The Entertainment News 2015 Edition Week #6

Hey… I’m tired. So let’s be quick about it. Today has been a hectic day. Yeah, probably one of the few days I’m out of the house on a weekend, too.

アニメ
ANIME

KimiUso: Trying not to refer to the manga (which I still did), we know a little more about that little girl who somewhat is pissed that a genius is teaching her piano. Besides that, we see an obvious turn in events where Kaori-chan will probably be meeting her end anytime soon. No spoilers involved, but it seems like (from people I know, on Facebook) that she will depart, eventually. Maybe not even leaving a message. Oh well. We shall continue watching then. I stay to the Anime until it ends first anyway.
Koro-sensei Classroom: Another episode featuring another assassin dispatched to teach in the class, but this time is use of charm on Koro-sensei which, somewhat works, but makes me wonder why she didn’t resort to using those weapons that work on him instead. Besides that, we see plenty of sick humour, and a significant change in Bitch-sensei in terms of blending into the surroundings as an assassin. More to come, I guess.
Koufuku Graffiti: Somehow I like this show now not because of the food-gasms and food orgy in the show, but more of the deepened meaning the show is trying to express actively. Not being able to go anywhere for fun, the three girls think of how to spend their summer holidays as prep students. Surprisingly they got invited by Shiina to her house which reminds me of Aria (from Seitokai Yakuindomo) who features a maid that sounds so like that sick teacher (also reminded from the same show), done with some imperfections to create a comedic effect. Probably the third time I watch a show talking about nagashi-soumen (including Nichijou and Kawaisou), but it’s still a joy especially watching the way they eat. Things don’t get bored in this show as we continue to soak in the happiness that is Koufuku Graffiti.

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Can’t you all see the Quincy leader is the founder of APoL too? Just joking. On a serious note, thanks to Ichigo, Soul Society is about to crumble. Can it even be salvaged already? I don’t know. Kubo, don’t go too overboard~

SHOWS
MythBusters: I thought this was featuring Transformers, that movie, but I was wrong. Just two myths that feature the transformation of vehicles are put to the test. Nice though, really shows the ingenuity of the guys and creativity in their building skills, once again showing that these guys are the best designers for this show. Well, I mean, there’s only two of them left…

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

This week I review fhana’s new album, which is rather expectedly narrow in opinion as I barely try to give another song besides the topic song, if you guys haven’t watched it yet. It’s not easy, and I don’t want to give three stars by the end of the year, so I decided not to do it anyway. Also, I have given a listen to a new album (of English songs) from Murder by Death, if you would remember from 2011 whilst playing The Sims 3. Their root style music is still running strong in the album, and I’ve taken a couple of songs with nice melodies and great meaning in the lyrics. In other news, I also took a couple of songs from moumoon after watching their FULL MOON LIVE this month. Great actually, rather distracted by Tomacchan’s birthday broadcast though. Koro-sensei plushie is featured in the video too (How can I get my hands on that and the rabbit one from Servant x Service??? Man…), and they sung all the new songs and a couple ones I’m interested in listening to. Thus I will give two songs, one fanservice song “Chu Chu” from her single in 2011 and another from her album in 2010. Maybe I’ll give more, as I have pledged to give them another chance next month, provided they still sing the new songs, of course.

I guess I may have to start listening every month for more of their songs, huh. I probably will, moumoon-san. pic.twitter.com/KpN8SefWBl

— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) February 4, 2015

 

 

I guess that’s all, huh. Cya guys next week then, I’m rather tired by that stupid… event I probably cannot mention or the Army will get me. Until next time, please take care, as two more week are till Chinese New Year (for those Chinese out there) and also, my birthday. I am still thinking how to get myself to write an entry on my day, because I probably can. *laughs* Also, don’t bother asking for APoL; If I’m unhappy with my work you guys will have to wait. But this will probably be done before the holidays, I hope. Bye!

[P.S.: YESH MORE CLOSE UPS OF THE GIRLS I LIKE!

Not “love” because they’re not mine, and they’re images only. Probably both in the same reason, huh. Kayanon still has a few more weeks. And then probably Mikakoshi will take over. We shall see. *giggles*]

The Three “Musketeers” Of Song Production

“All for one, one for all”. Apparently those are the big three heroes who complement each other. Doesn’t say much when I’m referring this to Klassic Note, but I’ll get to it in a moment.

As you see, song production comprises of three main participants, if you flip through the jackets of all the CDs you (ever) bought (I know I own a lot) you will notice that they are the lyricist, the composer, and the arrangement. Now you may say that they may be just three different people involved in the production of the song, but bear in mind like any other big event, release production is actually a very large scale project, as I’m only going to talk about the song itself.

The question here is: Why do I talk about them? Why do I need to show differences in their roles when they supposedly complement each other? In reality, it doesn’t. There is no need to question intentions, neither is there a need to investigate the truth (because truth hurts), but I can give you a good idea of it, just by listening to the songs produced.

[NOTE: Bear in mind I’m only referring to the Japanese music industry, sometimes specifically on Anime music companies.]

THE LYRICIST
As a couple of artists have proven (recently from SCANDAL too), normally the song starts from its own words, which means it needs lyrics to sing to, and creates the general meaning of the song. This normally isn’t a big problem in Klassic Note because my proficiency of Japanese is… do I even have any proficiency? まあ良いか。Anyways, there are people who know how to write the words, and some who don’t. As we all know, lyrics in songs behave like poems and recitals, normally rhythmic in form. But then that is not always true. Pertaining to a certain topic, the lyrics may make a serious turn, causing the song to sound like as if it doesn’t have a topic. This is normally noticed with songs in Anime-centric songs, like their own theme songs or specific character songs, which just sound more entertaining in nature instead of pairing itself with the melody. Hey, the melody’s next!

THE COMPOSER
This is probably where things start to kick in. Lyrics may not mean much and can be generic in meaning and mood, but this place is where it makes everything sound unique. Words can be repeated, but if melodies repeat very often it is noticeable, even on to the extent that a song this year can sound like one I’ve heard years ago. A good example of this fault is own long term mainstream artists, less obvious in Anime groups though, like sphere. Artists like Ikimonogakari and Aqua Timez do have the tendency to write songs with similar melodies yet very different lyrics, and call it as another song, normally taken to credit of a recent production, like a movie, for example.

This in turn may make song creativity come to a halt, as with respect to reviews in Klassic Note that means lesser songs in my list. Often this isn’t an issue, as I can always search for other artists or new ones like indie artists in order to satisfy my own music desires. It takes a lot to get an experienced group to form a new style or evolve in styles, but then if it happens I will be able to “give chance” to them as well.

This is also evident for giving new artists a chance to create a portfolio in Klassic Note so that I can have subsequent impressions of the artists in due time. A good example is nano.RIPE from last year which its latest single is on my shelf after three months of “giving chance” and within that time I reviewed their latest album. Not so latest anymore once their new album comes in on April this year, but oh well. Another example in progress is moumoon, in which I’ve just joined a recent live stream performance yesterday, their new single with credit to Anime “Assassination Classroom” is going to be my first pre-order on my shelf this year, and I’m already giving their previous songs a chance, from a single and a mini-album, which is still under review.

Despite the discrepancies, composition is not an easy task, so I always “give chance”, as much as I can, so I can open myself to new melodies and possibly forgive them for their shortcomings. I’m very picky when it comes to new melodies, you know. It has been seven years already, you see…

THE ARRANGEMENT
This? This is the person who decides on everything else of the song. In which case “everything else” means everything besides the words and melody in the song. Yes, which means this person supervises on what instruments to use for recording (if not a mainstream artist, and even so there is a degree of control), how it sounds like before it even gets to our ears (which means what you hear is given the thumbs up by this producer) and many more details like background vocals and additional styles where necessary. Normally done by a music producer in various music label companies, singer-songwriters or bands themselves can also independently supervise their own production, as seen in many examples including YUI, QUATTRO (YouTube video as evidence online), miwa and more. Some depend on producers like Ikimonogakari and SCANDAL (less of it last year as they start writing their own songs) and others who generally do not write songs and/or lyrics (like Anime artists) of course will not expect to be deciding how it sounds like anyway.

