J-Pop Fandom Part III

It's been more than three years since the last time I updated my blog. And as mentioned from the title, I'm still a J-Pop fan. However, I'm more into LDH artists lately since they've debuted some more male and female groups (though I'm planning to write separate posts for the groups and soloists of LDH I'm listening to). Additionally, I've stopped following Perfume since their last release I enjoy is "Cosmic Explorer" (although I still listen to their past releases like "GAME"). I also don't enjoy CAPSULE's latest album "Metro Pulse". Maybe I'm just not into Yasutaka Nakata's latest music in general (both Perfume and CAPSULE are produced by him). And so, this post is dedicated to Japanese artists I'm listening to apart from LDH artists.

Yellow Magic Orchestra
(from left to right: Ryuichi Sakamoto, Yukihiro Takahashi, Haruomi Hosono)

The first one is Yellow Magic Orchestra. They are a legendary trio branded as Japan's pioneer of electronic music. Sadly, only one of them is still alive as of 2025. Yukihiro Takahashi passed away more than two years ago at the age of 70. I'm still following his discography from time to time, as I enjoy his first album "Saravah!". Around two months after Takahashi-san passed away, Ryuichi Sakamoto passed away at the age of 71. I have only listened to one of his albums and plan to follow more of his releases. The only living member is Haruomi Hosono, who was also the leader of YMO. I have yet to follow his discography but plan to do so when I have the time.

The second artist I'm currently listening to is the former ace of Keyakizaka46, Yurina Hirate. I've been a fan of hers ever since I was a fan of Keyaki as she's such a charismatic ace. I like her voice and dancing skills, as well as her approach in art. Ever since leaving Keyaki, her activeness as a soloist isn't as constant as Keyaki's releases. Nonetheless, I don't mind at all since I feel like she can take her time to produce new music. She used to be under Seed & Flower (Keyaki's agency), NAECO (an agency under HYBE Japan), and now she's under Cloud Nine.

The next artist is Towa Tei. He is a former member of Deee-Lite, a trio of dance music with "Groove Is In the Heart" as their well known song. I like his debut album "Future Listening!" as well as his collaboration with Kylie Minogue and Haruomi Hosono titled "GBI (German Bold Italic). He has also released music under the alter ego "Sweet Robots Against the Machine" but I have yet to listen to that discography. Additionally, he is also a member of MetaFive, a band whose latest activity is unknown following the death of its founder, Yukihiro Takahashi.

Da-iCE
(from left to right: Toru Iwaoka, Sota Hanamura, Hayate Wada, Yudai Ohno, Taiki Kudo)

And finally, the last one is Da-iCE (pronounced "dice"). I honestly can't remember how I found them. Perhaps through YouTube channels that promote J-Pop music, but I still can't remember. What I do remember is how catchy "FAKESHOW" is and how much I love the choreography. Soon, I began following their discography. Their concept is similar to LDH group's classic composition of vocalist and performer, but with refreshing image since LDH's senior group like EXILE often has this image of being macho with facial hair, tanned skin, and sunglasses. I feel like the image of Da-iCE is a combination between LDH and male idol group from Starto (previously known as Johnny & Associates). Da-iCE belongs to avex management.

So, those are the Japanese artists I've been listening to apart from LDH artists. I am currently no longer following any Japanese idol groups, as I'm no loner attracted by cute/kawaii music and concept like the orthodox Japanese idols. I have no interest in Sakurazaka46, previously known as Keyakizaka46. Nor do I have the interest to follow their sister groups Nogizaka46 & Hinatazaka46; as well as their "official rival group", the 48 group. Additionally, I am not interested in listening to Japanese male idol groups with the exception of Arashi. I am currently content in following the discography of LDH artists, Arashi (sadly to disband next year), and the artists I have mentioned above. And when I have the time, I will update LDH artists I'm listening to.

Thank You, E-girls

At last, the time is getting real close to the official disbandment of one of my favorite Japanese girl group: E-girls. I actually debated myself whether I should write a post or not about them, but I decided to do that as a tribute and my way of thanking them for ever existed. Aside from the fact that they are one of the few Japanese girl group (not idol group) that catch my eyes.

