Get Paid To Promote, Get Paid To Popup, Get Paid Display Banner

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Eguchi Aimi Stolen




Eguchi Aimi Stolen

Just when you thought this what is the continuing point of this CGI Idol drama could not get any stranger, it got stranger.

When you go to AKB48`s theater there is a wall of member framed photos for you to admire .Well it seems that there was a “break in” at the theater and only one item was taken .Would you care to guess what was “stolen” ? 

If you guessed it was Eguchi Aimi`s photo then your a winner .That’s right, the “thief” did not go after the entire collection, he went after the one member who is not real.

The management of AKB48 issued the following statement.

“We could easily make a new photo. It just does not have any meaning if that is done. Until now, not one wall-mounted picture has been stolen, that’s ‘proof’ that the theater and fans have such a strong relationship,”

AKB48 theater officials are not planning to press charges and only ask that in their words the “regret stricken fan, simply return the photo” and all will be forgiven.

Given that this has made the mainstream media, leaves a few things to consider.

If this is a real life thief how must the living members of AKB48 feel today, knowing that, a CGI idol is worth more to steal then you. If this was an in-house media event ,the question is why continue to promote a CGI Idol ,when you have an entire roster of living idols promoting tons of goods everyday. I mean the girls are coming out with a bra campaign; you are in the media spotlight dozens of times everyday.


Say, what you want about AKB48, this crazy CGI Idol madness, Akimoto knows how to do one thing better then every other idol company. That is make units the biggest names in history. He has taken Onyanko Club and now AKB48 to levels other groups have not been and it`s safe to say any future project will be more of the same.

What ever the outcome of this story Eguchi Aimi has given AKB48  a few more days of free press coverage and that is worth many more times then a wall photo.

Friday, July 29, 2011

ViVi August Summer Edition : NAIL POLISH COLLECTION

I've been reading ViVi magazine for quite a while now and I have to say the magazine is amazing! It's full of colors and very lively! Not to mention, the playful, cute and pretty ViVi models on every ad! The whole magazine is in Japanese, a language that I am not familiar with, but it still doesn't stop me from looking through every single page. And if I need help understanding something, I'll ask my sister. She reads and writes a basic Japanese. ^_~

So I bought this August issue from one of the stores in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles just because the beautiful Namie Amuro is on the cover. I love, love, love her! She looks amazing here.

ViVi August 2011

There are a lot of interesting pictures / articles inside this month's edition. Summer styles, hair, makeup, and nails!! This is my favorite page by the way, and of course I have to share it with you girls! ^_^

PS: This page is not mine. I had to find it online since I haven't hooked up a scanner to my iMAC yet. I need to find a compatible driver. ~_~



Anyways, when I saw this page, I realized that I don't have any Bohemian color at all. I have a lot of pinks, mints and nudes, but nothing in jewel tones or even yellow or green so if you have some suggestions on what to buy please let me know. I am crazy about nail polish lately. 



And since it is a hot, hot summer, I have changed my nail color from mint to nude. I've been wearing mint for quite sometimes now and it's about time to take a break from it. 


 My nude/pastel collection:



Not a lot, and the colors are almost similar so I am thinking of getting new ones especially a nude peachy color.  ^_^  Can't wait to hit the mall!

PS: Did you notice, my emoticons are different than usual? ; )  

Happy Friday everyone!

 

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Momoiro Clover Z Shiori Puts Hair On The Line




Momoiro Clover Z Shiori Puts Hair On The Line

Yet another idol group has made a deal for idol gold.

Momoiro Clover Z while traveling around Tokyo in a specially design “Momoclo Election Car” found themselves in the heat of the moment and let their emotions get the best of them. While making a stop at Tokyo Tower to promote their first album  "Battle and Romance" , MC Yamasato Ryouta proclaimed, “are there any idol groups that make you as energetic (as Momoclo)?” It was at this point that Shiori screams out “If this album isn’t number one, I’ll cut my hair!”

Momoclo had good reason to be overcome by excitement as earlier in the day 4,000 fans showed up at Shinjuku Station Square to watch the group perform a mini live.

As part of their debut album promotion Momoclo made other trips to Harajuku, Shibuya, and Aoyama explaining to fans that the album features intense, ‘battle-like’ songs to ‘romance-like’, slow songs, and that their final goal is the “Kouhaku (Uta Gassen)!”