The downside is not doing it yourself, but for someone else to decide how it sounds like on a record, especially if it is your song. This will probably explain why it sounds so vastly different in many cases where the live performance of a band or artist sounds unlike their studio release. In Klassic Note, I generally only consider studio versions of the songs (unlike my dad who likes to listen to lives) so if they aren’t good, especially when they’re done long ago, like in the case of Kuso Iinkai before their major debut last year, I won’t give them. They did well in COUNTDOWN JAPAN over the end of last year, but I didn’t give another song this year.

THE EXCEPTIONS
Of course, with many of these people comes many exceptions where, in Klassic Note, I take no attention to when I listen to the songs. Really, sometimes just listening to a song may already make me know about the general style of production, which will make me remember them when I hear a new song related to the artist, whether the lyrics or melody or arrangement is done by a specific person. General exceptions include regular artists (Ikimonogakari, Aqua Timez, Rie fu and so on) as I tend to give more chances to them within a release, and what I refer to as idol artists (Toyosaki Aki, Kotobuki Minako, Tomatsu Haruka and many more) where they are devoid of all judgement here unless I really think it’s so out of the court to be in my list. Specifically Aki-chan has a record-breaking set of releases on myself, definitely is me being more lenient in judgement as now I normally give the pre-order just listening to 90-second previews in favour of the special gifts that come with the purchase. Like in 2013 I pre-ordered her single “CHEEKY” and that probably is one of the most controversial releases I have under her name, as I question many times after listening to the full songs why I made the decision so haphazardly in the first place.

 

In conclusion, the judgement in Klassic Note is pretty strict in itself as I’m stuck on only a few styles of music, and things like bridges in song format and inappropriately arranged songs deter me from giving more songs, even if they don’t sound that bad. That is why every year I try to list down from time to time a list of songs that “did not make the cut”, because although they do not deserve the thumbs up from me, they deserve a mention. Come to think of it, I never showed them to you guys, isn’t it? Hmm…

So that is pretty much it. It’s long, but hope that addresses the many bias for my opinion in song reviews and why I’m still stuck in my circle of artists, even till now. See you guys soon then, and until next time… Twitter. The best place for me to post anything related to Klassic Note when I want to. Yeah.

- Kaineng, on the Klassic Note: The Three “Musketeers”
(They still work together though, though so much not all for one…)

The Entertainment News 2015 Edition Week #5

Hey guys, I’m back. Hope you are. Even if you’re not… I’ll still be here, nonetheless.

アニメ
ANIME

KimiUso: Despite the many happenings of Tsubaki, like her breakup with that senpai, and her really going to miss Kousei if he ever leaves the place, I guess the cliffhanger of Kaori-chan on the ground unable to move is headline news, isn’t it? I can see the focus of the author in terms of character development than storyline, but yeah, now that we know what is potentially going to happen, let’s hope Kaori-chan gets to recover. I don’t want to watch a show with a disabled violinist. Or even a dead one.
Koufuku Graffiti: This one came late this week (like today kind of late), but then it’s not short of food-gasms and emotional memories. Rather a lack of Shiina and Kirin-chan, Ryou-chan takes a journey back memory lane on her grandmother. More deterred of the erotic food scenes, I’m actually pretty impressed of the focus of happiness in this show. Which will make such a difference in many other cooking shows out there.
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu: None this week, a replay of last week’s episode. Don’t know why.

SHOWS
MythBusters: Video Games Special this week, and two of the most obvious myths are in test. It’s possible to carry a whole arsenal of weapons whilst fighting a zombie group (not a hoard of them, not even humans), provided you have the physique and strength of a wrestler. Not possible of course to beat your own high score in Fruit Ninja because they probably could do better if they built robots. Grant Imahara, anyone?

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Everyone’s gathered around despite people like Kenpachi seriously worried about Yachiru (even I’m worried of her as well this time round), and Ichigo managed to find the Soul King. And his son. Haha. Don’t ask me why. Just go read. Too many spoilers here already.

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

This week on music is pretty damn good, as I see several reviews under my hood. Problem is I didn’t spend much time in reviewing and selecting more songs, so they’ll get more chances. Starting with miwa’s single is pretty damn good, not that I give B-side, but the new song will keep me entertained for the time being. Yeah, the maid outfit. Also on the list as I think I mentioned last week was Sakamoto Maaya’a new single, and despite the whole single sounding good, I only ended up giving the A-side anyways. I also gave chance to SECONDWALL’s 2nd mini-album (if you don’t remember them I took a demo song from them in 2012 when they are still in Audioleaf, which is in their first mini-album a year later), and took their topic song as a reminder to giving inspirational songs once every now and then. Despite the heavy rock style, of course. Last on the list is fumika’s long awaited 2nd album, and it sounds pretty good. So despite giving another song from a single from last year (which surprisingly I didn’t give due to the season mood back then) I intend to give a couple more. I shall see about that myself, I guess.

 

On other news… I’m in no mood for anything apparently. Not even APoL. I know. I’m really close to finishing those chapters already. Really. Just… haiz.

[P.S.: Yay the best segment of the week. As I mentioned to myself, some are in landscape (which I cannot fit on my phone) and too erotic for me to put them. Or else I’ll be ******* *** every time I see them. Just joking.

And yes, I don’t do that to any of them, especially Kayanon. Even if she has an outstanding chest. Really, no. More Kayanon next week.]

The Dream Fragment #4

Man, I dreamt of miwa. In my school.

Don't ask where it is because I don't really know myself (or probably it's using the university grounds I'm in now), but after one live session she is seen singing alone.

"Sometimes you have to deal with an empty audience, you know. It's part of a singer's journey."

A man walks out of the room and I sneak in. Only one guy appears to hear her sing a new song, and the session is to teach us how to analyse lyrics. Shortly after many come in because it's their lunch/dinner break.

Many things I don't remember happened, like miwa personally rubbing my eyes because I was sleepy. I know. Dreams are awesome, isn't it?

[P.S.: Probably also the reason why I may have to give Tsuji Shion a chance again. Her song was the theme song to this session...]

More hentai and yuri, less drama. I wonder why I'm still watching Anime.

I'm just saying. Or probably it's just me seeing other sequels of shows I don't watch get announced. B**ches.

The Entertainment News 2015 Edition Week #4

Hey, another week has passed. *sigh* I know. But hey, the week in Entertainment hasn’t dampened, as we have more shows to watch than ever.

アニメ
ANIME

KimUso: Well we know that Kaori-chan is fine, but not so fine as she seemingly is keeping the truth from Tsubaki and the other guy (haha LOL), and on the other hand the show takes an emotional turn as the story questions once again Tsubaki’s relationship with Kousei as a “childhood friend”. Come on, if there is competition we may not even need to worry. Not that I read the manga, but I just think Kaori-chan is moving through Kousei mother’s footsteps? Hopefully not, it’s not Attack on Titans, you know…
Koufuku Graffiti: Aside form the food-gasm that is filling up the episode already, we continue the journey for yummy food, this time rice omelette, in various versions similar to a food TV program. Hopefully this is on the side of the Anime production instead of real storyline (is there a storyline anyway), but then another week with the three girls is pretty damn good. I guess this show, focusing on the happiness of the girls, is pretty positive on their side, and is definitely doing good for me. Not much for my appetite though; need to choose my time to watch the show from next episode…
Assassination Classroom: Another episode featuring assassinations, but starring one of the rowdiest and evilest students on suspension ever since the start of the episode. Having been released, he seeks revenge on “another teacher” but turns out to be futile. I mean, if you watch episode one you won’t think this guy will be a threat to the teacher anytime soon. Anyway, this show shows premise in terms of the storyline and conclusion, obviously with many other things to come (like Satomi-chan, Satomi-chan and Satomi-chan…) I think it’ll be a show to watch. Hopefully new theme songs won’t deter me away from watching this show. (Well not like Koufuku Graffiti did anyway)

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Kubo, after being a month in hospital, is back with new chapters. Sorting out the situation now, Urahara has a plan to send everyone to the Soul Palace, and I suppose it may not be necessary as we see one of their own stopping their way. Ichibe vs Ichigo. Hmm…
Isshuukan Friends.: Yes, the last chapter is probably out soon. Sad. Not like we’ll get to see a romance ending anyway. We can still be friends Maccha-sensei. Won’t forget the great times you gave me since last year. Just… sad to see it (going to) go.

