Misa's Anime Adventures~

Well hey there~

I'll start by saying that I'm really excited about this post, and that it's going to be a little different from my usual. This post is going to be entirely dedicated to geeking out over anime. Uh oh looks like my inner weeb is showing.
Actually, even more unusual, I found that I had so much to write about, that I've decided to make this a two-parter. So, this post is part one. Part two will be a whole new post, and it's already in the works~

Over the past few weeks, pretty much the only thing I've been doing to pass time is watching anime. This is actually kind of weird for me. For about a year, I didn't really have much of an interest in watching anything. I just read manga. All the time. For some reason I just, couldn't be bothered with anime, I guess. I enjoyed reading much more.
A few weeks ago though, I found myself really super bored, and I suddenly had this urge to watch Ao no Exorcist. I've read a bit of the manga (although I can't remember where the hell I'm up to) and I'd always wanted to watch the anime. So, I sat down and started watching it. And I watched half the series in the first day. This is what rekindled my love for anime. Once I started, I couldn't stop. I scrolled through animefreak.tv and decided to have a look at all the series that I had been wanting to watch or was just curious about. I watched the first episode of all of them, and then grouped them into series I would continue watching straight away, and series that I will watch when I'm finished with the first group.
Now, let me just clarify; I DO NOT CARE about what series are new or old, ongoing or complete. I don't care about watching whatever is popular right now. I'll watch whatever the hell I want, when I want. Ok good we're clear.
For me, when it comes to choosing which anime to watch, it's down to a few main factors; if I'm reading/have read the manga, if I like the art style, or if it has been recommended and/or it's popularity. That isn't to say that I'll watch any series that's popular, but sometimes I'll be interested in finding out what the hype is about, you know. There's also some series that don't follow my reasoning, I'll just come across it somehow and be intrigued by it. But, as a general rule, those are the things that influence whether or not I'll watch a series. It may be just the one reason, or a combination of them.

Anyway, enough of that. So, what series have piqued my interest?
And, what do I recommend? (Not that you care but still)

Karneval (カーニヴァル) 

Actually, this is the one I want to talk about the most. If you follow me on Twitter, you'll know, Karneval has been the only thing on my mind, and the only thing I'll talk about. I am in love with this series. Don't bother sending help, I've drowned in it's glory and gone to heaven. I haven't been this into a series since Ouran High School Host Club. My wallpaper is Karneval. My iPod screens are Karneval. My Tumblr dashboard is Karneval. My brain is Karneval. I'm obsessed. I've been sucked in and there's no chance of ever getting out. I've already read all the currently scanlated chapters of the manga. I'm up to date with the anime, and eagerly await each weeks' episode. I can't get this damn series out of my mind. I was mainly drawn in by the art style, but when I read the plot I was beyond intrigued. The story is unique, and totally gripping. The characters, while a little eccentric, are completely believable and relatable. You care about these characters, what happens to them and how they feel. I can't put into words how amazing this series is. I wouldn't do it any justice with my nonsensical ramblings. Just, check it out ok. It's seriously underrated and needs more love. Also, the anime follows the storyline of the manga pretty much down to the last detail, so far. So that's pretty cool. But the manga has progressed much further than the anime, as far as I can tell the Smoky Mansion arc is going to be the story for the final episodes, so I'm really hoping there will be a second season (the first season is 13 episodes, with episode 12 coming out this week). If there is I will probably cry. I don't even think I need to say that I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this series.

Junjou Romantica and Sekaiichi Hatsukoi

(I'm writing about them together because I'm lazy ok)

I know, you're probably thinking, where the hell has this chick been? Hiding under a rock? Rest assured, I've known about these two for ages. It's just that for a long time, I was fighting myself, I didn't want to admit that I was in fact, a huge fujoshi. But this year especially, I have come to love and embrace that part of me. So when I started watching all this anime, I naturally wanted to pick up Junjou and Sekaiichi. I've also started reading the manga for Sekaiichi, although I'll probably wait until I've finished it before starting the Junjou manga. From watching the anime, I just found myself more drawn to Sekaiichi. The characters, the plot... I just found everything more absorbing and believable. So I wanted to read the manga for that one first. Actually, I think that if you watch the anime before you read the manga, it's pretty misleading. Especially if you haven't heard of or seen the series before. The anime is pretty light and fluffy and you never really get to see all that much. Yeah, you see some kissing and some shirt lifting and stuff, but other than that it's mostly quite SFW. Nothing explicit at all. The manga, on the other hand, I would say is fairly smutty. Not overly graphic or explicit, but you do see a hell of a lot more. You actually get to see the characters doing it, it isn't just implied like in the anime. Of course, this wasn't surprising for me, I was fully expecting the manga to be much more explicit, as the first time I heard about these series was through manga caps from the sex scenes. That's the reason why I was so interested in the series (I know, I'm sick). But if you weren't aware that the manga was like that, and decided to read it after watching the anime, I imagine you'd be in for a shock. Whether it would be a good or bad shock is up for you to decide. I would 100% say good. Anyway, I'm completely uninvolved in any kind of anime/manga fandom, so I have no idea what the general consensus is, but in my opinion, Sekaiichi Hatsukoi > Junjou Romantica. Sorry not sorry. That's just how I feel. But I would highly recommend both series to anyone who is into BL. I would even go so far as to recommend it to someone as their entrance to the BL world.

