EVERY H!P A-SIDE OF 2015 RANKED - PART 2 - TOP 10!

Woo hoo!

10. ºC-ute - Gamusha LIFE

I'm not going to lie, I wasn't crazy about this song at first listen, but then I listened to the whole thing. I think this was the perfect song to celebrate ºC-ute's 10th anniversary. It's cheerful bubblegum pop with class. This song probably wouldn't have made the top 10 if it weren't for the bridge, though. It starts off soft and sweet, and then it speeds up, soon erupting with cheers. It's very tasteful. And, of course, we get great vocal delivery from the girls.

9. ANGERME - Desugita Kui wa Utarenai

Let me tell you, when ANGERME do metal, they do it RIGHT. Uozumi Yuki did the electric guitar for this song, and it's so, so badass. The girls sound so powerful. The chorus to this song is definitely a headbanger. The soft rock breakdown in the bridge is a nice change of pace, but then it starts up again, with Kana leading the way back into the melody. I have to say, Meimi, Kana, and Rikako sound the best in this song. This song really goes hard.

8. Morning Musume '15 - Oh my wish!

Oh dear, this song made me cry when I first heard it. Not only is it an amazing song, but Duu and Zukki are the centers and lead vocals! That aspect is such a nice change of pace from the Morning Musume we had before. This song is so catchy, and the electronic aspect of it really does add excitement, and works well for the song. The robotic harmonies are really amazing, as well. I love talking along to the spoken dialogues in the bridge as well!

7. Morning Musume '15 - One and Only

I must give this song major credit, because it's completely in English! Not only that, but it has one of the best damn melodies ever. It dives right into the melody as soon as the song starts. The girls' pronunciation is really great (of course, Miki's was, but the other girls did great.) This song has a slight holiday feel, in my opinion, but it's subtle. I love the electric guitar in this song. A lot of people complain about the "awkward" English lyrics, but I think they're just fine. There's not really problems with the grammar, some sentences are just a little awkwardly phrased. For me, it doesn't distract from the musical value of the song at all, though.

6. Tsubaki Factory - Seishun Manmannaka!

This song just has that classic Hello! Project feel. I was surprised when I loved it so much, because I really don't like Tsubaki Factory as a group. Then again, they sound much better in audio than live (which is expected, because in official audio, pitch and overall vocals can be corrected majorly.) I appreciate that the girls have really distinctive voices, but that's a factor in most Hello! Project groups, anyway. I just really love this song, but I can't explain it much. I always have it on repeat.

5. ANGERME - Taiki Bansei

This was it. The start of ANGERME. No more boring old S/mileage. The reborn group with such interesting music was being born, February 2015. And oh boy, did they hit the target spot-on with this song. It's so funky, groovy, and fun. You can just jam along, dance along. The chorus sounds so full, like the girls' vocals just fill it really well. The bridge is great, too. Murotan's high note is outstanding, and it really sold her as the vocalist of 3ki.

4/3. Kobushi Factory - Nen ni wa Nen [indies version] / Nen ni wa Nen [Nen'iri version]

I'm ranking them as different numbers because they're technically different, but I'll review them as the same song, because genuinely they are. This song adds so much hype, and when I heard it, I was in absolute love. Its best factor, though, is the fact that I literally never get sick of it. Whenever I hear this song, I just need to sing along. It's so rockin'! It showcases all the individual girls well, too, because each girl gets her own little individual section of the song. In the Nen'iri version, the vocals are really amped up, with more signature tongue-rolling and power in the vocals; also, a shout of "Nen!" is added in the beginning of the song. I'm in love with this song, and that will never change.

2. Morning Musume '15 - Sukatto My Heart

The funny thing about this song is that I actually didn't care for it the first couple of listens, but oh boy did that change. It has...literally...the most infectious melody I've ever heard. I really did the funky songs we got this year, and this song was no exception at all. It's a little repetitive, but in my opinion, that factor of the song makes it all the more charming. I find myself looping the hook over and over. This song knows exactly what it's doing, using words such as "paradise" to seal the melody in and create imagery that goes along with the disco tune. The group parts blend so well, and they add even more of a dance feel to the song.

And number 1 is, you guessed it...

1. ANGERME - Dondengaeshi

How can I describe a song so beautiful in words? It's absolutely epic. Kana and Rina blend GORGEOUSLY. This song is pure art. Kana's vibrato is so divine, and all the vocals in this song are executed perfectly. This song knows how to make me happy when I'm sad, and get me so pumped up. This song has the most amazing lyrics I've ever heard, probably because I can relate to them so much. The guitar and drums add that refreshing rock feel to the song. This song is truly a masterpiece, and I'll always hold it close to my heart. It's life-changing.

~

So that was my H!P singles ranking for 2015! Look forward to it next year, too, and I love you all! Tell me what you thought!

Goodbye and happy holidays :)

EVERY H!P A-SIDE OF 2015 RANKED - PART 1 - #34 ~ #11

I'm not going to waste time here. This post will already be long enough.

