Magi-Kat presents "Morning Meteora"

Dreams Can (and Do) Come True

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 02:08:29 -0400

(Possibly big post ahead)
Dreams do come true in Hello! Land. They all may not be in ways that we want (Kikkawa Yuu getting a larger role, a new soloist who isn’t involved in anime) but with a little magic and wishing, we can make it happen:

Gocchin is back! Imagine my happiness at the news that Goto Maki has reopened her blog, presently staying in LA no less. Dance lessons? Vocal training? I smell a comeback. Well, after getting hooked on “Genshoku GAL wa Hade ni Yukube!” I guess I don’t really have a choice but to see how she’s doing.

Although one can’t help but wonder why is she in LA.? Is she planning a comeback? (Duh). If so (duh), is it going to be in Japan or is she going to try to break into the American market? Is she signed to an agency, which arranged the LA trip or is she doing this by her own accord? Hmmm… who knows?
(I'm not exactly sure if I'll be able to participate in "Gomaki Ganbare" Day, partially due to my age and my dedication to my studies).

Tsunku is going to be a daddy! Personally, I am rather surprised he didn’t have any children until now at his age. Now to believe in a similar thing with Nakazawa (though part of me is telling me she’ll be a childless woman… even a spinster). I know one thing Tsunku will have that neither Iida, Tsuji, or Nakazawa won't: twins.

Well, how this even might affect his songwriting is anyone’s question. Will we hear songs of happy praise or continue to write breakup and loneliness songs? While that’s the norm and what we want… we will never know. Hmm…

Buono is getting a new single called “Kiss Kiss Kiss.” It’s not necessarily a dream come true since we were anticipating this after “Honto no Jibun” and “Renai Rider” single, along with their “Café Buono” album.

This has also gotten me wondering: if Shugo Chara was to end, does this mean the end of Buono? I know it’s an anime unit but as me and a few bloggers has openly stated, Buono might have a future outside of Shugo Chara. Maybe they’ll have another anime to cling on to or this will be the beginning of Buono as a music group? Maybe this’ll give its members carte blanches (whatever UFA gives them) to gain recognition and maybe even graduate from their respective groups.

Reina fans were delighted to hear the Queen is going to be a voice actress on a Sanrio anime. Now, will this mean an anime-oriented solo career a la Koharu? An anime unit a la Athena & Friends? We are not sure at the moment. (Although, the name of her character, “Kirara,” reminds me of her fellow bandmate, Kusumi Kirari. Plus, imo, she looks a bit like Nono to me).

V-u-den’s new song hits the airwaves and it’s rather good. It nearly brought tears to my eyes (and listening to “Leave Out All the Rest,” which will be Linkin Park’s next single, isn’t helping). Well… I wish I could write more about it but that’s for another entry. I will say this though: the b-side being solo songs for each member was a nice touch. Kudos to Tsunku, his posse, and UFA!

The covers looks heavenly also, though I’d think the regular edition would’ve been the purple cover (since the limited edition covers are supposed to be somewhat “better” and “more marketable” since they’ll be here for a short time). I mean, they look as though they could spread their wings and fly into Hello! Heaven. Either way, they look lovely.

The PV is a fine tribute to the friendship the group had (and yay! No “Jaja Uma Paradise Part 2”!). Sales were declining since their debut single and it brings great closure to the Biyuuden PV collection. The white background in one scene reminds me of the “Itoshiki Tomo e” PV from more than half a year ago. The scenes with them on the beach only amplify the sentiment of the single. (Either way, the PV and it being a better one than “Jaja Uma” was a dream come true)

美勇伝 - なんにも言わずに　Ｉ　ＬＯＶＥ　ＹＯＵ(PV)

More Eggs get the spotlight as Happy! Style takes the stage in a recent announcement. Lead by Ongaku Gata Noto Arisa (or “Nocchi” to her fans and wota), the group also features the members of Hello! Project Kansai alongside Aoi and Yui (rookie trainees). It is unknown whether they’ll be part of H!P or TNX but they are a part of “Up-Front Style.”

One final dream I’ll mention is Milky Way’s “Anataboshi.” You have no idea how addictive this song is. I mean, it’s like they made this song to my particular taste (I’m a nut for international sounds). While in other blogs, I’ve seen favorable reviews towards Sayaka, I’m actually a fan of all three. (Then again, I’m not as familiar with [most of] the Eggs than some of you are, though I have some minor favorites). As soon as the single comes out, I… must… have it! (It’s the J-pop equivalent of moondust-sprinkled cupcakes with lemonade under a starry night).

