2007 Year Evaluation (JPop Edition)

sentiment: fine
harmony: "philosophy -Proto type mix-" by KOTOKO

Ahh, at last I'm still able to catch up although it'll only be 1 1/3 hrs. before year 2008 will make its way here in the Philippines. After evaluating my ups and downs for this year last night, I decided to make one evaluation for J-pop artists that I like. Not really more on evaluation but more on their performance lately and what I will be looking forward to them. Ok let's start...

• KOTOKO - Well can't say much about her for this year because she really did well this 2007 compared to her other co-I've Sound members. Although her first 2007 single (Kirei na Senritsu) didn't do that well but nonetheless the following releases are much more memorable. And what can I say she's very in-demand for eroge makers to perform theme songs. Awesome... What I'm looking forward to her? Nothing much since she is really doing very well since she's the most famous of all I've Girls.
• Mami Kawada - What can I say about my most fave I've Sound singer? Well I must say that this has been a bit tough for her because most of her first 2007 single (Akai Namida/Beehive) didn't do that good as well in terms of Oricon chart position and total sales and her following single as well (Get my way!) which is considered her least successful single. But at the same time, an opportunity because she was in hiatus for 1 year in single making. Her second single was released 2005 and it was a good year and a half after the release of her third single. Her eroge theme songs this year were not memorable as well. I admit I didn't like seduce because whenever I listen to that song, it gives me the headaches. For our days and return to that place are much more likeable although very downbeat. But with her 5th single JOINT, she rose again and even hitted the 9th spot in the Oricon (first time in her history)! Huwaaaw! So I'll be looking forward for more rock songs and good techno beat like The Maze. I'll be expecting you'll release your second album this coming year! XP
• MELL - oh yeah at first I just kind of "snobbed" her name because I was concentrating with KOTOKO and Mami back then but when I first heard her Red fraction, it was like "OMFG, this is really great!!! MELL... I like her!! I must download more from her!!!" Haha! Why do I like her? Simply because she has this "distinct" style that makes her different from her co-I've Sound members and other J-pop singers. She has this irresistible charm on her that I can't let her go. xD Specially when I heard no vain, I've said to myself, "I love it! Even if it's PV was the great Madonna strip-off". I'm looking forward for more awesome beats like the two song mentioned. I didn't like Virgin's high! that much but I like kicks!.
• Eiko Shimamiya - nowadays I have been attached with her songs... I didn't find it usual because in the past, I just listen to Naraku no Hana and Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (and it's B-side all alone). But when I started to listen to her ULYSSES, VANILLA, Sukarabe no Inori and the other songs from the ULYSSES mini-album, VANILLA mini-album and her other eroge theme songs, I like her bit by bit but still no one beats Naraku no Hana because it's an epic win with its horrific surround sound combined with techno-ish sounds and confusing chants equals great music! What I'm mostly looking forward is her upcoming song WHEEL OF FORTUNE and Diorama which will be the opening and ending theme for Higurashi no Naku Koro ni live-action movie.
• Kaori Utatsuki - nothing much although I admit she's my least fave I've Sound singer but one thing I'm looking forward to her: Can you please try perform songs that are not fluffy cute just this once? Your two first singles with Geneon are declining sales... So can you please try another genre aside from denpa and cute, fluffy songs? xD But I like her voice... so little and uhm..cute? xP
• Rie fu - although she's kind of, in the low-state of popularity, I still like her and her songs. Keep your style and I'll be looking forward for more folk rock music! ^_^ If I were to meet you in person, I'd like to take her autograph! Haha! I just love her smooth and low voice specially in ballads like Life is like a boat, Anata ga Koko ni Iru Riyuu, and Negaigoto. Keep it up!
• Sachi Tainaka - sort of similar to Rie fu's state of popularity among J-pop fans, no one can still bit her 3-octave voice range for me specially from her Saikou no Kataomoi! Even without the Fate/stay night tie-ins, your powerful voice is still one of a kind! And your popular for me! xP I'll be looking forward to your Visit of love single and Love is... album! ^_^
• Jyukai - although even facing more of Rie fu and Sachi Tainaka's state, I'll always be a fan of Jyukai and their music. Imagine they can still manage to make fantastic music even if it's just Manami and Yoshiaki Dewa. Maybe the lack of promotions is the reason why others don't recognize them. But whatever happens, keep it up because for me, this band really rocks and does their job really well. ^_^
• eufonius - So when did I start liking this duo? Oh yes, it was still when I was watching Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica! I remembered I was addicted with Apocrypha at some extent. xD I also like their Mag Mell but my favorite version is the cuckool mix 2007, the one used in the Clannad anime. Riya's voice is so crystal clear and amazing that I love it! I also like Idea and Himawari... xD I'm looking forward to more amazing music and their upcoming single Reflectia.
• Hitomi Takahashi - Yes I like Hitomi Takahashi but as her image began changing, my likeness began fading a bit. I like her since her debut single Bokutachi no Yukue but she go towards the punk rock genre, I didn't bothered that much as I'm not the biggest punk rock fan. How I wish she could go back to Bokutachi no Yukue, evergreen, Aozora no Namida days where she is more of pop-rockish. But I still like appreciate her Bamboo Collage album but not as I love her symphathy album. I'm still looking forward that she could go back from pop-rock.
• YUI - oh she's famous as ever. She's an exemption from the mainstream because she's simply amazing even with a small yet high voice. Starting from LIFE single, I loved her ever since and decided to complete her discography (and I had ever since). I'm looking forward for more awesome rockish songs because I must admit I didn't like LOVE & TRUTH (but I like the B-side Jam).
• MOMO - I wish she'll have a single of her own this year! Because I love her low yet smooth voice. If you listened to Velocity of sound already, you'll know what I mean. x3 I'm looking forward on having her back with I've since her latest song Cherish is connected with I've Sound although she already left the group almost two years ago.
• Fonogenico - I loved them since their debut single Reason. I like how poppish and jazzy (some) their songs are. I'm looking forward for a more refreshing jazzy track just like their Rhythm. That is one epic win song! :D

Year 2007 Evaluation

sentiment: reminiscing... (do not disturb! Shhh! xP)
harmony: "Hoshi Akari" by Jyukai

Well what can I say? I still made it to next year in one piece! Although at first, I thought I won't survive because of what's happening not only in my life but what's happening overall (with my friends, school life etc.). I have to say year 2007 all has its ups and downs but to tell you the truth, for me, this is one of the toughest year I have because there are more downs than ups. But I'm still thankful that God has given me these trials so that I could learn more about the game called "life".

