikou Uta Gassen ~Akagumi Digest~ (K Edition)
- Sokode Inu no Unchi Fun Jau ka ne? (B Edition)
- 2nd AKB48 Kouhaku Taikou Uta Gassen ~Shirogumi Digest~
- Sugar Rush PV

Well, after being Sour Lemons, it seems that they're taking on Mushroom heads next! And I bet their funny antics will STILL win people over because damn, they be AKB48!

Also... PARURU! AND MAYU!!! Yesh!!!

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Perfume's new single, titled Mirai no Museum, will be released on February 27th, 2013. The song has been described as a pop song that expresses a magical future. The song is being used as the theme tune for both the Doraemon movie that will release in Cinema's from March 9th, as well as the up-coming anime series which wbegan airing on January 11th.

Just when I thought that Perfume were women and not Idols... and then they release 'a magical pop tune about da future'. Oooh....

I actually wonder how Nia will handle the song if it sounds like an Idol-ish pop tune that's so vanilla you can barely taste it.

She says she doesn't mind it, damn!

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NMB48's first album will be titled Teppen Tottande! and will release on February 27th, 2013. There will be four editions of the album available; Type N, Type M, Type B and a Theatre Edition. Type N, M and B will contain a different DVD's for each version. There will be 15-16 tracks included in the album, including NMB48's previous singles, 7 new songs and other popular songs.

I hope that the album is as cute as the girls are, squee! >3<

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Covers and details for 9nine's upcoming single, Colorful, has been released. The single will be out on February 6th and will also be used as the theme song for the anime movie STAR DRIVER THE MOVIE.

(In order from Top Left to Bottom Right: Limited A, Limited B, Regular Edition and Star Driver Edition)

Track List:

1. Colorful
2. Yasashii Ame
3. Shojo Traveler (Tofubeats Remix)
(Plus Instrumentals)

DVD Track List:

- “9nine One-man Live ‘Yaon no 9nine’ @ Hibiya Outdoors Music Hall / 2012.8.19″ Live Footage (DVD Limited A)
- “9nine One-man Live ‘Yaon no 9nine’ @ Hibiya Outdoors Music Hall / 2012.8.19″ Live Footage” (DVD Limited B)
- Colorful PV (Star Driver Edition)

I love 9nine, and I'm always awaiting on new informtion regarding whatever they are next releasing, so to see the covers and a track list for their new single is great news for me! I'm very surprised to see that the DVD's will include live footage, but it's great to see that 9nine will be showing their performance to fans who could not attend by adding it to their latest single release!

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More back stage footage for Hello! Project's 2013 Winter concert has been uploaded.

The backstage footage is a great way for all fans to see how things go on backstage for the Hello! Project concerts as well as to take a sneak peak at what is to come for the DVD when it is eventually released. With this video, we are able to get comments from various Hello Pro members as well as see the surprise of selected girls coming out into the venue itself off stage to the fans who seemed surprised to see the girls before them.

It's a great video to watch, so please take a look!

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C-ute's Profile images have been updated, so go and check them out!

C-utes latest profile images show the girls in their outfits for their new single, Kono Machi, which will be a cover song of Chisato Moritaka's. The dresses are very uniformed but cute, showing a more mature and sweet look to the C-utie members.

Other than Maimi's derp face in her profile image, the girls all look really good, especially Airi and her beautifully fitted blouse/top/thing. Mai's hair is so blonde now, but it's so gorgeous and reminded me instantly of Yossie for some reason! And wow, Chissa's hair, too! I was surprised to see that the two youngest of C-ute had both gone blonde... and my lord, Nakky, why you so ERO-KAWAII?

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It has been reported that Sato Masaki has been diagnosed with left cervical adenitis, which is a condition which often occurs in children. Masaki will continue to receive medical treatment, and will also be absent from the January 12th and 13th performances of Hello! Project's Winter concerts. It has also been reported that her future activities will be decided upon the progress of her condition.

Hearing about the illness and what it is exactly is pretty damn scary, I will admit, especially when Masaki is so young, too. When I read the part about her future activities a while before now when information was first leaked about her being ill, I was worried, but seeing it again makes me worry so much more. Sadly, all we can do is sit tight and hope that Masaki pulls through this illness and returns to her activities as soon as she can.

Yes, I'm scared... really scared DX

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Both Katsuta Rina and Wada Ayaka have been diagnosed with Influenza. Due to this, the S/mileage release event for Samui ne on January 14th, 2013 has been postponed until further notice. Also, due to her illness, Katsuta Rina will be unable to participate in the Hello! Channel handshake event on January 16th, 2013.