SHOWS
MythBusters: Well (almost) forgot to watch before writing this, but I guess now that I’m done… Anyways, the guys are testing from the show A-Team (not I heard of it before), but somehow that manhole cover explosion is pretty interesting, and goes along the mission of not injuring people in the process, even if they’re bad guys. Not bad, I must admit.

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

Well nothing much this week, so I guess I’ll just take a couple of Anime soundtracks a listen (Sora no Method and Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso ie. KimiUso), and probably get a headstart from the songs next week. Listening to Sakamoto Maaya’s new single for Anime “Koufuku Graffiti” opening shocked me in two ways; the unexpected intro verses and (as usual) the end part. Oh well, I have to give chance, and I guess I should then. Not forgetting I did give chance to her song from Anime “Cardcaptor Sakura” years ago too. Also in the list is another piece from SPYAIR’s best album because I like them. Not so much of their style, but I guess I can give another song. Not another single though.

I’m being so moodless and heartless recently. I guess it’s the time of the year, huh. At least I know it’ll pan out the second half of the year. Until then… give chance?

 

I guess that’s all. Supposedly I need more rest (even though I have a lot already) and less life (in which I clearly don’t have). APoL is progressing quickly over the weekend, and hopefully I’ll get things done before… Ok I better not make promises then. Cya guys then, until next time… I’m looking forward to coming back here next week. Really.

[P.S.: The thing I’m probably still doing to make myself happy. Yeah. *laughs*

Some Kana-chan to celebrate her first live-action movie, and more Kayanon to come. I still have a lot in line, man…]

[P.P.S.: Though you may not get to see it, I posted twice of the same thing. Oops.

Wow, and it’s so much lesser. Clearly I’m not feeling well somewhere…

The Entertainment News 2015 Edition Week #3

Hey everyone… Been not well recently, but all is well in this segment of my life. So let's carry on, shall we?

アニメ
ANIME

KimiUso: Well Kousei does his solo, and to the end of the episode we finally have an answer to Kaori-chan, who is in the hospital. Well that may sound anticlimactic from the point we see the cliffhanger from last week, but hey, glad she’s fine and not like, betray him for any other reason. The mother’s friend is still feeling bad for some reason (and I think she should), and the elementary school champion is being such a snob. Haha, just saying.
Koufuku Graffiiti: Going to be called “Yuri Graffiti” soon for some reason by me, as we see plenty of body contact between the girls, more like, an old girl to the young one. Akira makes her appearance to join the girls in a picnic, coincidentally meeting with the third main girl in the show, Shiina. Funny she draws random people at her spare time and is actually quite a good friend of Ryou in school and we know so little of her up till now… Yeah you get what I mean. If I don’t mind the body contact, I guess… I can still watch this? Food-gasm is rather never-ending though, even for the working lady…
Assassination Classroom: Still talking about the fundamentals and generic viewpoint of the class in a prestigious school (I recognise the principal’s voice…), Koro-sensei plays around with his assassination hunters and reveals a little more about himself to the class. Not much yet though, but of course if I’m expecting an ending now I might as well go read the book. Anyways, nice comedy now and then, and less serious (just a little) than last episode, and definitely still worth watching. I mean, guns aren’t the only thing in this show, right? I wonder what’s next. RPGs?

漫画
MANGA

I don’t know why, but no BLEACH for two weeks seems to make me miss it already. Great. Keep it going, I guess?

SHOWS
MythBusters had another nice episode again, this time starring the infamous adventurer Indiana Jones, or Indiana Savage in this case as Adam shows us how to make a whip and create a temple scene in miniature. Well, felt that content may be lacking, but I guess I should get used to it, huh. Just want more to feed my interest, and probably some interest for the study ahead of me. In university.

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

As I mentioned, it has been a dull week, and yeah, it happens to Klassic Note too, apparently. Like, my mood greatly affects me finding new songs for the year anyway. Well, it’s been a rough start since the start of the year anyway, for I lack desire for new songs. I guess it’ll take some time. Even miwa’s single this week isn’t for my review. I don’t know why. I’m also missing bands like QUATTRO and VELTPUNCH already…

 

I guess this week has been short, or maybe not, whatever. Anyways, a long way ahead of us this year, and I should probably get to finding new songs and doing my new assignments already, so if you would excuse me. Cya guys next time, and until then… I’ll have an early night. *snores* (Audience: WTF?)

[P.S.: Mostly Kayanon again. I’m not complaining. I probably won’t see another photobook from her soon. Well if Kana-chan’s one would come by or Mikakoshi’s scheduled in March, then I’ll see. *laughs*

Looks like I might want to limit the amount of fetish I receive (in the form of homescreen wallpapers) every week, huh.]

Compromise is such a bitch. Even when you comply and give in you're also in the wrong.

Well, letting it all out here is just great.

I love to live in my own world. Unfortunately nothing in my world is similar to reality.

Really envious how Ayachi can wake up to greet the world everyday. At least, on her Twitter account.

The Dream Fragmemt #3

I feel so bad about myself this morning. Thought this would only happen with Ayachi. This time it's Kalafina.

I rather not go into details, but suffice it to say... I guess I watched too much p*rn already, really.

...

Sorry, ladies.

(Audience: OMG...)

The Twitter (Localised) Phenomenon

Once again, I'm surprised by the power of Internet in connecting people together. This morning, when I'm still considering whether to get out of my bed, I saw this.

That's right！！ RT @KlassicNote: When it comes to treatment, yucat has the best doctor on the planet. Listening to yucat - Dr.Code #yucat

— yucat (@yucat1031) January 11, 2015

That really made my day.

I love Twitter. At least on the Japanese side.

I wonder what's next. miwa-san, perhaps?

[P.S.: Maybe it’s just me, huh. My friends don’t know nothing.]

The Entertainment News 2015 Edition Week #2

Hey guys, welcome back to this weekly post. Yeah makes you wonder what happens if I don’t do this post every week, huh.

Anyways, I’m not feeling well recently, I’ve watched an awesome new season of MythBusters, and school is starting tomorrow, so…  let’s get this weird feeling done and over with.

アニメ
ANIME

KimiUso: Yep this will be the first Anime of the new season now, in contrast to being the last viewed the previous season. The story continues where Kaori and Kousei prepare for the Gaia performance which does not involve judging but somehow the judges are there, don’t ask me why. Anyways, Kaori misses in action and Kousei intends to do a solo performance? Well well, I swear no one paid to watch a piano performance… unlike that elementary school brat that got the mother’s friend worked up. Haha, oh well.
Koufuku Graffiti: As mentioned this will be one of the two I’ll be watching this season, and yeah apparently I see no reason to reject them at all. We start with this show talking lesser of food that its brand suggests but more on its effects on happiness. With this, it’ll make a huge difference to many other cooking-related Anime out there (I know about Shougeki no Souma, I know. I just don’t watch/read it), and I think I can watch this. Some cousin comes to stay with a loner who just lost her grandma a year ago, and is unsatisfied with her cooking mainly, as hinted by the guest, that she doesn’t have anyone to eat with. We’ll be seeing more food porn, food-gasm (eating of the food) and plenty of cute girls in the future episodes, and yeah Mikakoshi’s role Shiina hasn’t made her appearance apart from a mere few seconds. Nice show I probably will have the mood to watch every week.
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu: I know years ago I definitely have seen or even heard of this show and its OVA years ago, but only has now got around to it. Its unique circumstances make of a strange yet strong premise for an action and assassination Anime. The cast has changed ever since the OVA, but seeing both versions I see why production made the transition. Everything else is pretty damn good on first impression, from first explaining the background, that main guy student with a seemingly girly appearance (maybe it’s just me) to the teacher travelling up to Mach 20 in order to spend the lunch break in China. Seriously. Anyways, nice show to watch, it’s 2-cour (ie. until July) like KimiUso and I think I can watch a couple more episodes. Or even more.