34. Country Girls - Tamerai Summer Time

I'm gonna be honest here: does anyone even care for this song? If I could choose one word to describe this song, it would be: boring. Sure, the lyrics and MV are sweet, but this is mostly a musical ranking. This song has no climax, and I kind of feel bad for the girls that they had to sing such a freaking boring song. The melody kind of makes me feel sick to my stomach, it's a bit depressing...

33. ºC-ute - Arigatou ~Mugen no Yell~

Dear ºC-ute, you can do so much better than this song. I've seen you do much better than this song. Just because a song is a ballad, doesn't mean it has to be incredibly boring. Not to mention, this song is supposed to celebrate their tenure as a group, but Mai and Saki only get one line each. Even when I heard the radio rip for this song, I was so disappointed, and I remember thinking, "I really hope the other side to this single is better." Luckily, my wishes were fulfilled.

32. Morning Musume '15 - Tsumetai Kaze to Kataomoi

Before y'all complain your asses off, remember that this is a song ranking, not an MV ranking. As for this song, it's not horrendous, but it's not good either. It sounds like it was intended for the Platinum 9 Disc album, but the idea was scrapped because it was too much of a filler track. My favorite part of this song has to be the pre-chorus, but the rest of the song, I really don't dig.

31. Fukuda Kanon - Watashi.

It's really sad that this was Maro's official sendoff song, because every other ANGERME song from this year is better. I think the pacing of the lyrics is really odd, and the melody kind of doesn't know where it's going. The instrumental is really bland too. The dubstep thing in the pre-chorus is unfitting, too. I feel like this song is good in idol standards, but bad in H!P standards.

30. ANGERME - Mahou Tsukai Sally

This is where the songs change from "meh" to "good." That's how many solid H!P releases we've had this year, that 28/34 are at least good. This song is really addictive, you can't deny it, it's just lacking a bit in...something? Maybe it's because none of 3ki can really carry it along vocally except Murotan. I don't really have much bad things to say about this song, really, just that other songs are better.

29. Country Girls - Itooshikutte Gomen ne

Uta pity. That's the only reason this isn't ranked lower. Guilty as charged.

28. Country Girls - Koi Dorobou

Uta pity. That's the only reason this isn't ranked lower. Guilty as charged. (Also, Risa/Manaka lead vocals help...)

27. Morning Musume '15 - Ima Sugu Tobikomu Yuuki

It's a pretty song, with beautiful vocals for the most part (except Riho shitting out her first line, I'm sorry!) This song is good at climaxing as it goes along too, which usually wins me over completely, but maybe it's the melody that doesn't sell me completely. It doesn't settle enough in my heart. I really do love the instrumental, though.

26. Morning Musume '15 - Yuugure wa Ameagari

A lot of people I know are crazy about this song, which I'm not. However, that being said, it's no doubt beautiful. Fukuhime and Sakura sound amazing in this song, just wow. I hope Duu takes Riho's lines in it once she graduates, because Duu's melodic voice would work so well with this song. I'm really not a Riho hater, I do love her, but her rough vocals don't really work well with such a peaceful song. However, she does bring a bit of drama into the song, but I think Maachan could've easily done that as well, if she had used her powerhouse voice in the song rather than her cute voice.

25. Juice=Juice - Wonderful World

Ignoring the absolutely horrendous MV, "Wonderful World" is a solid song. I know a lot of people who hate it, and I'm not exactly sure why; I never asked them. This song kind of makes me feel like I'm walking through Disneyland. It's a whimsical song. Sayuki definitely holds this song up well vocally, but all vocals in this one are top notch, even including iffy Yuka. I never thought I'd have to say this about a J=J song, but Karin...sounds...amazing...

24. Morning Musume '15 - ENDLESS SKY

Firstly, Riho sounds great in this song. (See? I'm not a Riho hater!) Honestly, I think this one should've been the primary A-side to the single, rather than "Tsumetai," however it's understandable that it wasn't because "Tsumetai" showcases Riho off more. Yet again, the pre-chorus is my favorite part of the song, it builds emotion well. I'd say, this is another whimsical song.

23. Country Girls - Wakatteiru no ni Gomen ne

It kind of made me feel annoyed that I had to rank a Country Girls song in the upper half of the ranking (I'm not too fond of them), but this song is just too...interesting?...not to rank semi-high. Also, help, I think I'm starting to fall for Chii-chan...hey, she's 14, right? Only two years younger than me. It's not that creepy! She's just a charming little one. But Risahime is still my Country Girls oshi...for now! Anyway, not the point, back to the song. I really like the little dialogues, it gives the song a lot of personality, and the mini OzeChii love story, with Risa and Manaka as the onlooking peers, and Momoko as the granny jealous of the young love. I do enjoy this song.

22. ºC-ute - The Middle Management ~Josei Chuukan Kanrishoku~

I keep wanting to bring up how hot and godly Chisato looks in her businesswoman outfit, but I keep having to remind myself this is a song review, NOT a PV review. OK, so about the song. Mai's vocals usually make my ears bleed, but since they're so heavily autotuned in this song, it's okay. This song is mostly ranked this high for Nakky. She sounds AMAZING. Maybe the best she's ever sounded in an A-side. This song uses its effects wisely, as well.