 

E-girls Promoting E.G. TIME

 

I still remember clearly the thing that brought me to the name of this group. It was a comment on a local J-pop fan account during AKB's Teacher Teacher era where the comment that caught me was about the song's style to E-girls (considering how upbeat it is, perhaps). I can't remember the first song that I heard from them, but I was very impressed by their talents and concepts. Especially the vocalists and performer concepts, which I eventually found out that it was originated from their brother group EXILE. Since then, I feel like LDH groups (that follow the formation of Vocals and Performers) are the place where singers and dancers can share the same stage without overshadowing each other. The vocalists may dance along in their MVs, but they mostly focused on singing during their live performance. As for the performers, they were more focused during the dance break and each of them occasionally were given the chance to do their freestyles on concerts. Essentially, their roles were perfectly focused on the talent that they used in the group.

 

 

E-girls Promoting Dance Dance Dance

Not long after that, I was hooked on most of LDH's groups and now I only haven't stan their younger groups that much because I haven't paid attention to them yet. I became informed that E-girls was made as a joint project to combine the girlgroups in LDH: Dream (the only group where all members sing & dance, and not initially originated from LDH), Happiness, & Flower. I instantly love each of these groups and began my exploration further into the fandom. The early EG Pyramid system, as well as the new EG 11 formation within the circle of EG Family which included the remaining girlgroup and female soloists and artists who previously involved with E-girls and remained in the agency. Coincidentally, I only became their fan during the EG 11 era. And next year (which is only two days apart from now), EG Family is changing into LDH Girls as the group that has the name in the collective artists (???) officially disbanded. But let's get to the disbandment stuff later.

E-girls Last Live with Back Dancers (©: reina.washio.official on Instagram)

 

Their style is probably the big factor of why I became their fan, considering I initially was a fan of western upbeat dance and pop music during my adolescent era. Next came the talents. The vocalists really have the gifted voice with them, and they were truly trained to use their voices to perfection. And the performers are no different; they were trained to bring their best in performing the choreography. Branding themselves as an artist (instead of idol), the members also had their fair share of involving in the creative production. Furthermore, I find their early releases more fitted to the category of "cheerful pop" instead of "cute/kawaii", considering how different they use the generally called cute concept compared to the orthodox Japanese idol groups. As time goes by, their concept shifted into a more mature concept which I love, similar to Happiness who grew from cheerful upbeat pop to badass girl crush concept. They also used various concepts like retro style in Dance Dance Dance, and took a melody from a legendary Japanese group Yellow Magic Orchestra's song "Rydeen" while giving it a twist of Latin dance music for their song "Dance All Night (Rydeen)".

 

E-girls Last Live (©: reina.washio.official on Instagram)

During their remaining two years prior to their announcement of disbandment, I have known their style and the remaining two groups within the EG Family circle. So when it was mentioned that the members had different opinions sometimes, I recognized a slight pattern of their releases with the style of the other LDH girlgroups. Like how "Show Time" could be Happiness' concept with the similarity of the style to Happiness' "Gold", and how the MV of "Pain, pain" resembles Flower's style. And perhaps their disbandment is purely the members' decisions, which I respected regardless of the short two years that I became their fan. It's also still shocking that two members of Happiness/E-girls decided to leave the agency, subsequently leaving their groups and disbanding their trio unit at the same time when E-girls disband. Regardless, I can only respect their wishes and continue to support them regardless of having different paths with each others. As I believe that the agency also respected the artists' decisions.

 

E-girls Cake (©: reina.washio.official on Instagram)

In the end, I basically want to thank E-girls for ever existing. As their existence has given me enough evidence of their creativity, talent, and style. It has been a short two years and I may not have the chance to attend their concerts; but I have supported them in my own ways. Two memorable years and the members are set to step on their different paths. I would keep on supporting Happiness with their 5 members formation, as well as Reina Washio's solo project as Rei. I may check into their younger sister group Girls², but I might not check them that soon. Lastly, E-girls might disband but they have left their artistic footprint in the industry of Japanese entertainment. The footprint which most likely won't fade within my memory.

LDH Soloists

This post is the last part in the "LDH artists whom I've listened to" series. Also, this is gonna be shorter than the previous two posts since I haven't listened to lots of LDH soloists, whether they're a part of EXILE TRIBE/E.G. Family or not. So, here are the soloists whom I've listened to:

1. Hiroomi Tosaka (登坂広臣)

He's one of the vocalists of J.S.B.'s third generation. His deep sultry voice is so lovely and unique. In his first album, he also has plenty of good songs and channeled different kinds of concepts. From loving yet slightly lusty song in FULL MOON, cool and slightly arrogant personality in LUXE (not that I mind cause he totally nailed that concept as well), fun and casual in DIAMOND SUNSET and Not For Me, to a lovely and emotional ballad in With You and END OF LINE. Seriously, what kind of concept he can't pull off?