Momoclo`s album has come out of the gates hot, but the question is if they can take the coveted top spot against strong opponents. Even if they don`t reach number one, their early sales have past Hello!Project`s recent releases ,something that is a growing trend for the fresh face idols generation.


This is what happens when your company decides to fight and spend money to make their group`s sales increase ,you go old style promoting. Something that has always pushed idols over the edge. There is one simple rule in music ,to make money you have to spend money in an effective way .It`s easy to sit back on your legacy and just pull money from a safe and secure fan base , it takes very little effort and risk to stay safe . it`s another to take bold out of the box risks ,even if you  fail to reach their your goal.

Seeing an idol unit turn to old style promoting ,brings a smile to my face as it shows that their company has not forgotten were genre came from ,the streets of independents .

In the end ,Momoclo may not gain the benefits today from this campaign ,but at some point, they will and I applaud them for taking a risk to become more then what they currently are.











SOLIA FLAT IRON REVIEW. PS: I am loving my hair ;)

Hi Lovelies!

I am sure most of you have read about my shopping haul that I posted last week and how excited I was to get a great flat iron at a discounted price. For those who don't know what I am talking about, you can click HERE. :) 

So, yes, this one is it! I think it is far better than my Original CHI flat iron. Look what it does to my hair? :)


Straight, sleek and shiny!!! I love, love, love it! My hair is smooth, silky, shiny and straight to the max! It stays straight up to 3 days! Yes, I have tried it.


So why do I have an obsession with great looking hair that I am almost OCD about it?

Well, I have this love-hate relationship with my original hair...the hair that I was born with. I don't really like wavy/curly hair at all because it tends to get frizzy and messy. I don't mind cute spiral curls or romantic soft waves created with curling irons, but not the kind of curls you see in the picture below. My hair was a bit damp when I took this picture by the way, and seriously, I think the hair looks messy. FYI, all my sisters have great looking thick straight hair. My youngest sister, however, has an obsession with spiral curls that she has to get her hair digitally permed every year. She obviously likes to look like a doll. I don't blame her. It is super cute. Unlike her, I prefer straight hair and I will do whatever it takes to get my hair perfectly straight even if I have to spend tons of money on Japanese Rebonding/Straightening or Brazilian Blowout! Yep, I am obsessed. :) You can tell by reading this one particular post: My Flat Iron Collection.





My Opinion On Solia Flat Iron:






Well, let's see its specification first:

The Solia 1¼" flat iron features the Dynamic Alignment System to ensure perfect contact between your hair and the plates. It supplies even heat distribution for true silky straight hair. Its ceramic/tourmaline ion technology will generate gentle far-infrared heat and extra negative ions to create the perfectly frizz-free hair without heat damage. 

  • Variable temperature settings, 170°F-400°F (actually up to 450°F)
  • All hair lengths and textures
  • 2-year warranty

 I love the ON/OFF switch as well the the variable temperature setting. The heat goes up to 450°F which  I think is perfect since my hair is thick and curly. It smooths out every frizz, and with one or two glides, the curl is gone! It takes about 15 minutes to do my whole hair.

So overall, I am very satisfied with this Solia flat iron. I love the quality and its performance, and of course I love the price too! :) I bought it on sale and I am very happy that I did not spend over a hundred dollar for a great flat iron. In my opinion, this is far better than my Original CHI that I bought for $155. Don't get me wrong, I really loved my CHI flat iron because that iron served me well. It lasted 7 years before it broke. Original CHI was among the first flat irons that entered US Market so I can't complaint about it. It's just the technology has gotten better so I am looking for something better. :)

So, where did I buy this Solia Tourmaline Ceramic Ion flat iron from?

FOLICA.com. I bought it for $79.99 from its original price, and if you are planning to buy any brand of flat iron or even a curling iron from FOLICA.com, they have this code for an additional $10 off. So use it! :) They also give you free shipping and handling on any order above $50. This SOLIA was my first purchase from FOLICA.com and I had no complaint on the shipping and customer service. The shipping was super fast and the customer service was excellent. For instance, I sent them an email asking for an additional discount because I didn't know about their additional discount code and they had no problem with it! They credited my account. :) So yes, I will shop for more in the future if they keep on making their customers happy.

That's all for today. Happy Thursday everyone!



Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Hayami Akari Catch Up




Hayami Akari Catch Up

The last time that I spoke of Hayami Akari, she was about to leave Momoiro Clover .Many of her fans feared the worst and a final goodbye to their idol as she retired to her private life.

Well that is not the case, here is a brief run down of what Akari has been doing since her graduation.

She was in a movie that was filmed before her graduation; she has been in no less then ten magazine shoots and was a guest actress in a music video.

Therefore, fans that were sad to see her leave the idol world, relax and put a smile on your face, for Akari is going just fine away from Momoiro Clover.

Her guest spot in a music video [She is not singing, one person sings the entire song both male and female parts]








Related blog

http://ameblo.jp/hayami-sd/

Caramel Rock Summer Programme




Caramel Rock has launched a summer programme to give young people the opportunity to step into the fashion world!

The Caramel Rock Outreach Course leads up to a fashion show event where students are given the chance to exhibit the work they produced during the session. Not only will they be creating garments and gaining valuable knowledge within the fashion industry, they will also curate portfolios that will contribute greatly to their career in the fashion industry.

Through this summer programme, Caramel Rock aims to provide a wealth of experience to those who desire a career in fashion but, need that first break.

See details below for more info!
Our summer programme starts on Monday 1st August 2011.
It last two weeks but you can choose your starting day:
• From the 1st to the 12th
• From the 15th to the 27th of August
The classes will be from 11am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

It will take place at Caramel Rock design Studio: 5 cooper street E16 1QU
Call 020 7476 3222 or email director@caramelrock.com to recieve more info and to book your place.

We look forward to seeing you soon!








Course Programme

For only £50 you will learn the following in two weeks:
• Fashion pattern
• Machinery work
• Designing and drawing
• How to set out a fashion label

The classes’ capacity is only 25 Students per session! So make sure you book in advance.
If you are interested to joining us or for any questions please contact us

See you soon…
Contact us:
Tel: 02074673222
Mobile: 07706727161
Website: www.caramelrock.com
Email: info@caramekrock.com

Idol Spotlight ; Ricotta Veil ,Sweet Ricotta, Mercy Lapin,




Ricotta Veil
Ricotta Veil is a three member Kansai based unit, whose theme is idol princesses [The Young Princesses]. Ricotta Veil members are Hasegawa Risa [21], Ito Ayami [19] and Kobayashi Miki [17].

As a unit these princess idols have only been around since spring of 2010 and have one single and perform a number of popular cover songs at lives. Given their short time as a unit ,they are very active in the Kansai media market.

As individual idols, the three have also been active in the Kansai area for sometime doing product endorsements, child acting and other TV work, along with some modeling.

Ricotta Veil depend on information releases through their individual blogs and through a growing local cult fan following. Interestingly while this unit is still a new and growing unit, they have managed thanks to their YouTube postings to start to pick up a following in such places as Eastern Europe and Latin America with their videos being reposted in various video media outlets.


One of the great things about this genre is also it`s most difficult at times .You see the idol genre has many more times the number of independents then majors , and always will and limiting yourself to just the 48`s and other major media groups is missing out on the true heart of the genre ,the independents.

These hard working idols are truly some of the best-kept secrets in the genre and it takes time,to follow to get the most out of this branch of the genre.

Ricotta Veil is just another one of these wonderful little secrets, that is worth taking the time to get to know.

Ricotta Veil idol princesses and idol treasure.






Debut Single "I`M PRINCESS"












Miki  is also in another unit called Sweet Ricotta



Risa and Ayami are also in a two member unit called Mercy Lapin







Ricotta Veil TYP Program
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/14538673
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/15456879
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/15885635

Ricotta Veil + SKETCH [90 Minute Program]
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/12163613

Related
http://kansai.talentnavi.biz/kobayasi_miki/ 
http://kansai.talentnavi.biz/risa-h/
http://ameblo.jp/ayami-ito/  [best one to track group]

Footnote- The members as several others in Kansai also work under the group name KISS x KISS  .Several we have already previewed are also members of  that group.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Blog Awards !

Hi Everyone!

I just changed my blog design and layout! Yay!! Lots of pink :) I might want to do some other changes as well but one thing at a time I guess... I also have missed a lot of blog posts during the process so I am going to make up for it! I need a bit of time to catch up, but for now, I am going to start with this Blog Award post since I received some blog awards from fellow bloggers last week (while I was busy), and I would like to thank them for that by doing this special post! :)


 First award came from: Arianne Cruz, and Jessica.
This is truly my first One Lovely Blog Award! Thank you ladies. 
 