21. Juice=Juice - Ca va? Ca va?

Goddammit, maybe I'm biased, because I really like French culture and the language, but this song is really nice. I know the "Dabada" part sounds almost exactly like "Rottara Rottara," but I don't think that distracts from the quality of this song. This type of song complements Tomoko's wonderful vibrato-y voice really well. I also like that the line distribution is almost completely equal. Yuka sounds nice in this song, too, her voice sounds a little tougher rather than cuter, and I think tougher fits her better in a way. 

20. ºC-ute - Arashi wo Okosunda Exciting Fight!

We got "Arigatou," and we got this, on the same single. And oh boy, what a difference in musical quality. This song has that classic ºC-ute feel. This is the song ºC-ute will be begging all the thirsty wota to shout "Oi! Oi!" to while pumping their fists in concerts. Airi, Chisa, and Maimi lead this song extremely well. These rock-type songs fit Chisato especially so well, because her voice is so growly and deep. Mai and Nakky's speaking line breakdown in the bridge has to be my favorite part of the whole song, though. It adds so much hype. I love it.

19. Morning Musume '15 - Seishun Kozou ga Naiteiru

This was 12ki's official introductory song. I can't really give much explanation as to why this song is so high, my heart just kind of guided me that way. I think it's mostly because this song is so damn catchy.

18. ANGERME - Nana Korobi ya Oki

If you say this song doesn't give you chills, you're lying to yourself. This song has the best vocals in S/mANGERME history, ranging from Meimi and Kananan's deep but powerful voices to Ayacho, Akari, and Murotan's sweeter but impactful vocals. This song is kind of like a musical in itself, it's like a Broadway production. Meimi definitely sounds the best though, oh dear, she is just a powerhouse. Meimi dear, once you graduate next year and perform on Broadway, perform this song!

17. Kobushi Factory - Dosukoi! Kenkyo ni Daitan

Finally, here comes the entrance of my oshi group. This song is great, but not as great as their other songs, I think. Despite that, this song is just so powerful, and does a really good job of defining them as a group. You know it's a Kobushi song when those mature, growly, tongue-rolling voices hit. I think the reason Renako and Tagucchi only got one line each was because this song was reserved for the rougher vocals, sans Hamachan, who I think was just made a lead vocal in the song because she is popular amongst wota. I love the traditional Asian influences in this song; even though they are minimalistic, they are definitely there.

16. ANGERME - Otome no Gyakushuu

This song is so haunting, so powerful, so beautiful. It sounds like something right out of the Lilium musical, haha. The operatic vocals in the first chorus (not the main one) will definitely send chills down your spine. It's a pop-rock-opera fusion, similar to "Nana Korobi," but even better. The parts where Meimi/Takechan sing the melody and Kana sings the low melody even adds more impact to the haunting theme of the song. Not to mention, the lyrics are really interesting.

15. ºC-ute - Tsugi no Kado wo Magare

This song is so gorgeous, it really is. It's the type of song that will give you so much hope when you listen to it. The vocals blend so well, the harmonies are so nice. The violin is such a nice touch. A lot of people say this song sounds like it belongs to an anime OST, but I disagree. I think it just sounds like ºC-ute being ºC-ute.

14. ANGERME - Gashin Shoutan

This song is so fun. It's Maro lead vocals, but other than her, every gets an equal amount of lines. This song is great at showcasing the strong group dynamic of ANGERME. ANGERME are a powerhouse group, but their personalities are just so fun. This song will make you wanna dance. It kind of reminds me of a Golden Era MoMusu type song. Not to mention, it's sooo catchy!

13. Morning Musume '15 - Ima Koko Kara

I think nobody except me would have this song so high in their ranking. But, I have my reasons. It starts off in a way that you think it'll be a ballad, but then... the instruments start building and building. The singing groups start getting larger and larger. You know you're in for something amazing. Then, the chorus hits and it breaks into dance. As I mentioned earlier, you all know I'm a sucker for songs that gradually build up. It adds such an excitement factor. This song executes that concept perfectly.

12. Kobushi Factory - Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san no Uta

This was the first song of the single in which there was a concert rip released. I remember hearing the rip and being really intrigued. This song is funk-rock. I think that's so interesting and unique. I also really like that there's no solo lines (unless RioRio's "Brr...Koizumi-san!" counts). A lot of people find the extreme repetition in this song irritating, but it actually makes me enjoy the song even more. The chorus is probably my favorite part, the "Koizumi-san suki suki" part. It sounds so awesome.

 11. Kobushi Factory - Survivor

If you're a fan of hard rock, I highly suggest checking out this song. It has a lot of metal influence. Back when this song only had a radio rip out, I listened and I fell in love. And at that moment, I declared Kobushi Factory my oshi group. I'd never heard such a cool song in my life. It's like...I tend to really like idols and rock mixed, hence my extreme love for Kobushi Factory and BABYMETAL. And this song is idol-rock hybrid goodness.