漫画
MANGA

Well I think I watched quite a few, but no BLEACH though. Meh.
Isshuukan Friends.: Well the trip is over, and Hase-kun seriously is worried. Very seriously worried. Of course he questions his relations with Fujimiya-san at almost every point ever since that Hajime came by, and it’s about time he thought about it seriously.

*silence*

You know how desperate I want to see this turn into a romance story once Hase-kun decides to date the girl? Really, just saying.
Seitokai Yakuindomo: I missed the Christmas special by the scanlators, and I’ve caught up to it. Much are already in the second season of Anime, but many are still funny to laugh at. Really, I wonder when the author wants to stop this story. I guess not anytime soon? Good. *laughs*

SHOWS
MythBusters: Hell yeah. Been a while since I ever got this excited as the date draws near and as I watched it just now. With this new season they focus more on the process which they do at the start of this whole series, and bought a bunch of cinematic cameras to make them (and the show) look fascinating in the process. .I guess that’s good, but what’s important is new myths. The Simpsons myths may vary from stupid to ridiculous, but still great to watch the guys do the work. The premise looks fresher than any other season premier I’ve gone through with them, and the new episodes will continue to look better. Really, like Indiana Jones and Transformers will be interesting to watch.

Also, whoever b**ched about that they shouldn’t do The Simpsons should recall the comedy show myths they’ve done (gunpower chasing to its barrel) and that 80% of Hollywood is unrealistic. Well, *quote from Jamie* I’m just saying.

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

Well this year’s gone to a slow start as I bring down my mood to listen to new songs, and maybe because of this my style of listening and reviewing may change this year, considering the huge competition from the sheer amount of songs last year. Nonetheless, I supposedly am starting the new year with five songs which I vaguely recall maybe lesser than last year’s, but things will pick up soon anyway, isn’t it? I anticipate that in time to come.

Talk about new songs this week, I reviewed an album and a single. Hocchan’s new album is nothing but foreign to me the first time I touched it or actually reviewed one, and I tried my best to give at least one song already by the time this is out. (I now know where all the sh**ty songs go to liao) ClariS new single is nothing but standard with respect to their previous singles where I probably won’t take the B-sides (I guess it needs an overpowering reason to do so huh), and I’m still trying to get used to the new duo, now that the two literally sound like one. (I swear I’ll be out once Clara gets replaced) Also coming up is their first best single with the obvious point stated in the title (which means the previous bracket might just happen), and we shall see if I can even get it on my shelf. Also under review recently are yucat’s 3rd album from like months ago, and I decided to give chance (I know, it was hard considering the previous paragraph) to two songs to start the hype for the year, and KANA-BOON’s theme song with Anime Naruto because I watched them perform in a live performance video over the new year and that-

I gave a theme song last year. This will definitely be the second and last Naruto theme song I'll give. Listening to KANA-BOON - Silhouette

— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) January 6, 2015

(As always, go to my Twitter page for more insider and possibly offensive honest opinions of my list of music. And probably upcoming songs I will/might/might not be giving.)

Also, before I forget about theme songs for this season’s Anime… it’s kind of a hit-and-many-misses…

Well watched two new Anime and the stories are very promising. Not so much to say for their theme songs. Other than the one I mentioned.

— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) January 10, 2015

I think I'm on to a good start this year. First single of the year. That is scheduled to be on my shelf? pic.twitter.com/GHs5ybJO3p

— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) January 10, 2015

 

That’s all, folks. My headache is giving me problems to type more already. Seriously, I can type more. And also I have to prepare for lessons tomorrow, so if you would excuse me. With this much happening above me, I guess I’m braced for the things in the new year, yes?

[P.S.: I hope so… Also, don’t ask about APoL. I just am not in the mood to finalise my unsatisfactory work.]

[P.P.S.: On a higher note, Kayanon is enjoying being on my phone? I guess… not?

(Don’t ask me why)

More to come, especially when I heard about Mikakoshi is also having a new photobook. And more especially when I’m in school. Hope the battery life holds up, Android Lollipop.]

When perfection cannot describe a perfection, it's already perfect.

Yeah, just so pleased with my home production DVD. Sadly I can show you guys none of it.

The Entertainment News 2015 Edition Week #1

Hey welcome to 2015! And here’s the first week of the year, with nothing much to offer. Well. It’s the start of the year anyway. There isn’t much yet, yes?

アニメ
ANIME

Nothing much, but I did mention about two Anime I’ll be watching at least the first episode of starting next week, Koufuku Graffiti and Ansatsu Kyoushitsu. I’ll see about that myself.

On other new news, WORKING!! is getting  a third season. It wasn’t a rumour. More like a hint during the summer festival of this show and Servant x Service.

SHOWS
MythBusters is coming up with a new season starting next week too, good thing is this all the shows (including Anime) all air towards the weekend, means I won’t have to watch a show on like, Wednesday.

漫画
MANGA

Seitokai Yakuindomo: For a festive month, I see a couple of dozen new chapters around, and most of them are directed close to the 2nd season of the Anime. I wonder if they will be doing a 3rd season or not.

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

I’ve been watching a lot of yearly lives in full (don’t ask me how), and been giving chances to some artists I can listen to. Interestingly it’s another theme song for that Anime which is ending along with the Manga last year, but good news is it’s going to be the last time anyway. After that, I’m still waiting for the first new releases for the year, which are Hocchan’s album and ClariS new single. The new formed one. I’m missing the good old one already.

 

Well that’s really much it, folks. There isn’t much to talk about it either. Have been sleeping a lot and doing up Klassic Note. Yeah, I know. APoL needs more time. But I’ll probably have it out before my new semester starting in another week’s time. Cya guys then, and until next time… enjoy the new year.

[P.S.: A couple of kimono shots through the new year, and Kayanon’s photobook next week. Or maybe also the week after. I’ve gotten scans for the whole book.]

The Klassic Note Evaluation 2014

Yeah, I thought I typed “evolution” too. Not happening anytime soon.

Welcome to the (probably I’ll do this) annual Klassic Note Evaluation, where I talk about the performance of artists which classify to one of the following:

1. Collection Artists (ie. long-time artists in Klassic Note, eg. Aqua Timez)
2. New & Uprising (ie. I mentioned their names a couple of times already and it’s not only last year, eg. Kuso Iinkai)
3. Newcomers (ie. artists I have a great impression of last year, and not to be confused with the previous one. Eg. nano.RIPE)

I’m ready. Shall we? (I know; I should’ve written it yesterday…)
(Most dates reference to last year, the year 2014. I still have time time lag since yesterday, yes?)

COLLECTION ARTISTS
Many have gone, many are quiet, and many have returned. Despite that, last year is an active year for the active artists and those I’ve waited from more than two years ago. Many have reached 10 years from formation too, which means we will see more in the upcoming year ahead, not forgetting last year.
(In no particular order)

YUI – I know she has been on a hiatus for a year or two, but we recently see many new works and a first album from her newly-formed band “FLOWER FLOWER”, which is pretty good and differently in style as most of the songs now are written in collaboration of three other members, off the usual style of YUI yui herself. (Oh, it’s “yui” now.) Nonetheless, her efforts are much appreciated, crediting into movie theme songs and many more, and this is only the beginning of her comeback. Good job, yui, the wait was worth it.

Aqua Timez – It’s their 10th year now, and to celebrate that, many things are under way. Their album in August was a timely arrival, and to say I missed their style of songs is an understatement. Also they went online for a live broadcast and yes, you bet I was watching it. They ended the year with a single which is, of course, on my shelf right now. It’s like I cannot get enough of them, and they just get better. I guess that is how it feels to grow as a band.

Ikimonogakari – As usual they start their activity from the second-half of the year, and similar to last year do with a couple of singles before a full-fledged album that is released at the end of the year too. At the start of the year they start with a digital release of “Niji”, and only half a year later has it been included in a single release. October sees them singing for a news channel (yes Japan news channels have theme songs) and an Anime, if you would know and I didn’t watch, Nanatsu no Taizai, and another single for drama. An active year for Ikimono, plenty of TV appearances for them and for me. To watch them.