I love most of his songs in his first album FULL MOON. But when I think about it, I think Omi is a selenophile since his discography mostly has something to do with moon. Not just the titles, but also the cover art. FULL MOON, SUPERMOON. He really must have a thing with moon. I haven't got the chance to hear his other discographies, but I'm gonna do that since he's so talented.

2. CrazyBoy (ELLY)

ELLY is a Performer in J.S.B.'s third generation, and he debuted as a rapper under the name CrazyBoy. His songs are upbeat and Hip-Hop. Just like Omi, I've only listened to his first album (which I really like) and I'm gonna continue listening to his discography later on since he's talented.

3. Dream Ami

She's the only Dream/E-girls former member who debuted as a soloist before the disbandment of Dream and her departure from E-girls. She naturally has high pitched voice and was the member who can reach highest notes. Despite of having a high pitched voice which is slightly similar to most of Japanese idol group members, she is a decent singer due to the techniques she uses when she sings.

I think I can't write about her that much since I've only listened to Amaharu and Good Goodbye. Her concept as a soloist are mostly soft and feminine, with a dash of fantasy. Perhaps I'm gonna listen to the rest of her discography later on.

Those are the only soloists in LDH which I've listened to. Perhaps I'm gonna listen to Shizuka's debut single later on, as well as GENE's vocalists solo songs. I'm gonna consider listening to Sho Aoyagi too, since I like his voice when I listened to his solo song Maria (available in HiGH&LOW Original Soundtrack). He is one of the finalists for EXILE Vocal Battle Audition where TAKAHIRO won as the new vocalist for EXILE. Maybe I'll listen to Ryuji's solo songs and the rest of EXILE's vocalists as well; except NESMITH cause he's the only EXILE vocalist who doesn't debut as a soloist, whatever the reason is.

This agency also has other soloist who are not related with the whole EXILE TRIBE/E.G. Family thing like Crystal Kay, MIYAVI, JAY'ED, Leola, CRAZY SHIKAKKEI, and MABU. But since I'm currently happy with the current artists that interest me, perhaps it'll take quite a long time until I finally got the interest to listen to them. The main reason has been stated in the first post of this "LDH Trilogy Posts". Or maybe I'll lose my interest in trying to listen to them, but that's the future to decide since I'm comfortable with my pace in exploring the artists in this agency.

LDH Female Groups

As a continuation to the previous post, this post is dedicated to the female groups in LDH which I've heard. But I guess this post might be kinda sad considering most of them have disbanded. Without further ado, here are the groups:

1. Happiness

This is the first female group which is debuted under LDH. Their concept was originally upbeat and cheerful, but not as cheerful and cute as the orthodox Japanese idol groups. Probably a bit similar to the current concept of Girls². As time goes by and the members went from cheerful teenagers to fierce women, their concept turned into a more mature upbeat songs with badass/swag/sexy themes here and there.

I have no problems liking their songs when they still had MAYU as one of their vocalists. Although MAYU's voice is naturally (slightly) high pitched, I like the way she sings. On the contrary, Ruri has deep sultry voice and she also sings really well. Karen, their only original vocalist, also raps in few of their songs. As for the Performers, SAYAKA is their dancing queen while their leader MIYUU also created some of their choreography. I think I forget to mention that another thing I like from LDH groups is that sometimes the members created their own choreography, aside from their signature freestyle. This group is also confirmed to join 88rising for the sake of their international debut. I'm counting on it, cause these talented ladies deserve it.

2. SudannaYuzuYully

This group is a Hip-Hop group consisting of two Performers from Happiness/E-girls and a Vocalist from E-girls, where the Performers rap in their songs. The name also derived from the members' names (Anna Suda, Yuzuna Takebe, and YURINO).

I don't really like their initial releases until I heard Look At Me Now. That song is seriously dope. They also have several good songs in their first album SYY. I like the way Anna Suda raps. Yuzu definitely has nice vocals and techniques. Sadly, I'm not sure about their future since the news of E-girls disbanding also stated that Yuzu will join a group project with Afrojack in LDH Europe while the other members are most likely gonna focus as Happiness members.

3. E-girls (disbanding at the end of 2020)

I'm still sad about the fact that they're disbanding at the end of this year. Totally, really sad. But they already decided their own future, and it's no use to blame the agency for their disbandment.

