Saturday, December 31, 2011

Golden Bomber on Nico Nico

Golden Bomber has been the featured artist for December 2011 on V-Rock Station, and featured on Nico Nico Live. The band's latest show is currently avialable to subscribers of the Nico Nico website. All members are present for the 23:30 minute show.

Golden Bomber Nico Nico Live show here

BORN "Spiral Lie" Music Clip

BORN has made a short music clip of the new song "Spiral Lie" available from the band's homepage. "Spiral Lie" appears as a track on the band's upcoming "Vigour" album, to be released February 1, 2012. The clip is available as a link on the left side of the new album's promotion page, under the tracklist for the limited edition version.

"Spiral Lie" preview and "Vigour" information here

Street Team: Versailles Philharmonic Quintet USA

American fans of Versailles Philharmonic Quintet take heart--there is a street team available for you! The Versailles Philharmonic Quintet USA Street Team formed as a means to promote the band in the U.S. and to bring fans together. There is no registration to join the team, and there are multiple ways to follow and support member activities. The Street Team has just released the following YouTube video comment here telling fans how they can support Versailles in the U.S.

Versailles Philharmonic Quintet USA Street Team here
On Twitter here
On Facebook here
On Ustream here

Friday, December 30, 2011

Hana Shounen Baddies to Release New Album

Hana Shounen Baddies will release a new full album on Wednesday, January 18. The new album will be called "Breed," an album of cover songs from their previous activities as Billy. The band's OHP features a short take of some behind-the-scenes footage to promote the new release.

Hana Shounen Baddies OHP here
"Breed" Limited Edition (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Breed" Limited Edition pre-order at CD Japan here

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Viju☆Love☆Cafe Guests Announced

Visu-a-Land.TV has updated their website with the artist guest list for the next Viju☆Love☆Cafe #7, hosted by Akemi Oshima. Guests will include:  DaizyStripper; BORN; Chirolyn, Hayato, Yuya & Baru of DuelJewel; Sizna & Soan of Moran; HERO; FIXER; Kairu; and I&Crow. The show will air on Monday, January 9 at 14:00 JST (convert time here).

Viju☆Love☆Cafe #7 airs here

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

SuG to Appear on Nico Nico

SuG will be appearing in a Nico Nico Live show on Monday, January 16 at 21:00 JST (convert time here). The tentative title of the show is 『生でSuGでShow』.

SuG Show to air here

SCREW OHP Update & Comment

SCREW has updated their OHP with a new look and more information about their upcoming album, 『糜爛-BIRAN-』, to be released on February 15. They have also posted a comment about the new album, and a PV preview should be coming soon.

SCREW OHP here
SCREW comment here

Buck-Tick Show to Air on Nico Nico

A special Buck-Tick airing of "The Day in Question" at Nippon Budokan will be broadcast on Nico Nico Live on Thursday, December 29 at 18:30 JST (convert time here). The program will begin with a selection of Buck-Tick music videos before the concert begins at 19:00 JST.

Buck-Tick special airs here

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

L'Arc~en~Ciel to Release New Album

L'Arc~en~Ciel will be releasing a new full-length album on Wednesday, February 8. The new album will be called "Butterfly," and will be released in limited and regular editions. The tracklist is available from the band's OHP.

L'Arc~en~Ciel (English) OHP here
"Butterfly" Limited Edition (2 CD+DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Butterfly" Regular Edition pre-order at CD Japan here

Monday, December 26, 2011

Birthday Comment from JUN of SPIV STATES

musicJAPANplus uploaded a new video on their official YouTube--a birthday comment from JUN of SPIV STATES. SPIV STATES helped band member JUN celebrate his birthday with a special live on November 17. His comment includes English subtitles.

JUN comment here

R-Shitei to Release New Album

R-Shitei will release their second full-length album on Wednesday, January 18. The new album will be called "日本沈没" (Nihon Chinbotsu, or, Japan Sinks) and will be released in two types.

R-Shitei OHP here
"Japan Sinks" Limited Ed. (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Japan Sinks" Regular Ed. pre-order at CD Japan here

Sunday, December 25, 2011

exist†trace Adds Videos to YouTube

exist†trace has added content to their official YouTube account. The new uploads include a live performance of "Daybreak ~13月の色彩〜" and "リトル・メアリーと美しき憎しみのドナウ " (Little Mary to Utsukushiki Nikushimi no Donau).

Official exist†trace YouTube here

MUCC Nurturing Twitter Pet

MUCC Official is now nurturing a Twitter pet. The pet will grow as the number of followers increases on the Twitter account. What's it going to be? Follow to find out!

Nurture Mucc_pet on Twitter here

Golden Bomber 3rd Appearance on V-Rock Station

Golden Bomber is the featured artist for the V-Rock Station radio program. Each member of Golden Bomber will be participating in a show by himself. The third program to air featured Darvish Kenji. His radio program is now available on Nico Nico for listening. Last up will be Kiryuuin Sho.

V-Rock Station Website here
Darvish Kenji program here

Alice Nine to Release New Album 2/22

Alice Nine updated their OHP with a special Christmas/New Year's message for fans--information about a new album release. The band will release a full album called "9" on Wednesday, February 22. The complete tracklist is included in the news announcement. The update also includes dates for the 2012 album live tour, called "Court of '9'," to be conducted in (as of now) four legs.

Alice Nine OHP here

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Follow THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S for Christmas Message

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S have issued a special Christmas comment available only for followers of their mail magazine or social media sites. Follow them to see what they have to say!

Official OHP here
Official Facebook here
Official Twitter here
Official YouTube here
Official MySpace here

Angelo to Release New Single

Angelo has updated their look on their OHP in conjunction with the announcement that they will be releasing a new single on Wednesday, February 22. The new single, the band's eighth, will be called "Calvary." It will be released in two types, a two-song single with a DVD clip of "Calvary" or a three-song single. The planned tracklist is available on the band's OHP. Check out upcoming appearances from band members in Rock and Read 039 and the next issue of Fool's Mate (12/28). Check your favorite seller for listings.

Angelo OHP here

Alice Nine Interview on vif music Web

The online music website vif now has an interview with Alice Nine. The interview contains 17 questions for each band member to answer. The interview is in Japanese.

vif Alice Nine interview here

Friday, December 23, 2011

Black Gene for the Next Scene to Release First Maxi Single

Black Gene for the Next Scene will be releasing their first maxi single on Wednesday, January 11. The new single will be called "Doom" and will be released in three types. A PV preview is available from the band's OHP. Black Gene for the Next Scene recently appeared on Viju☆Love☆Cafe with Akemi Oshima to promote the new release, and they will appear in the latest issues of Shoxx Vol. 228 and Cure Vol. 101,  both on sale now.

Black Gene for the Next Scene OHP here
"Doom" Type A (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Doom" Type B pre-order at CD Japan here
"Doom" Type C pre-order at CD Japan here

Ayabie New Single 1/25 and More

Ayabie has a new look, and they will be releasing a new single on Wednesday, January 25. The new single will be called "Merry-go-round" and will be released in three types. Ayabie also has download links available for band podcasts on their OHP. There are currently six podcasts from past shows. Links to other Ayabie podcasts should be available on iTunes. The band will make an appearance in the latest edition of Shoxx magazine, on sale now.

Ayabie OHP here
"Merry-go-round" Type A (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Merry-go-round" Type B (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Merry-go-round" Regular pre-order at CD Japan here
Ayabie podcasts from OHP here
Ayabie podcasts from iTunes here

Thursday, December 22, 2011

cali≠gari New Album 1/11

cali≠gari will release a new full-length album on Wednesday, January 11. The new album will be called "11" and will be released in two types.

cali≠gari OHP here
"11" Limited Ed. (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"11" Regular Ed. pre-order at CD Japan here

BORN OHP Offers Audio Preview of "Vigour"

BORN's OHP has been updated. The OHP now includes the band's new look for the upcoming February 1 release of the new album, "Vigour," as well as audio previews for each track on the CD.