Anataboshi (PV) Milky Way

Since we’re on the topic of “dreams,” let’s talk about other dreams.

I recently took that Musume quiz and here’s my result:

Niigaki

Might explain why I’m slowly getting into this girl. Nii Nii has a recognizable face but I wasn’t really into her (and I didn’t get a “favorite Musume” until Kusumi joined and starting twinkling like a moon island).

Took yet another quiz and it turns out the Musume I’m most like is… Ai Takahashi. Now that is a big surprise. Then again, I put most questions in the “middle” sections of the priority bar. Plus, Takitty is my third favorite Musume (after Mittsi and Kussun). The other Musume I'm supposedly like are:

#2 Kaori Iida
#3 Asami Konno
#4 Eri Kamei
#5 Sayaka Ichii
#6 Aya Ishiguro
#7 Sayumi Michishige
#8 Ai Kago
#9 Natsumi Abe
#10 Rika Ishikawa
#11 Asuka Fukuda
#12 Mari Yaguchi
#13 Miki Fujimoto
#14 Kei Yasuda
#15 Yuko Nakazawa
#16 Maki Goto
#17 Nozomi Tsuji
#18 Risa Niigaki
#19 Makoto Ogawa
#20 Reina Tanaka
#21 Hitomi Yoshizawa

Now, I’m not surprised Iida-san is in there. When I saw the Eikaiwa moments of her spacing out, I immediately thought of myself (I sometimes space out and daydream). Probably why I grew to like Kaori after a while.

Either way, if Ai was to graduate from Momusu at any time (not necessarily now), I would support her. She has a talented voice, great looks, and a nice personality (so says the one who hasn’t watched a full ep of Hello! Morning and Haromoni@. You should be ashamed, Magi-Kat) so she’ll go far. (About the personality thing, it might not be much of a bad thing since I’m like Lovely Ai-chan, according to this quiz).

God Save the Queen! Speaking of going solo, while listening to music the other day, I thought of Reina as a soloist. What style of music could she go for? (Hopefully something not boring like Yuko-san’s “Danna-sama”). Well, I never really could get into that Kira Fuyu song she sang (it was too sweet for me) and I feel that style is just… too “shiny shiny girl” for me. Then again, I’m no Reina expert. Her Kirara role, if we’re lucky, would see us some solo releases (but they’d be “Kira Fuyu” songs most likely!).

However, Reina-sama as a yankii rocker will only be a dream… just a dream. (Ugh, that is almost exactly like what I said before).

After the 9th Gen auditions, if Tanaka-san doesn’t go solo, Takitty will. A graduation at this point is hazardous to the health of Morning Musume since, as “Resonant Blue” proved, she and Tanakacchi are the “faces” of Musume nowadays (Koharu is also a front but only because of Kira☆Revo). With the 9th Gen auditions, if they select more than one person (2-4 is fine) and at least one great singer, either one of the present “aces” are cleared for graduation. (They can go soloist, form a unit, or leave H!P to pursue other opportunities. Heck, they might even join the other Musume in in the Japanese population!).

*crosses fingers on more Eggs debuting in groups* I know that’s a possibility but it doesn’t hurt to dream. Hey, I hoped Kikkawa Yuu gets a second chance since she’s popular with the fans and lookie what we have here! Milky Way! After Milky Way, hopefully, Kikkawa-san gets put into a group or, better yet, a solo career (what’s with me and solo artists?).

I guess I milked myself out of dreams. I’m pretty sure you can come up with a few dreams of your own (like Risako graduating from Berryz, a huge reunion with every graduated Musume, the Hello! Project getting a new producer and songwriter after Tsunku retires, etc) because as long as we dream, we can hope for the best. Plus, as we’ve seen, dreams can really come true.

I’m Magi-Kat, wishing you sweet dreams.

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Blue Resonance (HELP ME x3 - Part 2)

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 01:16:50 -0400

Morning Musume - Resonant Blue

You know… while I like this song very much (and heard so much praise from the International Wota comminuty at large), I’m somewhat disappointed at what I find. Don’t get me wrong - “Resonant Blue” is a grr-reat single Well, I don’t really feel like pinpointing everything:
Pros

I didn’t recognize you, Kussun! You’ve improved so much from the last time we saw you (and the last time those Kirari songs somewhat strain your voice). Then again, someone at YouTube said your voice in this song was edited (which I’m not afraid to believe somewhat since I heard your solo in “HOW DO YOU LIKE JAPAN?” on the Bon Kyu Bon Kyu Bomb Tour).