SCANDAL – Well this is an interesting one. Instead of saying that this is “the year of SCANDAL”, I might as well say it’s their first year of success. Following their own compositions from the year before, last year MAMI takes the task for pushing three singles worth of songs, of which all of them are on my shelf. They also starred as a theme song for a Pokemon movie, and finish it off with their very own album for the year. And I can tell you, the difference of them writing songs themselves compared to people writing songs for them is massive. So massive, even sincerity cannot express their impression to me last year. Awersome, SCANDAL! Keep it going!

Rie fu – Also in her tenth year, with her breaking off the major record label three years ago, she decided to take the mammoth task of releasing 10th year albums herself. One is in November last year, and the other to be done next year. With this, she travelled around the world, meeting many composers and creating the most diverse album she can to her style to date. She also started her adventures to perform lives in Asia, what many would not be doing at this time. Also her new music videos are on YouTube, so don’t ask me for links for previews whatsoever. Only if all the artists are like this… (*wink* Ikimono)

Chatmonchy – This is yet another comeback as Eriko-chan settles down after her childbirth. The biggest change in the band till date, the duo expands into a quattro (LOL) with two other members to cover for the drums and the… keyboard? Yeah, a new addition to the instruments in the keyboard, which brings yet another level of style to their music. They strike the house with a new double A-side single, and with the new year they also announced another single and their 6th album next year as part of their 10th year. Wow many 10th years huh…

miwa – Three singles is kind of a stretch for many, but for miwa it’s just another way of expression through music. With credits to commercials and even theme songs for special schools, she has yet reached greater heights in terms of popularity and fame. Not mentioning that her social presence through the cute selfies just makes her irresistible apart from her wonderful compositions. Need I say more?

SPECIAL OTHERS – Or should I say “SPECIAL OTHERS ACOUSTIC”, the band reformed after their biggest live in Budoukan (JFGI), with a different acoustic feel, though not losing their usual style. Their album in October brings about many peaceful and easy-listening melodies along with acoustic renditions of their own songs. Here’s to hope to see more of this awesome band, because a year without them will be hard to go by now. Really.

sphere & its members – Yes, all of them are performing well last year, and even Ayahi is in the equation. Tomacchan has been releasing three singles, one of which even reached as far as 4th in weekly Oricon charts, which is quite a feat and a record for herself. Ayahime (her nickname) startled me with a B-side through Mikakoshi’s radio show, and you know if all her songs are like this she would've been in my list even earlier already. Mina-chan also released a single and an album which is on her birthday week as usual, and I still ask myself why I did not place her album on my shelf like last time. Aki-chan… well let’s say three singles is not enough for me in appreciation of her honest and romantic music, even if it’s not written by her. Thanks to all of them, because as sphere reaches their 5th anniversary and with 4 album and 17 (18 by the time the best album releases on February) singles on hand, it’ll be a hell of a year for them this year.

Ajikan – ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION has been quiet last year, as they only released a special B-side compilation which also includes songs from their yearly compilation NANO MUGEN, which is also on last year. Focus is more last year on Gotch, their composer and vocalist, on his solo debut album, which is a lot of his personality, though not so much of the band’s style. Nonetheless, Gotch has foreseen more activity for the band this year instead

Kalafina – As the group reaches their fifth year, they kept quiet by releasing only two best album and a single for Anime Fate stay/night, which is not much to look at compared to the year before. Nonetheless this also brings another single to my shelf though now new already (yes not the new one), and I hope to see more from them this year.

 

NEW & UPRISING
If I mentioned more names than the one above, means Klassic Note is expanding. And as with last year, many more came into review, and many have to be mentioned of their current performance, so to anticipate new releases and also what I like about them.

Kuso Iinkai – Last year saw the major debut of this eccentric band, and with their first full album in June, starts them going with another single in August and another release by the end of the month. Performance-wise I wouldn’t say it’s great, but rather outstanding as I recall the days I brainwash myself to their songs day and night.

NICO Touches The Walls – Not really uprising, but as they are not new to me, seeing them in NANO MUGEM COMPILATION (See Ajikan) is rather a surprise. With that I also found out that last year is their 10th, and they celebrate by releasing a bunch of singles featuring new songs (this particular one with Anime credits) and their own covers of various artists, with this one I heard of Chatmonchy. Yeah. Not on my shelf, though.

cinema staff – This band is the usual rock band. Nice, and sometimes awesome. With their second album in place last year, they also bring many nice songs including credits for drama and Anime. Good job, and I want to see more.

SID – They have been active on the lines too. With their 10th anniversary they released a special single featuring all their members in which the Regular Edition is of course on my shelf. They released an album in March and also featured themselves in Anime Kuroshitsuji. If this show goes on they need to come up with a song every year already…

fhana – From their single the year before, this year sees another swarm of activity of this Anime band. Featured in two Anime which I both watched, they brings out different feels for the shows, and end up with an image album for Anime Sora no Method. Also they are getting their first full album this year, which is good news, and about time for me to truly consider them to be a regular for time to come.

negoto – They have not been disappointing ever since their mini-album in March, and their double A-side single, which not surprisingly, is on my shelf. Their special style of music really brings me back to listen to them time and again, and I cannot tell you how great they are. Hope to see more from them this year.

Neat’s – She shouldn’t be here already, but her third album after a full preview online brings out one of the biggest impressions of last year. Not mentioning that her album is already on my shelf, she also did a whole lot of music videos on YouTube to further promote her album. If only she is smart enough to travel overseas like Rie fu to perform… Oh yeah, “she has no friends”, huh…

Younha – With many years concerning her presence in Japan, after spending many years in Korea she finally made the decision to come back to Japan featuring a cover release of a few of her famous Korean songs sung in Japanese. A nice attempt after four years, and nonetheless will give her support for new songs if she starts again this year.

fumika – She has not been of memory ever since her break off from major label the year before, but then her single in April is an impressive one. Of course there are singles here and there as she is actively still singing, but it’ll have to take an album due this year to prove to me that I like to listen to her songs. I just need the mood for it, I guess.

yanaginagi – Starting from a single the year before, last year saw many activities to this Anime artist. A single on my birthday, a single in June, a digital single in July following her 2nd album in December… she has much to offer. And I took it all. She certainly is uprising, as I start to love her songs and her voice.

Taketatsu Ayana – From her it’s all voice actresses and their solo singing careers. We start off with Ayachi, which has delivered an impressive album along with two singles, one of which I missed (for some apparent rreason I’ll explain later) and another her first credit to an Anime Denki-gai no Honya-san. Due to her overly cute singing voice, it’s difficult to choose between listening to the song and her singing voice, so I try to stick with the Klassic Note rule of “melody over voice”. But of course I may give a couple of songs this year before Klassic Note starts in a week and a half’s time.

Hanazawa Kana – This one… hoho Kana-chan has changed a lot. From her abrupt 2nd album featuring the massive amount of new songs only seen in best albums, she released two singles of very different styles. You can’t say I didn’t give her chance, but maybe due to her voice or even more due to the melodies, I did not give much for her this year. I gave the Anime Tonari no Seki-kun opening theme song though…

Komatsu Mikako – New on the list, but not so after this year, the focus of the year is undoubtedly her 2nd album after a single release which I wouldn’t even talk about. With her own compositions and wonderful songs to follow and to top it up another single in November, I can’t say how much my impression of her has improved just over the past year already.

Horie Yui – Recently on the magnifying glass last year, Hocchan’s new single suggests the weirdest ways love songs can be written. Along with her singing, this brings about an interesting combination devoid of her previous singles. Welcoming her upcoming album next week, I see much potential in giving her a couple more songs, provided the melodies hit me before her cute voice, of course.

Hikasa Youko – Witnessing her debut the year before, last year was quite a year for Yocchan. She released her first album, which was impressive in many ways but more lively in terms of choice of songs. Nonetheless, she is awesome in expression the dream combination I (and most) would hope to hear from her, and I know she’ll do better for this year too.

 

(wow this is getting long…)

NEWCOMERS
Normally meeting them in various circumstances, whether it’s from Anime or just random Internet searching, some stand out amongst the rest that are handpicked by me every year. And last year isn’t an exception either.

nano.RIPE – Impressive is not the word to use of them anymore, but nano.RIPE is a player when it comes to impressions ever since I heard them from Anime Glasslip. I swear if they wrote for the Anime really says a lot of their integral style of rock music that is nano.RIPE. Many months have been spent considering their songs and reviewing their singles and albums, and in October three months after the single I reviewed it’s finally on my shelf. Awesome performance this year, and more has to come, right?