Second award (They came together!) came from Sammi.
Thank you for this Inspiration Award!




Rules: which I am gonna do since it's quite fun!
  • Name your favourite color: Teal is my color. Then purple.
  • Name your favourite song: Dont have any =P I listen to all top 40. LOL.
  • Name your favourite dessert: Tropical fruits. I am an island girl, bring anything tropical!
  • What is pissing you off?: Not at the moment.
  • When you’re upset, you?: Stay quiet and not talking.
  • Your favourite pet: Cats and dogs! BUT they have to be long haired, fluffy and small!
  • Black or White?: Dress? LBD. Electronic? WHITE hahah I am an Apple fan!
  • Your biggest fear is…: Not having money.. =/ Yeah everyone is scared of that!
  • Your best feature is…: My legs! I have long legs and I'm quite tall.
  • Everyday attitude:  Peaceeeeee with a V sign ;)
  • What is perfection?: By rechecking the stuff again and again. I am a bit OCD.
  • Guilty pleasure: Pinkberry. OMG that stuff is yummy!



 Third Award came from Sammi again! :)




Thanks so much ladies for the awards and support. Now I am tagging everyone who follows and read my blog. Seriously, it's hard to tag 7 people when I think you guys deserves it since you all do have some cool blogs!! :) Well yeah, that's all for now. Happy Blogging!!!


PS: Do I need to add some more stuff on my blog ?? I am thinking to add on more design! Hahah!


Monday, July 25, 2011

Eguchi Aimi Performs Live At Seibu Dome



Eguchi Aimi Performs Live At Seibu Dome

CG Idol Eguchi Aimi, made her “Realife” AKB48 debut on July 24 by taking the stage as part of AKB48`s three night 90,000 fan ‘Yossha~Ikuzo~! In Seibu Dome’ concert series.

Eguchi took the stage in person with several members of AKB48 to start her career by performing her CM song “Ice no Kuchizuke”, leaving fans to wonder, “Hey wait a minute Aimi-chan is a CGI idol, what gives here”.

At the end of the concert, Takahashi Minami addressed the crowd about their newest member. Takahashi said, “I have to expose the truth about this, Aimi-chan is really kenkyuusei member Sasaki Yukari. To accomplish her role today Yukari put on prosthetic make up to make herself into Eguchi Aimi”

Takahashi concluded the announcement by saying “Please continue to take care of Aimi-chan and AKB48.”

No Bloomers For NMB48



No Bloomers For NMB48

Back when NMB48 was preparing to release their debut single, they issued a bold challenge. This challenge was if their single did not rank #1 for the week on Oricon, they would wear gym bloomers at their concerts.

“Zetsumetsu Kurokami Shoujo” finished the week at 218,000 and at #1 so “No Bloomers For NMB48 “

The members in a press event shared their opinions on the results

Team N’s captain, Yamamoto Sayaka
“Since it is something we promised to the public, I am astonished that we were actually able to top the charts.”

“This accomplishment is all because of our fans and our seniors who have made the 48 group name so big.  Even though we are powerless right now, we want to, as NMB48, to continue to grow so that we can keep up with our seniors.”

Yamada Nana
“I am really happy that we got first place and we don’t have to wear any bloomers. It’s like killing two birds with one stone.”

Watanabe Miyuki
I want to continue to do our best so that people will recognize our ranking so please back us up.”


You would think in some weird sick kind of way wotas would want to see their idols in bloomers, but you see here is were that thinking is wrong. When it comes to matters of idol pride and difficult challenges, wotas feel that it is their duty to go to the ends of the earth to support their idol in her mission. The relationship between wotas and idols is such that one  will always need the other to reach certain goals.

This accomplishment was no easy task, while NMB48 outsold sold everyone by a comfortable margin, they did so by defeating   the powerhouse unit Tohoshinki [TVXQ] single “Superstar”. I tip my cap to NMB48 for reaching their goal.

DiVA: Cry



DiVA: Cry

If there was any AKB48 Sub unit that could leave AKB48 as members for good and be fine as their own fulltime unit it`s DiVA. At first look this unit didn`t even look like members of AKB48 and if I didn`t know better, I would have taken several double looks.

I know in some circles AKB48 gets a lot of hot air blown at them for their vocal abilities or at times lack of. There is nothing to fear here from this release.