Love the background the “blue” theme. Whoever said this song was one of the more “cool” ones was spot-on (the ice at the bottom did/did not exactly help the case also).

The dance on the break. Sexy, snaky, seductive-y, *insert -y adjective here*.

Major bonus points for the fashion - kakkoii desu ne~! (Sure, let the lead singers be identified with their outfits as well ;P).

Cons

If you didn’t like Takitty and/or Reina, you might not like the song since it’s basically “GAR & Takatanattsu (featuring Tsukishima Kirari).” I personally thought the lines were distributed more evenly but looking at the PV, I saw the truth. I don’t know what kind of ears I had XP. (OMG! I forgot Niigaki had gotten a line or two. Well, with TakaTanaka hogging handling most of the lines).

I was somewhat bored throughout the PV - it was almost like one big dance shot.

Just because we have a closer view on the dancing Musume doesn’t mean that it’s a “close-up.” Well, a “close-up” in the truest/most common sense of the word.

Other

Sayumi’s “HELP ME!” at the end reminds me of “Shabondama.” (Others have spoken on that so...).

Now, let me go back to when it was just a radio rip, okay? read more

I’m sure you’ve heard the Resonant Blue preview. I must say this is my kind of song and it’s almost exactly like the kind of song I wanted the Musume Team to release.
If you’re a fan of Reina and/or Ai (~~I don’t even consider Koharu as a “lead” because all she does is say “Help me.” I’m sorry, Kussun but that’s the truth.~~ Watched the PV again. You have some lines but you‘re still a guest singer. Wait… for some reason, after the third or fourth listen, you sound like Michishige! Either that guy was right about your voice being edited or UFA is unfairly having Koharu take credit for Sayumi’s lines! Let the former be true, please).

The night’s become hot and groovy, baby so let’s groove tonight!
You mean “steaming cold,” Magi-Kat, “steaming cold.” Don’t forget the ice that ~~Morning Musume’s~~ GAR & Takatanattsu featuring Tsukishima Kirari’s hotness (at least either in the mind of the wota or the wota themselves) have melted, leaving a little space for them to dance.

I actually don’t mind the single being pushed back because it doesn’t need to compete with their Hello! Project Kid Rivals. Berryz and C-ute already have releases that are guaranteed to battle each other for #1 position like shark fetuses in their mother’s womb (even if the Melons’ juicy new single is about the only “cool” musical release this month).
Yup, GAR & Takatanattsu featuring Tsukishima Kirari don’t need to compete with the Hello Kiddies - as popular GAR is, they’ll do just fine.

Time to check it off!
Now, a few questions and hopes to hopefully resonate in the heads of the Powers That be (which I doubt with UFA since it’s all about face, wota/sex appeal, and the Yen-jamins, baby) and not leave me blue (doesn’t hurt to be hopeful):

~~Let the PV be kick-butt awesome! (At first, due to the “Egao” comparisons, I imagined a vid like that. Now, I imagine a sexy nightclub/nighttime city PV).~~ Don’t get me wrong - the PV kicks major derriere (though I do admit that the slight lack of varied shots made it a bit bland). It’s just that it left me somewhat cold and blue (no pun intended). The focus on GAR made me somewhat let down (I wanted more 8th Gen since I was getting more into them and I don’t mind the minimal role Kussun plays also).

Have the outfits in the album cover be consistent (even if some PV outfits appear deep In the album liner). (TBD)

Have it go #1 in the Oricon charts (or within the Top 5). (TBD)

Of course, the single covers and (of course) the single hasn’t come out so I can’t exactly say for sure right now. However, I will keep track and pay attention. Now that the PV is out (and I’ve seen it), it’s only a matter of time before the covers come out so please, UFA, you’re starting off smooth but still rocky. Don’t spoil it for the Musume (I also hope the b-side has more even line distribution. If they wanted a unit made up of Ai and Reina, they should just get off of their butts and make one instead of shafting, like the other six members!).

It’s antics like this that makes people want to GTFO of the Hello! Project fandom but something makes me want to stay (like being optimistic about 8th Gen and the overall future of GAR & Takata- er, Morning Musume and the rest of H!P). (For some reason, after watching this PV, I was like “Takahashi, graduate already! You too, Tanaka!” Don’t ask me why. Maybe either can have a solo career or take my “form a unit” advice -like they follow through with what fans wish-. Maybe they can do it after the 9th Gen come or whenever Lovely and the Queen feel like leaving their background singers/dancers behind).