I think I've already mentioned the initial purpose of this group's formation in another post, so let's skip to my opinion about them. They're no doubt very talented. I like their releases when they still had plenty of members with E.G. Pyramid system, as well as when they become a solid group with 11 members. Back then, the main vocalists were Shizuka and Ami from Dream, Reina from Flower, and Karen from Happiness. I think the only original E-girls vocalist is Yuzuna, although she was demoted to Rabbits once and managed to get back to E-girls after she successfully completed her training period in Rabbits. Ruri was also initially a vocalist for E-girls before she joined Happiness. Same goes with Anna Suda; her initial position was just an E-girls Performer before having her concurrent position with Happiness.

4. Flower (disbanded)

I'm also pretty much saddened by their disbandment, but I guess it can't be helped. Theirs songs are the perfect combination of ballad with beats. I kinda sucks at explaining genres, so please bear with me.

They had two main vocalists and another Performer who also sings sometimes. After Chiharu Muto left, Kyoka Ichiki became one of their vocalists (thus revoking her position as their Performer) along with Reina. After she left, Reina became the only vocalist until their disbandment. Some performers also left with their own reasons. With that, the remaining members who have concurrent position with E-girls automatically become E-girls members up until their disbandment. After that, the Performers will pursue their careers as actresses and/or models, while Reina already debuted as a soloist under the name Rei with her first solo song Call Me Sick.

5. Dream (disbanded)

This group was originally an idol group under avex. They also had several members leaving (not sure if they also had members joining). Eventually, they joined LDH and changed their concept to a more mature one. Sometimes later, more and more members (including the original members) left until there are only four of them left: Ami, Shizuka, Aya, and Erie. If I'm not mistaken, the four members formation were still solid although Aya and Erie weren't having the same spotlight with Ami and Shizuka as E-girls members. Their concept as four members group was also not as fierce as when the group just joined LDH. They gradually became an upbeat and colorful group until their concept turned into slowbeat ballad with Only You, Darling, and their last single Blanket Snow.

This was also the only female group in LDH where everyone sing and dance; no such thing as Vocalists and Performers. Even so, they also decided the main vocalists which suited the songs (before they became a four members group). Like in Perfect Girls, the main vocalists were those whose voices are fierce and suited with EDM music. After their disbandment, Ami continued being a soloist. She naturally has high pitched voice, but I like the technique in her vocals. Shizuka has debuted as a soloist, but I haven't heard her solo song. Aya is still in LDH, while Erie left the agency and becomes a DJ.

So, those are the groups which I've listened to. I'm still truly saddened with the disbandment of Flower and E-girls, but I can only hope for the best for their decision.I'm not sure if I'm gonna listen to Girls², but let's see about that. The next post will be the soloist in the agency that I've listened to.

LDH Male Groups

LDH is a Japanese entertainment agency which is created by the original members of EXILE. Since then, the agency has grown and debuted various groups and having other artists joining them. Furthermore, they also has extended their scope with having actors and models, as well as creating dramas and films projects like HiGH&LOW, Prince of Legend, and Tatara Samurai.

As an agency which is initially founded by a male group, this post is dedicated specifically to the male groups in LDH which I have heard so far. As in, I listened to their music and have my opinions about them based on that. Without further ado, here are the male groups in the agency that I've listened to:

1. EXILE

The legendary group which was initially named as J Soul Brothers. Their discography as J Soul Brothers is kinda hard to find, not to mention that they already got plenty of recognition as EXILE. Initially, the group was formed as a dance group; but they have vocalists joining them later on. After that, they become a "dance and vocal group" where the vocalists and dancers can share the same stage without one being overshadowed by another.

To be honest, I haven't really heard most of their discography since TAKAHIRO joined the group since I tend to listen to their first releases when I'm interested to a musician. Their latest release which I've heard is Star of Wish, which is really good. I also like their early releases when they still had SHUN with them.

I think that I don't need to explain much about the Performers (dancers) since EXILE is on another level with their skills since they often give each of the Performers their own freestyle dance in their MVs & Lives. Freestyle is like the signature of LDH's groups, which also shows what kind of style each of the members have. ATSUSHI also had a year of hiatus to pursue more knowledge about singing in America. God bless his voice. This is also the only group where the vocalists only required to sing, because the vocalists in other groups occasionally dance as well without decreasing the quality of their voice.

I have huge respect for the original members of this group since they're the ones who founded the agency. The four original Performers also stayed in the group until their retirement when they've reacged the age of 40, although HIRO retired first due to his role as the C.E.O. of the agency. MAKIDAI is currently Dj-ing and in a music griup called PKCZ. MATSU is currently being an actor, and USA is still in the agency.