Like what I said, this year has been one of the most dramatic year that I had because of the following failures and sorrowful events:

• Thesis failure -- yes, I failed at my thesis subject and I was rather quite shocked when I received my card. Right now, I'm retaking it and hopefully I'll pass on it this semester alone.
  
• GSG disaster -- I know most of my friends here in multiply (who will come to read this) can relate on this one. It just happened 10 months ago from now, when one particular new member of the clan (I still can't forgive what this guy did to our forum) suddenly made a "ruckus" inside the forum and I admit (I'm not a higher rank officer at that time) that me and my friends (who tried to stop that crazy old fella) had a hard time stopping them. But eventually they halted but what I didn't expect to happen was some of the old and higher officials of the forum suddenly quit their life in the forum because of some private issues and because of what happened. And to think of it, it was only a few days (if I remember correctly) after our admin's birthday. It was not a good post-birthday event isn't it?
  
  As of now, I'm the standing Co-Admin of GSG and still working on how to make it alive again, but what can I say is I cannot accomplish anything alone so to my friends (who are still member of the clan), help me rebuild the once-filled-of-life clan. And thanks to those who continue to support the clan and of course, to those who are working to keep the forum alive. ^_^
  
• Not-too-memorable school life -- I know this is my fault at times as I am kind of anti-social for some people but I only do this because when I'm with this particular group, I feel "out of place" sometimes. So rather than to feel the distress, I'll spend my time alone somewhere. Of course, it's hard to live your life at school alone but I'm still coping up and bearing with it.
  
• stressful life -- yes, even though I'm not as busy as nursing students, I still live a stressful life because I think too much -- new ideas, new strategies, new trials, assignments, projects, case projects, marketing plan, export marketing plan, marketing research, you name it. And I believe lack of time management is one of its major cause. I always cram!! (I need to change now... @_@)
  
• too much failures/rejections -- not just in my thesis topic but in also some private issues (It's confidential so forgive me if I'm not going to tell this time).
  
• the fanlisting -- yes, I still failed on making the first Mami Kawada fanlisting... because I don't know anything about phpMyAdmin nor mySQL. @_@ I'm not an IT freak (because I'm a Business Management student) and just by looking at the mySQL FAQ's, I'm already getting dizzy. x__X

Oohh, there's just too many that I can't enumerate all of them. But despite the fact that I have many failures, I still have successes in my life that made me proud of myself.

• I met many friends and still maintaining friendships with my other friends.
• More anime discoveries
• My passion to collect I've Sound mp3s (well that's because I already have many sources so you can just imagine how the heck did I collect the 100+ KOTOKO songs in my multiply. :D). Well not just I've Sound, but also some other J-pop band or group which are "lesser mainstream". Yes, I go for "rarer" singers/groups. The mainstreamers are uberly taken. xD
• GSG Admin Jen entrusted me as the GSG Co-Admin (although the task is not that easy!) and also one of the scriptwriters for the sequel of her movie Sagashi Ateru 2: The Prisoners of Fate. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to be on it! ^__^ I promise we'll work hard for it! ^^;
• The Keepers of the Flame (KOTF) gatherings -- it never failed to make me more happier. ^^ Thanks to all KOTF members! :) Specially last December 22, the day for KOTF EB/Fred_Itachi's Birthday Celebration/Ryoga Reunion (If you're wondering what is the "Ryoga", it's also a group that me and my friends separately formed because we easily get lost! Just like Ryoga Hibiki of Ranma 1/2). Although the day was shorter than expected, I'm still very happy that I got to see my friends again and took a photo in Tronix. Sorry I still haven't posted the pic because I haven't had it scanned yet.

And there you have it! I think this post has gotten longer that people won't have the time to read it. Those are just the most highlighted successes and failures that I won't ever forget in my life. Hehehe... ^^; Maybe I should be doing this every last day of the year. Maybe tomorrow, I will have evaluation on some J-pop singers/groups and future expectations about them. ^^

A Little Help? Care to Help?

sentiment: excited!!! XDD
harmony: "JOINT" by Mami Kawada

Can I get help from everyone here? Just a small help?? xDD~ Specially from my fellow I've Sound fellows here?

Go to this site: http://www.ivesound.jp/vote/index.php

Ok so let me explain, I've Sound is having there a "Best of 2007" song poll. You have to pick only one (1) song from there that you think is the best composed song this year 2007. And there are plenty of choices, including what I'm listening to now, which is JOINT by Mami Kawada.

As of now, the said song is still in the leading place with 74 votes (2 came from me, don't ask how I did it! XD) For more info about the results, go here:

http://www.ivesound.jp/vote/results.php

So much for rejoicing, so what help do I really need? Please vote for JOINT!!!! XDD~ *gets banged* hahaha! I want that song to win hahaha! Now that's dirty hahahaha! *a big lol* Because for me, it's the most fantastic super duper ever great song that I've Sound produced this year. XDD~ Please cast your votes... hahaha!