~

So, to keep y'all anxious, and because writing this was very tiring, part 2 with my top ten will be posted tomorrow. See you there ;)

Why Am I An Idol Fan? - Okay! Musume Time 5th Anniversary Contest

Why am I an idol fan?

When life hits me with murky seas
I look at my idols for ease
I look at all their charms and grace
It puts a smile on my face
When life hits me with depression
Idols fill me with emotion
I turn on my idol playlist
And then I'm at my happiest
For, idols do so much for me
They're not normal celebrities
Listening to their happiness
Makes everything okay right then
And when I feel like life's at end
I talk to all my online friends
We bond about idols we love
Nothing compares, this feeling of
"Things are all good and it's okay"
Because of idols, I'm here today


by Calli Abisognio

[SHORT PV/SONG REACTION] TAKOYAKI RAINBOW - KURIBOCCHI ONEDAY!!

So, this is my first time checking out Takoyaki Rainbow.

All I know about them is that they are a sister group of MomoClo-Z and Ebichu.

From this, I expect them to have a weird-kawaii concept, but we'll have to see.

Side note: Why is everyone already preparing for Christmas? It is more than a month away!

I'm not going to pic-spam because my computer does not have enough space, so just follow along with me! ;D

Okay, so first of all, I am digging the neon lights behind their name and the title. Very cool effect!

Already, there is an explosion of cuteness and shouting. Of course, I like the girl in the green the best even from the first look.

It's a very upbeat idol song. This PV was obviously shot with a lower budget, but it's still nice.

That Santa is creepy!

So now, the girls are on a train, sampling food in Christmas outfits. 

The girl in blue kind of reminds me of Hamachan (from Kobushi Factory)!

These girls seem very adorable, I wonder how old they are. They're probably around my age range, maybe a little younger. (Okay, so it seems they're all younger than me.)

Suddenly, they're dancing on the bus! The green girl is in front, to my delight. I must say, these girls are quite amateur dancers, but I suppose like the rest of the Stardust groups, they're supposed to have that "charmingly untalented" touch.

The girl in the yellow has a great eye smile!

Another girl also quite reminds me of Miyu from Tokyo Girls Style...maybe it is the mole...

So far, I enjoy the singing of the purple girl the most (AKA Miyu look-alike!)

This song is nothing special, but for some reason, I'm really enjoying everything about this release.

Oh dear, these girls' voices are so horrible, so horrible it's cute. XD

I will wait with you at the bus stop!

There was a softer breakdown with what seems like the better singers' vocals, then back to the fun part. I like that little touch.

Oh, now Santa's gettin' down!

Woo, now they're flying into space!

~

Okay, well I really enjoyed that more than I expected to! Not so much the song as the girls and PV! I think I'll follow this group from now on!

What do you think of this release? Comment below!

[ALBUM REVIEW] AKB48 - Koko ni Ita Koto

Before I start, let me just tell you...

Listening to AKB48, for me, is like watching paint dry. Their songs have too simplistic melodies for my liking.

And that's why I'm challenging myself to do this review, to test my talent and patience as a writer.

That being said, I really do enjoy the girls themselves, and watching them perform, and most of the fandom, but usually their songs just don't reel me in.

I've never actually finished an AKB48 album, because a lot of the songs are so bland.

But I'm doing this just to say I have. Also, for my fans' enjoyment.

Keep in mind that I'm listening to most of these songs with a fresh ear, excluding "Beginner," which I've heard once, and "Heavy Rotation," which I've heard many, many times.

Also, I apologize if this review has repetitive wording. Their songs do tend to repeat themselves often.

So, without further ado, let's begin!

NOTE: A-sides are bolded.

1. Shoujotachi yo (AKB48)

Starting off, this song has that power-pop-trumpet thing going on that a lot of AKB48 songs have. It's a safe method they've used for a while now, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't slightly enjoy it. Also, I'm really enjoying the faint background electric guitar strumming, but if you read my blog, you'll probably know I'm a sucker for guitar in idol songs. The chorus has a very typical AKB48 sound, which I expected from the opener of the album. The chorus is definitely a step down from the verses. The second verse kicks in with a bit of a drum beat, which I really like. The instrumental bridge is actually quite breathtaking, but unfortunately the instruments in this song really shine over the girls' vocals and the melody. However, the instrumental is so amazing that I can fairly say this is a good song. The song ends with a bang, with a little twinkling effect at the end. Overall, I really did enjoy this song, and I think I might keep it on my computer.

2. Overtake (Team A)

Of course, when starting, again this song follows the AKB48 formula. However, I'm a little more forgiving with this one because it's just Team A and they were the building block of the AKB48 sound. The girls' vocals sound really nice and smooth in this song. It's always nice to hear the mixture of high and low voices. Listening to the chorus, I'm almost sure I've heard this song before. In this song's case, that's not a good thing. It's very bland. The second verse starts with a little acoustic instrumentation in the background, eventually building up with percussion again. It seems that in the second chorus, even more percussion is added. This song's charm thus far seems to be its crescendo of sorts. The bridge consists of a chorus of "ooh"s followed by the girls singing again, then back to the boring chorus. I think overall, this song is very forgettable. Sometimes, the AKB48 song formula creates great songs, but this one is just a filler track, in my opinion.