This track is one that leaves me thinking the what if they didn`t have AKB48 duties ,how far could this unit go as a fulltime recording and touring unit ,complete with their own TV show. It`s clear this unit is blessed by the Avex touch.

DiVA “Cry” is one track that if you are an idol collector you want to have in your collection.

Idol Spotlight Fresh Faces Vol #7



QunQun

QunQun is set up like AKB48, with a main unit, secondary unit and
trainees. But this were the similarities end, this is not an AKB48
clone, it`s just an idol group that uses a formation system. One of many
After all, it is not a system that AKB48 invented they just made it
Popular.

There is very little performance video of this unit as it is fresh
out of the box brand new.
So brand new, that if it was a new car, it still have that new car
smell. However. Here is a special look at this unit with their
Internet program

They are very active on their streaming channel, almost everyday
they have broadcast




Internet Show

Live @ QunQun [their version of Ustream]
http://qunqun.xtre.am/
[This has several segments ,when one ends

there is a pause while they set up the next location . Imagine
running around H!P Compound visiting everybody.


http://elegant.xtre.am/ [RELATED SHOW]


HP
http://qunqun.asia/index.html



LINQ
This 28-member unit includes two members named Alice and Angela
Akiyama, yes as your thinking, they are related and 1/2 Japanese and
they have their version of Yaguchi Mari [watch video #2 for that
joke] . In addition, just like QunQun they still have that new car
smell having made their debut on April 17.
LinQ is an alternate spelling of their name “Love in Kyushu” .LinQ
[pronounced Link] is a Fukuoka regional idol dedicated to promoting
themselves in Fukuoka and Kyushu Island while uplifting the hearts
and, the spirits of everyone in Kyushu.

LinQ was created on February 27 in Fukuoka through an audition that
was attended by 1,162 young idol hopefuls aged 12-24. That number by
the way is on the high side for Independents, there are units that
have been created with as few as 19 auditioning for 10 positions.
LinQ managed to select their final roster from this audition and
made their debut on April 17. In June, they released their debut
single.









LinQ Iphone



LinQ has a Youtube channel, with previews
http://www.youtube.com/user/Linqofficial#g/u

HP
http://www.loveinq.com/


CQC`s!

CQC`s! Is a nine member Fukuoka unit who range between the age of
19-22
Profile and live video.


Single PV`s







Related Links

http://www.youtube.com/user/yukikaji0130#g/u
HP
http://www.cqcs.jp/index.html

Note- This unit has a number of related Fukuoka Variety show
videos on Y.T. that is easy to find.



Rev. From DVL
This 26 member is a Hakata based unit that has been active since
2003.





HP
http://www.active-hakata.co.jp/revfromdvl/index.html



Seishun joshi gakuen

This unit’s Japanese name translates to Youth Girls Academy and they
made their debut in 2010 with 30 members.





HP
http://www.nomake.jp/special/seishunjoshigakuen/


IDA







HP
http://www.itr-entertainment.jp/ida.html

USTREAM
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/14172079

NOTE- Ryo mentioned to me about doing some follow ups on the last three units  ,so watch for that in the future.

Sunday, July 24, 2011

JURIAN BEAT CRISIS





JURIAN BEAT CRISIS

This time I am leaving the world of idols for a cool rock-pop band.

Over at Avex is a band that I think is worth checking out called JURIAN BEAT CRISIS.
JURIAN BEAT CRISIS or JURIBE for short is actually the stage name of seventeen-year-old singer Kawakami Juria. Juria who is from Hokkaido took up the name after joining Avex in 2009. Juria, by the way was motivated to start singing to break her issues with shyness. Thankfully, she was able to overcome those issues and create this great band.

One of the things that I like about this band besides their music is their aggressive promotions coming out of their debut. Starting with their debut at the 2009 A-Nation concert series, were JURIAN BEAT CRISIS as it is officially written performed their first single “Go! Let's Go!” the band quickly followed with 11 more singles [all digital] in the next 11 months ,giving them 12 singles in 12 months . This was followed up with a full-length album that featured a 14 song CD and a 14 song DVD. So for buying the album you had the choice of the CD only version with all 12 digital singles and 2 bonus tracks or a CD-DVD combination, which gave you the same songs but also 14 videos.
It`s not often that you find a fresh band offering so much so soon.