2. EXILE THE SECOND

The members of this group are the second generation of J Soul Brothers, excluding AKIRA who joined EXILE first. After their merging with EXILE, the group was initially named "THE SECOND from EXILE" in which AKIRA hasn't joined them. After making cameos in their MVs as EXILE THE SECOND, AKIRA eventually joined the group.

The combination of the vocalists' voices is really interesting. NESMITH has a nice deep voice while SHOKICHI also has nice techniques. But when he sings, sometimes SHOKICHI let out a sultry sexy voice like in his solo song BACK 2U. As a part of EXILE TRIBE, the Performers are also not disappointing. All in all, I don't have any problems with liking this group. I also think that it's nice for the group since the vocalists don't sing much as EXILE members since EXILE already have two main vocalists.

3. 三代目 J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE (Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE)

Literally translated as "Third Generation of J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE", the two leaders of this group were members of J.S.B.'s second generation. And this is probably the last of LDH male group which has a direct relation to EXILE and J.S.B.; since EXILE was J.S.B. before they changed their name, the revival of J.S.B. created the second generation, then they merged with EXILE and J.S.B. is revived by the current third generation.

I only begun listening to their initial releases after I was finished with J.S.B.'s second generation. I've listened to their first album, in which there's not much that I liked although I really like Kimi to Nara. I also like their other upbeat songs like R.Y.U.S.E.I., J.S.B. Dream, O.R.I.O.N., and Summer Madness. Ryuji's and Omi's voices really blends well together. Sometimes later, ELLY debuted as a rapper and he occasionally raps in J.S.B.'s songs like Feel So Alive and Rainbow.

4. GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

This is my favorite group in EXILE TRIBE, which is also the original junior group debuted in LDH. Their concept is directed for younger audiences, and it seems like they targeted this group to have international fandom since all of their singles have English Versions. They also have one original song in English: Control Myself. I like that song. Mandy also rapped in that song.

The vocalists in this group are finalists for J.S.B.'s third generation. Yuta was also initially a member of GENE's support group (back dancers), but eventually got the chance to join. All of the Performers also auditioned to join EXILE, but Alan and Mandy are the only ones who made it.

As my favorite group, of course I like lots of their songs, including their latest single: Hira Hira. The group is also very interesting, in courtesy of their show named "GENERATIONS High School TV" where you can see their personalities. The MC, Hayato, is so talkative. Alan got the rep as "Fusei Leader" (leader who always mess around). He also really hates tomato. Ryuto is a contradiction of the other vocalist, Ryota, since he occasionally curse and act like a gangster whereas Ryota is the prince in this group. Yuta has a weird/alien personality. Reo, the youngest and cutest member but also cool considering he's a krumper. And Mandy, well he's the hilarious member who sometimes be the group's joke. What's more interesting is that they managed to have a World Tour even before they performed at Tokyo Dome. That's really cool.

5. THE RAMPAGE from EXILE TRIBE

This group has 3 Vocalists and 13 Performers, which reminds me of the resemblance of EXILE's current formation. One of the vocalists also occasionally raps in their songs.

Just like the group's name, their concept is more like a group of rampaging people. They're also the only group in EXILE TRIBE which has more than two vocalists (technically, so does EXILE but NESMITH and SHOKICHI don't always sing as EXILE, so...). Kazuma is the one who occasionally raps, and I have no problem with the way he sings and raps. Hokuto has sweet voice and can reach high notes easily. RIKU's voice is actually nice, but I don't like how he oversing the notes during Lives. It's like... I don't know. Kinda hard to explain. But he tends to overdo his vocals when he sings, while I like the balance and control of the other vocalists. Not too much, not too less either. Just perfect.

6. FANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE

The junior group where one of the Performers passed away of stomach cancer. Sadly enough, he passed away before the group officially debuted.

I honestly don't have much to review since I've only heard their first single, which I honestly don't like. I'm gonna listen to their first album later in case if there are any more of their songs that I'll like. But I've heard Dear Destiny briefly, and I think I might like that song eventually.

7. BALLISTIK BOYZ from EXILE TRIBE

This group is different from the rest of EXILE TRIBE groups because all of the members sing, rap, and dance. The group is a collaboration between EXILE TRIBE and DOBERMAN INFINITY.

Like the previous group, I also haven't listen much to their discography. I only like several songs in their mini-album, and I'm gonna listen to the rest of their discography.

8. DOBERMAN INFINITY

Probably my favorite male group outside EXILE TRIBE. It's a bit sad that they're still sort of underrated. They're a Hip-Hop group which initially consisted of all rappers. When the group joined LDH, they added a vocalist who is a finalist for EXILE's Vocal Battle Audition which was intended to find a vocalist alongside ATSUSHI.