I'll make myself (and hopefully you) feel better with a version with subtitles (and the background actually makes sense now!).

[subtitled] Morning Musume - Resonant Blue PV

"My sadness is resonant." I'm sure a lot of people would relate to that line.

This is (a disenchanted) Magi-Kat, telling you to stay resonant (take a hint from GAR).

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HELP ME HELP ME HELP ME

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:39:23 -0500

Help! I need somebody. Help! Not just anybody. Help! I need Morning Musume’s new song! Help!

I’m sure you’ve heard the Resonant Blue preview. I must say this is my kind of song and it’s almost exactly like the kind of song I wanted the Musume Team to release. Let my comments on others’ blog epitomize how I feel:

Morning Musume never failed to disappoint me and I have a good vibe about “Resonant Blue.” Let’s hope for Oricon success! (Genki!Musume)

May this song resonate in my soul for all time. I had some doubts but now that I’ve heard the song, it’s groovy!

Let’s hope this single sells better than Mikan *crosses fingers*. (LOVE Tantei)

I’ve heard comparisons to “Egao YES Nude” (which took me a while to get into), “Summer Night Town” (which was okay), “Narihajimeta Koi no BELL” (I may need to listen to it more to get into the song), “Anata Nashi de wa Ikite Yukenai” (only in the beginning), but I feel it’s good by its own merits. The night’s become hot and groovy, baby so let’s groove tonight! (Crud… I’m not helping much since CJ compared the sound a bit to P-Funk, which is wicked cool. I have also heard some less-than-pleased comments pertaining to the song, saying its "semi-hip hop" (feel free to show me because I don't see it) sound is "shocking" and makes them sound like a "wannabe SPEED."

I actually don’t mind the single being pushed back because it doesn’t need to compete with their Hello! Project Kid Rivals. Berryz and C-ute already have releases that are guaranteed to battle each other for #1 position like shark fetuses in their mother’s womb (even if the Melons’ juicy new single is about the only “cool” musical release this month). I mean, “Dschinghis Khan” has conquered hearts and world and C-ute’s just LALALA-ing away so Godspeed to the wota.

Now, a few questions and hopes to hopefully resonate in the heads of the Powers That be (which I doubt with UFA since it’s all about face, wota/sex appeal, and the Yen-jamins, baby) and not leave me blue (doesn’t hurt to be hopeful):

Let the PV be kick-butt awesome! (At first, due to the “Egao” comparisons, I imagined a vid like that. Now, I imagine a sexy nightclub/nighttime city PV).

Have the outfits in the album cover be consistent (even if some PV outfits appear deep In the album liner).

Have it go #1 in the Oricon charts (or within the Top 5. Knowing "cool" and "sexy" songs like this, there's a high possibility).

If any of the three are fulfilled (mainly the first and third. The second is a secondary thing), I’ll be a happy Magi-Kat and I’ll feel less guilty about not jumping on the "Sugaya & Friends" and "Airi & Company" bandwagon (as much as I liked DK and LALALA). This is also helping me get over my slight disappointment at Milky Way (as much as I like Koharu and the fact more Eggs are getting exposure, I was really hoping it was a regular H!P unit and not another anime unit, especially since Biyuuden’s disbanding. Wait… Nah, it can’t be).

Anyway, this is Magi-Kat, telling you to stay resonant ;).

(BTW I’m really sorry for the WordPress bloggers who are going through the mass shutdown. I considered making “Morning Meteora” for WordPress but I chose Vox for the whole “members-only reply” thing. I send my deepest condolences, hopes, and wishes to the affected, especially since one such blog (Some Boys) was one of my inspirations).

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Because I'm lazy...

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 01:14:50 -0500

(Karma's going to haunt me)
Since I’m too lazy to write full-fledged entries (along with the fact I was polishing up an entry from months ago), here’s another cheap Ping Pong Pinpoint (and that is why no one reads this blog).

C_misc_19

Labcoat Worker Sentenced for Not-so-benign Bennington Stalking! A laboratory worker recently has been sentenced to 24 months (two years) in prison for stalking Chester Bennington, hacking into his cell phone account and getting at some rather sensitive stuff. Thank goodness she was captured because it’s hard being a celebrity (as this shows). *thinks of the many wota that stalk their favorite idols*. (I was going to make this a full-fledged rant full of snark but I lost the motivation after a few hours). More info: La Cruces Sun-News, Optimum Online News.