JURIBE is defiantly and artist and band to keep a watch on as they are off to a strong start. If you are a fan of the band Lindberg, then this band is for you as they are the masterminds behind this band and JURIBE carries that similar sound and style.

A few of their releases.

Debut




Single #2 Hurricane Love



Single #3 Lonely Flight



The band has the official theme song for this years High School Baseball Championships



While all their singles are post worthy, it would not be fair to her or the band to post them all, while she is still active in this one post. I can tell you that the CD is worth the time to pick it up and have everything.

This band works very hard and are just growing their fan base, I am sure they would be glad to have you as a new fan.

While, I am tempted to preview all the singles, I will close this preview with a few special items.

JURIBE at A-Nation 2010





If you have never heard of Lindberg the producers of JURIAN BEAT CRISIS

Lindberg from 1991


Music is a wonderful thing and if it helps overcome shyness and deliver a great band, then it`s a double bonus. If you are a fan of rock music JURIAN BEAT CRISIS is worth checking out, you will not be sorry.

HP
http://avexnet.or.jp/juribe/index.html

Friday, July 22, 2011

This Week Purchase :)

Happy Friday to All!

Just a quick post today because I want to share my internet shopping haul with you guys.
So this week, I received these two interesting items in the mail and I am super excited to start using them! :)


Solia Flat Iron


I bought this flat iron from Folica.com last Monday and it arrived in the mail today! The shipping was quite fast! This Solia Tourmaline Ceramic Flat Iron is one of the Top 10 Flat Irons listed on the website and it is based on thousands of consumer reviews, the latest technologies and years of testing.

By the way, FOLICA is having sales right now and it will end tonight at midnight. I bought mine for less than the original price. Of course I got it on sale (still on sale as of now!), and plus I used a discount code for an additional $25 off. :) I was so happy. So hurry up and check them out if you are looking for a new flat iron!  

Here is the link to see the top 10 Flat Irons: FOLICA. If you are buying one, just don't forget to apply the code listed on the website for an additional $25 off.



Sigma F50 Duo Fibre Brush


I have heard a lot of raves about this one particular brush. I have never used a stipple brush before to apply my foundation and with all the great reviews Sigma received, I can't help myself but to order one. JUST ONE. I haven't used or bought any brush from Sigma before so this was my first purchase. If I like it, I'll be buying some other stuff. I am not sure if I could compare this to MAC 187 Duo Fibre brush since MAC is an extremely well established brand and well known for their qualities. Besides, I have yet to try MAC 187 before I could even say anything. There is also a big difference in price. Sigma F50 Duo Fibre is only $16 to compare to MAC 187 that cost $42 per piece. Big difference. But then again, at the end it is all about quality. I have yet to use this Sigma brush before I could rave or rant about it. But hey, if you are on a budget and looking for makeup brushes, you know where to go!

That' all for now. Reviews to follow.

Have a great awesome Friday night everyone!


X.O.X.O



Thursday, July 21, 2011

NMB48 Boku ga Maketa Natsu ,Mattemashita, Shingakki PVs


Fresh off their 131,000 + number one single day ranking NMB48have released two more videos for their debut singles coupling tracks.

The first PV is for “Boku ga Maketa Natsu”!

It`s a cute and simple PV , not sure if the wet T-shirt moment a couple have is a good idea for girls this age , but it`s safe somewhat or the removing of one’s top [she has a swimsuit on] .It seems NMB48 are not wasting anytime when it comes to fan service.




NMB48 白組 僕が負けた夏 by tennis720


PV #2 is for Mattemashita, Shingakki“!


NMB48 赤組 待ってました、新学期 by tennis720

Sea☆A DREAM SHOOTER PV Making




Sea☆A has released the DREAM SHOOTER PV making video ,It`s just under 10 minutes and gives you a look at the sometimes fun, sometimes boring world of making PV`s .What it does not show you is the 18 hours it often takes to film a PV [this is were the boring parts of PV shoots come, lol]

Your first is always fun, because you don`t really know anything, lol and this short clip shows the group enjoying their PV debut, camera flirting and a lot  more goodness.




Related
http://pureidolheart.blogspot.com/2011/07/seaa-release-dream-shooter-pv.html

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Idol Spotlight Fresh Faces Vol #6


[Photo-Ricotta Veil ,Official image group for this series]

Osaka has as many idols as Tokyo ,in the first five volumes I have shown you Tokyo, Osaka,Hiroshima ,other cities and several units from Eastern Prefectures ,now it`s time for some more Osaka -Kansai Idols and a trip to Western Japan.