Goose house – A group formed from Sony’s “Play You” a couple of years ago, this group of aspiring composers (deja vu from Klassic Note Review) has gained much attention this year with the integration of their songs in Anime, one in February and another in November for Anime Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso (KimiUso if you’ve been reading Entertainment News). Their acoustic performances with the departure of their leader d-iZe also brought much attention on him and his solo career, along with many like Takebuchi Kei with her mini-album in March.

Tsuzuri Zukuri – Really new to me, they started with me watching an uncut TV show I took down online. Thanks to that video, I was exposed to the acoustic duo, which gives a fresh meaning to eccentric music, and I like them. Sadly their songs are hard to get, so I can only depend on YouTube videos. Hope they get a major debut so I can get to hear more of their songs. Or maybe not, so the music videos will still be available in full, haha.

Satou Satomi – Considering that Satomi-chan is a newbie compared to many voice actors who started singing solo earlier, she has done an impressive debut year of two singles and a mini-album showing off her own style and her being in a band and her live performances featuring her own guitar solo. Yeah. Haven’t seen it yet. But I can see myself watching her live soon this year, and we’ll definitely be looking forward to more of her songs.

Amamiya Sora and… – As a headstart to the new members under the MusicRay’n label (recall sphere), Ten-chan started with two singles credited to Anime Akame ga Kill, of which one of them is on my shelf. Also they announced the trio “Trysail” to debut this year similar to how sphere started, which means the pattern of Natsukawa Shiina (Nonoka in Anime Sora no Method) and Asukara Momo (this one… I don’t know) starting their solo music debut sometime too this year. Another shopping spree, huh…

 

Ok I’ll stop here. Anymore I’ll need to review every single one of the 220 songs I have last year already. My hands are getting tired too. Cya guys then, and until next time… I talk about Anime and possibly APoL? Yeah, I didn’t forget because the year just passed, but as I mentioned I’m not pleased. And I intend to release two chapters at once. Purely because they’re connected so I’ll need more time. Take care, and here’s to another year in Klassic Note! Hopefully I can write earlier for the end of this year, for next year. If you get what I mean.

The Yearly Resolution (2015)

Hello.

The first post of 2015. Not like I cared about it.

But no, I’m here for a reason. As the title says I’m here to talk about my life. It’s not so interesting, so let’s get done with it.

As you would know I’m cuirrently in university, and in a couple of weeks I’m going to start my second semester. Well as things go I must hope (regardless of results) that I can move forward without ending up somewhere that may get me into trouble. Academically, at least.

Then there is everything else. Klassic Note has been wonderful, and if you don’t know the results for this year yet it’s out. But due to copyright reasons, SoundCloud does not allow me to upload the previews, and more importantly, complete the new website. Well good thing is I can rely on private hosting instead, so all is well for now. Of course I hope Klassic Note will get bigger and better in terms of finding songs and the song count, which I don’t really care about anymore.

Lastly, it’s for everyone else. Notice it’s different from the one above, as I’m talking about people around me. Well they may not be important as far as I know, but at least they are. Here’s to hope people can understand each other more, as less conflict always make great progress.

 

I guess I can only write this much. I don’t need a draft for this, but neither can I even prepare one at a time like this. Because I reflect too much, there isn’t much to do now. (Yes means I also won’t even tell you everything myself) Cya guys later as I shall continue with an evaluation of Klassic Note this year. This, I have much to say.

The Entertainment News Week #54

I know. What’s the next post title, right? We shall see.

I was thinking of doing up a post on criticising the format of pop music, but then I noticed it’s actually my opinion on music. So I guess I shouldn’t after all. But… it… keeps… happening…

アニメ
ANIME

Sora no Method (2nd last episode): Yes this one is real. With reference to the misunderstanding last week, this week definitely is the last episode. I mean, later. Whatever happens now to Nonoka and the ignorance of everyone else besides Shione about Noel will be answered. It better be. Last episode for me was a mindf**k.
KimiUso: Not happening until two weeks from now. Yes I went to find out what happened. The new arc starts with episode 12 with a bunch of new theme songs. Hmm…
With respect to next season Anime, in reference to Random Curiosity’s season preview, I’m going to watch the first episode of two shows:: Koufuku Graffiti (now doubtful because I heard the opening theme song) and Ansatsu Kyoushitsu (that try-to-assassinate-your-teacher-who-is-a-professional-himself Anime) (because the premise of the show sounds interesting). The others? Probably not.

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Well apparently the old monk is alive after Ichigo called his name, and that's pretty much it. Hopefully that Quincy leader can foresee that Ichigo is going to get rid of him. Or someone else. I don’t know. Not like I foresee anything anyway.

MOVIE
Yep, just one. Because I got bored.
Penguins of Madagascar: Feels like the penguin version of Johnny English, for those who watched it before. Spy thriller experience, and plenty of jokes and last minute actions and ideas for the penguins. I must say the production is well done for the premise of this show.

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

Six last songs to top it up, and the final count for now is 220. Yes, another record. Two more from yanaginagi’s 2nd album (I’m still feeling bad for not calling on someone I know to get my bought single to get it signed in AFA this year), three from Ikimonogakari’s 7th album because I missed their songs, and one last from Sora no Method Image Album, which is entirely made by fhana. Problem is I only took (and remembered) one song, which makes me now humming to the song like what Nonoka does in the show.

Wow I can't believe I'm doing the same thing as an Anime character: humming an image song just like how they did it. Shocking.
— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) December 24, 2014

Now that’s called being one with the Anime…


I guess that’s all. Starting tomorrow I've got much to do, so hope I can finish things up by the next time we meet, probably in the new year. Or before that to release Klassic Note results. Or APoL. That one, we’ll see. I’m still not pleased with my progress and more importantly, the quality of my work. So we shall see. Until next time… enjoy the last days of the year. I still haven’t got my purchase (not CD) from online (not Japan) yet. I don’t know. Probably complaining tomorrow.
[P.S.:

It’s not much, but if it’s Ten-chan then it’s great. That also means I’ll get more next year, right? Hopefully.]

The Entertainment News Week #53

Yes APoL is still on hold. Because I just thought of another way to write the story. And even that is only part of the first draft I intend to probably release tomorrow. Or by Christmas. Whichever one comes first. (Audience: Tomorrow’s after Christmas?) (Eh…)

And yeah, the year’s about to come to an end. I feel so sa-

アニメ
ANIME

Sora no Method (2nd last episode): Wow finally the truth is out, and yes all of them ask for their reunion, and thus fulfilling them will cause Noel’s existence to disappear, which is also not to their wishes. Now that they have no choice but to send her off (personally I think they should’ve done that long time ago), will the miracle of Noel coming back happen? Without the saucer? Hopefully. I want to see a happy ending. Tonight. Without my ordered-a-week-ago-online Chromecast to watch on my TV. Haiz. Maybe I’ll use the smart TV instead to console myself.
Denki-gai no Honya-san: Good last episode, not because it has a lot of jokes, but it’s a good summary and special to end a season of Anime. Especially the Uma no Hone part at the end. Really, don’t watch if you don’t laugh or cannot take sex jokes. After that, the girls (and the guys) have given me a good memory of this show, and I’ll enjoy future sequels, if any. Kudos to another good less-than-Seitokai-Yakuindomo comedy Anime! (Really, Seitokai is SO much more wrong. Vibrators are just…)
KimiUso: Eh… Kousei failed the contest. But then he’s more clear than he is before he met Kaori. Of course there are people who are shocked of his performance, but then he is learning on his own feet. With a new piano tutor who is nothing like his mother, and his next performance with Kaori-chan coming around the corner… I know the spoilers. Accidentally.
Because on a side note, I went to read some chapters of the manga. I thought the Anime is attempting to drag the show (like three episodes for one performance event), but it’s not. The manga author, however, is actually more exaggerating than the Anime itself. Now I know. I’ll blame the author instead. And damn, should I spoil it for you that Kaori-chan will be missing from their next performance? (OOPS. HAHA)

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Wow Ichibe is still struggling against The Almighty, which is bad, because it’s not enough to delay until Ichigo’s group to arrive. Haha, really we’re all waiting for that huh…

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

Well nothing much this week. Next week will be D-day for Kana-chan’s new single (probably) which I will decide whether to give the whole single or not (I heard the B-side and it sounds fine), Ikimono’s album to whether I will give a couple of songs or not, and if that happens I will take a few more songs from yanaginagi’s album which… I think I mentioned this the last time.
Anyways, new singles and albums are announced for the new year, but since they are quite ahead of time and there’s a lot to cover, I’ll talk about it in due time. It’s the end of the year already, you know.