Randomness Ranting

sentiment: discontented
monitoring: Shakugan no Shana II episode 12

Aggghhh!!! I just watched it! Yay!!! Huwaahhh!! The next episode airing will be on Jan. 10, 2008!! @_@ Waahh! I'm so vexed! When it's already heating up and then suddenly they will aire the next episode after 3 flat weeks!? x__X

Yes, you got it right. Action will be around in the next episode since Pheles, the green-haired girl in the opening theme has already appeared! And she's oh-so back to retrieve the Reiji Maigo from Yuuji!! XD And Margery Daw already discovered the Yuuji has the silver Fuzetsu! Uwah, does this mean Yuuji is an enemy? Not really. But Margery is really heated up just by looking at the preview! And since she was looking for the silver all of her life (for a still unknown reason but we all know that it's for vengeance) and it's the reason why she became a Flame Haze, killing it would be an accomplishment or goal for her.

So what will happen to Yuuji in the next episode? A tomogara and a flame haze is after him, what can Shana and Wilhelmina do?! Gawd, I'm uber excited on the next episode!!!! X__X I wish they could aire it ASAP!! Can't wait for it!! X,x

A Series of I've News

sentiment: cold
harmony: "Crossed Destiny - Original Arrange -" by KOTOKO
monitoring: Hishoku no Sora live

Wah I haven't posted in the last few days so before I start my post, Belated Merry Christmas to all! ^_^ I'm not in the mood to post these days so bear with me... XP

And so here are some news... I've Sound news that is... xD

First off, Eiko Shimamiya. XD Well not some big news... Her website layout has new... xD Well not something real new. At least it is now similar to the I've Girls' layout and it has now a preview PV for Higurashi no Naku Koro ni. Grewl. x3 Not something big but at least the layout is not for her O album anymore. But it would be better if they would've made a layout for promoting her latest single which was Naraku no Hana.

And here's another from what I've read in the Firstron. She already has an upcoming 3rd maxi single which was the WHEEL OF FORTUNE/Diorama. Although no release date has been stated and I'm still not sure of the single title. Firstron certainly is excited that they already included it in the discography list of I've. But I'm pretty sure that this single would come on 2008 as these songs are going to be used as intro and outro theme for live-action of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni respectively. And I already had a 33-second preview for the WHEEL OF FORTUNE. Not totally good on the preview but I hope my impression would change once I hear the long version.

Secondly, KOTOKO. Unfortunately, her latest single entitled Real Onigokko didn't do that good in the Oricon top 200 weekly charts. Although I could still say it still has a good position unlike the other J-pop artists that I like. Here's the daily charts position of the single:

debut -- #6
2nd day -- #9
3rd day -- #14
4th day -- #16
5th day -- #20
6th day -- below #20
7th day -- below #20

Top 200 weekly chart position: #15 (7,588 first-week sales)

Oh yeah, although you might say that #15 is a not-so-bad position but if you'll look at its first-week sales, it's oh-so-terrible. Usually, singles in the #15 position in the Oricon weekly charts acquired more than 10,000 sales but this is the first time that I saw such a decline in sales in an outstanding place. Or maybe, it only had a good sales on its first day and then regretted on buying the single because of its not-so-impressive PV and single cover? Maybe because that's the only reason I could think of. The title track and B-side songs are quite good since the producer Kazuya Takase worked hard to regain his name as the greatest composer in I've Sound. But with this, it looks like either C.G mix and Tomoyuki Nakazawa are the ones who are composing much more great music.

But even if that's the case, KOTOKO has still been the choice of many eroge creators to perform for the theme songs. And I have been very blew up since I'm collecting her songs and yet it's dramatically increasing. O,o Oh my HD, please hold on! *pats CPU* And yes, I've also updated her discography in the English wikipedia. If you are surprised that you see a separate page of Kotoko's discography (since you didn't see any from your last visit), blame me for making it! XP

And lastly (but of course not the least), I have created an article for MOMO in the wikipedia!! It was rather a late accomplishment since I was already planning of creating a page for her on the past few weeks but I was quite busy. I just finished her article last night and although it doesn't have that much content/info, at least, I finished it in one piece. XD And since I love MOMO, I initiated of making it and for me, she will be always be connected to I've Sound although she "graduated" from there a year and a half ago.

A Special Day

sentiment: uber happy (and tired as well)
harmony: "Bokura ga Mimamoru Mirai" by Kaori Utatsuki
watching: Velocity of sound live

At long last, my birthday celebration with my friends was a big success! xD

I would like to thank these people: Martin, Nikki, Jobelle, Joie-C and of course, Ray. ^__^ If it weren't for these people, my celebration won't be as great as I expected. Thanks again guys for contributing happiness into my life. And to those people who are supportive to me. ^__^ Thanks! I know you know who you people are! :D

Right after we meet at our meeting place in FEU, we ate at Yellow Cab. And I want to thank Martin for contributing for our pizza! If it weren't for him, I would be as poor as beggar and I will have to walk home (and imagine it's 30 kms. away from our house!). Thanks buddy!

Then we went to the Ever Gotesco Mall and enjoyed the group pic (I'll post it here when I scanned it! ^__^), the arcade and of course, the bonding. Again, we can't end the day with these following activities, conversations about RP, animes, funny videos etc., music trip, food trip and the like.

And I just noticed at the end of the day, imouto-vamp Nikki-chan was getting addicted with MOMO's Velocity of sound and MELL's Red fraction. This is really is it. xD I am already influencing imouto with I've Sound. Ooohh yeah, techno rocks! xD nyahurhur~

Today was a little shorter and faster... we didn't notice the time... I wanted to stay longer but we'll see each again next time. If only I'm the time keeper, I will set the time to afternoon again so that we'll be together again... Urrgghh... Oh well, there's still next time so no need to cry over spilled milk. I arrived home at 10pm and boy was I satisfied? xD Thanks for the gifts, Ray and Martin! No matter how simple the gifts you give, it's always a big one for me and I always appreciates, just like land, it never depreciates, it always appreciates. Oh my, here comes these economics terms again... XD

And for Nikki, Jobelle and Joie-C, even if you don't have a gift, your presence at our celebration awhile ago is already the gift you've given me. ^__^ I wouldn't enjoyed our mini-celeb without any of you. ^__^ Thank you again!