BORN OHP here
"Vigour" audio samples here

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Viju☆Love☆Cafe #7 Will Air 1/9

Viju☆Love☆Cafe, hosted by Akemi Oshima and Biju the cat, will air episode number seven on Monday, January 9, 2012. The program airs online at Visu-a-land.TV and starts at 14:00 JST (convert time here). The episode will also be rebroadcast at 24:00 JST on the same day, and an on-demand digest version will be available on Saturday, January 14 at 21:00 JST. Guests have not yet been announced.

Viju☆Love☆Cafe will air here

BARKS Features Rock and Read 039 Hitsugi Cover

BARKS online news page currently has a two-page article featuring the newly released Rock and Read 039 magazine cover of Nightmare's guitarist Hitsugi. The article describes the magazine interview, which promises to cover in-depth discussions of the earthquake in the band's hometown of Sendai, their return afterward, and how the photographer envisioned the striking images included in the photo shoot.  The second page of the article includes two high quality images--the new magazine cover and another image from the photo shoot.

BARKS article here
Rock and Read 039 at CD Japan here
Rock and Read 039 at Yes Asia here
Rock and Read 039 at JPtoYOU here

Monday, December 19, 2011

Golden Bomber 2nd Appearance on V-Rock Station

Golden Bomber is the featured artist for the V-Rock Station radio program. Each member of Golden Bomber will be participating in a show by himself. The second program to air featured Kyan Yutaka. His radio program is now available on Nico Nico for listening.

V-Rock Station Website here
Kyan Yutaka program here

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Megaromania to Release New Single

Megaromania will release a new single on Wednesday, December 21. The new single will be called "Blessing Myth" and will be released in two types.

Megaromania album news here
"Blessing Myth" Type A (CD+DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Blessing Myth" Type B pre-order at CD Japan here

PIKO to Release First Live DVD

PIKO will release his first live DVD on Wednesday, December 21. The DVD will feature his first concert "PIKO LIVE TOUR 2011 - 1 PIKO - PIKO no Matsuri." The DVD comes in two versions--a limited edition with extra footage and bonus goods, and a regular edition with extra footage.

PIKO OHP here
Limited Edition DVD pre-order at CD Japan here
Regular Edition DVD pre-order at CD Japan here

Saturday, December 17, 2011

musicJAPANplus Gig Vol. 2 Broadcast on 12/20

MusicJAPANplus will be holding its "musicJAPANplus GIG vol.2" live at SHIBUYA O-EAST on Tuesday, December 20, with scheduled performers to include Kra, vistlip, Lc5, Kiriyu and GUILD. The event will be broadcast over the Internet via NicoNico NamaHousou and USTREAM at 18:00 JST (convert time here).

Live broadcast news release here
Nico Nico gate here
USTREAM link here

DecoLa Hopping Will Release Mini Album 12/21

DecoLa Hopping will release their first mini album on Wednesday, December 21. The album will be called "Pirates' Logbook" and will feature six tracks. The CD also includes one of five randomly selected trading cards.

DecoLa Hopping OHP here
"Pirates' Logbook" pre-order on CD Japan here

Signal to Release 2nd Maxi Single

Signal will release their second maxi single on Wednesday, December 21. The new single will be called "Glow Back Over Scars" and will include three songs plus extras. The album does include a parental advisory for explicit content.

Signal OHP here 
"Glow Back Over Scars" pre-order on CD Japan here

Friday, December 16, 2011

Shoxx Begins Revealing Vol. 229 Artists

Shoxx just recently began revealing hints about which artists will be covered in its upcoming Vol. 229. According to their Twitter updates, SuG just completed a cover photoshoot, and D=Out will have a photo and interview spread discussing their new album. Vol. 229 will be on sale January 21, 2012. Check out other updates on their official Twitter.

Shoxx Twitter here

LM.C on Club Zy 'Card Talk'

LM.C was featured on another Club Zy "Card Talk" video.The video shows maya and Aiji drawing a card and talking about New Year's. The page also shows a listing of the band's upcoming live appearances.

LM.C Club Zy video here

THE MICROHEAD 4N'S on Club Zy 'Card Talk'

Club Zy has posted a video featuring THE MICROHEAD 4N'S. The video shows Ricky (vo) drawing a card question, and each member relating a Christmas memory. Along with the video, the page includes a listing of the band's upcoming live appearances.

Club Zy video here

Thursday, December 15, 2011

SEX-ANDROID New DVD Release

SEX-ANDROID will be releasing a 2-hour long live DVD which includes their July 23, 2011 performance at Shibuya O-EAST. The DVD, titled "Live At The Isha Rock - Nakano Ishikai - Natsu no Omatsuri Killer '11," will be released on Wednesday, December 21. The DVD track listing can be found from the band's OHP.

SEX-ANDROID OHP here
DVD pre-order at CD Japan here

AURORA SANNIN MUSUME Clip on Visu-a-Land.TV

Emiru and Sarino, collaborating as オーロラ三人娘 (AURORA SANNIN MUSUME), are featured in a variety show challenge-style video clip from Viju☆Love☆Night. Watch as the two both try to balance on a paper that keeps getting smaller and smaller.

Watch clip here

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Golden Bomber December Feature Artist for V-Rock Station

Golden Bomber is the featured artist for the V-Rock Station radio program. Each member of Golden Bomber will be participating in a show by himself. The first program featured Utahiroba Jun. His radio program is now available on Nico Nico for listening.

V-Rock Station Website here
Utahiroba Jun program here

CD Japan Issues Top 100 Chart

CD Japan has issued their Top 100 list for 2011. The list includes many visual kei bands that were popular sellers for the year, including Versailles and the GazettE. The list hyperlinks all selections to the product pages where shoppers can purchase them.

CD Japan 2011 Top 100 Chart here

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

GLAY on BARKS and New Release Preview

GLAY appears in a BARKS article featuring their new Christmas mini album, "Hope and the Silver Sunrise." The article also includes a link to a YouTube music clip featuring the band, track listings for the album, and a listing of live appearances.

GLAY on BARKS here

MUCC on BARKS

BARKS posted a short article featuring MUCC. The entry covers their recent activities, including the new "Arcadia" and upcoming "Nirvana" singles, as well as their upcoming December live appearances.

MUCC article on BARKS here

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz Announce 1st Album

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz announced that their first full album will be released on Wednesday, February 29, 2012. The new album does not yet have a title, but will be released in two editions--one with DVD and one without.

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz OHP here
[CD+DVD] CD Japan pre-order here
[CD] CD Japan pre-order here

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S Special Interview

The Visulog website has a special interview with new band, THE MICROHEAD 4N'S. The interview discusses the story behind the band's formation.

Visulog interview in English here
Visulog interview in Japanese here

Monday, December 12, 2011

SID to Release New Single 12/28

SID will release a new single on Wednesday, December 28. The new single will be called 「冬のベンチ」(Fuyu no Benchi) and will be released in three types.

SID OHP here
"Fuyu no Benchi" Limited Edition Type A (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Fuyu no Benchi" Limited Edition Type B (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Fuyu no Benchi" Regular Edition CD Japan pre-order here

Ayabie and OZ to Appear at A-Kon 2012

Ayabie and OZ are scheduled to appear at A-Kon 2012 in Dallas, TX. A-Kon, an anime-based convention, takes place June 1 - 3, 2012. Ayabie and OZ will perform on that Friday, June 1.

A-Kon 2012 info here

Sunday, December 11, 2011

The Sound Bee HD to Release New Mini Album

The Sound Bee HD will be releasing a new mini album on Wednesday, December 14. The new mini album will be called "Tsuya" and will feature six tracks.