Hearing about more illnesses is worrying for any fan, and whilst both Rina and Dawa will get through their influenza and return with bright smiles, as a fan I am still worrying and praying for the girls to get better... especially considering they are two of the members in S/mileage I have recently been really drawn too...

Wishing both Dawa and Rinapuu the best and hoping that they get better soon!

Get better soon, lovelies!!! ;A;

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An official website for Dracula: Te Musical has been created. The musical features Natsumi Abe as Mina.

I'm wondering when they're going to create Morning Musume: The Musical...

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Morning Musume have graced the cover of CDJournal once again! Please take a look at Morning Musume as they present their Help me!! costumes~

Eripon has a boyfriend face... as in, she has an over-protective, boyfriend like aura about her in this image, especially with the way she is turned and how she's looking at the camera as she stands next to her girlfriend/brother, Haruka... Yurp. Boyfriend face.

By the way, they all look good but Masaki and Sakura look super awkward.

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A high quality preview for Perfume's up-coming single, Mirai no Museum, has been released. The main song is being used as the theme song for both the Doraemon anime as well as the up-coming movie in March.

Well isn't this... Vanilla...

When I start showing interest in you guys, you go down the anime-cutesy-idol-no-musical-diversity route? Hi, I'm losing interest again.

Yes, the song is cute, but damn it isn't something a new fan wants to get into when you think of Perfume as a womanly, mature group with a great amount of diversity when it comes to other singers in the Jpop industry.

Makes me wonder how Nia's taking this one... Very well. Again, damn!

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Junior High school Idol unit Otome Shinto will be releasing their debut single Mousou★Koukan Nikki on Feruary 20th, 2013. The song is the current opening theme for the anime GJ-bu.

HOW HAVE I NOT HEARD OF YOU UNTIL NOW? You guys are ADORABLE and pretty damn good singers for kids... I usually hate kids' voices unless they know how to sing!

Damn. CUTE <3

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Here is the short PV for Otome Shinto's debut single, Mousou★Koukan Nikki, which will be released on February 20th this year! The PV shows the girls in the form of Junior High school reporters or ambassadors as they try to charm the people around them. There are also clips showing the girls in cute Idol costumes when they dance.

I know that this was released, like, last year and all but so what... I wanted to post it cos damnit this is cute!!!

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Due to a high fever, Tsugunaga Momoko will not be present at the January 12th and 13th concerts for the WANT! release event.

UPDATE: Due to influenza Momoko will not be able to attend the January 16th event for Hello! Channel volume 11.

Damn this thing is getting around the H!P crew o-O Get well soon, Momoko!!! Even I will miss your horrendously annoying antics and your good singing voice in WANT!...

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PASSPO☆ have released the short PV for their up-coming single, Sakura Komachi. The video shows PASSPO☆ in a more mature form as they lay amongst the falling cherry blossoms, and the song shows a cooler, more mature side to the girls that we have not experienced yet.

PASSPO☆ and I have this weird On/Off fling... one minute I love them, the next I couldn't care less. Once again, I love them it seems, because Sakura Komachi is such a strong song! It represents the spring and falling cherry blossoms, but the sound itself is very cool and up-beat, something that I really did not expect... I guess I am used to gentle songs from AKB48 when it comes to their yearly Sakura singles. Well this was a great surprise, and it's great to see that PASSPO☆ are taking on a different sound once again. They're really diverse, and I love the sound of the song and the concept of the video so far! Let's eagerly await the full version, guys~

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Covers for PASSPO☆'s up-coming single, Sakura Komachi, have been revealed! The single will be released on February 13th 2013, and will be the groups first single release of the year. There are three editions available; First Class, Business Class and Economy Class.

Whilst the covers are pretty small, you can see clearly what they look like, and to be quite honest, these covers are very similar to previous covers that PASSPO☆ have had; not that that's bad, because honestly, I love that they keep a theme going with their covers. It's simple, but it works really well and looks great.

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A radio preview for Morning Musume's Help me!! coupling song, titled Happy Daisakusen, is now available for fans to listen to! The song is a cute and happy pop tune which shows off Morning Musume's strength as a group right now.

I was surprised to see a preview for the song, but I am so happy that a preview has come out because it's a great song and really makes me feel happy with how Morning Musume is right now. It's lovely to listen to, and so different from any other recent B-side I have heard from the Colourful Era. Everyone sounds amazing, and I feel like this song is here to play up to the strengths of everyone's voices and show off their strengths as singers and how much they have improved. It's a wonderful song, and very enjoyable to listen to. I love it!

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Another preview for Help me!! has been released, so please check it out~

WHEN WILL THIS COME OUT? IT ACTUALLY LOOKS SO MUCH MORE AWESOME NOW!!! -impatient, clearly-

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StylipS member Noto Arisa will be releasing a solo album this January. It will be titled Hello, Little Monsters and is scheduled to release on January 20th.