Ohh, how many times did I used the word "Thank you" or "Thanks"? Oh well, I wouldn't be saturated to say this (even a million times) if it's for you guys! =)

Real Onigokko single review

You might be wondering why I'm still not making its review noh?

Actually, I already made a review... check it here. ^__^

Real Onigokko single review

Oh and before I forgot, I made a siggy out of the scans. x) it's not as great as the other professional's work but it's a product of hard work. xD

Unexpected Turn of Events

sentiment: excited (for tomorrow)
harmony: "Around the mind" by Eiko Shimamiya

Yes! I'm excited for tomorrow's event! I hope this will work tomorrow... XD the postponed birthday celebration will be tomorrow... in FEU.. xD haha! Haven't been there for several months (or a year, is it?). But why am I happy today? Did something great happened? You bet.

It just started when my heart just want to go outside the house world to travel around for myself and "go shoppping!" lolz. I don't know why but I had the urge to go out and so this afternoon I decided to go to Alabang Town Center to enjoy myself. And that's decided. I hurried took almost an hour in the bath because the water is just great... haha! When I got out, dad told me someone "missedcalled" me twice while I was in the bathroom. When I checked it, *gasp* it was dearest imouto Nikki-chan! At that time, I thought "She might ask me if I'm still mad or something..." And then I hurried (this is for real) getting dressed up and got out of the house.

While I was walking somewhere, I didn't notice that she "missedcalled" again. Oh how numb of me. Then I called her and was shocked when she told she'll go to ATC!! O,o I was like, "Eh?!" I was dumbfounded. xD But of course, I was happy because we'll see each other again. At 4:50 PM, there I was, at the ATC, enjoying the arcade in the Time Zone. xD I got addicted and I almost forgot that Nikki-chan might be waiting for me at our meeting place. But she wasn't still there... *relief because I didn't let her wait for too long but at the same time, worried why she isn't here yet* When she informed that it was traffic, I just made a proposition to just meet her at the Festival Supermall which is much nearer (for her) and convenient.

When we meet there, we ate at Tokyo Tokyo. Boy, was I hungry? My stomach was grumbling that time so I initiated the offer. Then we walked around and go shopping. xD Well not really the super duper shopping but I was able to buy one shirt which costs PhP400.00. And here's the risk, if I'll buy the shirt, I'll end up walking from Festival Supermall to our house (which is a good 30-40 minute walk). I end up buying it knowing the "exhausting" risk. xD Then imouto also bought a bag for her! Hahaha! The bag looks good so I hope imouto will be happy using it (and since it's her choice). And take note, after I bought the shirt, we stepped out and then *alarms* the detector (Electronic Article Surveillance) goes noisy! And then looked to imouto, my facial expression was like "WTF!? I didn't shoplift anything!" Then we laughed. xD And that wasn't the only time it happened awhile ago. When we entered into other shops, the detector also alarmed! Then I told imouto, "Oh yes! I'm a suicide bomber! Be afraid! Muhahaha!"

At the end of our day in the mall, I only have a miserable PhP6.25 on my purse and a PhP1,000.00 bill which is not a very good option to spend. And I lol'd out and asked myself, "Am I really going to sweat it out until I reach home?" And I can't help myself but to borrow PhP2.00 from imouto so that I could ride the jeepney and just walk a shorter distance. Then we walked to the bus terminal so that Nikki-chan could go home already. After awhile, we bid each other goodbye (and see ya tomorrow! xD)... And that's it. I'm going to face the challenge.

While I was in the jeepney, I'm already planning what I am going to do... but... But the jeep suddenly went into halt. It was gawdy traffic. After awhile, the jeepney driver returned the PhP7.50 fare to us since he couldn't drop us into our destination. xD And so I still wasn't doomed after all. xD God is still kind to me. xD haha! But then the jeepney driver gave PhP15.00 to the person in front of me. He told me, it's for us. "Oh?" Then the guy asked me where do I live and I said, "I'm from Soldiers' Hills". A good coincidence, he was living somewhere there too! (Although our house are far from each other)

While we were walking in the Nat'l Road until we reached our village, we talked (but not introduced ourselves) about something. He was kind and comfortable to talk to although he told me he was once a drug addict. But it's nothing for me since I can see now that he has changed a lot -- from the way he talks and approaches me, I can tell.

And then we separated on our ways inside our village and got home safely. I was excited to check my new shirt if it really fits me! xD haha! But you know what is the most surprising part? When I took out the shirt from the bag, *den-den-den-den* the electronic article surveillance was not detached!!? O,o so that explains why the detectors in the other shops were alarming!! Arghh, I'm still going to return the shirt later to detach the EAS... -__- But the good thing is, it fits me perfectly! ^__^

And in the end, the day was oh so truly great! I thank God that He hasn't greed on me up until now. xD A big lol for what happened awhile ago! Haha!

A Taciturn Birthday

sentiment: ... disappointed
harmony: "Ichiban Boshi" by Sachi Tainaka

And so it's my birthday... and... it's... nothing. I only heard from few people and sadly no one from our school. It's okay. I can still bear that. Yes, indeed my family did greet me... but why am I feeling this discontentment and disappointment? I don't know... but I don't like this feeling... It's making me cry... T___T

When I first woke up, my sister was already going to sleep. She did greet me and fell asleep immediately. When I walk out of the room, I was alone... Pretty serene... and silent, that is. I checked my cellphone, and saw many greetings. Yes, it made my day. I was happy and smile can be seen on my newly-wake-up face. I ate breakfast a little and cleaned the living room and this computer I am using right now for a few hours. I picked up the dried laundry and did some of the usual household chores so that I could help out a little.

I ate lunch and my little sister arrived from school and we ate lunch together. It was still fun although it was still very silent that time. No noise can be heard except from our mouths chewing our food.