Kimi to Boku. (君と僕。)

I remember my Japanese student from last year really liked this series. And now I do too. Pretty much whenever I ased her what she was watching or reading, her response was 'Kimi to Boku~'. I asked her what it was about, and she sort of explained it to me the best she could. I gathered that it was slice of life about five teenage guys, and honestly I thought it didn't sound that interesting, and didn't plan to watch it. Then one day me and my friend were making her a... present, of sorts, by photoshopping our faces onto photos of things she liked. I suggested we do Kimi to Boku (and no, I won't show you the finished picture it's too omg). Anyway, we google searched it, and I found myself really liking the art style and character designs. So, I later went and looked into a little more, and decided to add it to my list. One of the best decisions I've ever made. I am so glad I changed my mind about it, it is absolutely fucking hilarious. Also, with so many fantastical series out there, a slice of life like this is really refreshing. It's totally relatable, but still one of the funniest anime I've seen in a long time. Personally, I think that it's really hard to pull off slice of life without it being boring, but this series has it down. Even though the demographic is shounen, I think almost anyone can immensely enjoy this series, and for that reason I highly, highly recommend it. Seriously, watch this series. It will be the most fulfilling thing you'll do all week. I promise. 

Togainu no Chi (咎狗の血)

Here's some dark BL. I'm aware that this anime is based off the video game, which I REALLY wish I could play. Actually there's a lot of BL games that I'm so desperate to play. I am really liking this series so far. The art style is really cool, and the story is dark and twisted. With all the fluff that I read and watch, it's good to have something serious, where the characters are thrown into the depths of despair and have to crawl their way out. That may be an exaggeration, but you know what I mean. I'm up to a point where something really fucking unexpected just happened and then the episode ended, so I'm sort of nervous excited to watch the next one. That happens a lot in this series. Expect the unexpected, to say the least. I don't want to say more until I've finished it, so I'll leave it at that. I highly recommend this, especially if you're tired of typically fluffy BL and want something edgier. 

Gravitation (グラビテーション)

Then there's Gravitation. Some old(er) school shounen ai. It was... put simply, it was okay. The characters kind of annoyed me. Ok, they really annoyed me. I thought I would totally fall in love with Shuichi, but I was just irritated by him all the fucking time. I also thought I would like Eiri, but he's a total jerk. Not even the tsundere kind of jerk, he was just a straight up dick head. I didn't even like Shuichi's friend, who's name I don't remember right now. I didn't like any of them. I found it hard to connect with any of them. And that is a huge, huge negative for me. If I can't connect with a single character in a series, then that is a problem, and usually means I won't like it. Not to mention the art is pretty bad... I feel like this was done on a budget. I may be wrong. It's probably just that it's old. But I still didn't like it. That promo pic up there is pretty misleading, the characters don't look that good in the series. I don't think I'll bother reading the manga for this one, although I have already read some of the super extremely graphic, explicit R-18 doujinshi based on it (although I believe they're by the same author as the original series). Actually, I didn't know the two were related until  after I had started watching the anime. But, you don't exactly read that kind of explicit smut for the 'plot', do you... So I feel obliged to read the original manga that this anime is based from, just in case it's better. I'm not sure though, because this anime really didn't do it for me. Maybe I'll read it if I get realllllly bored one day. As for recommending it, in short, no. I don't recommend this anime. It's really frustrating and I consider it a waste of time. Read the manga, it's probably better. 

Gakuen Alice (学園アリス)

This is one that I've been reading the manga for a long time, I was just too lazy to watch the anime. Also, from just looking at promo pics for the series, like the one above, and stills from the show, I absolutely hated the art style. I think this is the main reason why I avoided watching this one for so long. When I saw it for the first time, I was actually really angry that they had even bothered to make it. I mean, Higuchi's artwork is absolutely beautiful. It's flawless. Her character designs are so well done, and cute. Then I saw this and I was like, you've got to be kidding. Look at what they did to her gorgeous characters! The cuter ones, especially, like Mikan and Luca. They're not cute at all - they're ugly. I apologise if that seems harsh, but it's just my opinion. Ranting aside, I've only watched the first episode, and while I'm still not crazy about the art, it does look better in motion. I'm going to keep watching it soon. I'm curious to see how closely it follows the storyline of the manga. I can't imagine it will be too different. I'm really wondering what arc they'll use as the finale, too, as there's so many great, suspenseful arcs in Gakuen Alice. I can't really make a recommendation yet, as I've only watched one episode, but the manga is so good I'm going to recommend it anyway.

K (K Project)

I was super interested by the art style for this series. Seriously, the character designs are flawless and the backgrounds and everything are just omfg perfect. I'm working through it, and it's really quite a captivating series. I'm only up to episode 6 right now, but I'm really liking it so far. I'm very, very curious about it, so when I get time (hopefully within the next few days) I'm hoping to finish it. I don't want to say too much, because I really think you should watch it. I'm not worried about this series letting me down, I know it's only going to get better. So yeah, even though I've only seen a few episodes, I can already recommend it. Yeah. Those few episodes were THAT good. 