If you recall at the end of the fifth series ,I said that part 6 would have a connection to Ricotta Veil.

Here is the first connection. If you remember the video for Ricotta Veil performing a street live in one of the earlier previews ,there was a girl in the upper left behind the group ,dressed like an Idol ,watching the group perform.

Well that girl is a member of the first group in this preview .Connection #2 is this group ,Mary Angel ,Ricotta Veil are from Osaka-Kansai and often perform at the same lives.

Keep in mind when viewing any group in this series  that Indies do their own songs , covers of top singles on the charts ,classic songs ,anime songs and it`s normal ,legal . Many groups create their own dances ,tempo changes to fit their style to cover songs . I respect the groups that actually sing their covers and not just pretend they are AKB or who ever. The very reason CDs include instrumentals is for groups to use the track for covers and for auditions. The artist gets a royalty payment so it`s all good. They are not trying to be anything but themselves.




First up

Csli
http://ameblo.jp/csli/
[Mini live]


SKETCH


Pastel Color


The Milk



http://www.the-milk.com/

Fanta☆Peace



http://ameblo.jp/fantapeace/

Leaving Osaka-Kansai, we head west to Okayama

S-Qty
[This unit does their own songs, plus pop covers that are not from the 48`s or H!P as part of their live , but they have a full album worth of originals] They have been active since 2010. They also have a very cool web site that’s worth watching .Even if you pass on this group ,go watch their web site .Don`t click anything on their web site just let it play for 5-10 minutes





Youtube Channel
http://www.youtube.com/user/SQty2010#g/u

HP
http://s-qty.com/

HR [Hakata Reboot ] Fukuoka
I actually covered this group last year when they had their debut ,but they only had covers of H!P and AKB on a news clip. They were to be Fukuoka`s answer to AKB48 , but Aki-P has decided to put his own group there it seems . It remains to be seen if this theater unit can last with Aki-P`s invasion of Hakata coming. If they don`t it`s a shame because they had an entire island they could rule.



Speaking of Fukuoka . The local Indies are not going down without a fight with HKT48 and Aki-P. Five local units have stepped up to face them .



Fresh Faces will preview the Fukuoka idols in the future.

Recent Related
http://pureidolheart.blogspot.com/2011/07/idol-spotlight-fresh-faces-vol-5.html

Idol Spotlight Fresh Faces Vol #5


[Photo-Ricotta Veil ,Official image group for this series]

This is the fifth volume of the Idol Spotlight Fresh Faces series and of all the groups in these first five volumes there is one unit, which I think has the greatest chance to be a major force in the future, if they choose to ,that will get a lot of time in this post. In addition, there is one unit at the end of this post that has grabbed my attention with their music and harmonies that may not be far behind. Because those two units are getting special extended coverage,there is only three units this volume .


The unit, which I think, has the greatest chance to be a major force in the future, if they choose to is Hoshikage.

Hoshikage is a sister unit to d-trance, Starmarie, and several more that I have yet to debut. Hoshikage belongs to a company that has several groups and soloists ,sort of a mini H!P for a lack of better terms.

They are some of the better singers on this level and are very active as a unit with 11 live events just in the July-August period scheduled so far. That is about average for them . 15-20 lives in a two-month period is the normal work load for a very active unit . After all very few of these groups are on monthly salaries ,so they have to earn the hard way everything they make.

I am giving Hoshikage the main feature spot in this piece today with several videos ,so that you can get a better understanding of why I think this could be the next breakout artist . With Hoshikage ,I ask that you preview all the releases before passing judgment as each one shows just how talented and under the radar, this unit is.

Please enjoy volume 5 .



Hoshikage
2011 Releases
This is their current single




2010 Releases







Home Page
http://hosi-kage.syncl.jp/



Space Girls Planet
They should get an award just for their name .



SGP Youtube with more videos
http://www.youtube.com/user/1S2G2P3

HP
http://s-g-p.syncl.jp/

Mary Angel

Is the second unit that I mentioned in my opening .
This group is not flashy as dancers ,just a very solid singing group.