The announcement itself is a little late, especially since it's so close to the 20th, but it's great to see that Arisa is able to have her own album and perform for her fans. The title is cute, but it reminds me of something Lady GaGa would have for an album title. Well, whatever... congrats to Arisa/buggy!

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It has been reported that Kudo Haruka is ill, and so was not able to attend the January 14th release event for Help me!!.

Damn all these illness... e.e

Wishing you a speedy recovery, my Queen of Lollipops and Gumdrops <3

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The radio preview for Sayashi Riho and Oda Sakura's duet song, titled Suki Dakara Zettai ni Yurusanai, has been released. The track is present on the Regular Edition A for Morning Musume's 52nd single, Help me!!.

To be honest, I don't know what to think about this song really... I'm somewhere in the middle with it, I guess. I don't hate it, but I don't like it either... basically, I care very little for it right now. It has a cooler sound to it than I expected, and some parts remind me of Help me!!, SONGS and other sounds from Morning Musume (don't ask which ones, I'm still trying to figure it out, too). It's a weird song, I guess, but it isn't necessarily bad, either.

Also, it's very apparent that there is a rawness of vocals, and a pureness; the raw being Riho and the pure being Sakura. Their voices are so contrasting, and it works in a strange way, though it's undeniable that Riho is the weaker singer here, much like Ayumi in Daisuki 100 Manten I guess. You can really hear how poor her vocals are when you put both Sakura and Riho together, though this song showcases her voice a lot better in my opinion.

What do you guys think?

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AKB48's Shanghai based sister group, SNH48, have made their live debut. Their first performance was on January 12th 2013 here the girls sang the Chinese version of AKB48's popular song Heavy Rotation.

I'm happy to see that SNH48 are finally getting given activities, because outside of my interest for the Japanese based 48 groups, I have a particular interest in SNH48 because I quite like the sound of Chinese music. Their version of Heavy Rotation is also, by far, my favourite version of the song because it sounds so soft and pretty.

As I said, I am happy to see that they have debuted. Now, when will they release an original song, aye?

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A clip from SATOYAMA Life showing footage from the Hello! Project Viva/Bravo live has been uploaded. The footage focuses on Oda Sakura's performance debut as a member of Morning Musume, as well as looks at the new and up-coming releases from each group.

The clip is interesting to watch, and for Oda fans it will be great to watch because there is a lot of focus on 11th gen's sole member! Please be sure to check it out, and also, enjoy~

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Footage from GiRLPOP TV has been released highlighting Oda Sakura's single debut in Morning Musume, with footage showing how the PV has been made and some interview footage with a few members of the group.

Another interesting piece of footage that fans will be able to enjoy, especially fans of Oda Sakura. It's great to see that 11th gen's sole member is getting a positive push and quite a bit of media attention. Hopefully all fans will be able to check out the video and enjoy!

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Suzuki Airi will be on the back cover of BIG ONE GIRLS magazine which will be out on February 8th, 2013.

Well, isn't that a, er... wonderful title for a magazine?

It makes me wonder what genre of magazine it is, actually...

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On January 13th 2013, it was announced that 9-member Idol unit Cheeky Parade will hold their first group-only live performance at the Nippon Seinenkan on October 14th 2013.

Whilst I don't actively follow Cheeky Parade, it's great to hear that the group have secured a date and venue for their group-only live. Hopefully all their fans within the area will be able to attend and enjoy a cheeky performance from this group!

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On January 14th it was announced that Idol group Shiritsu Ebisu Chuugaku, also known as Ebichu, will be providing the ending theme for the new Pokemon series Pocket Monsters Best Wishes Season 2. The theme song will be titled Sakura-Go-Round and will start airing with the anime on January 17th, 2013.

It's great that Ebichu are able to sing the ending theme for such a widely loved anime series like Pokemon! I love Pokemon myself and most of the theme tunes, so it will be great to her what Ebichu will be singing for the anime!

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AKB48's Kashiwagi Yuki was able to meet and interview her Idol Ishikawa Rika who is an ex-Morning Musume member from the 4th generation. This talk will be included as a bonus track in Kashiwagi's up-coming solo debut single, Shortcake, and will be available on the Theatre edition of the single.

Whilst I am not a fan of either of these girls (I wonder how many of you want to pelt me with raw eggs right now...) I think that it's amazing that Kashiwagi Yuki was able to meet one of her Idols. It's known by many fans that Kashiwagi Yuki is a H!P fan, so it's wonderful to hear news that she was able to meet with IshiiRika and talk to her. Hopefully many fans will be able to check out the interview when the single comes out and support both KashiYuki and IshiiRika!