Before evening, my parents arrived from their "duty" and greeted me once again. And they bought me a pancit malabon on their way. Due to lack of sleep, they immediately fell asleep as well. And there I was, watching TV until I used my computer just now.

I was very excited for tomorrow's event and can't wait for it... But not anymore. My other friends informed me that they cannot make it tomorrow. I know they have their reasons for not making it but... I still can't take away the disappointment that is filling my heart right now... Not only one, but two, three and almost all of them are not making it.

As I type this content right now, my teary-eyed explode more than expected. I know I'm still going to see them this Saturday so what's this fuss all about? Maybe it's because I can't celebrate my birthday in my own appointed plan and not on my own wanted place. Yes, I'm going to see them on Saturday but on a different place. Much further place than the appointed one. And it's my fault by putting such big expectations... Yes, I still have my own faults on this one unexpectedly.

I don't want to think that they don't want to go to "my appointed" place because its faraway from them since I can go overboard anytime with them. Or is it because my birthday was not in the right date and position? I can't blame it but I really wanted to blame my birthdate. Why should my birthday near Christmas? I'm not that generous anyway. But do I really deserve the disappointment I'm feeling right now? Maybe.

There's too many things that I want to say right now but all of them are voicing the same point... I'm not mad... just disappointed. *gets hanky* So even if it's my birthday, I'll just have to be the drama king.

Another Trivia: This is not the first time that I cried on my birthday. But I admit this one is different from those birthdays. Different cause and different commotions. That's it. And why am I crying? Because I can't take away the disappointment that I am feeling plus what I am listening to right now is for the sad ones... Yes, I do get sappy at times and my birthday is no exemption.

And thus, the day of my taciturn birthday will come to an end... and I hope when I woke up tomorrow, this disappointment will simply fade away inside me.

P.S. If you want to know how lonely the song I'm listening to, here take a listen here:

Get this widget Track details eSnips Social DNA

Old School and a New Trick!

sentimental: muhahaha!

harmony: "Feel Like dance" by globe

I was such a fool!!! I didn't know that the 1995 hit techno track Feel Like dance was from globe!!! o__O *banged* I love globe as well!! Well how did I find it out? While I was searching some info when suddenly *bump* I saw and confirm with my two eyes that it's globe indeed!! x__X *warui, warui* My parents were fond of buying "revival" tapes of this song that's why I didn't know that it was performed by globe and the techno pioneer Tetsuya Komuro. And now that I find that out, hail them!!! XD *hails* I just love this music... OLD SCHOOL J-trance mode. XD When I first heard this song, it got my adrenalin on the going and told my dad, "It's cool!". Although it's just a revival, and when I heard the original, it was more than great! XD Another realization, I already heard the original version but at that time, when I first heard it, I didn't know who performed it. xD *banged*

I downloaded its mp3 in eSnips... XD Oh talking about eSnips, I found out a new trick wherein you can have the song even if there is no "download" button available. Ever since that new audio policy (the download permission policy, that is) was implemented, many ranted because they have to edit the details of the uploaded mp3s one-by-one! I mean, if you have uploaded quite a sum of mp3s in your directory, you'll have the option to let it downloaded by the other eSnippers. But you'll have to edit it one by one and it's kind of... time-consuming. The default setting will be "no download button" unless you edit its details and check the check box in the lowest part of the page. Actually, I didn't know that eSnips implemented such policy if it weren't for some kind eSnippers and informed me of the new policy starting first day of December. Thanks, Mikan! ^_^

The most frustrating part is that what if the others are not in the mood to do that? Then it's a problem, isn't it? Then cry no more! Here's the trick on how you could get the mp3 without hassle of PM-ing the uploader to edit its details. xD Click the song you want to download. Then, listen to it as if it's just an audio stream. Wait until the music is finished. After the music has finished, check your Temporary Internet Files. You can access it via Tools menu and choose Internet Options. In the General tab, you can see the Temporary Internet Files portion and choose Settings.... Then choose View files.... Then a folder will open in another window. Then arrange it in any order you want (either it be by Date Accessed or File Type) so you can locate the file immediately. If you see a music file there with the URL of eSnips, then probably, that's the one you listened in the eSnips. Copy it and paste it somewhere you want. And that's it! Problem solved! XD

A Boring Turned Great Day

sentiment: tired
harmony: "Sukarabe no Inori -Ulysses Mix-" by Eiko Shimamiya

Today was a lot hassle. Awhile ago, I was late for my first and last class Operations Research despite the fact that I depart from home early. But the traffic approaching Alabang Town Center up to Alabang Hills Village was horrible. It was just a few meters away and yet I arrived at my destination for 15 minutes. o_o

Next, the tricycle station in the village was... I don't know, annoying? There were no tricycle when I arrived and there are many students that are stucked (and I was one of the helpless victim) because of the congestion on the outer lane (in which the automobiles are on the direction of leaving the village) and the tricycles were stuck as well. Then how about us, who are going inner in the village? My feet doesn't want to walk although I really wanted to do that. Maybe it's because of the very hot weather. My skin might get burned with too much exposure to sunlight.

My friend already texted me to hurry because they were already starting with the quiz! But what can I do if I'm stuck in the tricycle terminal with too many passengers lining up. And that's it. I arrived late in the class for 21 minutes. My class was 1:30 and I arrived at the classroom at 1:51. x_X And the quiz? It was so HARD! I love to hate Operations Research and Productions and Operations Management! Specially if you're stuck with same professor with some attitude of giving too low grades. Oh wtf... my day is kinda ruined.

After the class, we went to my friend's home somewhere in BF Homes to follow my friends and wait for them to finish their assignment. I could've just go home but my conscious don't want to. Ah f*ck that's why I was able to arrive home at 8:00 PM.