The Sound Bee HD OHP here
"Tsuya" CD Japan pre-order here

POPCORE to Release New Single

POPCORE will be releasing their third single on Wednesday, December 14. The new single will be called "Fresh!!" The band has included a sample PV preview on their OHP.

POPCORE OHP here
"Fresh!!" CD Japan pre-order here

DEAD END to Release New Maxi Single

DEAD END will be releasing a new maxi single on Wednesday, December 14. The new single will be called "Final Feast." There are sample clips for the title song on the band's official YouTube.

DEAD END OHP here
"Final Feast" single information here
Official YouTube channel here
"Final Feast" Limited Edition (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Final Feast" Regular Edition CD Japan pre-order here

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Babel Entertainment Live Radio Plays Hard Rock & Visual Kei

Babel Entertainment's website includes a live radio station that plays both hard rock and visual kei. The play list feature shows what songs and bands are currently and have recently been played.

Babel Entertainment website here
Babel Radio here
About Babel Entertainment here

ViViD Updates OHP

ViViD has updated their OHP. The updated site shows their new look and promotes their upcoming fourth single, "message," which will be released on Wednesday, January 11, 2012. Information for their upcoming "ViViD LIVE 2012 「TAKE OFF ~Birth to the NEW WORLD」is also included.

ViViD OHP here
Complete listing of ViViD releases at CD Japan here

Viju☆Love☆Cafe Digest On Demand Now

Viju☆Love☆Cafe #6, which originally aired on December 4, is now available in digest form on demand from Visu-a-Land.TV. Guests included members of vistlip, DaizyStripper, Black Gene for the Next Scene, Nightmare, Alice Nine, D, and defspiral (among others).

Watch episode here

Friday, December 9, 2011

MusicJAPANplus to Air new Kra Online Program

MusicJAPANplus has just announced that it will be hosting a new online program featuring Kra in January. The new program will be called "Cheer-UP with Kra TV!" and will air for the first time on Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 20:00 JST (convert time here). They are currently accepting messages and questions for the band.

MusicJAPANplus announcement here
"Cheer-UP with Kra TV!" will air here
Submit questions for the program here (registration required)

Alice Nine Channel Airs 12/30

The next air date for Alice Nine's Nico Nico program (Alice Nine Channel) is December 30, 2011. The program airs at 23:00 JST (convert time zones). Registered Nico Nico members may timeshift for later viewing.

Alice Nine Channel gate here

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

vistlip New Album on 12/14 & Song Previews

vistlip will be releasing their 2nd full album on Wednesday, December 14. The new album, called "Order Made," will include sixteen tracks. Track titles and song preview samples are available on the band's OHP.

vistlip OHP album news here
"Order Made" Limited Ed. (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Order Made" Limited Ed. CD Japan pre-order here
"Order Made" Regular Ed. here

MUCC Will Release New Single in 2012

MUCC announced on their OHP that they will be releasing a new single early in 2012. The new single will be called "Nirvana," and it will be the opening theme song for the anime "Inu X Boku Secret Service." It seems the anime will begin airing in Japan in January 2012.

MUCC "Nirvana" news here
"Inuboku Secret Service" news here

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

CD Releases for Wednesday, 12/7

Three new CDs will be released on Wednesday, December 7 that have not previously been covered here. They include:

"Reply-tribute to hide-" (defspiral) mini album @CD Japan here
"Luminous" (DuelJewel) full album Ltd. Ed @CD Japan here or Reg. Ed here
"Amaryllis/Cosmos" (Para:noir) single Type A @CD Japan here or Type B here

Find more on the bands' OHPs
defspiral OHP here
DuelJewel OHP here
Para:noir OHP here

Plastic Tree DVD on Sale 12/14

Plastic Tree will be releasing a live DVD on Wednesday, December 14. The DVD will include performances from the final day of their "Ammonite (Dai)" show at Ryogoku Kokugikan and  "Ammonite (Sho)" at  Nico Nico Namahoso.

Plastic Tree OHP here
"Jitsuen Ban Ammonite" CD Japan pre-order here

Monday, December 5, 2011

Golden Bomber Nico Nico on 12/19

Golden Bomber's monthly Nico Nico program will be broadcast on Monday, December 19. The program will air at 23:00 JST (convert time here). To watch, viewers must have a Nico Nico account login and password.

Golden Bomber airs here

Miya & Satoshi Contribute to New ROACH Release

Indie band ROACH will be releasing a new mini album on February 8, 2012. The new album, called "No Reason in the Pit," will feature guest musicians Satoshi (girugamesh, vocals) and Miya (MUCC, guitar) on the title track. The CD release will also include a five-song live DVD. The track list is available from the band's OHP.

ROACH OHP here
MUCC news here

Sunday, December 4, 2011

v[NEU] to Release 2nd Single & PV Previews

v[NEU] will be releaseing their second single on Wednesday, December 21. The new single, called 「カレイドスコープ/cube」 (Kaleidoscope/cube), will be released in three editions. Check out their official YouTube channel for short clips of the "Kaleidoscope" and "cube" PVs.

v[NEU] OHP here
Official YouTube channel here
"Kaleidoscope" Type A Limited Ed. (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Kaleidoscope" Type B Limited Ed. (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Kaleidoscope" Regular Ed. CD Japan pre-order here

MEJIBRAY to Release 1st Mini Album

MEJIBRAY will be releasing their first mini album on Wednesday, December 7. The album, called "Slivers.exe," will included five songs. The band will also be making several live appearances in December.

MIJIBRAY OHP here
"Slivers.exe" CD Japan pre-order here
"Slivers.exe" track list here
Live schedule here

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Dog in the PWO New Release 12/21

Dog in the PWO (Parallel World Orchestra) will be releasing a new mini album on Wednesday, December 21. The new album, called "Doggy Style,"will have a Limited and Regular Edition release.

Dog in the PWO OHP here
"Doggy Style" Limited Edition (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Doggy Style" Regular Edition CD Japan pre-order here

Gab Vol. 54 Club Zy Music Publication

Gab Vol. 54, a Club Zy publication, will feature a variety of visual kei artists, including: UNITE, MASATO (defspiral), Saran (Aicle.), DaizyStripper+maya, THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S, Kaya, LAYZis, Billy, Lycaon, Virgil, Akira Nakayama (Plastic Tree), v(NEU), Zukki (OZ), heidi., and more.

Gab Vol. 54 details here

Friday, December 2, 2011

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S Open New OHP

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S have finally opened their official homepage. The website offers links to all the band's activities and shows the new tour goods. They also have an official YouTube Channel. They have uploaded a short video that introduces all the band members with a backing preview track of the band's music.

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S OHP here
Official YouTube Channel here

Tsukasa Starts Twitter

Tsukasa, currently drummer for THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S, formerly drummer for D'espairsRay, has started a Twitter account. He's still new to Twitter, and bandmate Zero (ba) had mentioned via Twitter that Tsukasa had already forgotten his password.

Follow Tsukasa on Twitter here

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Shoxx Vol. 228 on Sale 12/21

Shoxx is slowly releasing details for its next issue, Vol. 228 on sale December 21. Alice Nine will be the featured cover artist with an interview. Other bands included in the issue will be:  vistlip, Chemical Pictures, Megaromania, Matatabi of Onmyoza, ViViD, the GazettE's Mie show, HERO, DuelJewel, Moran, and Doremidan.

Shoxx Official Twitter here

AND TV Airs on 12/28

musicJAPANplus will air a special "AND TV" show on Wednesday, December 28 at 21:00 JST (convert time here). The band will be talking about their upcoming "Liberate" release and will be accepting fan questions.

AND TV airs here

Alice Nine Comment & PV Preview on club DAM

All members of Alice Nine are present for a new "Niji no Yuki" comment on clubDAM.com. There is a preview of the new single's PV along with the comment.

clubDAM.com "Niji no Yuki" comment here

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

SuG USTREAM Appearances

SuG's masato, Chiyu, and yuji will be appearing three times on their USTREAM show, hosted by Pony Canyon. The band will appear at 7:00 AM Eastern Time (convert time here) on Thursday, December 1, Monday, December 5, and Thursday, December 15.