421px-Renai

“Café Buono” is molto buono! Pretty much every Buono fan can agree with me - their first album is rock-hard awesome (in the beginning. It becomes okay after a while. Wait, the entire album was okay/good). (I might review it on another entry if I get to it… and whoever said “Internet Cupid” sounds like Perfume was dead-on. I mean, at parts, it sounds like “Computer City” and “Electro World” fused together). I must also admit this: I might like Momoko because she doesn’t sound like she has helium in her lungs (I’ve somewhat grown a slight intolerance towards squeaky voices and even had begun to associate it with poor singing skills, unfortunately. There are some squeakies who can sing (*coughWcough*) but…).

【Dohhh UP!】Berryz kobo - Genghis Khan PV(Berryz工房ジンギスカン PV)

Berryz conquers the Hello! World with “Dschinghis Khan”! Seen the PV and the covers for this little Berry-licious single. You have failed to disappoint me, you seven, and you might regain my love for you guys (if not, already has). And now for something completely different: “KHAAAAAAAAAAAAAN!!!” *shot*.

Morniten10

“Resonant Blue” is a possible “cool”! I have heard reports of Morning Musume’s upcoming single being a cool, mature single a la “Egao YES Nude” (This is coming from an article on HNPH). Hmmm… I’m still going to wait and see. Ganbare, Musume!

Kamei_Eri_1810

What the Shell? The Turtle “Scandal” that is Alive, Dead, and Undead! At first, I believed it. (Yeah, I was a sucker for what was written). Now that analysis has come in (and the heat died down), I don’t really believe it. No one seems to care so oh well. So, who’s the next Musume to be framed? Takahashi? (Good for the Trashers, Bad for the Toasters). Tanaka? (Same deal). Niigaki? Kusumi? Michishige? Mitsui? The Pandas? Who? Anyway, let’s all watch and eat popcorn as this whole thing passes. I’m not much of an Eri fan (but I like her more than the other 6th Gen members) but I wouldn’t want her to leave; Morning Musume is in too delicate a state to lose a member. I’d rather have it after a member has joined (and after quite some time for the 8.5th Gen to adjust, which I’d leave to you more observant fans and wota to determine).

Fujimoto_Miki_1129

Fujimoto’s in a Spring Play. Fujimowota: Whooooooot! Me: Moving on. (Oh, happy (early) birthday, Miki!).

405px-Jaja

Another H!P Cover is Revealed. Farewell, Biyuuden, for you have joined the cover crowd. No wonder nobody likes H!P anymore (save for the Gatas and the Hannah Montana of Morning Musume).

I mean, seriously, I don’t even like the song they’re covering but now I’ll force myself to like it for Biyuuden’s sake. I was expecting a single that closes the great (to the fans and the jerk-off wota) Biyuuden catalog but instead, it’s an ode to Rika’s Musume days. I guess it won’t be that bad after all. Goodbye, Biyuuden, goodbye. Reminds me of a Spice Girls song but I’ll get to that when they’re disbanding. (I just hope that the PV isn’t as bad as for “Jaja Uma Paradise,” which I doubt considering Biyuuden’s “Some Boys’ Shrew in Touch ‘n Catch Screw Paradise” image). *Loses points for the lame Maki Goto reference*.

Due to me not really having a preference for Berryz and C-ute and actually paying attention to each individual member, you might not see Paul’s poll save for the Musume (but don’t I have to make one with all three groups, just to be fair? After all, they are constantly battling for the “flagship” spot). Sorry.

Instead, I’ll post this Morning Musume Ranking from American Wota.

Rank	Name
1	Kusumi Koharu
1	Takahashi Ai
3	Mitsui Aika
4	Qian Lin
4	Li Chun
6	Kamei Eri
6	Niigaki Risa
8	Tanaka Reina
8	Michishige Sayumi

Why am I not surprised (though I am surprised Risa's at that place but after than the Top 5, it's a somewhat equal amount of "meh").

Until the next (more meaningful) entry,
Magi-Kat out!

And a happy belated birthdays to: Morning Musume member Junjun (20 on the 11th), Melon Kinenbi member Shibata Megumi (24 of the 22nd), C-ute members Nakajima Saki (14 on the 6th), Yajima Maimi (16 on the 7th), and Hagiwara Mai (12 on the 7th)
Don't forget to wish Melon Ohtani Masae a happy 26th today!