Kimi ni Todoke (君に届け)

I'm also reading the manga for Kimi ni Todoke, and I have to say that I absolutely love it. It's just so damn cute. It's probably one of the best shoujo mangas that I've read in a long time. It's so atypical, but still perfectly shoujo-ish, if that makes sense? I don't really know how to explain it properly, but I just really enjoy this series for various reasons, alright. Sawako is so lovely, isn't she? Actually, I think I love all the main characters in this series. And the artwork is beautiful. I've only watched the first episode of this, but I will watch the rest very soon. I can't wait. I know for a fact that I can already recommend this series, highly, especially if shoujo is your thing. But I think that the characters are relatable to everyone, so no matter who you are, I think you can enjoy this series. 

Psycho-Pass (サイコパス)

This one is REALLY intriguing. The plot sounds so complex, like it's a series that's really going to make me think. The first episode had such an impact, I was really impressed. I'm really looking forward to watching more. Often though, I find that I don't feel like watching really serious, dark stuff, so I'm going to have to wait until I'm in the mood to watch it. It's not a bad thing, because when I feel like watching stuff like this then I'll watch for hours. I don't really know much more about it other than the plot summary on Wikipedia, and I don't want to know more yet (spoiler, you know), so I can't make a recommendation just yet. But I get the feeling it's going to be quite draining mentally and emotionally. In a good way, though. When a series has that much of an impact on your state of mind, you know it's damn good. Check back in when I've finished it, yeah?

Kuroko no Basket (黒子のバスケ)

The view I have of this series, based solely on what I've seen around the internet, is basically 'who hasn't watched this'. Well, I haven't, yet. I've only watched the first episode. Honestly, it isn't typically the kind of series that I'm into (I'm not hugely into sports series), and from the first episode I'm really not sure if I'm going to enjoy it or not, but I've decided that I will give it a proper go. I may end up really liking it. Actually, I found out about it through other people's ships (boyxboy ships ofc) and the pairings and stuff on Yaoi blogs. So I'm looking forward to being able to make my own ships for this kekeke sorry not sorry. I'm sure it's a very good series, and I'll definitely watch it soon. It seems like it will be quite funny, though, so that's always a plus!

Uta no Prince-sama (うたの☆プリンスさまっ♪マジLOVE1000％)

 Ehh... I'm not really all that into this series. Other than the damn stupid title (like seriously), it's just really not that interesting. I guess I was expecting too much when I first started watching it, because of all the hype around it, so I was really disappointed by this series. I'm almost finished with the first season, and I honestly don't think I'm going to bother watching the second. Hell, I don't even know if I can be bothered finishing the first. I don't really know how to explain what it is about this series that I don't like. The characters aren't believable at all, or, for the most part, likeable. Other than Ittoki (I tend to fall for characters like him a lot), I don't find myself drawn to or liking any of them, particularly. The plot is... well, what is the plot? You tell me. It's boring, and to me, it feels like there isn't one. I'm sorry, but this one was a big miss for me. I will admit that there are a few moments where it becomes quite tense and suspenseful, and I think these moments are the only reason I've watched as much as I have. But I've pretty much lost all interest in this one. If I'm wrong, and it does get better, then please tell me and explain it to me. I want to like this series, but I can't bring myself to like it yet. I will also admit, that I do get the damn closing song (what is it, Maji 1000% LOVE or something?) stuck my head ALL THE TIME. It's seriously annoying. Especially considering I don't really like any of the characters singing voices. I mean, I don't hate them, but I don't like them either. I'm sure they could have found some better singers, considering these characters are supposed to be idols. But this could just be me being picky. Anyway, in terms of recommendation, I would hesitate to recommend this series to someone. I'm really leaning towards not recommending it at all, but in the end I guess it depends on what you're usually into and what you're looking for. I want to say that if you usually go for fluffy, light hearted shoujo then you should watch this, but I'm a mega shoujo nerd and I didn't even like it. So, I'll say, if you're looking for a typical reverse-harem, simple series to watch casually, that doesn't require much concentration, then you should watch Utapri.

That's all for part one of my anime adventures. Wow, this turned out long! I enjoyed writing it though, so I suppose that's the important thing.
Part two will be coming hopefully sometime within the next week, so look forward to it, ok! Or not. You don't have to. It's up to you. But I'd be really grateful if you did!

Now Playing - ヒーロードールTV (Hero Doll TV) by 時空アンドロイド-PIECE- (Choujikuu ANDROID-PIECE-)

Picking Up The PIECES~

Hey all~
So this post is a little out of the ordinary for me, I'm just so overwhelmed and excited right now, I have to share this excitement! I've been adding/updating things here, so it's kind of turned into a bio/intro post as well as a fangirling post.

As you may or may not know, one of my absolute favourite bands in the world is PIECE. They are so special to me and very dear to my heart. Unfortunately, despite being active as PIECE since 2009 (prior to that they were all together as LHAPLUS), they haven't had anywhere near the attention and recognition that they deserve. I've always worried about them because of this, and they've never exactly been the kind of band to spew out release after release. Then when their record label, Dear Dolce, closed down last year, I was terrified. A number of the bands signed with Dear Dolce went on hiatus or disbanded following the label closing down. However, PIECE pulled through and signed on with a new label, AKA-ON. Now, I may be wrong, as information on PIECE is quite hard for a non-Japanese fan to find, but from what I understand, they've only put out one release with AKA-ON, one single. So I actually still worried about them, despite having a new label. Reading poorly translated blog entries from the members didn't help either.