But before I go home, I dropped by at the Festival Supermall and buy me a new mic! *ah yes!* And I already used it!! *oh sweet joy* I already performed Mag Mell (the original one) by eufonius and tried some other songs but sad to say, I failed into some. But by the end of the day, I also sang Mami Kawada's I pray to stop my cry -little sea style-. Haha! Although my voice is not that kawaii -- I tried but i failed, miserably. XD Haha! Joudan! xP

Well then, time to go. I still have class tomorrow later and it's early! XD I might get late again so I'll be heading to my bed now. ^^ I'll be making a review for Jyukai's harvest album tomorrow if I can. ^_^

Ai no Hoshi/Hanamuke no Melody

sentiment: fine
harmony: "Ai no Hoshi" by Jyukai

Finally, I had the time to review this single. I wanted do this ASAP but I didn't have the time lately. I'm very busy with my life these past few days so I didn't have much time for blogging and reviewing. And I know, I'm a bit too late to make this review since this was released a good two weeks ago. Anyway, another revelation, this is my first time reviewing a Jyukai single. Maybe I'll be doing a "catch-up" review for their Wild flower album when I have the time but it'll be posted in my multiply.

Getting into the review proper...

I. Introduction

Ai no Hoshi/Hanamuke Melody (Star of Love/Farewell Gift Melody in English) is Jyukai's 6th single under Sistus Records (same as Sachi Tainaka) which is a subsidiary of Geneon. The title track was used as the theme song (both opening and ending theme respectively) for the Ah! My Goddess Tatakau Tsubasa, an OAV. I didn't know much for the anime (as I'm not a big fan of Ah! My Goddess) but surely this is the second tie-in of Jyukai to this anime (The first was Koibito Doushi, their second single which was used as the 2nd ending theme for Ah! My Goddess Sorezore no Tsubasa and a personal favorite although it didn't do quite good in the Oricon). And correct me if I'm wrong but this is the first single that Jyukai had 5 tracks on it since there are two B-side songs. I absolutely love the cover... they love (take note, LOVE!) photographing to lovely sceneries. Wait till you see the harvest album cover! That is totally love! I'll be reviewing that album later. ^_^ And just by looking at Manami's outfit in the cover, it must've been very chilly there with the jacket and bonnet but I totally like her outfit. It really fits her.

Tracklisting:

1. Ai no Hoshi - 4:01
2. Hanamuke no Melody - 4:25
3. Kaerimichi - 2:57
4. Ai no Hoshi (Instrumental) - 4:00
5. Hanamuke no Melody (Instrumental) - 4:24

II. Review Proper

Sorry, I have to skip the listening proper, I didn't have much time to upload them in my eSnips *gets banged*. For multiply readers, lucky you, I'll be uploading them in my Jyukai playlist maybe this weekend haha! But I bet the readers of this review already have a copy of this single. *sobs* Anyway...

Ai no Hoshi, I'm loving it!!! I'm so in love with this song!! o__O Jyukai rocks my socks for this one! Why does Yoshiaki and Manami continues to amaze my taste? Oh well, they really are talented for me. One of the most superb song that they composed this year IMO. So great you'll repeat it more than thrice. XD Starts with the guitar beats and xylophone (I think) then after 5 seconds, it turns out to be a very rockin' soft rock track. Manami's smooth voice blend well throughout the song specially in the chorus. And there are whistle-like sounds in the beginning part and after the first chorus part which makes it groovy. Beats of drum and electric guitar - at its best, usual. Yoshiaki Dewa always does the great things when it comes to win soft rock songs. The only unsatisfactory part of the song is its ending. It's like it just ended because it already needs to. But nonetheless, I still love the song. A refresher song beneath the downbeats, wait till you hear the next tracks, you'll surely fell asleep if you're not a ballad appreciator, that is.

Hanamuke no Melody, on the other hand, relaxes your adrenalin after hearing a very upbeat track which is mostly the case in the usual singles. IMO, there are only few singles wherein the A and B side songs are both upbeat. Much alike from their Komoriuta and Hoshi Akari songs as it shows the mellow and romantic side of the anime series, which an ending theme usually does. Starts off with a guitar (again) then starts off Manami's stimulating mellow voice then at the chorus, it becomes soft rock at its downbeat side.

Kaerimichi is a piano-only ballad. This is much more boring than the previous one yet I still appreciate this touching song. This is the first time that I heard Jyukai having a piano-only ballad but it's not half bad. I like how the piano was played plus with Minami's singing voice. It's still something I can appreciate but I still prefer Ai no Hoshi. And I'd say, this is one of Jyukai shortest song in history -- 2:57

Overall, I'd rate this a 4/5. I like the single! Much more better than the Hoshi Akari and Sakasete wa Ikenai Hana single.

Real Onigokko preview

sentiment: enjoying my milk tea
harmony: "Collective" by KOTOKO

*sips milk tea* ahh yes, milk tea is so creamy and delicious that I could drink it more than 5 times a day. But that won't really happen in reality since it's a bit expensive. Oh well, going to the main topic, I know it's already been weeks since the preview for KOTOKO's 10th maxi single Real Onigokko (Real Game of Tag in English) has been released but I was very anxious of the very short preview available so what did I do? Well I just combined the two previews available (combination of the previews available in the main website of the Real Onigokko film and from the special Geneon website). Although the quality of the previews are not consistent, at least it's still bearable to hear. Take a listen here:

It's a 62-second preview of the song. And here's the lyrics that scrolled from the special Geneon website which is the chorus part:

yokubou e
tsuba wo haite ketsu betsu no peal
ubawareta mirai tori modosu takami no august murder
subete ga asu e to nagare blow away and wipe out
tsukareta te hashi ga toki wo matsu