Because they're also my favorite group, I like lots of their songs. The rappers are definitely good. KAZUKI has an amazing vocal, period. God bless that voice. He also raps in some of their songs like Jump Around Infinity and 5ive. All in all, this is my favorite underrated group in LDH.

9. COLOR (DEEP)

The group is currently known as DEEP. But I haven't listened to their discography as DEEP, so....

This group was formed by ATSUSHI as a vocal group. Sometimes later; ATSUSHI left the group, they change the name to DEEP, and currently has only 3 members left. They also had an audition to look for other vocalists. The three winners and the remaining members formed a group called DEEP SQUAD, but I haven't found any discography from them.

I've only listened to their first two albums as COLOR. The quality of their vocals is so not disappointing. Their style at that time was more or less R&B. I have no problem liking their songs and I'm gonna listen to the rest of their discography.

Those are the male groups in LDH which I've listened to. I'm not sure if I'm gonna listen to HONEST BOYZ, ACE OF SPADES, and RED DIAMOND DOGS since it's difficult for me to follow lots of groups at a time. Not to mention that GENE is my favorite group. But anyways, the next post will be the female groups in the agency which I've listened to.

J-Pop Fandom Part II

Time has passed, so does my exploration in J-Pop fandom. I'm currently not into Perfume anymore regardless of how talented the girls are. It might have something to do with my distaste for their music producer: Yasutaka Nakata. The last album that I have is Cosmic Explorer, and I don't really like Mugen Mirai when it came out. He also seemed like neglecting his own unit, CAPSULE, as their last album was released in 2015. He was busy creating music for Perfume (which I don't really like anymore), Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and Momo Mashiro. And I really prefer Toshiko Koshijima's voice rather than those two, so I'm pretty much upset that he neglected the unit although they still perform here and there.

MetaFive

I usually read infos related to Nakata from a tumblr page named fuckyeahystk. From the very same blog, I stumbled upon other artists like Towa Tei, Ami Suzuki, MetaFive, and Yellow Magic Orchestra. Ami has a really good voice but she hasn't released anything since 2013. As for Towa Tei, I found that he's a music genius although I admit that it's a bit difficult to find his complete discography. His first album "Future Listening!" left such a good impression on me, and he's one of the members of a Japanese Supergroup project MetaFive. The group is filled with legends like Yukihiro Takahashi (who was a member of Yellow Magic Orchestra) and Cornelius (Keigo Oyamada, who was a member of Flipper's Guitar). YMO was considered a pioneer for Japanese electronic music, and Flipper's Guitar was one of the most successful Shibuya-kei musical group back then. I also happen to like some of YMO's songs, as well as Yukihiro Takahashi's solo album "Saravah!"

Keyakizaka46 Logo

Some times later, I got into Sakamichi series since I was still following the 48G. I have to admit that my favorite Sakamichi group is Keyakizaka. Nogizaka's music is similar to 48G although a bit more feminine and elegant. Another notable difference is that I have never seen them releasing any summer singles with bikini, unlike their "official rival group". As for Keyaki, I really like their concept and their soulful lyrics like Silent Majority, Fukyouwaon, Eccentric, Glass wo Ware, Mou Mori he Kaerouka, and Kuroi Hitsuji (obviously). I'm not that interested in Hinatazaka, which used to be Hiragana Keyaki.

Arashi

I also happen to stumble upon "Shitsuren Chocolatier" when I was watching Waku Waku Japan. I got curious in the main male role, Jun Matsumoto. It turns out that he's a member of Arashi, and I listened to some of their songs from there.

Then there was that time when Produce48 came and AKB released "Teacher Teacher". While some commented that it sounded like a K-Pop song, I figured that the song might fit their mature sister group SDN48, if they didn't disband. I also remember one comment mentioned about another Japanese girlgroup: E-girls as their musical genre usually stays in dance/upbeat genre. I kinda sucks at explaining genres, so please bear with me.

GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE

The saying goes by "curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back". I was curious about E-girls; and now I'm pretty much satisfied to find them and their agency LDH Japan (short for Love Dream Happiness). I got to know how talented the groups in EXILE TRIBE & E.G.  Family, as well as their other groups like Doberman Infinity and DEEP (previously known as COLOR). I have a huge respect for EXILE as the founder of LDH, thanking them for debuting my favorite boygroup: GENERATIONS from EXILE TRIBE.