However, it looks like I didn't need to worry! This year has brought a lot of good things with PIECE. They've totally revamped their entire style. A new OHP, a new look, a new mini album and a PV preview! So go check out all their new goodies, kids! Finally my boys are going to get the love they deserve, I just know it!
[UPDATE] Ok so they're actually changing their band name too, their new name is 超時空アンドロイド-PIECE- (roughly translated using Google it means Super Dimension Android -PIECE-) I think it will still be ok to call them PIECE for short though, cause hell that's a long band name, and on their new band logo PIECE appears to be the dominant element of the name. It's up to you to decide what you want to call them, I'm gonna stick with PIECE ^^b

OHP - http://www.piece-official.net/

Here's their new individual pics/info (translated poorly by Google)

Vo. Nanami - Super Dimension Atomic Voice

Date of Manufacture: 3/18 rollout

Oil Type: O

Maximum Output: 5w

Power Source: Banana 2pcs

Blog: 『しょにっくのワンダーランド☆』

Twitter: @piece_nanami

Gt. Tsukihi - Super Dimension Space Guitar

Date of Manufacture: 2/25 rollout

Oil Type: B

Maximum Output: BPM5

Power Source: Parascience Smog

Blog: 『痛快活劇浪漫非行』

Twitter: @piece_tsukihi

Gt. Ayumu - Super Dimension Fairy Tale Guitar

Date of Manufacture: 9/13 rollout

Oil Type: AB

Maximum Output: Bari 5 

Power Source: Lunar base station delusional outbound propagation (?)

Blog: 『でんぱとつきとおーじさま』

Twitter: @piece_ayumu

Ba. Takiru - Super Dimension Hero Bass

Date of Manufacture: 10/31 rollout

Oil Type: O

Maximum Output: 5LOVE

Power Source: Wave of Love

Blog: 「輝け！！GOGOヒーロー大作戦！！」

Twitter: @piece_takiru

Dr. Ryo - Super Dimension Diru Drum (?)

Date of Manufacture: 01/24 rollout

Oil Type: B

Maximum Output: 5 Tissue (?)

Power Source: Adrenaline Secretion Drug (?)

Blog: 『性的な意味の「×××」』

Twitter: @piece_ryo69

PV Preview forアトミックビーム (Atomic Beam) 

New Mini Album

『SATELLITE CUBE』

2013.06.05 RELEASE / ¥2,625 (Tax in)

Tracklist

1."planetary gear"　

2.アトミックビーム　

3.HIGH×DRIVE　

4.PAPER MOON　

5.ヒーロードールTV　

6.ANGEL DUST

(DVD)

1.アトミックビーム(PV)

This is all info you can find on their OHP/JPOPASIA, just all in English and all in one place, basically. As for where to buy the mini, I've been checking CDJapan regularly (and the usual Japanese record stores sites) for it to be listed, but so far nothing. So I'll keep my eyes open for where/how overseas fans can buy the mini!

[UPDATE] Ok so I just checked some Japanese sites again, and now Like an Edison and ZEALLINK have it listed!
Unfortunately, from what I remember, neither store does overseas shipping, so you'll need a shopping service. However, if they have it listed, then I imagine that other stores (hopefully ones that ship internationally) will also have it up soon. I'll keep checking!
As for shopping services, I highly recommend using Tenso (which I have blogged about before here)
Personally I wouldn't go with CDJapan's Special Request Service. Their fees aren't as good as Tenso. I've also heard that Japonica Market is pretty good too!
[UPDATE] Ok so the other day I tweeted to CDJapan asking if they are planning on listing the mini, and they replied today (today's date is 05.29) saying "Hi. We still haven't received any details about it. So, we don't know at this point"
Sooo, for the moment it looks like they don't have plans to list it. Don't worry just yet, though! They do have PIECE's first full album listed, so there's still a chance that they'll get it later. I'll keep you updated!
[UPDATE 06.03] CDJapan have listed SATELLITE CUBE! It's listed under the new band name, Chojiku Android -PIECE-. I just ordered my copy, so GO GO GO GET YOURS! ^^

If anyone has any further info, then please do let me know and I'll be sure to include it/credit you!

That's all for now. Please, give PIECE  a fair go, ok! And watch out for them, they're stepping it up! They've worked so hard and are really something special! Also, sorry this post is a little messy and all over the place. I'm working on it OTL

Now Playing - SHINING WORLD by PIECE

Two Brave Samurai~

Whaddup~
I haven't written a personal post in a little while, huh. Guess it's about time I did, seeing as I have nothing else to do. Actually, I never have anything else to do. But you knew that already.

