BABYMETAL have had a bit of a mixed run since the departure of YUIMETAL in my estimation. “Starlight“ didn’t manage to connect with me, but the relatively anonymous “Elevator Girl“ …
Read More »[Review] BTS’s “Lights” continues trend of their Japanese releases feeling superfluous
As popular as BTS are around the world, I’m surprised that their Japanese-language material hasn’t felt more essential. For me, the best thing to come out of their J-pop discography …
Read More »BABYMETAL joined by Sayashi Riho (ex-Morning Musume) at Glastonbury Festival, new album coming
BABYMETAL recently held a solo concert on June 28, though the main news that came out of that was SUMETAL and MOAMETAL were joined on stage by a guest in …
Read More »Yoshimoto Kogyo (‘PD 101 Japan’ partners) suspends 11 comedians for being paid to attend party held by ‘anti-social forces’ (organized crime)
In what is hilarious but correct wording, major entertainment agency Yoshimoto Kogyo has announced the suspension of 11 comedians for participating in a party held by ‘anti-social forces (organized crime).’ …
Read More »[Review] GOT7’s Japanese release “Love Loop” is pleasant but plodding
JYP Entertainment artists must have the most demanding schedules of any K-pop agency. Between Korea and Japan, it feels like they’re just constantly releasing material (GOT7 and Twice, especially). This …
Read More »Hara signs with Japanese agency, is preparing for activities
Hara is going to be starting Japanese activities soon and has signed with a new agency, Production Ogi. Goo Hara shared the happy news on her personal Instagram account as …
Read More »Amaki Sally opens up about social anxiety disorder after suspending some activities
Amaki Sally has recently announced that she’ll be taking a break from handshake events, high touch events, and individual meet and greets due to her ongoing battle with social anxiety …
Read More »LABOUM to hold audition for new member for Japanese activities
Five-member girl group LABOUM will be holding an audition to select a sixth member for their Japanese activities, and will take place through Rakuten LIVE, according to both NH Media …
Read More »AKB48 announce DEL48 & MUB48 sister groups based in India
It was reported late in 2017 that AKB48 would be expanding the brand to India in the form of Mumbai48 (MUM48) in 2018. Well that didn’t turn out to be …
Read More »[Review] IZ*ONE flatline on robotic “Buenos Aires”
Between their Korean and Japanese promotions, IZ*ONE are set to accrue the largest discography of any ‘Produce 101‘ group yet. Their cross-country releases are a shrewd business move, but I’m …
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