3. Boku ni Dekiru Koto (Team K)

Before starting this song, I have higher expectations of it already, because it's Team K and Team K are my favorite team. They are my favorite team because of their cool image and also because they create the highest quality songs in AKB48. The song starts with powerful "Wow wow"s with the girls. The first verse has soft but cool instruments in the background. In the pre-chorus bridge, I really like the smooth but amazing transition. The chorus has overlapping and echoing harmonies, to give it a more unique and fresh feel. As soon as the chorus ends, back to the "Wow wow"s that I could listen to forever. In fact, as I keep listening to this song, I am loving it more and more. It's really hard-hitting, feel-good, and beautiful. This song gives me that "I'm so proud to be an idol fan" feeling. There is an electric guitar solo in the bridge, followed by the chorus yet again. The "Wow wow"s are definitely my favorite part of the song. Overall, a great song.

4. Ren'ai Circus (Team B)

When this song starts off with an electronic-rock thing going on, it really shocks me. This song has a fun ska feel, which surprises me a lot when it comes from Team B, because I've heard they have cuter songs. The little background noises aren't doing it for me, and the chorus sounds very juvenile. I guess the title of "Circus" really does fit the song, because it's very all over the place. Thankfully, the girls really do sound like they had a lot of fun recording this song. Also, it's nice to hear the ska representation in this song, even if it is a little overshadowed by the overall awkwardness of the composition. My favorite parts of this song are the guitar parts, which sound really nice with an electronic filter. 

5. Kaze no Yukue (Kuramochi Asuka, Sashihara Rino, Takahashi Minami, Oshima Yuko, Minegishi Minami, Kashiwagi Yuki)

From this lineup, I expect two things: solo lines and a mature concept. Let's see if I'm right. It starts off with an instrumental that sounds like it would be in a commercial for medicine, showing happy families prancing around in a green field. Then, the vocals kick in, and the undeniable idol feel starts. I'll tell you, AKB48 songs are really good at one thing, making life feel like it's all right. The chorus is very melodic and pretty. This song kind of reminds me of an upbeat, more idol-y version of "Aruiteru" by Morning Musume. Maybe it's because of the chimes that can be heard in the background. The girls in this song seem like some of the better singers, except for Yuko, who I know is just mediocre. Even though this song doesn't seem to have any solo lines like I expected, it survives just fine without them. It's a very beautiful song. Wait, I swallow my words. There are two solo lines in the bridge, coming from Takamina and Yuko. Something I really like about Takamina's voice is how well it flows from one note to the other. Yuko does not have the best voice, but it's obvious she got the other solo line because she was very popular during her time in the group. Even so, her voice definitely does not ruin the dynamic of the song. The melodies and harmonies and everything about this song is just so pretty, and I think this album is pretty solid so far.

6. Wagamama Collection (Oota Aika, Maeda Ami, Komori Mika, Sato Sumire, Watanabe Mayu, Matsui Jurina)

To avoid looking stupid, I looked this song up first on Studio48 to see if it has solo lines. It does. From the translation of the lyrics of this song, I expect it to be a cutesy song.

Out of the girls in this song, I know of Lovetan, Sumire, Mayuyu, and Jurina. I'm not familiar with the other two girls, but I do hope they are well-suited to this song. Well, let's find out. Oh dear, this is just very...50s? Too cute for my tastes. Very sugary and whiney. Not my thing. I should've expected it. The girls are trying very hard to sound high-pitched, which is making me feel uncomfortable. The chorus is disappointing, as I expected some big leap from the verse sound to the chorus, but no luck. The melody of this song grates on you, and seems to repeat itself over and over. This song's brother-little sister complex is not really my thing, even though I know it's quite popular in Japan. The bridge switches things up. In fact, it's almost acapella, then an out-of-place electric guitar solo. I really don't like this song, but I can see how it would please some idol fans.

7. Ningyo no Vacances (Takajo Aki, Nito Moeno, Yokoyama Yui, Kasai Tomomi, Kitahara Rie, Sato Amina, Masuda Yuka)

The song has a really island-y, chill-out feel in the beginning. There are a lot of H!P-esque background vocals. This song is acoustic guitar-heavy, which is really unique of an AKB48 song. The melody is fairly simple, and I'm not a fan of the song so far. I feel like with selected member lineups for songs, the girls should have chances to shine, and I feel like with this song, they don't get their chance to, especially with the unreasonably loud male vocals overpowering the actual girls. There's not much of a group dynamic in this one, unfortunately. There's not much more to say about this song, since it stays pretty much the same throughout. Perhaps, it's the weakest song of the album so far. Something I will give it, though, is the lyrics have really nice imagery.