Actually, some things have happened since my last post. Good, bad, neutral. But I don't really want to talk about the bad. Because it's too depressing. Seriously, Called≠Plan disbanding? That's just not okay. And I'm not okay with it. So I'm afraid I can't talk about it right now. I just can't.
Lalala anyway, what happened that was good, then? Well, I guess my 18th birthday is pretty good, right! Yeah well sort of. Because my birthday fell on a Sunday this year, I had to go to work. Work on my 18th birthday. Such fun. I didn't actually mind too much, because I didn't really want to do anything in particular for my birthday, so at least I got to do something. I'm just not really fussed about making a big deal of birthdays, you know. And it turned out alright, anyway, because in the evening I went out with my family to this amazing little Japanese restaurant called Kura. When we made the reservation, my parents told them it was my birthday, so two of the waiters (one of which was realllly cute) came and sang me happy birthday. It was so adorable. And then they gave me green tea ice cream with a little birthday candle in it, to which my mum added more candles that she bought with her. It was fun! Actually, we'd been to this restaurant before, and I'd always planned to have my first taste of sake there on my 18th birthday. Me and my friend thought that it would be appropriate for us to try the one called 'Two Brave Samurai', but 'Young Beautiful Boy' was also a contender. Seriously they had the most hilarious names for their sake. But, when we got there we both realized that we had forgotten our IDs. So we stuck with cola. It wasn't too disappointing though, because I don't really care for alcohol anyway, and the cola was much cheaper. It was a nice night, with good food and good company! Then when we got home I watched Howl's Moving Castle, which in case you weren't aware, is my favourite movie. Of all time. Ever. In the history of forever. So yeah, it was a good end to the day. I'm no legally an adult LOL WHAT I'M GOING TO BE IMMATURE FOREVER.

We ordered some sashimi for starters. I didn't actually take any other photos of our food, because we were all really hungry and just wanted to eat. Sorry not sorry.

Birthday ice cream! It was really nice of them to do that~

Another good thing that happened was the day before my birthday, when me and my friend went to get our nails done! I've wanted to have my nails done Japanese style for a long time, but I'd never been able to find anywhere here that does that kind of nail art. But then one day I stumbled across a sign for a little nail place in Auckland city called S's Nail, which is owned by a lovely Japanese lady called Satomi. So, I went and picked up a business flyer, and a couple of weeks before my birthday, I made an appointment. I actually emailed her some pictures of styles that I liked first, asking if she could do something similar. She replied saying she could, and gave me estimates of how much each design would cost. And I was pleasantly surprised, as her prices are extremely reasonable! So we turned up for our appointments, mine being first at 1 pm, and my friend at 2.30 pm. Our appointments went a little over time, though, so we were there until about 4.30. It's understandable though, it was a lot of work for one person. But it was so fun, and she was so nice that it didn't feel like that long at all. I'm really happy with how they came out, and I can't wait to go back to her for a new style in about a months time~ 

These are my nails, the photo is from her Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ssnailgelnail?ref=ts&fref=ts). The little bows/hearts and things are actually 3D art, made out of acrylic on top of the base gel, and then covered by clear gel. I have so many layers of paint/gel on my nails, I lost count. It was about $135 NZD for mine, which I though was pretty good, considering it took her about 2 hours. 

And of course, there's the compulsory mirror photo. I haven't really felt like wearing wigs lately, so that's my real hair, curled. I quite like it.

I guess I'd better wrap up this post soon, so the last good thing I'll talk about is the music I've recieved recently~ 

Golden Bomber's The Past Masters Vol. 1 (Types A+B) These albums were so cheap, and I couldn't decided which type I wanted the most, so I just went for both types. And I regret nothing. 

Also with this order was ALSDEAD's Separator, which I've already posted about (sort of). And you all know how much I fucking LOVE this band and this album. 

Then it was MEJIBRAY's mini MESSIAH.bat and LOST ASH's THE REAL. As for MESSIAH.bat, it's really good, and I'm really digging it right now. But I can't help that feel that Silvers.exe was better. But that's just my opinion. I've also already posted about THE REAL, so you should know already that I also fucking LOVE this album, this band is growing on me more and more every day. 

And lastly, Kameleo's Now! I adore Kameleo, these guys are really amazing. So fun and so unique. They're really fun to watch. And they're all such cool guys. The music is generally very positive and upbeat, but this album also showcases their softer, more sentimental side, in a way. And they manage to touch on some very serious issues without making it too in-your-face serious, which is admirable. I urge you to give them a go, really.

Actually, there is one more good thing that's happened. After five years of waiting, I finally got my lip pierced! It's a labret piercing, i.e. the one in the middle of the bottom lip. Am I visual kei yet?

The day after my 18th birthday I went and got it done. Here, you have to be 16 with parental permission, or 18 to get piercings other than nose/ears/belly button. My parents have always been against me getting it done, so I waited until I was 18, out of respect for them. But I talked it through with them, and explained that when I got it done, it wasn't an act of rebellion or out of disrespect for them, it was just something I've wanted for a long time and I was finally able to get it. They still don't agree with it, but they at least understood my position. Which is nice, because I really do respect my parents, and I don't want to make them unhappy. I don't have any photos with it yet, but hopefully next time!

Until then, children~

Now Playing - FLASH BACK by ALSDEAD

ALSDEAD - Separator [Album] [2013.04.24]

What's up (again)~

So I said that I would upload ALSDEAD's album if it hadn't come up by today, and it hasn't, and people seem to be getting impatient (understandable because it's a fucking great album but still just calm down). So I decided I'd go ahead and upload it.

As usual, my copy of the album = my upload. Credit where credit is due, please.
Also as usual, if you like this album, then please BUY IT IF YOU CAN. Support the artist. Seriously, don't get all shitty when nobody has uploaded it yet. It's actually a really cheap album, comparatively speaking. And it's well worth the money.
Also also as usual, if the link is broken or something is wrong, politely let me know and I'll work to fix it.

I forgot to say this about LOST ASH's album, but all my uploads are in .m4a format. Sorry if that's a problem for you.

I feel like I should say something about how all rights belong to ALSDEAD and any other rightful owners. Or something. You know, all that copyright stuff.