I'm excited for this single because it's a good song! From a previous denpa single then to a very serious and awesome single. It was a very unpredictable shift but so far, it's very good. Despite the very simple looking single cover, the song really got my attention. I can't wait to hear it's B-side song entitled siren and I am having a hunch it'll be a downbeat song and there's a possibility it'll have a little dark taste as well. The single is scheduled to be released on the date before my birthday, December 19 and it'll be next week! Yay! xD I'll bet I'll be listening to it the whole day in my birthday. =P

Kotoko's songs increasing (HD at stake!)

sentiment: just fine
harmony: "HALLUCINO -Remix-" by KOTOKO

Nowadays, I don't know myself why am I having the stimulus to download more Kotoko's songs. Yeah sure you know I'm an I've Sound freak but I never intended to complete Kotoko's oh-so-big discography. It's like climbing up Mauna Loa in Hawaii coming from below sea level. But right now, even if I don't have to dictate myself, I'm downloading at least 4-5 songs everyday when I had the chance. o_o I'm still a bigger fan of Mami Kawada though. xD *gets banged*

Currently, I already have 77 songs (excluding the instrumental, karaoke and off vocal versions of the other songs) uploaded in my KOTOKO playlist in my multiply. Not a bad amount, eh? But I still can't be proud of this collection... I still have many songs that I haven't DL'd on her whole discography. I think she already has 200+ songs so a big GOOD LUCK to me. xD *lol'd*

Oh well, there's no time limit on collecting this so I'll be taking my time on this matter. But I'm having a hunch, I'll be completing her discography despite the fact that my HD is limited... Oh well, I'll just burn the other music files and store them in a safe safe place. xD So don't be shocked when I got already 100+ of her songs in my multiply one day. =P haha! Expect that it'll happen. XP

Life's so dull

sentiment: frustrated
harmony: "Fuchidori no Sekai" by KOTOKO

Ugh, I missed my blog... I haven't posted here for several days... I admit I was really busy with some things and with school of course. I don't even feel that Christmas is just around the corner although it's really fast approaching, no doubt about it. And what's frustrating is that our class is until December 21... I wish it was already vacation because I need one... because I haven't had a time for myself these days because of paper works, studying and reports etc.

And I am rarely watching animes simultaneously. Yes, I still download but after I download, that's it. I can't watch because I still have to finish my homework and study for recitations. And I seldomly load my cellphone with credits since I don't have the time to text/message all of my friends. So sorry to those who keep on messaging me and yet I didn't reply. Yes, I received and read all your messages but one thing about life is insufficient of money so please bear with me... -__-

And there you go, I just want to let it out... I have to sleep now... My bed's inviting me to go there... And I felt the need for it since I haven't had a full sleep nowadays.

Winamp Meme

sentiment: excited

harmony: "Vacillate" by Mami Kawada

Got this from Nikki-chan's LJ. xD I got intrigued when I read this on her journal and decided to try it and here I am. XD

Go to your Winamp (or any media player that you have there) and put it on shuffle mode. Read a question and then switch to a song. That's going to be your answer for the question. Get ready!