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The Why of the Kawamoe of KusuBeni

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 20:53:21 -0500

Before I fell in love with the cuteness that is Shugo Chara! (not only because Buono! did the theme), I often contemplated that entry I had promised myself I would do. That entry would analyze a very important aspect of my identity as a Hello! Project/Linkin Park fan, a common topic on IM conversations I had with my online friends, the one I mentioned on my thank you post. Ah yes, it's the one you have been dreading - the one where I analyze my apparent obsession with Koharu Kusumi and Chester Bennington, who are like apples and oranges.

The Why of Kusumi Koharu's "Kawaii"

H@ppy Ku$um1

Now, we are all familiar with the "Miracle Girl," right Won the second set of 7th Generation auditions, voices an anime character who wanted to become an idol to be with the boy she loves, formed a unit with Hagiwara Mai of °C-ute (according to (Japanese/English) Wikipedia, Kira*Pika supposedly disbanded in Episode 77 but I've seen Hikaru in previews of later episodes), and is living Tsukishima Kirari's dreams somewhat. Kusumin was the best selling soloist in 2006 and is really beginning to "sparkle" like an idol.

Now, here's the big question: why do I like her, especially since I found her ugly in her first few pictures (I even said that she looked drunk in one of her audition photos)? What made me like her so much? I heard she sounded horrible in a comment on YesAsia on "Iroppoit Jirettai" and I even...

Wait, wait a minute. I have noticed a correlation between my love for Kusumi and her "Kirarin" stage. Yeah, her little verse in "Joshi Kashimashi Monogatari 3" gave me a better idea of her voice but as she released her solo work, I became a bigger fan of Kusumi, all the way to the level of now! Koharu is just so kawaii and her miracle is a beam of hope and energy into Morning Musume and beyond. As we can see from sales, she is a miracle in that she's putting more money in the pockets of the UFA guys but while I wasn't exactly expecting a "second Gocchin" (not that I cared much about her. Sad she left H!P but it was probably for her own good) but Kusumi-chan is a miracle all by herself in her little Koharuppoi way. Her very name means "little spring" or "Indian summer" so it may just be another indication (or a product of a fan's vivid imagination. Then again, it's vivid imaginations that created outfits like the shown "Happy" outfit and songs like the extremely catchy yet fiercely hated "Hana wo Puun").

Now is the part you'd want to know my favorite songs by Kusumi. That's a somewhat hard question to answer since there are so many favorites from the Kusumi collection but this is about the charm and cuteness of Koha-chan. She holds that possibility for H!P it's not funny. Plus, she has this ability to send me into a smile almost whenever I see her (unless she's smiling. If she's doing that, I return the favor almost instinctively). I noticed this essay goes on and on and on without exactly eplaining the cuteness of Kusumi Koharu and her appeal, even fi she seemed to have filled the void left by Mini Moni and later W! Then again... it's for the most part unexplainable why I like Kusumi just as much as I like... a certain guy from Phoenix.

The Why of Chester Bennington's "Moe"

Anyone who had to deal with teenagers and modern rock had to have heard his name or the name "Linkin Park" somewhere. Either as a positive mention in a fan's journal or in a scathing criticism of the American music industry, you might've heard of these guys from California (or, in Chester's case, Arizona). Heck, even Kd admitted to being a Linkin Park fan in IroIro Aru Sa! vers. 1.0! (Sorry, O Mighty Princess of Snark, of whom I consider one of my blogging inspirations and idols. Forgive me! As soon as I find that post, I'll link it!).

I became acquainted with Chester's "unique" vocals (I put it in quotes because my LP obsession caused me to learn that a few other male singers I listen to have similar voices to him, albeit with subtle differences) when a friend of mine sent me "Breaking the Habit" through AIM. I don't know why I consider him "moe." Yeah, he is handsome, has a slight "Valley Boy"-ish accent (which apparently died down by the time they filmed the "Shadow of the Day" video, though he wasn't speaking with the same tone as the previous episodes of "d'Fused" (a making-of show on FuseTV) that featured their videos). Maybe, like Kusumi, Chester possessed this strange yet delightful little charm, this charisma.