Happiness

Girls²

But I have to receive sad news last year from Flower's disbandment and E-girls is disbanding at the end of this year. I've read comments on how bad LDH is in managing their female artists, but I've read a source which stated that they're disbanding due to creative differences. Not surprising. The group initially has around 30 members and used a certain qualification to determine which members are in the single. Their formation was also intended as a joint project for the initial girl groups: Dream, Happiness, and Flower. 2018 was the first year they released an album as a group with solid 11 members, and they did not disappoint. Maybe it's just their fate. And with E-girls disbanding, LDH debuted a new girlgroup: Girls². I haven't really got into them, but it seems like I have an impression that their concept is similar with Japanese idol groups although their voices aren't like the usual high pitched "kawaii" girls. By all means, Happiness is the oldest girlgroup from LDH.

So, that covers pretty much about my current J-Pop fandom. I'm currently still an LDH Junkie since being in the fandom is like going back to my musical taste when I was a teenager. I may also write separate and more detailed posts for LDH and other groups since it's gonna be a long post if I write the detail here. But I haven't really decided on that yet. In the mean time, I'm still on the high for GENE's latest single (Hira Hira) and Sandaime J Soul Brothers' latest single (Movin' On).

My Favorite Songs from CAPSULE's Albums

Hey there... it's been awhile since my last post. Anyways, somehow at the moment I'm more in the mood to post stuff about my favorite musics rather than stories/poets. Well, if you've read my previous post, you may know that I'm a fan of Perfume & CAPSULE. But for now, I'm gonna share about my favorite songs from CAPSULE's albums cause I finally listened to all of their albums. I don't just intend to listen, but I'll soon buy some of their albums if I have enough money.

Here are my favorite songs from CAPSULE's albums so far:
A. High Collar Girl (ハイカラ・ガール) - 2001

1. Mayonaka no Denwa (真夜中の電話; Midnight Phone Call) - track no. 4

2. Aishiteru Aishitenai (愛してる愛してない; I Love You, I Love You Not) - track no. 7

3. Utsutsu (うつつ; Reality) - track no. 8

4. Kakurenbo (カクレンボ; Hide-and-Seek) - track no. 10

5. Tokyo Kissa (東京喫茶; Tokyo Teahouse) - track no. 12

6. Shashin (写真; Photograph) - track no. 13

This album is their 1st album, & this album's genre is more Shibuya-kei sound which is different from their current genre, which is electronic music.

Points: 6/15 total tracks = 2/5 or 40%

B. phony phonic - 2003

idol fancy (feat. Hazel Nuts Chocolate) - track no. 9

I must capsule's early albums doesn't really stand out well. This is actually their 3rd album & I only like 1 song from this album.

Points: 1/10 total tracks = 1/10 or 10%

C. NEXUS-2060 - 2005

1. beautiful hour - track no. 7

2. tokyo smiling - track no. 10

Also skip an album, this is capsule's 5th album. Slightly better than phony phonic, cause I really like the tune of "beautiful hour", although Koshijima-san does sing but this song doesn't contain any lyrics. While in "tokyo smiling", Koshijima-san's voice is more kawaii-ish since this song is quite fun.

Points: 2/10 total tracks = 1/5 or 20%

D. L.D.K. Lounge Designers Killer - 2005

1. Soratobu Toshikeikaku (空飛ぶ都市計画; Flying Urban Planning) - track no. 1

Another album which I only like a song from it... But honestly, that song is quite catchy...

Points: 1/11 total tracks = 1/11 or 9,1%

E. FRUITS CLiPPER - 2006

1. FRUITS CLiPPER - track no. 2

2. CrazEEE Skyhopper - track no. 4

3. 5iVE STAR - track no. 5

4. Robot Disco - track no. 7

5. super speeder Judy Jedy - track no. 8

6. megalopolis - track no. 9

7. dreamin dreamin - track no. 10

Now this is where capsule's music got even better!!! And it really showed that capsule is more into techno-pop/electronic music. I also love Koshijima's voice in this album.

Points: 7/12 total tracks = 7/12 or 58,4%

F. Sugarless GiRL - 2007

1. Starry Sky - track no. 2

2. REALiTy - track no. 3

3. Sugarless GiRL - track no. 4

4. Spider - track no. 6

5. Sound of Silence - track no. 9

6. Secret Paradise - track no. 10

7. Star Sniper - track no. 11

You might be wondering why I didn't insert the album cover of this album. Well, you may see it by yourself cause I don't post that kind of thing. But, the music matters more than the album cover. This is another album which I have 7 favorite songs from it, & this album have more electronic sound in it. Sugarless GiRL is really catchy, upbeat, & soft song with an acoustic guitar sound in it. While Spider has more electric guitar sound in it, & Koshijima-san totally nailed the vocals. Starry Sky also has some electric guitar but also electro sound in it. While the rest have only electronic sound.