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Top Left to Bottom: Limited A, Regular A, Limited B, Regular B, Limited C, Regular C and Theatre Edition

The covers and track list to Kashiwagi Yuki's solo debut have been released. The single titled Shortcake will be released on February 6th and will have seven different editions to choose from.

Track List:

1. Shortcake (All Editions)

2. Soredemo Nakanai (All Editions)

3. Sakura no Ki ni Narou Acoustic Ver. feat. Oshio Kotaro (Type A versions only)

4. Mirai-bashi (Type B versions only)

5. Class-kai no Ato de (Type C versions only)

6. Jealousy Punch (Theatre Edition only)

(+ Instrumentals)

DVD Track List:

1. “Shortcake” Music Video (Type A+B+C Editions)

2. Kashiwagi Yuki no Kagoshima Kuru!? (Type A only)

3. Yukirin no Kagoshima Gurmet Report (Type B+C only)

4. Kashiwagi Yuki×Ishikawa Rika (Theatre Edition only)

The covers are extremely simple, but very pretty and well executed in my opinion, and somehow remind me of valentines day... the name also sounds quite Valentiney, doesn't it?

Is Valentiney even a word? Nope

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On January 14th, model and eccentric Idol Kyary Pamyu Pamyu made a guest appearance at the coming of age day event Shibuya-ku Seijin wo Iwau Kai at Shibuya Kokaido. For the event Kyary wore a flashy and eccentric furisode and expressed her feelings towards the colourful garment;

"I aimed to be the most flashy new adult in Japan,"

“It’s very special. I was impressed when I saw it finished.” - Kyary Pamyu Pamyu (Tokyohive)

Kyary will be turning 20 years old on the 29th of January.

I'm not surprised that Kyrary would wear a bright and extravagant furisode with unicorns. It's amazing xD

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Idol group Sea☆A have announced that they will be releasing their first album this year on March 27th!

Whilst this is the only update concerning the release of the album, it's great to hear that Sea☆A will be releasing it! I love Sea☆A and they really deserve to release their very own album for all of their fans to enjoy!

Please keep your eyes open for any more updates, and remember to reserve a copy if you are a fan!

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It has been announced that Sharam Q will restart their activities for their 25th Anniversary this August with a live tour as well as a re-recording of their hit single, Single Bed which will be released this April.

All Hail Tsunku... and Makoto...

And the other two who I have no idea about...

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Thrugh her blog, Mano Erina has revealedthe covers and track list for her final Hello! Project album album to her fans.

Track List:

1. NEXT MY SELF
2. Zenbu Daisuki
3. Tasogare Kousaten
4. Love&Peace = Paradise
5. Kono Mune no Tokimeki wo
6. Onegai Dakara
7. Genkimono de Ikou!
8. Hajimete no Keiken
9. Minna, arigatou
10. Otome no Inori
11. Seishun no Serenade
12. Song for the DATE
13. Haru no Arashi
14. Sekai wa Summer Party
15. Dokidoki Baby
16. My Days for You
17. Nerima Calling! (bo^nasuto rakku)

Ah, this is it... the final album, Mano Erina's Best of... Uwa, it's going so fast! Mano, please, don't leave us ;___________________;

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The LQ covers for C-ute's up-coming single, Kono Machi, have been released. There will be fiver versions of the single available, from Limited A-D as well as a Regular edition.

It's great to see the covers are out for all fans to see, and whilst they are pretty small, these previews can give us all a good idea of what to expect when the HQ covers coe out. It seems like the theme for the covers is very simple and quite natural, with the only exception being the Liited C's colourful cover.

If you love C-ute's Kono Machi, then please reserve a copy!

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A website dedicated to the release of Morning Musume's 52nd single Help me!! has been set up. Please go and check it out!

It seems that Hello! Project are continuing to release websites dedicated to Morning Musume's releases since One Two Three was released last year, and personally I think that continuing this form of promotion is great! It's new for H!P, but it also gives fans somewhere to look when they want to find out more about the single or the members.

Hopefully everyone can check out the website!

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The Morning Musume Colourful Character Live 2012 photo book will be released on February 12th 2013.

I was unaware that a photo book for the concert would be released, however it's great to know that Sayumi's first concert as a leader will be recorded in photographs for all fans to keep. Hopefully those who are interested can reserve a copy.

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And that is all we have time for today! Another eventful week has been done, an hopefully this digest will help you catch up on the weekly news that has just passed! Until next time guys! Ja ne~

Chiima~

PING!!! Idolminded Recommended Reading: January 15th, 2013