Cya guys then. Been busy sorting out things for my mom and thinking through APoL to give you guys a better FIRST DRAFT hopefully by the dates stated above. Until next time… hope my Chromecast appears at my doorstep or else I’ll need to file a complaint, and look around for probably… okay maybe not. Come back next week, yes?

[P.S.: If you’re waiting for this… I think I’ll probably stop next year. I just wanted a picture for this weekly post, but… I’ll think of something else? Hmm…

I wished there was more of Kana-chan and Kayanon’s photobooks. I guess I have to be patient, huh.]

[Edit.: Oops. Just found out after watching the 2ND LAST EPISODE of Sora no Method that it ends next week. I feel so bad about myself now. I thought it’s over and they play cliffhanger. More to talk about next week.]

The Klassic Note Review – 2014.12 Issue 2

Somehow I NEVER mentioned this yanaginagi’s single before, even though it’s on my shelf. Well. The wait is over. I’m filling it in, and the compilation will come tomorrow. Remember that. I’ll post it here just to remind myself anyway. Let’s get started.

音楽 The Klassic Note Review

yanaginagi – Aqua Terrarium [Single]

Limited Edition

Regular Edition

(Both pertaining to the theme. And no close ups. Good. Oops.) (No really, she has her beauty; Refer to the other single review)

Origin: Well I guess the most memorable from her of how I started in this single and listening to yanaginagi is from Anime “Nagi no Asukara”. Awesome show by the way. And with awesome shows come awesome theme songs, and she did twice of it. Both great. More than the average standard because she partakes in the lyrics, and her voice is… Yeah you get what I mean. Anyways, it’s because the first of this I hear the diversity and her own composition, barely missing it last year and revisiting it the start of this year, and at least on my shelf. If she deserves that much attention she really is good, I can tell you that.

(1) Aqua Terrarium
The theme song. A very different feel. A lot of hoohs and hahs going around the chorus. My first impression isn’t wonderful. But then as I go along the show it brings me to the mood of this song, which is uniquely soothing. I can remember back in last year at this time of the year I’m spending every night in a week listening to this song before I go to bed. Really. The hypnotic feeling somehow brings about the despair and mood in the song, as with the lyrics too. Overall a very well done song despite weak first impressions. And despite being still an Anime theme song.
RATING: 4 stars (Very Average)

(2) mnemonic
This is what stopped me last year from getting the single. Her own composition. And there are two reasons why I changed my decision. Firstly, with the arrival of the other single I got for my birthday this year (specifically “unjour” her other composition), I decided to give her another chance, and surprisingly I’m in the mood for it, so instead of giving 4 out of 6 songs in total for both singles, I decided to put both of the singles on my shelf. Period. The drifty mood of this song has its own way, and in the most depressing times of the year (at least for the start of the year) she played a big part, and I forgave some discrepancies to give her the thumbs up. Secondly, this is also (I swear it’s coincidentally and unintentionally) the insert song for the same show. And after listening to it beforehand it really rings a bell, and reminded me once again how great this song is done. Really, have I not convinced you by now she is great?
RATING: 4 stars (Average)

(3) You can count on me
This song, also given last year along with (1), is the other side of yanaginagi. The active side. The happy side. And a well done melody (not by her), but wonderful lyrics of dependence and hope. Really appreciating her talent by now, and I see why she left that group to advance further in her singing career. (Haha) So lively, five minutes for this song isn’t enough. Really. Upbeat, lively, and I can totally imagine her dancing to this if she did a live performance of it. Well, soon. She just completed her 2nd album…
RATING: 4 stars (Above Average)

Conclusion: Overall not a bad single after all. You may see me giving average ratings here, but you don’t know how many times I''ve listened to these songs behind the scenes, especially last year, when I don’t have that Twitter account back then. Anyways, fans who has a taste of her composition style would definitely not miss this one of course, and those who haven’t so should give her voice and her rather quirky style of music creation a chance. Definitely a (three-track) single I’ve tried given chances and not got disappointed throughout the course of selection.


Yay. I’m done. Now for APoL. Apparently I didn such a haphazard and messy job I may have to rewrite it. Hope it doesn’t come to that. Cya guys next time then, and meanwhile I’ll wait patiently for the Anime tonight to be online. Bye.

The Entertainment News Week #50

Wow I didn’t remember Jeff Dunham coming to my home city. Oh well. Not like they dare to come here again… Oops

アニメ
ANIME

Sora no Method: Well last week (Yep just in case the next one gets in my way tonight. Or tomorrow) Noel collapsed, but after some time and sending back her to the hometown seems to have made her recover, but also the truth is out. Well, at least to the group, from Shione. Yes. Apparently their solution is to each take the blame to not make the wish (whoever’s it is) of reuniting the five-people group. Really? REALLY? Well, not like I cared anyway. Anyways, it’s coming to an end, and we know Noel has to fulfil the wish, but… either or both can happen. You get what I mean. Like, Noel could stay and they can still be together for all we know…
Uma no Hone: Seriously if you start watching this show because of this week’s episode I applaud you. Because Kobayashi Yuu (the voice actor behind G-Man) (and Seitokai Yakuindomo’s Yokoshima-sensei) doesn’t really sound cute as a kid (I sweat I was expecting someone else), and I didn’t notice who it is until halfway through the show. Like, when they talked about Civil Service and stuff. Seriously. Nice episode though, and it couldn’t have gone any better, especially with half the show quiet with Sommelier. LOL On the other hand, Tsumorin applauds Sensei-chan’s professionalism in her lifestyle as a manga artist, and WUUUUUUUUUUUUUT??? Go watch that scene yourself. I’m not elaborating. I don’t even feel Ayachi’s voice in it.
KimiUso: Yes it was a long performance. Spanning like, three episodes for a concert performance not more than 4 minutes long. Just saying. Anyways, Kousei is really binded by her mother for some reason (or the production is the one that does Attack on Titans) (miserable freaks) (Wait don’t tell me Aniplex is part of the production in that show too…), but love triumphs discipline (like how democracy thrives over communism) and he plays a performance that probably is the biggest mindf**k to the judges. Yeah. If he doesn’t get kicked out of the competition now I don’t know what else will. Seriously.

Oh yeah. I’m reminded of something.

Tonari no Kashiwagi-san: Not wrong segment, but yes. That Manga 2.5 adaptation. Don’t know what’s that? JFGI. Anyways, the season was pretty well done, though pace is kind of slow, the voices of the girls could’ve been less of acting cute and…. it’s not Anime. Somehow it has to happen. But if it doesn’t, ever, I don’t mind. I’ll remember the manga scenes in my head. Like how Sayaka has to get a guy to meet her father, how Tina appeared out of nowhere and her boyfriend being the one who scarred Kotone in her past. Yeah. Do some full Anime adaptation, someone.

SHOWS
Jeff Dunham: Yep. The new DVD on his world tour over the past few years is out. Less offensive, still has good jokes testing A LOT on his comedian skills, and… now we know how the French Terrorist appeared in Jeff Dunham Show came about. Nice one Jeff.

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Eh… did I say something about the Quincy leader being victorious in the end or something along those lines? Either that or I need to give the Zero Division some APoL decks before they set out fighting. Possibly also to every good guy out there in the show. Besides Ichigo. He needs no divination. *laughs*

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

Not much at all this week, besides yanaginagi’s 2nd album, which I did review from starting last week, is just getting better despite my reduced listening of the songs recently. Well decided to give another song (which means it’s exceeding 215) from her album (apparently a theme song for an Anime NEXT SEASON?) and somewhat close things until… Damn. Wow. I shouldn’t have watched Jeff Dunham just now. I forgot about something.