In fact, due to the fact I used to (and still do, to a somewhat small extent) listen to Shibuya-kei, where soft, child-sounding females were a bit of a norm, I grew a thing for soft-voiced male singers and Chester, despite his screams, growls, and hollering (as much as it's damaging to your voice), fits the bill perfectly. Being able to use this wide-ranged voice to suit the song is a sign of talent (which beats out Kusumi in this department. Even if they sing in different genres, Chester's vocals are undoubtedly stronger than Koharu's). We've heard his harshness in the likes of "One Step Closer," "Numb," and "Bleed It Out" but the softness of Sir Bennington's voice comes in with "Breaking the Habit" and "Shadow of the Day." In fact, imo, he sometimes(?!) sounds younger than he is (unlike 15-year-old Kussun, Chester's 31!).

Aisde from his talented voice, Chester possesses this... now, I'm rambling again. He's handsome, talented, and someone I respect and admire, not only as some rock star, but mostly as a person. After all, what kinda pulled me into LP was how "real" the lyrics were. Of course, since I wasn't much of an angsty teen to begin with (when I was introduced to the band the first time, I was a generally happy person), it took a while. It took Minutes to Midnight (and a New Year's resolution) to make me a (hardcore) fan again. I would go on to explain more but I'd end up repeating myself. Plus, it's a slight mystery as to why I like Chester and had gotten the sick mind to call him "moe" (which, as anime fans know, is a special form of "cuteness" and calling a 31-year-old rock star "cute" would get you some evil eyes. Then again, Sir Bennington's in a class of his own), and put him on the same level as a "weak-sounding J-idol" (despite her weakness, Koharu has potential and, like Chester, I admire her moreso as a person. There is a chance she would have the same attitude about her fans as Ishikawa Rika-san but that's another post).

Phew... what have I rambled about again? Ya know, this post wasn't exactly what I wanted to express. Then again, as I've said many times, my fandom for Koharu Kusumi and Chester Bennington is a labyrinth of reasons that would lead into a neverending series of mystery and wondering. Bright side: it's part of who I am! Magi-Kat, the blogger bold enough to juxtapose J-idol pop with American metal like a Fauvist, the one who puts "Nobody's Listening" after "Ramutara" (of which she listens to as much as Kirari "Ramutaa rattattaa ratta..."'s through the song) on her playlist, the one who adores listening to "Sexy 8 Beat" on her computer and "Hybrid Theory" on the stereo. She even considered making a comic of Koharu snubbing Chester's nose while singing that "horrid" song! (That's a death wish!). Now that you've had a glimpse of another one of Magi-Kat's sides, I humbly encourage you to enjoy the fireworks show because "Morning Meteora" is on the air!

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Magi-Kat Theory - "What Basic Premises Inform Your Blog?"

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 13:53:01 -0500

4 months ago, American Wota member raysmecallado asked a very important question in regards to blogging: What Basic Premises Inform Your Blog?

He also created a set of questions to answer (read: think about) when blogging (which I'll answer to the best of my ability):

Do you treat Japanese music the same as other music you listen to? Why or why not?

Yes, I do. I judge not by the language of the musical work but by the quality of the music itself.

What genres in Japanese music do you write about? Girl groups, hip hop, visual kei, rock, Johnny's? Are there any genres you enjoy but don't blog about? Why is that? (Aural Candy was originally going to blog about both Jrock and pop music, but narrowed it down - to her benefit, as it gave her blog a more distinct identity.)

I mainly write about girl groups (particularly the Hello! Project and its lead group). I also wish to write about Linkin Park (hence the naming of my blog, "Morning Meteora"), among other genres like dance music, Shibuya-kei, and Europop, but I've never really gotten to it. It's partially out of fear of scaring what little readers I'll get since Linkin Park is considered "uncool" to people (then again, Morning Musume isn't taken that seriously in Japanese pop culture nowadays anyway).

What most appeals to you regarding Japanese music? Is it the music, the image, the actual idols, the marketing?

It's a subtle mix of all four but it's mainly the actual idols and (more importantly) the music!

What aspects do you like to write about most? Is it the music, the videos, live performances, still images? Why do you think that's the case?

I try to write about as many aspects as possible but it's mainly about the music and the videos. Why? That's the reason I like a certain group. Heck, I'm a music lover.

What writers or other creative people influence how you blog? What do they write about and how does that connect to what you blog about?

All bloggers in general really. They write about what they want while I do that. I regret I don't have merchandise and is not exactly a true "wota" (I consider myself borderline) but what connects me to their blogs is the pure fanlove and passion they put into their blogs.