8. Kimi to Boku no Kankei (Maeda Atsuko, Itano Tomomi)

This should be interesting. I'm not particularly fond of either Acchan or Tomochin, but if I had to pick, I would pick Tomochin. I still feel really weird hearing Tomochin in AKB songs simply because of the trainwreck American-style music she makes now. The song starts off with really awkward English, then jumps into the melody. This song is very J-pop. It has electronic accents, with very typical idol vocals. The chorus is infectious, kind of reminding me of a Euro-pop track. This song is chock-full of effects, which works well. Suddenly, a random guy comes in and raps in Engrish. It's horrid. Also, correct me if I'm wrong, but does he say "I wanna wanna see you all gay"? Hopefully, I'm hearing that wrong! This song was decent until that rap happened. Now it's just laughable.

9. Iikagen no Susume (Katayama Haruka, Kojima Haruna, Shinoda Mariko, Akimoto Sayaka, Miyazawa Sae, Matsui Rena)

Can I just say, I'm digging this lineup already. Especially since my AKB48 kami-oshi, Sayaka, is in it. I cannot wait to listen. To start this song off, it has some nice piano, then morphing into a more upbeat tune. Not going to lie, it gave me the chills. The song starts off with a long solo line from KojiHaru, which I can't complain about. The transition from solo to group works really well. The girls' voices blend really well in this song. The chorus has a really mature feel, with great instrumentation. Yes, I've said that a lot in this album review, but that's another thing AKB48 does really well. The instruments are always really great in their songs, and the instrumental compositions are always well-thought-out. I really like how Sayaka's deeper voice sticks out during the group parts, not to mention she is a really good singer. This song has a really nice balance to it, and overall it's very enjoyable.

10. High school days (Team Kenkyuusei)

Finally, a song from AKB48 trainees! I expect this to have...prepubescent vocals, since Aki-P recruits 'em young. The song starts off really prettily, but then takes an unfortunate dive once the singing starts, with the same melody from a million other songs I've heard. The chorus is a little refreshing, and it might actually save the song from being a snooze-fest. I have a feeling I already know what this song is about, without looking up the translation: "Oh, I'm a schoolgirl...oops, my seifuku lifted in the wind, did you sneak a peek? Oh, I always blush around you...what to do?" Well, what do you know? I was pretty much right. It's expected, though. 

11. Team B Oshi (Team B)

Dear God, if this song is anything like "Wasshoi B!," I'll need to get away from it as fast as I can. That damn song gives me nightmares. Here's hoping it's not. Of course, it's a cute song. Well, this song is definitely a song meant for wotagei. Why does it seem that every Team B song has to have obnoxious background noise? Oh well, I suppose they're supposed to be the team with "personality." A nice touch to this song is the chanting of each member's nickname in the choruses. It's very inclusive, since there's so many girls. Plus, it gives wota the chance to scream the loudest when their oshi's name is called. The yelling between the notes in this song really does annoy me, but I do like the AKB48 chant parts. At least this song is miles better than "Wasshoi B!"

12. Chance no Junban (AKB48)

Now, here are where the A-sides start. It starts off with the most formulaic AKB48 melody one could think up -- no lie. I have a strong feeling this song was just one of those ones that Aki-P just threw together in five minutes and thought, Well, it doesn't matter if this song sounds the exact same as 3000 other songs I've created, it'll sell anyway! A lot of the strengths in AKB48's A-sides usually do lie in the PVs, anyway, so here's to hoping this song had a great PV. I'm sure the girls do get tired of singing the same melody all the time, though. Like I said, there's nothing at all that sets this song apart from their others, so I literally have no opinion on it.

13. Beginner (AKB48)

"AY YO! POSITION..SET!" What a freaking transformation. AKB48 goes hip-hop. This song is just so freaking...cool. This song makes me want to just clap and stomp along with it. It's something different from them. I really love the "Cha-change your mind" parts. I think they should do more badass songs and concepts. "Bokutachi wa Tatakawanai" was really badass PV-wise, but the song sounded kind of generic. I want another hard-hitting hip-hop song like this one from AKB48 again, because it just works so well for them. This chorus is very memorable. Then there's an amazing, empowering, bridge that I just can't get enough of. This song just makes me want to conquer the world. It's extremely epic. It actually makes use of the many girls, being that the group singing works really well for it. I can definitely imagine myself listening to this one often. I give this song a 10/10.

14. Ponytail to Shushu (AKB48)

Will this song be a ballad? That's what I thought, until of course the trumpet pop thing came in. Great, another generic song. I would've liked to heard a ballad for once. Maybe, I'm thinking, the fans like these kinds of songs so much because they're just so "sugary idol." You don't really have to think to enjoy these types of songs. You can just kick back, relax, and enjoy the happy voices of your wonderful idols. I can kind of see the appeal, realizing that H!P, which is my main fandom, has really distinctive songs that are really for specific moods. With AKB48, the songs are more just like "I'm in the mood to listen to some sugary idol goodness, let me just put on an AKB48 song." It's not really my thing, and I prefer H!P anyday, but like I said, I can definitely see the appeal.