As I was looking through my own reviews, I noticed I missed one of them. (Oops) Will do it tonight before compilation. (Yes, "compilation")
— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) December 14, 2014

Yeah. How? Tomorrow? I’ll try it by tonight. But I don’t want to miss watching Anime. Btw, I rejected SID’s new single. Don’t ask me why, especially when you’re their fan.


APoL? Yeah it’s on it’s way. Somehow my next week isn’t going to be as carefree as I hoped (it’s towards the end of the year anyway) so I’ll push Chapters 13 and 14 together instead.
I’m a freaking liar. I know. Cya next week then, or later, if I can get the last Klassic Note Review of the year to be done before the sun sets moon sun rises. Well I don’t do that anyway. I just go sleep. Until next time.

[P.S.: Omachikanedesune? Yesu. (OMG I feel so offensive)

Hope to see more, like text-less kind of way, images that I can put on my phone. I’m sure I can find them.]

The Klassic Note Review – 2014.12 Issue 1

Yes it’s the only one. Because SID new single isn’t impressive and the two last week aren’t either. And I don’t intend to buy any albums soon. Maybe Ikimono, but I shall see that for myself.

音楽 The Klassic Note Review

Aqua Timez – Ikite [Single]

[Limited Edition]

[Regular Edition]

(Pretty much the same, these two, but the Regular Edition looks more blissful. I’d like the Limited Edition though because it features live footage from the niconico live before their album release, which… oh well.)

Origin: Well we are all familiar with pop rock band Aqua Timez, for they bring us many awesome songs from Anime, drama and many more. Celebrating their 10th year, with the release of their album earlier in August comes this single for another drama (which I wouldn’t elaborate here), but as it is only a single-track (new song) single, I’m sure to be reviewing it, right? Hell yeah you bet I will. This single falls on the line of single-track singles of their band, and this isn’t any shabby either.

(1) Ikite [Live On]
Eh… first impression from music video is rather impressive, with most of the captivating components of a pop song available, and along with my favourite long phrases leading to the chorus again just like “Hinayume” from their latest album, this song just makes for another great track to listen to. The lyrics generally talk about life in general, that though we go through life and are worried or even get emotional just talking about it, we still live on, and thus my translation of the song title. (Yes my translation dammit) Overall a wonderful song, but honestly? I was expecting more. Damn, why am I expecting more, right?
Rating: 4 stars (Above Average)

(2) MASK (Shoes and Stargazing Version)
If I’m not wrong this is likely a rendition from their live this year also of the same name, but is also good in terms of song selection. If anyone recalls three years back where Anime “BLEACH” is still on and running (slowly) that this is one of the ending theme songs. Somehow three years listening to this version makes me view the song totally differently, which is great given the original song is already pretty good in terms of melody. Nostalgic is all I can think of at the moment, but really, nice song too. And if no one knows Klassic Note gives remixes of songs already in list, which also explains why negoto’s single is on my shelf too.

Conclusion: Altogether a nice single to have, and if not for my hesitation to get pre-order I probably would’ve done this last weekend. If you’re a fan and have not missed a release from them, I’m sure it’s at your shelf now already. Or else, if you’d like a nice song to listen, my recommendations will never exclude Aqua Timez. Really, old timer experienced band already. It’s been ten years anyway…


THE PACKAGE
Yes, even I’m excited when I get to this part, where I talk about it before I put it on my shelf. Funny it’s been two years I’m still feeling this excitement within. Must be my own money that makes it matter, isn’t it?

And yes, as you see the special gift here is not a promotional poster, but a poster of them in their live. *smiles* You get what I mean already, huh. Anyways, the packaging looks familiar as to the album with the elf theme, but this time the elf has a human granny. Just saying. Artistic view is exceptionally good though. Here, a bigger picture.


I guess that’s all this time. Cya guys next year for more review of course, and I’ll see if I can compile all the reviews I’ve done for this year or not. Along with the final look of my shelf for the year. Yeah just you wait and see…
[P.S.: APoL Chapter 13 is expected to be completed by this weekend. <<This is to make sure I meet the deadline. Really not making progress recently…]

The Entertainment News Week #49

Four more weeks to- Wait, I think I mentioned that before. Never mind.

Four more weeks to the end of 2014! And three more weeks to the end of Klassic Note for the year too. Hmm…

アニメ
ANIME

Sora no Method (will remember not to miss tonight’s, but forgot Anime two days ago, haha): Okay I see what’s happening. Shione’s not buying into the friendship thing. Too bad for Nonoka, who really just wants them to be together like back then. Seven years back then. Anyways, Shione gets to slap Nonoka again, but she has to take care of Noel now that she left the town and collapsed. Hmm. Hopefully we can get to an understanding soon to Noel’s true existence in this show, because it’s really getting on my nerves already. The lack of the answer. We’re close to the end of the season, you know…
Denki-gai no Honya-san: Love every episode of this show up till now for the overly emotional scenes than comedy, but that is fine. Very unlike Seitokai Yakuindomo as I’ve been told about. Tsumorin and Kameko seem to be the focus here, but the comedy is more towards Hio-tan, huh. I just wonder if it will ever happen that there is a conclusion to the romance things here. But seeing that they skipped all the Valtentine’s scenes for all the co-workers and left Tsumorin crying as a conclusion, I guess not.
KimiUso: Eh… as I thought Kousei performed badly due to his heavy thoughts of his mother, and we are led to a longer story about his history with his mother, and it apparently didn’t take much for him to finally stand up for himself just that one time. Kudos to him for that, but seeing how serious of a scar he got, I can’t help but think the Anime is too heavily focused on that, and I see a lack of development. Last episode sees two piano performances, and this week Kousei’s performance hasn’t even ended yet. I mean, I see more in the next episode preview. Hopefully they don’t drag the show; it’s not even halfway there…

No plans for what new shows to watch next season yet, Koufuku Graffiti seems to be interesting somehow. From many sources it seems dominance is on sequels of existent shows, which is kind of a letdown yet again. Haiz…

漫画
MANGA

BLEACH: Well the old monk is doing something with his brush, and apparently it represents darkness. Who knew that a humble brush could have such an effect? Well at least effort for such creativity is commendable, but we know the Quincy leader is OBVIOUSLY NOT DEAD YET. Yeah, only n00bs will think he is definitely dead.
Tonari no Kashiwagi-san: Well at least things are clarified between Kou and Kotone, and I guess that’s rather important for the group to move on… (Seriously where’s the Anime adaptation? And I’m not talking about the Manga 2.5)

音楽
This Week on Klassic Note

Well this week is one for many as Aqua Timez and SCANDAL come into the equation. Aqua Timez’s single is already on the way, so be sure I’ll be doing a review on it next week. SCANDAL’s new album is pretty impressive for so many of their songs are done by themselves this time round, and I will be taking a couple of songs from the list, for the list. I also got a heads up on the only release I’ll be reviewing (probably) for next week which is yanaginagi’s 2nd album. (I’m still feeling bad for not supporting her performance at my hometown) For now it’s a great album, for I already picked two songs from when I first heard it yesterday. (Really wondering what songs she sang for the live yesterday) Along with those from SCANDAL and a second selection from FLOWER FLOWER’s album I see a hell lot of songs coming my way. And yeah, the number I mentioned on Twitter will not suffice. Really. There’s still Ikimono-gakari, and I cannot just give yanaginagi TWO SONGS. Really.

215 is likely my target for this year. For Klassic Note. Which means I can only give one song from Ikimonogakari's album? Oops.
— Kaineng (@KlassicNote) December 6, 2014

I guess that’s it for this week then. The year is coming to a close, so please expect a shorter paragraph, especially for Klassic Note as I tidy up stuff for the final results and survey releases, which I do every year. Cya next week then, and I promise, I’m working on APoL. Really. Just playing Train Fever and Godus from time to time though…

[P.S.: As I shift from KitKat to Lollipop, my change of tastes in sweets also accompany a change in showing screenshots on my homescreen. For now. Homescreen widgets better come back soon.

Tomacchan’s stealing the limelight this week. Mina-chan probably next week. Got a sh*tload of pictures from her 2nd album…]