Points: 7/11 total tracks = 7/11 or 63,5%

G. FLASH BACK - 2007

1. Eternity - track no. 3

2. I'm Feeling You - track no. 6

3. Get down - track no. 8

4. Electric light Moon light - track no. 9

This album has a strong 80's sound in it, but still has electronic sound in it (perhaps cause both of them were born in the 80's?). I must say, above all of those songs, my favorite song would definitely be "I'm Feeling You". Nice vocal from Koshijima-san, and I love the tune in this song.

Points: 4/9 total tracks = 4/9 or 44,5%

H. MORE! MORE! MORE! - 2008

1. MORE! MORE! MORE! - track no. 2

2. the Time is Now - track no. 3

3. Phantom - track no. 5

4. Pleasure ground - track no. 7

5. e.d.i.t. - track no. 9

I totally love the album cover, it's really cool!!! The songs are cool too. MORE! MORE! MORE! sounds a bit like a disco tune. While "the Time is Now" has quite a heavy beat in it. Phantom is a really cool techno music. I always have a peace of mind when I'm listening to "Pleasure ground", cause the melody is really smooth, & again, Koshijima-san's vocals didn't disappoint. Last but not least, "e.d.i.t." is a catchy tune. Koshijima's voice when she sang "do you think you can love me" sounded really flirty.

Points: 5/10 total tracks = 1/2 or 50%

I. PLAYER - 2010

1. Stay with You - track no. 1

2. I wish You - track no. 3

3. The Music - track no. 4

4. Can I Have A Word - track no. 7

5. Love or Lies - track no. 10

Another 2 albums in a row that I have the same amount of favorite tracks in the album. What's interesting from this album is "The Music". It consist of quite a long instruments but also has Koshijima's voice in it, singing in English. I think that Koshijima's voice showed a lot of technique in this album. I love her voice in this album, but overall her voice is really perfect in all my favorite songs but "The Music" since that song is more instrumental-focused.

Points: 5/11 total tracks = 5/11 or 45,5%

J. WORLD OF FANTASY - 2011

1. WORLD OF FANTASY - track no.2

2. I JUST WANNA XXX YOU - track no. 3

3. STRIKER - track no. 4

4. PRIME TIME - track no. 9

This album was supposed to be titled "Killer Wave". But after a real killer wave came in 2011 with an earthquake, this album was postponed & renamed. The theme of this album is quite darker, well, it's a little obvious since Koshijima-san wore spiky head piece, heels, and belt in the album cover. WORLD OF FANTASY really sound like a tune to enter a world of fantasy, in electronic sound of course. I also love the PV, it's really cool. The title of I JUST WANNA XXX YOU should have an extra "X" to show the exact point from this song (if you know what I mean ;) ). STRIKER is a pretty catchy song although it has a little too much noise in it. PRIME TIME also has a noisy intro but then it progressed into a really nice dark-themed electronic tune (based on the instruments), & again, Koshijima-san nailed the vocals.

Points: 4/10 total tracks = 2/5 or 40%

K. STEREO WORXXX - 2012

1. Feelin' Alright - track no. 1

2. In The Rain - track no. 3

3. Dee J - track no. 4

4. Motor Force - track no. 8

This album, is like telling the listeners how capsule's "Stereo Worxxx"!!! Out of the dark themed music, most of the tunes are electronic & perfect for a party song (especially Dee J). However, I didn't hear plenty of Koshijima-san's vocal. Even among all of my 4 favorite songs, I only hear a bit of Koshijima's voice in "In The Rain". Despite enjoying Nakata-san's compositions, I do think that it's even better to include Koshijima-san's vocals in it.

Points: 4/9 total tracks = 4/9 or 44,5%

L. WAVE RUNNER - 2015

1. Wave Runner - track no. 1

2. Dreamin’ Boy - track no. 3

3. Hero - track no. 4

4. Dancing Planet - track no. 5

5. Depth (vocal dub mix) - track no. 6

6. Unrequited Love - track no. 8

This is their latest & 15th album, 2nd album after their stylization from capsule to CAPSULE. The album cover is simple, but slightly better than their previous album "CAPS LOCK". The music are really nice, & it consist of more Koshijima-san's vocals in it. Of course, her vocals never disappoint me. The deluxe version of this album will be released this September.

Points: 6/10 total tracks = 3/5 or 60%