15. Heavy Rotation (AKB48)

Ah, my first AKB48 song ever. My second J-pop song ever, after Mini Moni's "Ai~n! Dance no Uta" (please don't look that second one up, it's an embarrassment to all H!P fans.) This song is notorious for its wonderful lesbian sleepover-themed music video. This song actually started my obsession with J-pop, because despite having that AKB48 song feel, it actually has a really distinct tune. Yuko is the center and the only one with solo lines, which is a nice switch-up from the Acchan-dominated world at the time. This song is perfect pop goodness, you might just get a cavity from listening to it. I remember watching the PV and trying to learn the girls. I was instantly attracted to Shinoda Mariko, as she was the dance center. Of course, this was when I knew barely anything about the group, but Mariko-sama still remains one of my favorites. Overall, this song is really awesome, and pleases my ears to this day.

16. Koko ni Ita Koto (AKB48, SKE48, SDN48, NMB48)

Finally, the finale song of the album, after two hours of writing this review. It's featuring all of AKB's sister groups at the time (don't even remind me of SDN, so sad.) Wow, this time it's actually a ballad. A very pretty-sounding one, too. There's a nice violin in the background along with simplistic piano. I can imagine this song being performed at a graduation concert, and I'm sure it has been. The harmonizations are a really beautiful and angelic touch. There's a little chorus on either side on the ear. It's faint, but extremely aesthetically pleasing. This song has no doubt the best composition on the whole album. The song descends into epicness, with trumpets and light percussion entering, then goes back to the simple instruments. The dynamic of this song is very smooth, and the girls sound flawless. I think this song is an outstanding finisher.

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Overall, I am pleased with this album. Some tracks were track, some not-so-great, but for AKB48 standards, I give it an A+. 

Songs I'll have on repeat

-Boku ni Dekiru Koto

-Kaze no Yukue

-Iikagen no Susume

-Beginner

-Heavy Rotation (of course!)

-Koko ni Ita Koto

Songs I'll avoid

-Overtake

-Wagamama Collection

-Ningyo no Vacances

-High school days
-Kimi to Boku no Kankei

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Well, that's it for now! Request any J-pop album for me to review, and I'll do it! Thank you so much for reading! Calli, out!

Sayashi Riho is Graduating from Morning Musume '15 - Thoughts

On October 29th, Japanese time, Sayashi Riho wrote the following post on her blog (translation by UP-FRONT LINK, with minor grammatical alterations made by me:)

「Thank you for your continued support towards Morning Musume。'15.

I have to make an announcement to all of you.

I, Riho Sayashi,

Will graduate from Morning Musume。 on December 31st of this year.

Since kindergarten, I wanted to take part in the group Morning Musume。 I became a member when I was 12 years old. 5 years ago, I started with Tsunku♂-san and continued until now with the support of many staff, Morning Musume。 and Hello! Project members, and more than anything, with that of the fans.

However, this year I've thought many times about if I should continue like this in my future life.

As a human alone, I started to think if there are things that I have yet to experience in order to live strongly.

I have discussed this many times with the people of the company, and I've decided to graduate after I checked the growth of the 12th generation kohai ("kohai" means "juniors" here) this year.

Concerning the day of my graduation, I had the privilege on deciding the graduation. It will be on the last day of "Morning Musume。'15" on December 31st during the Countdown Live.

Concerning the Morning Musume。 tour, the last performances will be on December 7th and 8th at Budokan.

I am really sorry for the abrupt news.

I think this is quite a surprise.

But until now, inside of me, it has worried me.

And it has led me to this decision.

From now on, I think I want to study abroad and learn more English and dance.

Then with those experiences I will mature much more, and I will try my best to come back as soon as possible.

There are 2 months left until then, but until that moment, along with all the members, I will do everything we have to do for "Morning Musume。'15".

Until December 31st, I want to run through everything with all my power so please continue to support me!

Riho Sayashi」

Wow. None of us were expecting this announcement. At all. 

Especially since it was so abrupt. Apparently, even the fellow members didn't know until we the fans did.

The announcement wasn't at a concert, and she won't even have a special graduation concert.

I've noticed, along with a bunch of other fans, that recently RihoRiho has been in a bad mental state. She just doesn't seem as happy anymore. 

But the thought that a Morning Musume member, especially the ace and center, would have such a rushed graduation is really disheartening.

In this situation, it doesn't even matter my personal opinions of Riho. This is her time, and I feel so so much for all her passionate wota. I am just putting myself in that place, if my kami-oshi Fujii Rio had decided to graduate abruptly like this.

I'm glad she'll be able to pursue the things she's always wanted to. It's understandable that she wants to grow as a person, and wants to shed being an idol in order to become a woman. 

Riho has provided us all with smiles for almost five years now. She has that trademark smirk, and absolutely works her hardest in her dancing and even singing, even if she's not the best at the latter.

No matter how much I love to see other girls, it's true no Morning Musume girl was better suited for center than Riho was. Things have changed, as the other girls have started to grow into themselves more and as Riho's major responsibilities started to grate on her, but Riho still remains a great ace.