Pony Canyon channel here

BORN in the Media

BORN will be making several appearances in magazines and on radio shows to promote their new single, "ProudiA." BORN will appear on Tokyo FM on Saturday, December 10 from 26:00-26:30 JST (convert time here). They will also have an interview in the upcoming ARENA37℃ magazine. The band plans several in-store events for December.

BORN media schedule here

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Alice Nine Announces Tour Goods

Alice Nine will be kicking off their winter "Black Period I" & "White Period III" tour, and they have announced the tour goods that will be available. Pictures of the goods are not yet available on the band's OHP, but Hiroto (gt, tour goods organizer) has been posting photos on his official Twitter.

Tour goods list here (see News for 11/28)
Hiroto official Twitter here

Nightmare Announces Tour Goods

Nightmare is kicking off its "Nightmarish reality" 2011-2012 tour, and they have announced the tour goods that will be available.

Nightmare tour goods here

Monday, November 28, 2011

Rock and Read Reveals Artists for Vol. 039

Music magazine Rock and Read is revealing the artists to be featured in volume 039 in a series of posts on its Ameba blog. Revealed musicians so far include: Hitsugi (cover feature, Nightmare), maya (LM.C), Kei (baroque), TERU (Versailles), Giru (Angelo), ZERO (THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S), Utahiroba Jun (Golden Bomber), Rui (vistlip), and Akinori (lynch). Rock and Read 039 will go on sale December 19, 2011.

Rock and Read blog here

MUCC Comment on BARKS & Live Announcement

MUCC recently released a comment to BARKS online about their latest release, "Arcadia" featuring DAISHI DANCE. The band also announced a special live to be held on June 9, 2012 to commemorate their 15th anniversary year. Details about the live event are available on the band's OHP.

MUCC comment here
MUCC OHP here

Matenrou Opera To Release Major 1st Album

Matenrou Opera will be releasing their first major full-length album on March 7, 2012. There will be a First Press special edition of the as yet untitled album, but further details are not available at this time.

Matenrou Opera OHP here
Album news announcement here

Sunday, November 27, 2011

D=Out Will Release First Major Album in 2012

D=Out has announced that they will be releasing their first major full album on February 8, 2012. The album, called "MUSIC NIPPON," is scheduled to be released in three types:  a First Press Limited Edition-dai- [13 songs plus DVD music clips], a First Press Limited Edition-gin- [14 songs plus an Indies B collection with 10 songs], and a Regular Edition [13 songs]. Track listings and ordering information have not yet been released.

D=Out OHP here
D=Out album announcement here

Alice Nine "Niji no Yuki" Comment at Club Zy

Alice Nine's Saga (ba), Shou (vo), and Tora (gt) made a comment about their upcoming December 21 new single, "Niji no Yuki" for Club Zy. Along with the comment video, the website has listed track information and cover art for the single, as well as tour information for the band's December live appearances.

View Club Zy comment here 

Saturday, November 26, 2011

V-Love☆Live International Now On-Demand

The October 25 episode of Akemi Oshima's online V-Love☆Live International is now available on-demand. The show featured talk and performances from DNR (Italy), Seremedy (Sweden), DaizyStripper, Awoi, NINJYAMAN-JAPAN, and Allegretto. Viewers get two songs from each band and interviews with English subtitles.

V-Love☆Live International here

SuG Will Release New Single on 2/1/12

SuG announced that they will be releasing their 8th single on February 1, 2012. The new single will be called 「不完全Beauty Fool Days」(Fukanzen Beauty Fool Days) and will be released in four types.

SuG news here
"Fukanzen Beauty Fool Days" Ltd. Ed. Type A (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Fukanzen Beauty Fool Days" Ltd. Ed. Type B (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Fukanzen Beauty Fool Days" Ltd. Ed. Type C CD Japan pre-order here
"Fukanzen Beauty Fool Days" Regular Ed. CD Japan pre-order here

Nightmare's Ni~ya Starts Twitter

Nightmare's bass player, Ni~ya, just started a Twitter account. He is @ni_ya_ .

Follow Ni~ya here

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Viju☆Love☆Cafe #6 Will Air 12/4

Viju☆Love☆Cafe #6 will have its next webcast on Sunday, December 4 at 14:00 JST (convert time here). This month, Akemi Oshima and Biju-tan will host interviews and comments from: vistlip, Aurora Sannin Musume (SARINO+Emiru), SAKURA (ZIGZO, Rayflower), Mayu (DaizyStripper), Ice&Rame(Black Gene For the Next Scene), Nightmare, Alice Nine, D.
Viju☆Love☆Cafe airs here

PS Company Opens Paid Service for Smartphone

PS Company, which manages bands like the GazettE, Alice Nine, Kra, and SuG, has just announced that they have created a "PS mobile" service for Smartphones. The service, which operates with iPhones and Androids, will offer news and e-mail updates, as well as shopping and fan mail applications relating to PS Company bands. The cost of the service ranges from 300-400 yen per month, depending on features. They plan to expand the service in the future to include things like wallpapers.

Information via Club Zy here
PS Company mobile site here

Next Nightmare Nico Nico Show 12/13

Nightmare’s next appearance on their Nico Nico web show, “Bakuretsu! Nightmare,” will be Tuesday, December 13. The show airs at 23:00 JST (convert time here). Nico Nico registered members may timeshift if they cannot watch the live show.
"Bakuretsu! Nightmare" here

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Report from exist†trace's First One Man Live

The Kawaii girl Japan website has a live report from exist†trace's first one man live show at Daikanyama UNIT on November 9, 2011. The article includes photos and a set list.

Report in English here
Report in Japanese here

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

SCREW TV on Music Japan Plus 12/27

The next air date for SCREW TV will be Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at 21:00 JST (convert time zone here). They will be accepting questions from fans.

SCREW TV here

vistlip on Music Japan Plus 12/13

Music Japan Plus will be airing a special "Flash of vistlip" show on their online music magazine show. The show will air Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at 7:00 AM Eastern Time (convert time here). They are accepting fan questions and will be talking about their latest release.

"Flash of vistlip" show here

Special Nightmare Nico Nico Broadcast 11/23

Nico Nico video will be broadcasting a special show in conjunction with the release of Nightmare's new self-titled album. The show promises to air 38 music PVs from the band's previous releases, from "Believe" to "Ray of Light." The show will air on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 6:00 PM JST (convert time here).

Nightmare video special here

Monday, November 21, 2011

DuelJewel Vocalist Hayato Takes Pause

DuelJewel vocalist Hayato soon will be taking a pause from band activities to recover from a throat disorder. The vocalist announced his apologies and explained the need for treatment and rehabilitation recovery in his personal Ameba blog on November 20, 2011. The remaining four members will continue band activities while Hayato is in recovery. He plans to return to the band when he is able.

DuelJewel OHP here
Hayato's "Night Cocoon" blog here

Esprit D'Air Tour Dates

London-based visual band Esprit D'Air has upcoming tour dates in Spain. The band will appear at Japan Weekend Valencia in Valencia, Spain, on November 26 & 27.

Esprit D'Air OHP here
Tour information here

BORN New Album in 2012 & Interview

BORN will be releasing a new full-length album in 2012. The new album, called "Vigour," will be released on February 1, 2012. The album will come as a limited edition with DVD or a regular edition with extra bonus track. The band will also have an interview in the current issue of Shoxx magazine, on sale November 21.