What other writing projects do you pursue or want to pursue? Does this influence your blogging in any way?

Hmmm... I write stories and sometimes poems that are posted on my deviantART page. I'm also taking a Creative Writing class at school (which will turn into Journalism later on in the year) but I dunno if it influences my style. I just write whatever comes to my mind and my opinion in terms of said subject really. I also write little somethings on a certain topic (like the voice and its role in wota society in "Voice of the Hello! Project Idol").

If you inhabit a specific niche - a news-focused site like Some Boys! Blog, or download-focused blog like J-MuNet - how do you decide what to share? It's impossible to cover everything, so how do you sort through it?

How do I decide? I haven't really gotten to that. I hope to be news and opinion-based in my blogging.

Who do you imagine your audience to be? What do you feel is your relationship with your audience? Do you always give what they want, or do you ever feel the need to throw curveballs or even antagonize your readers?

I imagine that my audience, due to my focus on Hello! Project and Morning Musume, would be fellow fans/wotas (hence my reluctance to put commentary on Linkin Park's latest video, even if only one person commented on a blog entry - and it's on a ranking!). However, I mainly and try to imagine my audience as loyal readers who will understand and respect my blogging, no matter what subject it is.

What I'd want with my audience in terms of relationship is good, civil, friendly terms. I hope to express what I want to express without antagonizing anyone - I'm a peaceful soul who wishes no trouble. After all, there's enough of it in the real world so why bring it on a blog? (Then again, I'm getting myself in trouble by even blogging in the first place! Blogging, no matter what subject, is a risky thing to do. Heck, being on the Internet is risky, especially if you're my age or younger!).

Are there any specific writerly / bloggerly tropes you employ? I rely heavily on screencaps, and often tailor my blogging around them. YODC and The Mind both use eyecandy images with little text, though the tone is quite different. (YODC is more wink-wink nudge-nudge, The Mind is more respectful.) Most everyone uses YouTube or Veoh to varying degrees. (I don't, though I'll load up my own videos.) What brought you to that trope, what do you do to keep that technique lively?

I try to be informative with my entries and give my own spin. Unfortunately, as long as I've been on the Net, I've never had a really proper "blog" (the journal on my deviantART journal doesn't count) so it's going to take me a while to break out of my shell. Why do I keep thinking of Kamei Eri when I say this?

I also employ videos via YouTube. Why? That's what I've seen and I'm too much of a chicken to screencap everything =/.

And that's basically it for this edition of "Morning Meteora: Magi-Kat Theory Edition." That sounds nice! *jots it down* Maybe I'll use that for my personal opinions and such. Hmm...

Credit to the thread at the American Wota.com forums for the basis of this entry.

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When the Saints Go Marching Out (and Still Come Marching In)...

nobody@vox.com(Magi-Kat) — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 16:35:49 -0400

Happy All Saints Day, nonexistent audience.

Speaking of saints, I’m pretty sure you’ve heard about the news about Maki Goto and her graduation. To tell you the truth, I was only a minor fan of her and yet I’m still sorta shocked about this. I had more to say but I pretty much forgotten it. Then again, why should I make a speech about someone I barely care about, even if she's one of the patron saints of the Hello! Project.

So, like most Hello! Project fans who wrote their opinions on time and later, I wish Maki the best in her endeavors no matter where she goes. (It's kinda funny since I was sort of considering getting back into her. Oh well, c'est la vie).

A few things too:

I too think her brother's scandal had little (if not, nothing) to do with her "graduation." Then again, it was mentioned that she wanted to go in a different direction anyway.
Due to Goto's graduation, the fate of the Morning Musume Tanjou 10nen Kinentai is "uncertain." Then again, I had already put the unit in that category since Kaori's pregnancy.
One bright side: At least we know the reason for Goto's "scheduling conflicts," which leads credible evidence that the graduation was planned.

I think it's time to let this sleeping dog lie, especially since no one seems to be talking about it anymore.

In other news, reviews of the big "All Singles Complete" compilation are popping about the H!P blog circles and Morning Musume continues to celebrate its 10th anniversary full blast with an upbeat single around the corner to boot. According to Wikipedia (English and Japanese) and Wiki.theppn, the indies single ("Ai no Tane") was released on November 3, 1997. Now, I dunno if it's true (which is most likely not or most likely so depending on your point of view and/or your sources), that would make this coming Saturday the 10th anniversary of the release of said single.

All in all, happy anniversary, Morning Musume and laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)

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