Alright, here you go~

Tracklist

01. Pandemic

02. FLASH BACK

03. Rebellion

04. カトレア

05. Puzzle

06. Separator

07. フライト

08. Heaven

09. Hackticvism

10. スワローテイル

11. BLINK

Download Link

http://www.mediafire.com/?40xxpecz60020ed

LOST ASH - THE REAL [Album] [2013.05.01]

What's up~

So this is just a quick post to share LOST ASH's new album, THE REAL. I just got my copy this morning, so I haven't even listened to it that much, but so far it's really kick-ass! As all their music is.
I'm also thinking of sharing ALSDEAD's new album Separator, so if that hasn't been uploaded by tomorrow then I'll do that too. But today it's LOST ASH!

As I said, I bought a physical copy of this album, and this is my upload. Feel free to listen and share, just be sure to credit, please. Or at least don't claim it as yours. That's not cool.
I'm a total technology idiot, so if it doesn't work please just politely let me know. I'll do my best to make it work.
Also, if you like it, and if you can, be sure to buy the album yourself! I know it's not always possible to get the music you want, but if you can then please do!

Actually, just one more note about the album itself. The official track listing (from the LOST ASH OHP) only lists up to track 10 - THE CHARMS. However, when I put the CD in my laptop, my iTunes came up with a total of 15 tracks. So I'll add those in the track listing of this post, but I don't really understand these extra tracks myself... at least from tracks 11-14. Idk, have a see for yourselves. It's weird.

Anyway, here it is. Enjoy!

Tracklist

1. RISK MY LIFE

2. Deadly444

3. Gimme a break!

4. SP!T !T OUT!!

5. THIS MY PRIDE

6. SUMMER

7. twilight

8. MASK

9. LOVEDIVER

10. THE CHARMS

11. L

12. O

13. V

14. E

15. -setsuna- piano.ver

Download Link

http://www.mediafire.com/?c1f073e7i1fzc3h

Ohohoho~

Look who's trying really hard to not be a useless blogger~

Which, now that I'm thinking about it, is probably a bad idea, because I honestly have no plan of what I'm going to write about here. At least if I put of writing for like a month, I have at least one or two things to say. But right now I'm just like /blank. Pretty much my life. I know, the life I lead is so exciting. Please note the sarcasm. Really, other than spending my days obsessing and crying over bandmen, expensive merch, shojo/yaoi manga and all of my ships, I honestly don't do much else. Sometimes I'll play video games, mostly the Dynasty Warriors games because I'm useless at every other game. Or I'll play The Sims, but obviously never for very long because without fail SOMETHING will go wrong and my game will crash. Of course I listen to music. All the time. Although, I don't listen to as much music as I would like to. There are lots of bands that I want to listen to, but I just don't. Sometimes it's because I can't find valid download links wait what I don't download music what do you mean. I'd say it's mostly because I'm lazy. I just like to listen to my favourite songs over and over again, you know, so I don't listen to much else for a while. My play count for Samurai Dreeeeeam Breaker by GOTCHAROCKA is insane. I'm getting round to it slowly, though. I've got lists of bands to listen to, so I'll just keep working through it at my own pace I guess. No hurry. Oh wait this is the world of visual kei. Bands here drop like flies. Better hurry if you want to catch a band while they're still actually together... Sigh. I can't count the number of times where I've just found out about a band or just started to really get into a band and then the dreaded disbandment announcement rears it's ugly head. It's tough huh. I hate visual, but I love visual. I can't be bothered with it but I never want to let it go. So bittersweet. =_=;;

For a while the Japanese Yen was doing really, really shit (no offense), so I took the opportunity to exchange what money I had saved. It isn't nearly enough, but it's some. Oh yeah I guess I haven't mentioned this yet, but in December/January, I'M GOING TO JAPAN! Wow I can't believe I forgot to write about it, it was all organized like a month or two ago. It's going to be a family holiday, but with plenty of opportunities for me to go and explore on my own. Which is fine by me. Originally it wasn't going to be a family trip, i.e. my parents weren't going to come. That was how I'd always imagined it. But when I started the planning for it, I started to get really anxious. I've never been out of the country on my own before, so flying 12 hours away to a place where I can't speak the language and am unfamiliar with it's culture was kind of scary. Yeah, it was scary for me alright. Judge all you want. My parents weren't too thrilled at the idea either, and neither of them have been to Japan and wanted to go, so it was decided that we would all be going. On the condition that I would be able to go and do things on my own, like shopping in Harajuku. OHMYGOD I GET TO GO SHOPPING IN HARAJUKU. It still hasn't really sunk in yet, that it's finally happening. After all these years, my dream is coming true. I have lots of friends that I'm hoping to visit, so many stores that I want to spend my soul in, and of course immerse myself in the culture. We're only going for 16 days, which isn't enough time to see everything I want to see, but our budgets really can't stretch for any more. So we're spending half the time in Tokyo and the other half in Osaka, using these places as bases to visit other places from. We'll be getting the JR pass, so we'll be able to get the shinkansen to almost anywhere. Our flights and hotels are already booked, so now we just need to wait until a few months before our trip to book things like the JR pass and Ghibli Museum tickets. And hopefully get some tickets for lives! That's one of the things I'm most excited about, really. Going to CD stores and hopefully attending lives! There are so many bands that I would love to see, I can't possibly name them all. And I know I'm not going to get to see them all. But still, I'm going to try to see as many bands live as possible! Even if I have to go without food for a couple days lol what I'm not poor... I'm still really anxious about the language barrier, and sometimes I find myself thinking of all the things that could possibly go wrong, but I really am excited. I just have to push those things out of my mind. Because this is something I've wanted for so, so long. And I'm really going to make the most of it.