BORN OHP here
"Vigour" Limited Ed. (w/DVD) pre-order on CD Japan here
"Vigour" Regular Ed. pre-order on CD Japan here

Sunday, November 20, 2011

JaME Ticket Giveaway for L'Arc~en~Ciel Live Screening

JaME is offering a chance for fans to win tickets to the upcoming L'Arc~en~Ciel broadcast screening of their 20th anniversary live. JaME will be giving away ten pairs of tickets for the broadcast, which takes place on Tuesday, November 29 in ten U.S. cities:  Baltimore (MD), Boston (MA), Chicago (IL), Houston (TX), Los Angeles (CA), Orange (CA), New York (NY), two locations in the San Francisco Bay Area (CA), and Seattle (WA). JaME contest rules do apply, so read carefully.

JaME contest here

Angelo Announces New Live Dates and Goods

Angelo has updated their OHP to include some new live dates and goods in their webshop. The live, called "CORNERSTONE OF THE FORBIDDEN TOWER,"  will now include two shows in Shibuya. These are in addition to tour dates already announced in their live schedule. The new band goods include a strap, tote bag, glass, and tank top.

New live dates here
New shop goods here

Hear Japan Website Joins Google+

Hear Japan, a website that offers MP3 music downloads of Japanese music, has created a Google+ account. This new social networking account gives followers one more way to hear about new music and news from the company, in addition to their Twitter and Facebook accounts. Hear Japan's website includes music of various visual kei bands, as well as other styles of Japanese music.

Hear Japan on Google+ here
Hear Japan Official web here

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Golden Bomber to Release New Album

Golden Bomber will be releasing a new album in 2012. The new album is listed as “Golden Album” and is currently expected to be released January 4, 2012. The album details do not yet appear on the band’s homepage, but should be forthcoming.
Golden Bomber OHP here
“Golden Album” Type A Limited CD Japan pre-order here
“Golden Album” Type B Limited CD Japan pre-order here
“Golden Album” Type C Limited CD Japan pre-order here
“Golden Album” Regular Ed. CD Japan pre-order here

ARENA 37ºC Presents UVERworld File Book

ARENA 37 ºC will be publishing an UVERworld File Book to commemorate the band’s appearances in the magazine from 2007-2011.  The magazine will include 350 pages of pictures and fully-reproduced past articles. This File Book will not be sold in bookstores, and is only available for online ordering and pickup at store like Lawson, 7 Eleven, and Family Mart.
File Book details here
Ordering information here

GLAY Will Release Christmas Mini Album

GLAY will be releasing a new mini album on December 14. The new album, called “Hope and the Silver Sunrise,” will be available from the band’s web store. The band will also be releasing DVD and Blu-ray versions of “HAPPY SWING 15th Anniversary SPECIAL LIVE We Love Happy Swing in MAKUHARI” on the same day.
Mini Album on GLAY G Direct web store here
DVD and Blu-ray on GLAY G Direct web store here

Friday, November 18, 2011

Sadie To Release New Live DVD 12/14

Sadie will be releasing a live DVD on December 14. The new Live DVD is advertised as "6th Anniversary Special GIG! [DEADLY BIRTHDAY] at NAMBA Hatch 2011.07.22".

Sadie OHP here
DVD news here
[DEADLY BIRTHDAY] DVD CD Japan pre-order here

Alice Nine's Vocalist to Appear in KERA

Alice Nine staff announced on their official Twitter that vocalist Shou just completed a photo shoot for the magazine KERA. The magazine will be released January 16, 2012 and will feature a Valentine's Day date theme.

@AliceNine_STAFF Twitter here

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Alice Nine Releases Niji no Yuki Preview

Alice Nine aired the PV for their upcoming 「虹の雪」 (Niji no Yuki) single today on their monthly Alice Nine Channel program. The PV preview and single release information, as well as tour information, are included in new web articles posted via BARKS and natalie. The PV previews include a 2:16 minute sample of the new song composed by vocalist Shou.

Alice Nine BARKS article here
Alice Nine natalie article here

New Band: DNR

DNR (Dreams Not Reality) is a new Italian visual band, recently featured on Akemi Oshima’s Viju Love Café program. The band has an official homepage and a video preview on their official YouTube page. They have music available to download from iTunes and Amazon MP3.

DNR OHP here
DNR Official MySpace here
DNR Official YouTube here

THE MICRO HEAD 4N’s Video Comment and Upcoming Live

The new band THE MICRO HEAD 4N’Shas just released a video comment to Club Zy. The band will also be appearing at Shibuya O-EAST on December 1 for the "stylish wave GENERATION" live. They will appear alongside veteran bands PENICILLIN, LM.C, and DaizyStripper.

Club Zy comment here
THE MICRO HEAD 4N’S OHP here
THE MICRO HEAD 4N’S Twitter here

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

D Interview and CD Giveaway Contest at TokyoPop

TokyoPop has released an interview they did with visual kei band, D, after their recent shows in Los Angeles, CA. In conjunction with their upcoming November 21 release, "Huang di ~Yami ni umareta mukui~,"  the band has given TokyoPop a signed copy of the CD to give away. Contest terms and conditions do apply.

TokyoPop Interview here
CD Giveaway Entry here

Rock Star Vol. 16 on Sale 11/28

Rock Star magazine will release volume 16 on November 28. The cover artists will be Shou (vo., Alice Nine), Takeru (vo., SuG), and Shin (vo., ViViD). The magazine will also include Hiroki Maekawa and Shinjiro Atae (AAA), LUNA SEA, SIAM SHADE, SOPHIA, SuG, ViViD, Alice Nine, INORAN, D=out, and more. This December issue also comes with a photo card present of Shou, Takeru, and Shin.

Rock Star vol. 16 at CD Japan here
Rock Star vol. 16 at JP to You here

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

BugLug New Single, Oneman Live, and Magazine Appearances

BugLug will be very active in the coming months. Their new single, titled "Show 2 Glow," will be released on December 7. The band will also be making several oneman appearances, including 11/19 at Holiday Nagoya, 11/20 at Holiday Osaka, and 11/26 at Holiday Shinjuku. BugLug will appear in Fool's Mate (11/29), B-PASS (11/26), Shoxx vol. 227 (11/21), Cure vol. 100 (11/21),

BugLug OHP
"Show 2 Glow" Limited Ed. (CD+DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Show 2 Glow" Regular Ed. CD Japan pre-order here

Sunday, November 13, 2011

MUCC to Appear Again on Nico Nico

MUCC will be appearing again on a Nico Nico webcast. The show will air on Tuesday, November 22 at 20:00 JST (convert time here). The caption for the show calls it 「ムックの新曲フライングゲット祭り」(MUCC no Shinkyoku Furaingu Getto Matsuri). It seems all the members will be appearing in the studio to celebrate their new release.

Nico Nico webcast here

BORN New Single and Updated Live Schedule

BORN has updated their OHP with new information regarding their new single release and live appearances. BORN's new single, "ProudiA," will be released on December 7 in two types.

The band will be appearing in various lives from the end of this year into the beginning of 2012. In January, the band will conduct two live appearances in and event called 『森羅万象 New Year Circuit 2012』(Shinrabanshou New Year Circuit 2012), one on January 6 at Nagoya E.L.L. and one on January 7 at Esaka MUSE. In February, the band will conduct two lives in an event called "4," one on February 17 at Sendai Hook and one on February 25 at Osaka MUSE. These new listings are in addition to the many live appearance that BORN has already announced on their OHP.

BORN OHP here
"ProudiA" Limited Ed. (CD+DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"ProudiA" Regular Ed. CD Japan pre-order here

T.M.Revolution Interview Available on Nippon Project

Takanori Nishikawa announced on his Twitter that he recently gave an interview on the Nippon Project website. The interview, posted in English, allows Nishikawa to answer fan questions from around the world.

Nippon Project interview here

DaizyStripper Released New Single and Plans New Album

DaizyStripper has just released their 9th single and plans to release a new album in 2012. The new single, 「切望のフリージア」 (Setsubou no Freesia), was released on November 2, and is available in four types. The information for the new album is not yet on the band's website, but does appear in the item listing for the CD Japan website. The listed title for the new album is "Air," and CD Japan proposes the expected release date of January 11, 2012. More information on the new album should be forthcoming.