Moving forward, I'm hoping to see backgirls shine more, but it seems that's already starting to happen, and maybe the concept of "backgirls" will become eliminated completely.

We don't know what Morning Musume '16 has in store for us, and I'm excited to see it.

I wish the gorgeous, the talented, the funny, the perverted, the amazing Sayashi Riho an outstanding rest of her life.

I can't wait to see what she does in Hello! Project after her graduation.

-Calli

Now, enjoy RihoRiho's first MV with the group and 9ki's debut, "Maji Desu ka Ska!"

The 30-Day H!P Challenge - Day 3

Day 3: Which idol would be your girlfriend?

Iikubo Haruna of Morning Musume

Harunan is a fuckin' babe. There, I said it. I love her more chocolate complexion (I really miss when her member color was chocolate, it suited her much more than honey does). She's got a great sense of style. She's sweet, mature, and I feel like she'd be the kind of girlfriend who does the dishes but also is up for clubbing. I just wish she'd never graduate from MoMusu.

The 30-Day H!P Challenge - Day 2

Day 2: The idol you hate or dislike

Miyamoto Karin of Juice=Juice

Honestly, Karin looks like a hamster. Her eyes are so beady and she looks like she's gonna murder me 99% of the time. I usually love when H!P idols have short hair, but it looks so funny on her. Also, I feel like she's completely overrated by H!P. She gets main vocal lines all the time but Kanatomo, Sayubee, and even Uemuu are honestly better singers. I don't hate Miyamoto Karkar, but she's definitely my least favorite girl in H!P. 

The 30-Day H!P Challenge - Day 1

Day 1: Your Favorite Idol 

Fujii Rio of Kobushi Factory

Why do I love Rio? Well, it's hard to pinpoint. You know when you see an idol for the first time and you just fall in love? This was me with RioRio. I just fell in love at first sight. 

I love Rio's leadership skills. You can tell the other members look up to her and love her so much. Her bright smile can light up my day. She's such a hard worker and you can tell she loves being an idol so much. Not to mention, she's extremely attractive!

I love you, Rio <3

Asian Idols Are Truly my Life Savers

Hi guys--

Before I make the Day 1 post for the H!P 20 day challenge, I just wanna get a little real with you guys.

My life really sucks as of late, and I don't wanna go into detail, but I feel hopeless.

Nothing ever can go 100% right with my life, because I always wind up fucking up things somehow, or someone ends up screwing me over, or things just plain turn to shit.

But there's a magical drug I use to ease the pain.

It doesn't have any negative side effects, and it's there whenever I need it.

Just a little bit of it can make me feel better.

It's called...idols.

Seriously though, if I'm sad, I just look at a picture of Rio or Jiyoon, watch a ºC-ute PV or BTS MV, stalk Hello! Online and Koreaboo, and I'm all right for a little while.

I'm sure a lot of you can relate to this, too.

What is it about idols that's so amazing? Even though they obviously have flaws too (they're human), they still somehow seem like perfect creatures to us. It's a beautiful thing, sort of like an innocence. So when we watch their smiling faces in music videos, it's like the world doesn't have any problems anymore.

Writing on this blog is so therapeutic for me that I could write on it all day. Because idols make me happy. And writing makes me happy. If I put the two together, it's the best medicine in the world.

Thanks for supporting me and I really hope my blog fanbase will grow. This is my passion and I hope you all can see it.

I love you all.

-Calli

The 30-Day H!P Challenge -- LET'S START!!!!

Hey guys, so there is a 30-day H!P challenge that I wanna do.

Here are the days--

Day 1: Your Favorite Idol 
Day 2: The Idol you hate or dislike 
Day 3: If you are or were a boy who would be your girlfriend? 
Day 4: If the Idol was a boy, who would be your boyfriend? 
Day 5: Favorite Group? 
Day 6: Favorite Unit? 
Day 7: Favorite Couple. 
Day 8: Your favorite voice. 
Day 9: The voice you dislike. 
Day 10: The idol you used to hate and now like (or vice versa).
Day 11: Favorite °C-ute member?
Day 12: Favorite Kobushi Factory
Day 13: Favorite Country Girls member
Day 14: The idol with the best body. 
Day 15: Favorite Morning Musume member? 
Day 16: Favorite ANGERME member
Day 17: Favorite Juice=Juice member
Day 18: Favorite Kenshuusei
Day 19: Favorite Tsubaki Factory member
Day 20: Who would you like to be for a day? 
Day 21: The idol you have the most respect for or admire? 
Day 22: Your favorite "fashionista" 
Day 23: Past H!P member you miss the most? 
Day 24: Idol that is not one of your favorites but you think is really good. 
Day 25: Past group you miss the most. 
Day 26: Idol with the best personality. 
Day 27: Idol that you have special feelings for? 
Day 28: Idol that brings you special memories of something or somebody? 
Day 29: Your favorite idol leader. 
Day 30: The idol you'd like to go on a vacation with for a week.

I'll be doing it and I hope you all enjoy!