Actually, speaking of Japan, something I have been doing is starting to learn some Japanese. I'm starting out by self-teaching, but my goal is only to self-teach hiragana and katakana. Once I have a sort of handle on those, I'm going to ask someone to give me proper lessons. I can't explain why exactly I wanted to do it this way. I just feel like it will take some of the pressure off myself, if I learn the basics first. I'm a really slow learner, and I get super stressed when I have to keep up with others, you know? I like to learn at my own pace and my own way. I thought about taking a course for Japanese, but the fact that it was a set course as in - this week you will learn and master this, next week you will learn and master that, there will be a test at the end of this course and by the end of this course you will be proficient enough to go to Japan, open a restaurant, marry a native and become the prime minister. Ok so that's exaggerated, clearly, but you get what I mean. I hate it when they put "By the end of this course you will be able to..." Not everyone has the same way of learning, and not everyone can keep up with a structured course like that. Some may be too fast for it, and some, like me, may be too slow for it. And that's ok. It just means that I have to find someone who can give me private lessons in a casual environment. I'm actually pretty lucky, because I may know someone who would be perfect for it. But I'm gonna see how my self-teaching the kana goes first. I only started recently, so I don't know very much at all. But I'm really enjoying it! It's really fun! I'm sure my handwriting is awful, but seeing as my main goals for learning Japanese are reading and listening, the written part doesn't worry me so much. Once I get to complicated things like grammar and kanji (oh god kill me now) I'm sure I'll take back what I said about it being really fun, but I'm going to stick with it. I've never been good at languages, but I won't let that stop me. I'll just have to try harder, yeah!

Oh yeah, I was supposed to write about my new wig in this post... my bad. Well, I had intended to make it a review of sorts, but I actually can't be bothered. Ahhh sorry. I'll sum it up, I guess.
So the wig I got is from the very well-known Rhapsody collection from Gothic Lolita Wigs. The colour I chose is rose, so it's the darker pink coloured one. From what I'd seen, this colour wasn't as popular as some of the others (the the light pink or mint colours), but I really can't understand why. It's such a gorgeous colour, with this perfect gradient. It's not just one flat colour, either. It's hard to explain, but it's got lots of different colours mixed into it. It's a really stunning, well made wig, and I believe it can suit any style and any skin tone. The only problem I have is the fringe (or as everyone else in the world seems to say, the 'bangs'), which comes pre-styled. It's not the style I have a problem with, I really like side-swept styles. It's just that it's too thick! There's too much of it! I have to use three bobby pins to keep it out of my eye. I know I could just cut it, but I've never cut hair before, so I wouldn't know what to do. I don't want to do it myself because as you know, the rhapsody wigs aren't cheap, and I'd never forgive myself if I fucked it up. I'm planning on taking it to a hair-dresser, as I took my white wig to one and he did a really good job, but honestly, the fringe isn't thaaaat much of a problem. Once you have it under control, it actually looks pretty cool as a side fringe. So I'm gonna leave it for a while. That's about it. Like I said, it's a really, really stunning wig. The quality is mind blowing. It's so comfortable and surprisingly light, I almost forget that it's not actually permanently attached to my head like real hair. The texture was also surprising, it's so soft and fluffy, and feels so real. It really doesn't tangle that easily at all despite the waviness of it. I haven't had to brush it yet, I just run my fingers through it a couple of times and then fluff it up and it's good to go. Also, buying through GLW was a real pleasure. It was really easy and straightforward, their customer service is top notch, and the packaging/shipping was really good. Very highly recommended. I don't really want to buy wigs from anywhere else in the future.

I guess I'd better post some photos of it, huh! I apologize for the crappy quality and awful lighting. It really doesn't do the wig any justice... OTL

Sorry for the derp face too lol. This was the day after I got it, I just wanted to go out as an excuse to wear it. 

Then I tried it out with my Gachapin kigu. I like the way the colours (don't) go together ok.

Went out again the other day. Same place, as usual. I was feeling lazy that day, but this actually turned out to be one of my favourite outfits so far. It's so comfy and casual but I like it a lot. 

And that's about it! I haven't really done anything else or had anything else happen to me! This post was kind of word-dumping, huh. Sorry about that. I still haven't gotten the hang of writing coherently. I  feel like I sort of just rambled my way through this. Oh well, I'll keep trying. See you~

Now Playing - TASTE OF LIFE by DIV

The Romance Is Dead~

Hey whaddup~
So this post is a little overdue. By what, like a month? Sorry about that, but then again it shouldn't come as a surprise. We all know how horrible I am at this blogging thing. Anyway I think this post is going to be a little random. I don't want it to end up too long, but then I'm awful at being brief so it'll probably end up as one big ramble.