DaizyStripper OHP here
"Setsubou no Freesia" Type A (CD+DVD) CD Japan order here
"Setsubou no Freesia" Type B CD Japan order here
"Setsubou no Freesia" Limited Ed. Type C (CD+DVD) CD Japan order here
"Setsubou no Freesia" Limited Pressing Type D CD Japan order here
"Air" Type A (CD+DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Air" Type B CD Japan pre-order here

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Golden Bomber Interview at Rokkyuu Magazine

Rokkyuu Magazine has just posted and English-language interview with visual kei air band, Golden Bomber. The interview was conducted during the recnet V-Rock Festival 2011. The interview is also available in Japanese.

English interview here
Japanese interview here

Viju☆Love☆Cafe to Re-Broadcast Nightmare Special

Akemi Oshima's Viju☆Love☆Cafe will be re-broadcasting the November 9 show featuring Nightmare. The show will air again on November 15. Special guests included Yomi (vo.), Ni~ya (ba.), and Sakito (gt.), talking about their upcoming November 23rd self-titled full-CD release.

Viju Love Cafe info here

Friday, November 11, 2011

NEGA to Release New Single & DVD

NEGA will release a new maxi single on November 30. The new maxi single, "Deluge," will be released in three types. The band's new DVD, "Pereunion -Code20110726," is released today. The DVD features footage from the band's July performance at Shibuya O-WEST and is only available from their web shop and CD Japan.

NEGA OHP here
"Deluge" Limited Type A (CD/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Deluge" Regular Type B (CD/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
"Deluge" Regular Type C (CD Only) CD Japan pre-order here
"Pereunion -Code20110726" Limited DVD CD Japan order here

Umbrella Online Store on Twitter

The Umbrella online store now has a Twitter account. The store, a recent project for Hizumi (vocalist, ex-D'espairsRay), features art prints and gifts.

Umbrella Twitter here
Umbrella Store site here

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Matenrou Opera to Appear At Anime USA

Matenrou Opera will make their first US appearance at Anime USA in Arlington, VA. The band will make their appearance on November 19 at the Hyatt Regency, with a Q & A session beginning at 7:00 PM Eastern Time

Anime USA website here
Matenrou Opera OHP here

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

MUCC to Appear on Special Nico Nico Broadcast

MUCC's Tatsuro and Miya will be appearing in a special Nico Nico show, 「逹瑯とミヤ、たまにムック。」(Tatsuro and Miya, Sometimes MUCC.) The show will air on Nico Nico on November 12 at 21:00 JST (convert time here). This special show appears in conjunction with their upcoming "Arcadia" single, featuring DAISHI DANCE. Nico Nico subscribers can time shift the show if they are not able to watch live.

MUCC show appears here

Alice Nine Updates OHP with New Look

Alice Nine just update their OHP. The website now features their new look and information for the December single 「虹の雪」(Niji no Yuki).

Alice Nine OHP here

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

SCREW TV Will Air 11/18

SCREW TV will air via Ustream on Friday, November 18 at 7:00 A.M. Eastern Time (convert time here). Music Japan Plus, who sponsors the show, is also accepting viewer questions for the band via the MJP forum. Help them trend the show on Twitter by sending messages to @musicJAPANplus with the hashtag #SCREWTV during the live show.

SCREW TV airs here
MJP forum here

Nightmare on Nico Nico 11/22

Nightmare’s next appearance on their Nico Nico web show, “Bakuretsu! Nightmare,” will be Tuesday, November 22. The show airs at 23:00 JST (convert time here). Nico Nico registered members may timeshift if they cannot watch the live show.


“Bakuretsu! Nightmare” show airs here

Monday, November 7, 2011

Nightmare on Visu-a-land TV

Nightmare will appear on an episode of Viju Love Cafe on November 9 from 21:30-22:00 JST (convert time here). The show, hosted by Akemi Oshima, will allow the band to talk about their upcoming "Nightmare" album release. The new album will be released on November 23.

Viju Love Cafe schedule here
Viju-a-Land.tv here

Fi'Ance to Release New Singles

New band Fi'Ance will soon be releasing two new singles. The band's second single, "aSkeptic," will be released on November 23, 2011. The band also recently advertised in Shoxx Vol. 226 that they plan to release a third single, "Adv'Ance," in January 2012. Further details about that possible single do not yet appear on the band's OHP and should come later.

Fi'Ance OHP here
"aSkeptic" pre-order at CD Japan here

Sunday, November 6, 2011

UNITE to Relase First Full Album

ユナイト (UNITE) will be releasing their first full-length CD on November 16. The album, titled "STARTiNG OVER'S," will be released in two versions: 11-song CD with DVD, or regular CD with 13 songs.

UNITE OHP here
Official YouTube channel here
Limited Edition (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
Regular Edition CD Japan pre-order here

Alice Nine Channel Airs 11/17/11

The next air date for Alice Nine's Nico Nico program (Alice Nine Channel) is November 17, 2011. The program airs at 23:00 JST (convert time zones). Registered Nico Nico members may timeshift for later viewing.

Alice Nine Channel gate here

Saturday, November 5, 2011

amber gris to Release New Single

amber gris will be releasing a new single in December. The new single, will be titled 『フラニーはご機嫌斜め / an Fade』 (Furani wa Go Kigen Naname). Order before December 10 to receive a special Christmas Edition of the single with a Christmas card and photo extras. Orders placed after that date will receive only the CD and photo set.

amber gris OHP here
amber gris shop here

Friday, November 4, 2011

L'Arc~en~Ciel Will Release DVD

L'Arc~en~Ciel has announced that they will be releasing a new DVD. The new DVD, called "20th L'Anniversary LIVE," will be released on December 28. Fans will have choices between a complete box set, a LIVE Day 1 set, or a LIVE Day 2 set. More information will be released by the band soon.

L'Arc~en~Ciel OHP here

Thursday, November 3, 2011

D Will Release New Mini Album

D will be releasing a new mini album on November 21. The new album will be called Huang di ~Yami ni umareta mukui~” The album can be purchased through coolJAPANstore.
D OHP hereHuang di ~Yami ni umareta mukui~” International version here Huang di ~Yami ni umareta mukui~” Type A hereHuang di ~Yami ni umareta mukui~” Type B here

Alice Nine Releases Schedule of Magazine Appearances

Alice Nine updated their OHP with information regarding what magazines released in November will feature articles about them. Magazines and release dates are:  Winkup (11/7), PATi-PATi (11/9), CD&DLでー  (11/14), and B-PASS (11/29).
Alice Nine OHP here

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Shoxx Vol. 227 on sale 11/27

The next issue of Shoxx magazine will be release for sale on November 21. Volume 227 will feature Nightmare on the cover, as well as articles about MEJIBRAY, Moran, GazettE, Lolita 23, BORN, MUCC, and ViViD. Follow Shoxx on Twitter for more information.

Shoxx Twitter here

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

DuelJewel To Release New Album 12/7

DuelJewel will be releasing a new album on December 7. "Luminous" will be available in two versions, Limited with DVD and Regular.

DuelJewel OHP here
"Luminous" Limited Ed. (w/DVD) pre-order at CD Japan here
"Luminous" Regular Ed. pre-order at CD Japan here

DIR EN GREY To Issue Remastered "UROBOROS"

DIR EN GREY will be re-issuing a remastered and expanded version of their 2008 album "UROBOROS." The new album, scheduled to be released January 11, 2012, will contain 14 tracks, including versions of songs that have previously been heard only in limited releases and live performances.