Their HP is listed on this Video








This series is open ended ,Ryo and I are taking it one day at a time . This level of the genre is much like Visual Kei ,it lives in it`s own little world and could care less if the 48`s out sold H!P this month . It`s truly a wonderful level to discover ,to be a part of and it`s not really a bad place to be ,because your free to be group you want to be.

Stay tuned for part 6 and a round about connection to Ricotta Veil that I previewed in an earlier volume.

Recent Related
http://pureidolheart.blogspot.com/2011/07/idol-spotlight-fresh-faces-vol-6.html

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

My New Hair Color: Light Ash Brown by using Light Ash Blonde!

I just colored my hair last Saturday and so far I am loving it! It's vibrant and the color is perfect for summer. :)


Here is the picture, taken today with my iPhone and with no flash.  :)



 I have a natural jet black hair and it is hard to go lighter without using a bleach. I really didn't wanna go to that extreme. It might work for other girls but I don't think my hair (or scalp) could handle it. So I opted for 9% / 30 Volume Cream Developer instead to lift the color. For a hair dye, I chose blonde instead of brown because blonde color on black hair equals to brown! :) Brown dye on dark hair hmmm won't come out as good I am afraid. And since I wanted to go lighter, I went for a light ash blonde hair dye. Ash neutralizes the gold tone and helps reducing the brassiness in dark hair.  If I were to use golden blonde hair dye, I'd be walking around with an orange/ginger hair! So by using Light Ash Blonde, I achieved what I wanted: a Light Ash Brown hair. :)
  

What I used?

Professional Hair Products:



Ion Sensitive Scalp 30 Volume Cream Developer 8 OZ from Sally's Beauty. Cost: $2.99
Satin Light Ash Blonde 2 oz Hair Dye from another beauty store. Cost $8.99 and I needed 2 tubes since my hair is thick and long. 


I am not a professional hair colorist, but after doing it for so long, I just know what to do. I've been using drugstore hair colors most of the time and pro products occasionally. It is all depends on the color I want to achieve. Personally, I think professional hair colors are better than the hair colors sold at the drug stores. I don't mean they are bad, but they are not the same like the professional products. They are meant for consumers and they have low percentage/volume of cream developer so we won't mess up our hair/scalp. If I want to have messy free and fast hair coloring experience, I'd use drugstore hair colors for sure because with professional hair colors, I need to use a bowl, tinting brushes, hair clips, foils, cream remover and ear covers. That's what I did and it's a lot of work. No wonder hair salons charge $150 and up (where I am at) for hair coloring service.


That's all I want to share for today. :)

X.O.X.O


S/mileage Uchouten Love PV




S/mileage Uchouten Love PV

Sorry for the lateness in posting this, some things came up that needed to be tended to.

S/mileage a couple of days released their PV for their next single "Uchouten Love" and with all H!P songs it has that signature H!P/Tsunku sound and style ,and the S/mileage trademarks of winning smiles and bubbly charisma. With rumors of how many  girls could be added to S/mileage and that they could be grooming S/mileage to be a future Morning Musume style unit ,this is a must buy for H!P fans as this is the ending of one chapter in S/mileage's history.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

How I Clean My Makeup Brushes.



What is the best way to clean your makeup brushes? 

Well, in the past, I used MAC Brush Cleanser to clean all my makeup brushes, and you know at the end it got super expensive. One bottle costs me $12 and I have a lot of brushes. Imagine spending money on 2 bottles a month! I'd rather spend that amount of money on eyeshadows and lipsticks. :) Besides, the bottle is rather small. So then I started using baby shampoo and I didn't like it at all. I thought it was a waste! Finally after months using baby shampoo, I figured out the most efficient and cheaper alternative to clean these dirty makeup brushes.


My Method of Cleaning Dirty Brushes:  

The Ivory Soap Way


As you can see in the picture above, I just swirl the dirty brush on the wet soap. I let the soap lathers and swirl, swirl, swirl! I will keep on doing this until the makeup stain on/inside the brush disappears. Rinse the brush thoroughly, remove excess water with a clean paper towel, spray with a bit of alcohol and voila! The brush is now clean and disinfect. Just dry the brushes overnight and the next day, they are ready to be used again. Just so you guys know, I have been using this method for almost 3 years. So far so good. I don't see any difference between using an expensive cleanser and Ivory soap. Ivory soap is very gentle and it doesn't ruin my brushes at all. It cost only $1.80 and lasts for months!

Well, that's my method, so what's yours? Please share!

X.O.X.O