Actually, this first thing I want to talk about I do want to keep brief. Because I don't really know how to explain it, even to myself. As you may have guessed from the title, I just want to mention the breakup of one of the most influential bands in my life - My Chemical Romance. Wow, was that announcement sudden or what? Well, that's what I'd like to think. But when I really think about it, I feel like I kind of saw it coming a little while ago. It sounds like they did too. But they pushed on for the sake of the fans. Which is both admirable and annoying. Basically, I first heard MCR nine years ago, and I loved them instantly. They were my favourite band for a long time, and even when I was trying out new things and trying to find out who I was, they were always there, even if it was just in the background. Admittedly, I haven't really been keeping up with them as much in the last couple of years (i.e. the years that I've been into visual kei), but that doesn't mean I loved them any less. They have been there for me through countless occasions, and I'll always be grateful to them for that. I honestly think that without them I wouldn't be the me I am right now. I probably wouldn't have found visual kei. I know that the two aren't really linked, but just trust me on that one. So naturally when I saw the news pop up on Twitter late Saturday night, I was stunned. Shocked. I sort of just sat there for a couple of minutes with my mouth wide open. I felt sadness, yes. But strangely, I was able to accept it. In my heart and my head, I was okay with it. At first I didn't know why. I always thought I would be distraught by this kind of announcement, but I was okay. Well, regardless of how I felt and feel about it, they produced some really, really amazing music in their twelve years together. Those twelve years must have gone by so quickly. It was an abrupt ending that must have left so many fans feeling hurt and betrayed. But I think we, as the fans, have to understand their position in all this. I think reading Gerard's post on Twitter is a good start to achieving that understanding. I was speechless when I read it. It's not only a bloody brilliant piece of writing, it provides this amazingly comforting form of closure on the whole matter. I think rather than trying to explain it myself, and not do it any justice, it would be better if you read it for yourself. All I knew was that I agreed with him completely. And honestly, now is probably a good time for this to happen. Twelve years and four albums is a lot. It was a good, no, an AMAZING run for them, but nothing lasts forever. If they had kept going, there's a chance that they would lose their heart for it all, lose their soul. The music may have ended up being all the same. The band and the fans would get tired of it. It's better to go out with a bang on a positive note, don't you think? Well, this is just my feeling. And I really don't know what else to say about it. I could probably go on forever, but I don't want to. All that's really left to say is thank you. Thank you to My Chemical Romance and everyone who was ever a part of it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done for me and countless others. This may be the end, but it's not goodbye.

It actually took me a little while to understand why exactly I was so okay with all of this. I was sitting in bed, still sort of shocked by the news. I looked around my room, at the posters on my wall and the CDs on my shelves. I looked at my laptop screen, which was paused on the Kiseki no Tsubasa PV off-shot DVD that came with FEST VAINQUEUR's GENERATION. And it hit me. I was okay, because of visual kei. No rhyme intended. I know that sounds cheesy as hell, but it's just how it is. Visual kei is my security, my safety blanket. Rather than just cushioning the blow, it lifted me completely. Of course, that's not to say that MCR can be so easily replaced, because they can't. But for the past two years, visual kei has held it's own, stood next to MCR. And now in my heart it's shining brighter than before.

Okay okay, sorry about all that. I just really needed to get that off my chest. I feel good now. Actually, I feel really good, because I just got an email from CDJapan telling me that my copy of ACE's Shiroi Akuma has been shipped! Oh, that reminds me! I was gonna post about some music in my next blog! Well, technically this has been a music post but ok.

BURU2 (finally!) and Called≠Plan L and R! I got the singles a week or so after their release. I didn't care though, all I knew was that I had to get my hands on them. They'd been building up to these for a while, so I knew they would be something special. And they are. Also, I was really hoping that I would get one Yuuto card and one Minoru card. And guess what. That's exactly what I got! I actually flipped my shit. And maybe cried a little. Shhh~

Kameleo's Sandwich LOVE and Royz's Tears! I love Kameleo so much, they're such a great bunch of guys. Royz too, they've really come a long way huh! I got Takeshi for the Kameleo artist photo (HELL YES~) and Tomoya and Kazuki trading cards with Tears! So I was pretty stoked with that. Oh, also, how good is the Koi Hanabi remake?! I was so worried that they would totally butcher one of my favorite songs of theirs, but it's so damn awesome I shouldn't have worried! Sometimes bands can totally kill their good songs by remaking them -cough-SuG's Vi-Vi-Vi remake-cough-

And these are my most recent additions to the family. GOTCHAROCKA's Poisonous berry and SuG Best 2010~2012. Damn... GR are so amazing. They never, ever disappoint  Poisonous berry is just... ugh fantastic. And the PV is nothing to complain about either ;D As for SuG's best, well... I just felt like I had to have it. For sentimental reasons, you know? With the hiatus and all. 

As I said, I'm getting ACE's new single soon, hopefully within the next week. I really can't wait, it sounds like such a beautiful song. As all their songs are~

Ah, what else... I haven't really been out much lately. So just have some random pictures.

Idk. This outfit was kind of weird. But I liked it. So whatever.

I don't remember what we did this day. Derpderp.

This outfit was kind of boring, but it was waaaay too hot to bother with anything else. 

And that's all. Sorry this post is so fucking random and long. Maybe next time I'll have more structure LOL WHAT NO WAY. Oh, actually, I ordered a wig from Gothic Lolita Wigs, so I guess I'll post about that once it gets here! I'm so excited omfg. Ok. I'm really done now. See ya~

(I've never been good at selfies ok shut up)

Now Playing - Poisonous berry by GOTCHAROCKA