"UROBOROS" release details here
CD Japan pre-order here

Monday, October 31, 2011

Viju☆Love☆Cafe #5 Scheduled for 11/6

The next online Viju☆Love☆Cafe is scheduled for Sunday, November 6. The program, hosted by Akemi Oshima and Biju the Cat, will be broadcast at 14:00 JST (convert time here). Special guests include: Chisato (PENICILLIN), Teruki (An Cafe), aicle, DNR, Seremedy, Kaya, DaizyStripper, Lolita 23q, TaKt, and ShiroRooM.

The program will be re-broadcast on November 6 at 24:00 JST and Saturday, November 12 at 21:00 JST.

 Viju☆Love☆Cafe broadcast here

PV Preview for Nightmare's "Ray of Light"

Avex released a PV preview for Nightmare's new song "Ray of Light." The 1:18 minute long preview is available from the avex YouTube channel.

"Ray of Light" PV preview here

Sunday, October 30, 2011

ViViD New Release & Nico Nico Broadcast with Special Kra Appearance

ViViD will release a new single on November 3. The new single, “Fake,” will be their third single. They will also be broadcasting a show on Nico Nico on October 31 at 22:00 JST (convert time here). Kra has announced that vocalist Keiyuu and drummer Yasuno will also make appearances.
ViViD OHP here
ViViD media schedule here
Nico Nico link here

SCREW to Release New Album & Spring Tour

Indie band SCREW announced on their OHP today that they will be releasing a new album on February 15, 2012. The new album will be called 「糜爛-BIRAN-. More information will be announced soon. They also announced that they have decided to do a Spring Oneman tour in 2012.
SCREW OHP here

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Akemi Oshima Shares Link to Jasmine You Tribute Song

Akemi Oshima shared her thoughts and a link to a tribute song for Jasmine You, eternal member of Versailles. The song, "For You," was composed by fellow band member, TERU.

Akemi Oshima Facebook Journal here
Song link here

Esprit D'Air Offers Download Discount

London-based visual band Esprit D'Air is now offering a 70% discount on the download of their single 「出逢い」 "Deai". Enter the discount code  "deai29".

Deai download here

Thursday, October 27, 2011

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz Announce Second Release

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz, featuring Gackt, will be releasing their second CD single, “All My Love/You Are the Reason” on December 28. The group will also be doing live performances on November 5 and 6.

YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz OHP here
CD single (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
CD single (CD only) CD Japan pre-order here

ダウト New Single & Oneman Live in November

ダウト (D=Out) will be releasing a new single on November 2. The new single, titled「全身全霊LIVES」(Zenshin Zenrei LIVES), will be released in three types. The band will also appear in a oneman live on November 23, 2011 at Shibuya-AX. The live, titled Life is LIVE'11~まさに人生とはライブだ!~」, will begin at 17:30 JST.

Single release information here
Zenshin Zenrei LIVES Limited Type A (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
Zenshin Zenrei LIVES Limited Type B (w/DVD) CD Japan pre-order here
Zenshin Zenrei LIVES Regular Edition CD Japan pre-order here
Live information here

Fool’s Mate Vol. 362 on Sale 10/29

Fool’s Mate Vol. 362 (December 2011) will be released on October 29. The magazine will feature ViViD on the cover, as well as features for Acid Black Cherry, Golden Bomber, YELLOW FRIED CHICKENz, baroque, Angelo, and more.

Fool’s Mate Vol. 362 information here

Kra Has Upcoming “Tortilla!” Tour & Radio Appearance

On November 14, Kra will kick off their 2011 とるてーや!!(´°Д°`!)(Tortilla!!) tour. The band will also appear on the Nack 5 [Beat Shuffle] program on November 11 at 19:00 JST (convert time here).
“Tortilla!!” tour dates and information here
Radio appearance information here

Maverick DC Group Presents Jack in the Box 2011

On December 27, 2011, the Jack in the Box 2011 event will take place at the Nippon Budokan hall. Performers will include:  44MAGNUM, MUCC, SID, and girugamesh, among others.
Jack in the Box event page here

Girugamesh Updates OHP & News

Girugamesh recently changed the look of their OHP and updated their news and information. They have announced the release of a new live DVD, featuring footage from their February 2011 Oneman. The DVD will be released in February 2012. They have also announced dates and times for a 13-day live appearance at Shibuya WWW. The new website includes a page for PVs and PV previews.
Girugamesh OHP here

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Alice Nine to Release New Single in December

Alice Nine will be releasing a new single on December 21, 2011. The new single, 「虹の雪」(Niji no Yuki), was composed by vocalist, Shou. The Limited Edition versions of this single will included live DVD footage from their 7th THEATER anniversary live on September 9, 2011. The Regular Edition will include a bonus track new version of 闇ニ散ル (Yami ni Chiru Sakura).
CD Japan pre-order Limited Ed. Type A (w/DVD) here
CD Japan pre-order Limited Ed. Type B (w/DVD) here
CD Japan pre-order Regular Edition here

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

New girugamesh App for Android

Android has released a free "girugamesh" app for its users. The app helps keep fans updated on the band's latest Twitter and blog information and is available from the Android Market.

Android release information here

Crunchyroll Offers Music Videos

Crunchyroll, a website that offers Japanese drama and anime in English, also offers access to some music videos. The site includes profiles and information for bands like LM.C, girugamesh, X Japan, MUCC, Glay, vistlip, and VAMPS, among others.

Crunchyroll Music page here

Golden Bomber New Look & New Single

ゴールデンボンバー (Golden Bomber) has updated their look for their upcoming single release. The new look can be found on their OHP. The new single, 「酔わせてモヒート」(Yowasete Mojito, will be released on November 23, 2011.

Golden Bomber OHP here
CD Japan pre-order “Yowasete Mojito” Limited Ed. Type A (w/DVD) here
CD Japan pre-order “Yowasete Mojito” Limited Ed. Type B (w/DVD) here
CD Japan pre-order “Yowasete Mojito” Regular Ed. here

Monday, October 24, 2011

Nightmare Nack 5「Jack in the Box! 」Podcast on iTunes

ナイトメア (Nightmare) has a regular Nack 5 radio podcast. The podcast, called ナイトメア Jack in the Box!” features vocalist, Yomi, and guitarist, Hitsugi, and airs every Wednesday. It is available as a free subscription from iTunes.
Podcast information here

Miyavi and Kreva Collaborate on Single

Miyavi and Kreva have collaborated on the new single release, “Strong”. The Miyavi vs Kreva “Strong” CD was released on October 5, 2011, in multiple editions. The CD Limited Edition includes a DVD featuring PV footage. The Regular Edition and iTunes version include an “exclusive” MYV version of the song. Clips of the PV footage are also available for viewing from Miyavi’s YouTube Channel.
“Strong” Limited Edition on CD Japan here
“Strong” Regular Edition on CD Japan here
Miyavi’s YouTube channel here

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Nightmare New Look & CD Album

ナイトメア(Nightmare) has a new look for their upcoming self-titled album. “Nightmare” will be released November 23 in three types. The new look and CD track listing can be found on their OHP.

Nightmare OHP here
“Nightmare” Type A (w/DVD) on CD Japan here
“Nightmare” Type B (w/DVD) on CD Japan here
“Nightmare” Type C on CD Japan here

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Hear Japan Offers Global Music Downloads

Hear Japan is a global download store for Japanese MP3 music, including visual kei. The online store, located in Yokohama, Japan, offers a variety of music searchable by genre and band, as well as news and artist interviews in English. They are currently accepting suggestions for bands, labels, and albums to add to their store.

Hear Japan OHP here Hear Japan on Facebook here
Hear Japan on Twitter here

Friday, October 21, 2011

SuG's Chiyu Starts Twitter

SuG's bass player, Chiyu, has created a Twitter. Follow him @sugChiyu.

Chiyu Twitter here

Kogure To Appear Live in Cologne

German band Kogure will appear live in Cologne on Saturday, October 29. The performance will be held free of charge at the Historical City Hall. Seating is limited. Information is still forthcoming.