1. What do you think of me, Winamp?
Song: Vacillate
Artist: Mami Kawada
Comment: Uhm, do I really fluctuate with opinions? o_O
2. Will I have a happy life?
Song: Oboetete ii yo
Artist: KOTOKO
Comment: Well, if you say so. I'll remember you when I had a happy life. x3
3. What do my friends really think of me?
Song: verge
Artist: Eiko Shimamiya
Comment: really!?? I'm a border?! of what?? o__O *got lol'd*
4. Do people secretly lust after me?
Song: Beyond the Sea
Artist: K
Comment: Ermm, isn't that a bit revealing?! O,o
5. What does [insert significant other] think of me?
Song: The Land Unknown
Artist: Nobuo Uematsu
Comment: Lolz, I'm a really that "rare"?! O,o
6. How can I make myself happy?
Song: 24 Search Light
Artist: NIRGILIS
Comment: Oh my gawd, how am I going to search for these 24 search lights when I don't know where they are?!
7. What should I do with my life?
Song: Fujun Ai (L)
Artist: Girugamesh
Comment: Uhm what the heck!? negative pure love!? o__O Am I really that loveless?!
8. Why must life be so full of pain?
Song: Kaede no Michi, Guitar no Kanaderu Oka de
Artist: KOTOKO
Comment: What the?! Playing guitar in the hill?! I don't get it! X_X
9. How can I maximize my pleasure during sex?
Song: Apocrypha
Artist: eufonius
Comment: Eh!? I don't get it!!! @_@
10. Will I ever have children?
Song: Kopperia no Hitsugi (Original Album Version)
Artist: ALI PROJECT
Comment: Oh, I'll have kids when I sleep in Coppelia's Coffin eh? a big lol!
11. Will I die happy?
Song: Kiseki
Artist: BoA
Comment: I'll die happy when a miracle happens.... xP that's it. XD
12. Can you give me some advice?
Song: triangle
Artist: Mami Kawada
Comment: erm, is that really an advice?! What will I do with a triangle?! play it?! stare at it?!
13. What do you think happiness is?
Song: This Love
Artist: Angela Aki
Comment: Uhm what love?!
14. What's your favourite fetish?
Song: Frame
Artist: Hitomi Shimatani
Comment: Uhm does that count? XD
15. Will I get far in life?
Song: Happy Birthday To You You
Artist: YUI
Comment: Is that connected?! Will I get far in life if I greet anybody when it's their birthday?
16. How do my friends see me?
Song: Shinjitsu no Uta
Artist: Do As Infinity
Comment: Well I do sing out the truth of me. XD
17. Where will i get married?
Song: Sanami
Artist: SnoW
Comment: At the residual wave?! Well well well... xD
18. What is my best friend's theme song?
Song: Love is Bubble
Artist: Bonnie Pink
Comment: Oh really?! As if it was the truth.. xD
19. What is the story of my life?
Song: Karenai Hana
Artist: Loyal/Unwithering Flower
Comment: Quite true. I'm loyal to my friends. XD
20. What is/was high school like?
Song: Fantasy
Artist: Nana Katase
Comment: NOW THAT'S AN ANSWER! XD NYAHAHA! *toinks*
21. How can i get ahead in life?
Song: Kanashimi wo Yasashisa ni
Artist: little by little
Comment: Well that's true. I have to turn loneliness to happiness. I shouldn't be lonely while I'm alive. xD
22. What is the best thing about me?
Song: Kogarashi ni Idakarete
Artist: Nana Katase
Comment: I am embracing the wintry wind?! REALLY!? o__O
23. How is today going to be?
Song: I don't want to know
Artist: Chen Wei
Comment: I don't want to really know! Well said. XD
24. What song describes my parents?
Song: Asura
Artist: KOTOKO
Comment: Erm, are they going to kill me with their move? xD
25. My grandparents?
Song: HEART BEAT
Artist: MARIA
Comment: Erm, no comment. xD
26. How is my life going?
Song: melty snow
Artist: Mami Kawada
Comment: well sort of...
27. What song will they play at my funeral?
Song: Kioku Love Letter
Artist: CooRie
Comment: Ah, such a lonely song... TT__TT
28. How does the world see me?
Song: Arekara
Artist: Mikuni Shimokawa
Comment: Ohh since then...? *suddenly got confused*
29. What is my signature dancing song?
Song: Congratulations
Artist: Goddess Family Club
Comment: Uhm is that a dance?! I'm not going to dance this!! NEMEET! *over my dead body*
30. What do I think my current theme song is?
Song: Owarinai Yume
Artist: Nanase Aikawa
Comment: COOL!!! 8-)
31. What does everyone else think my current theme song is?
Song: C-Girl
Artist: Nana Katase
Comment: Uhm, a big NOO!!! I'm not a commercial girl! ~~
32. What do I really want from life?
Song: Chasse
Artist: Kaori Utatsuki
Comment: Uhmm, I don't think so. xD Do I really want a drive out all of my life? Maybe a little probability, yes. XD But it's never a top priority, I tell you.
33. What should I do to help others?
Song: I pray to stop my cry -little sea style-
Artist: Mami Kawada
Comment: OOOHHH!!! XDD~ Is that really going to work?!
34. What should i do to help myself?
Song: Greedy
Artist: MOMO
Comment: OOHHHH!!!! I should be greedy!!!!! XDD *bangs myself*
35. What should I do to succeed in life?
Song: It's my life
Artist: Sachi Tainaka
Comment: Well, I'll be since it's really my life. XD
36. What is my one most important goal in life?
Song: Get my way!
Artist: Mami Kawada
Comment: Nyahaha! Right! Right!! *agress to it*
37. What do I get the most pleasure from?
Song: Wind Scene
Artist: Yasunori Matsuda
Comment: Wahihi, can be. XD
38. What do people assume when they first look at me?
Song: Mind Forest
Artist: Gackt
Comments: Well, sort of sometimes. XD
39. What Will be a big challenge in life for me?
Song: Tenshi no Kyuusoku
Artist: Masami Okui
Comments: Wakoko!! XD Is that really going to happen? *got lol'd out*
40. Am I a good boyfriend/girlfriend?
Song: Tatta Hitotsu no
Artist: Mikuni Shimokawa
Comments: WOW! Great! One and only, huh? *gets flattered then rolls into the floor like Hideki Motosuwa*

At the H3 Con...

sentiment: happy!
harmony: "VANILLA" by Eiko Shimamiya

This post was supposed to be done last night but I was very tired and I didn't have a long sleep on the past few days so I felt the need to go to the bed.

Anyway, the Hataw Hanep Hero 3 Event in SM X Convention Center yesterday was pretty good! The place was neat and wide. I thought I wouldn't be able to enjoy the event because I don't have the money to buy me a ticket. (--.) Thanks to Rei-chan, who bought me a ticket. ^_^ I'm really thankful that you're there, Rei-chan!!! Thank you very much! =D

There were too many people inside and many booths! Many fun activities like wall-climbing and rappeling were also present. But there's one thing that I really regret -- I wasn't able to join the Anime Sing Competition!!! TT__TT There were only few solo participants there. I'm not saying that they can't sing very well (so do I!) but they can do better, I'd say. I could've performed Mami Kawada's JOINT!!! huwaahh!! I missed the opportunity!! Ah well, I'll join next time. xD

What I really enjoyed in this convention was taking pictures! I've never been a camwhore before but because (at first before Martin and Marikit arrived) it's just the two of us and it would be a crime if we didn't take pictures when you have the digicam right? XDD So we enjoyed picturing the anime statues there and with the other cosplayers! At first, it made me nervous to approach one of the cosplayers and tell them that we want to take pictures but when you started the stuff, it gets really enjoying and you're bold enough to ask the others to take pictures next! xD

Even though, I'm not familiar with the other characters, as long as they're cute, *picture!* *camwhoring!* hahaha! Our friend Ray, who was participating in the H3 cosplay competition, was dressed as his favorite character in Trinity Blood as Father Tres Iqus but unfortunately, we were'nt able to see and talk to him (my other friends did when I already left).

I was waiting for him to show up in the stage but it was already 7:20 PM when I decided to left because it's already night and I arrived home at 9:00 PM. It was already on the contestant 80 or 90+ when I departed in the venue. And Ray said, he was cosplayer #139!! Oh no, if I waited for him, I would be going home at 11! I'll be damned piece of sh*t if I got home at that time. My father will scold me again for staying late at night but it was a good thing, he wasn't here last night (due to some important mission).

Jen was also there but she was busy scouting for new casts for her upcoming movie Sagashi Ateru 2 and we were helping her look for prospect as we walk around the convention but to no avail. But it's a good thing, she recruited 3 in this event and I'm happy for her. I must also work hard as the scriptwriter for this movie. xD I'm not promising that everybody will like the movie that we will make but we'll definitely work hard for it. ^__^