Appearance information will appear here

Next Nightmare Appearance on Nico Nico Web on 10/25

Nightmare’s next appearance on their Nico Nico web show, “Bakuretsu! Nightmare,” will be Wednesday, October 25. The show airs at 23:00 JST (convert time here). Nico Nico registered members may timeshift if they cannot watch the live show.

“Bakuretsu! Nightmare” show airs here

L’Arc~en~Ciel Announces 2012 World Tour

L’Arc~en~Ciel will be conducting a 20th anniversary world tour in 2012. The band will make stops in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Shanghai, Taipei, New York, London, and Paris.

Tour details here
L’Arc~en~Ciel OHP here

Angelo Added New Member & Released New Album

Karyu (Gt., ex-D’espairsRay) has joined Angelo as a guitarist. The band released a new album, “Babel,” on October 5.

Angelo OHP here
“Babel” Limited Type A (w/photo booklet) on CD Japan here
“Babel” Limited Type B (w/DVD) on CD Japan here
“Babel” Regular on CD Japan here

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Nightmare to Appear on Tokyo FM

ナイトメア (Nightmare) will be making two appearances on Tokyo FM's [Jack in the Radio] show. They will appear October 26 and November 2 on [Jack in the Radio] at 21:25 JST (convert time here).

Appearance information here

LM.C Shoxx File Special on Sale 10/21

A special Shoxx File will be released on October 21, featuring the history of LM.C in Shoxx from 2006-2011. The special 304-page book is in color.

JP to YOU information and ordering here

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Viju☆Love☆CafeSpecial to Air 10/24

Akemi Oshima has announced that she and Biju-tan the cat will be the MC for a Viju☆Love☆CafeSpecial. The special will be broadcast online on Monday, October 24 at 22:00 JST (convert time here). Special guest will be Italian visual band, DNR.

Watch Viju☆Love☆CafeSpecial here
Visit DNR OHP here

SuG's Takeru Collaborates with SPINNS

SuG's vocalist, Takeru, has collaborated with SPINNS fashion to design a Mickey Mouse T-shirt.

SPINNS news release here
SPINNS web store here

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S ~ New Band

The new band THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S recently formed. Band members include seasoned veteran musicians:  kazuya (Gt., ex-FANATIC CRISIS, ex-Lastlip), SHUN (Gt., ex-FANATIC CRISIS, ex-Lastlip), Ricky (Vo., DASEIN), ZERO (Ba., ex-D'espairsRay), and TSUKASA (Dr., ex-D'espairsRay). They will participate in a live event on December 1 at Shibuya O-East, along with PENICILLIN, LM.C, and DaizyStripper.

THE MICRO HEAD 4N'S OHP here

Akemi Oshima Promotes Rock 'N Roll Diary

Akemi Oshima, writer and promoter of visual kei music, recently promoted her Rock 'N Roll Diary for Web (Japanese) via her Facebook journal (English). The web journal started in 1997.

View the Rock 'N Roll Diary here
View the Facebook page here

exist†trace Appears in BARKS Article

BARKS has included an online article (in Japanese) about exist†trace's new CD release, "The Last Daybreak". The article includes a video clip of the new PV, track listings and extras for the different release types, and a listing of live appearances.

View the article here.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

SuG's New "Toy Soldier" Single to Be Released on 10/26

SuG will release their new single "Toy Soldier" on Wednesday, October 26. The new single will be released in four different versions: Limited Edition Type A (w/DVD) , Limited Edition Type B (w/DVD), Limited Edition Type C (w/photobook), and Regular Edition. A clip of the PV can be seen on the "Toy Soldier" information page.

SuG OHP here
SuG "Toy Soldier" information here
CD Japan pre-order Type A here
CD Japan pre-order Type B here
CD Japan pre-order Type C here
CD Japan pre-order Regular Ed. here

Born Will Appear Live at NekoCon 2011

Indie band Born will hold two concerts at NekoCon 14 in Hampton Roads, VA. NekoCon will be held from November 4-6, 2011. Born appears courtesy of PS Company and Tainted Reality.

NekoCon 14 information here
Born OHP here

exist†trace Will Perform on U.S. East Coast in 2012

In March 2012, exist†trace will make several live appearances on U.S. East Coast. The band will be a special musical guest for the Pittsburgh, PA, TekkoshoconX on Saturday, March 24, 2012. They will also make appearances in Boston, MA, and New York, NY. More details have yet to be announced.

exist†trace OHP live here
TekkoshoconX OHP here

Esprit D'Air--New London-based Band

Esprit D'Air is a new visual band--formed in 2010--based in London. Members include Yosh (vocalist), Kaito (guitar), Erisu (bass), and Daishi (Drums). Their debut EP titled 「出逢い」 (Deai) is available via iTunes. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Esprit D'Air OHP here.
Deai EP preview here.
Preview music videos here.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Versailles Announces Official Title for New DVD

Today, Versailles updated their OHP with the official title and release date for their upcoming DVD. The DVD titled “CHATEAU DE VERSAILLES -JUBILEE-” will be released on December 21. More details about the release are forthcoming.

Versailles OHP here
DVD release information here

Shoxx Vol. 226 Released October 21

The latest edition of visual kei magazine Shoxx (vol. 226) will be released October 21, 2011. The cover artists featured in this issue will be Sakito and Ruka, guitarist and drummer for the band Nightmare. Other artists appearing in this issue include:  the GazettE, LM.C, Kra, SuG, ViViD, Sadie, Alice Nine, D-OUT, and THE KIDDIE. The included poster and advertised photo card gift feature Sakito and Ruka.

Order the magazine from:
CD Japan here
YesAsia here
Japanese Products to YOU (with photo card present) here

MUCC Gets New Look, Single, and DVD

MUCC has recently updated their look for their upcoming single 「アルカデア」 (Arcadia), a collaboration with DAISHI DANCE. The new single will be released November 23. Fans can view the new look and release information here.

The band will also be releasing a DVD on November 23. The Chemical Parade DVD will feature footage from the recent Chemical Parade tour, including the May 21, 2011 performance at Nippon Budokan.

MUCC OHP here.
Arcadia Limited Ed. pre-order from CD Japan here.
Arcadia Regular Ed. pre-order from CD Japan here.
Chemical Parade DVD pre-order from CD Japan here.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Miyavi Brings "What's My Name?" Tour to North & South America

Miyavi is bringing his "What's My Name?" World Tour 2011 to North and South America. He will kick off the North American leg of the tour in San Francisco, CA, on October 20, traveling across the United States before moving on to Venezuela on November 10 for the South American leg.

Tour dates, locations, and ticket information are available on his OHP here.

Kra New look & CD Release

Kra has a new look and a new album being released on October 26. The new look can be seen on their updated OHP here, and features a Halloween theme. The new album is titled 「ナロとトルテ」 (Naro to Torute). A short PV preview spot appears on the OHP. Kra recently appeared on Viju Love Cafe and SCREW TV to promote the new release.

Kra OHP here.
CD Japan pre-order Limited Ed. w/DVD here.
CD Japan pre-order Regular Ed. here.

exist†trace New Look & 5-Track Release

All-female visual kei band exist†trace will release a new 5-track CD on October 19. The new CD is titled "The Last Daybreak". They also have a new look, which can be seen here on their new OHP design. The PV for the new single "The Last Daybreak" can be seen on their official YouTube channel.

exist†trace OHP here.
Official YouTube here.
CD Japan pre-order Limited Ed. w/DVD here.
CD Japan pre-order Regular Ed. here.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

SuG's Takeru Starts Fashion Line

Takeru, vocalist for SuG, has created his own fashion line called "million $ orchestra". Fashion includes accessories, created in collaboration with ALICE BLACK, and a 2011 Autumn/Winter catalog of clothing.

The website is available in English and Japanese, and offers international shipping via coolJAPANstore.

million $ orchestra English site here.