『Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Inferno / The Legend Ends』 Trailer (English)

ZOMG!!! That's truly the word that describes my excitement of this moment! My expectations of the next Kenshin installment are running high and the new preview vid only serves to heighten that anticipation! Watch it, love it and spread to the world!!

PV Analysis: DIAURA - "Menace"

DIAURA was formed in December of 2010, comprised of Yo-ka (ex-Valluna) on vocals, Kei (ex-Valluna) on guitar, joined in March 2011 by Shoya on bass and in April 2013, Tatsuya on drums. Since their formation they've released 12 singles and 2 full albums, conveying a theme of Their latest single as of this writing is Menace, released in March 2014. In attempting to analyse the video, I've consulted lyrics from HipHopVomit, and Google translate has done a number on them so bear this is mind as I refer to the words as I go.

SAMMYdress & RoseWholesale.com Latest Promotions, Shop And Save!

YesStyle: FINAL WEEK Of Korean Sale!

Tell all those who love styling the K-pop & K-drama way: Just ONE more week till the end of the Korean Sale at YesStyle.com! Don't miss this chance to shop and save, they have thousands of Korean products up to 60% off! 

They are also offering a limited-time coupon: KOREA5. By using this coupon code, you can get $5 off your YesStyle purchase on top of already discounted items, totally JJANG! Minimum purchase is $69. Please kindly refer to http://goo.gl/kGBw5r for terms & conditions.

The Toronto Japanese Film Festival Returns June 12-27, 2014

The Toronto Japanese Film Festival returns June 12-27, 2014 with a new 18 film line-up including the live-action BLACK BUTLER movie on June 14th! This I am excited for! Check their NEWS page for information on related film and cultural events including the announcement of special guests.

Tickets are available for both members and non-members, though the price varies based on membership status. Tickets can be purchased through the JCCC website and are available as of May 1st at 10AM.

Be sure to check the TorontoJFF FILMS section for this year’s line-up or click on the poster image below to access the 2014 film information!

Read all about the festival on their official website HERE!

Announcement: X Japan To Play Madison Square Garden

Amazing news for fans of classic metal band X Japan!  Drummer Yoshiki just announced at his classical show in Sacramento, California that X Japan will be playing Madison Square Garden in New York City on October 11.  There aren't a lot of details as of yet, but if you have even the slightest inclination to go, you will definitely want to keep an eye on their homepage and keep your finger on the trigger.  These tickets are sure to sell out almost instantly.  I also suggest joining Team Yoshiki, the special street team he set up to promote his classical tour.  He has given out some cool freebies in the past, like invites to his private show at SXSW, so who knows.  Maybe he'll do something cool for this show, too!

Press Release: Luna Haruna Making Her First Appearance At AnimeNEXT 2014!‏

Luna Haruna, announced as the musical guest for AnimeNEXT 2014!

After making a successful U.S. concert debut last year, Luna Haruna comes back for her 2nd concert in the U.S.! This summer, Luna will be making her very first appearance at AnimeNEXT 2014 from June 6~8. 

AnimeNEXT is the largest independently organized anime convention in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area and will be held at the Garden State Exhibit Center in Somerset, New Jersey.

Don’t miss your chance to catch Luna Haruna’s appearance at AnimeNEXT , which will make it her first time to perform on the East Coast!

AnimeNEXT 2014

June 6th ~8th, 2014

Garden State Exhibit Center

Somerset, NJ

http://www.animenext.org

The Weekly Quickie: Japan Night, the:Ø, SHONEN KNIFE

It's in with the new and out with the old. With Japan winning the bid for the 2020 Olympics, it's time for a new and improved Olympic Stadium. The old stadium, home of the 1964 Summer Olympics is set to be demolished in 2015. What does all this have to do with music, you ask? A two-night farewell concert event called simply, "Japan Night," will be held in the old stadium May 28-29. The first night, titled "Yell for Japan," will feature artists such as Ikimono-gakari, FUNKY Kato of Funky Monkey Babys, and the Gospellers. The second night, titled "Japan to the World," will feature Sekai no Owari, Perfume, Man with a Mission and L'arc en Ciel. Check the homepage for full artist listing and ticketing information.

New Facebook Pages For Project: Lixx!

As you may or may not know, the world of social media through Facebook has become extremely limiting. Originally a great platform for connecting with others and acquiring information it has become a closed, limiting and expensive SoMe platform. In fact unless you want to fork out a fair chunk of cash, the people who 'like' your page will likely never see what you post. Sadly this goes against everything SoMe is about. 

While we can't change Facebook's policies, we can double our efforts to reach you through that medium. To that effect we have launched some new Facebook groups to help keep you UTD on all our JRock and VKei promotion. There are groups for both Canada and the US, as well as general info. 

Please note that unless you check the 'Get Notifications' options from the sub-menu under the like button, you will NOT get the updates. Please refer to the photo at the top of this post to see where you need to check off! Keep your notifications turned 'on' in the groups as well. We'll get the news out!

Please like and support the ones that appeal to you! Thank you for your support!

General fan page: J-Rock, Visual Kei And Everything Japan: https://www.facebook.com/SoundsOutOfJapan

Fanpage Canada: https://www.facebook.com/pages/J-Rock-and-Visual-Kei-fans-in-Canada/637128916374326

Group Canada: https://www.facebook.com/groups/483757381753686/

Fanpage U.S.A.: https://www.facebook.com/pages/J-Rock-and-Visual-Kei-fans-in-the-USA/1500683046818767

Group U.S.A.: https://www.facebook.com/groups/279752188862500

Band Feature: Rose Noire

Rose Noire was formed by members Louie (Vocalist) and Jill (Violin) when they were the students of the Tokyo National University of Fine arts and Music. They won the ZOOM at SONY-ZOOM DEMO tape competition in 2007.

Their music is free from predefined genres and concepts. Composed of their own world, in their own image, of their own existence and music. Classical with a touch of variety like Rock, R&B, Club music, HipHop, Industrial, Electronica and others.

Meet the members and read the interview after the break!

J-rock North Promotions Inc. Presents: An Cafe At Animethon 21

Performing for their first time in Canada, An Cafe (a.k.a. Antic Cafe) will be part of the festivities at Animethon 21 in Edmonton, Alberta! More info is coming on this event, presented by J-Rock North Promotions Inc. in association with Sony Music Artists.

In case you're not aware of An Cafe, check out the video above or their bio below. This promises to be a great time that should not be missed! Stay tuned for additional information about this performance to come!

Animethon 2014

Date: August 8th - 10th, 2014 

Website: www.animethon.org

Concert Date: Saturday August 9th, 2014

Location: MacEwan University City Centre Campus, Edmonton Alberta

PV Analysis: DEZERT - "Himitsu"

Initially formed as Acid Cherry King in 2011, the Visual Kei band known as DEZERT released their first single in August of 2012. Comprised of Chiaki on vocals, Kira on guitar, SaZ on bass and Sora on drums, the band has released 6 singles to date. The PV for their first single, 'Himitsu' is a dark spectacle of mysterious imagery to accompany a frenetic electro-tinged rock piece.

OMG - Only 30 Days To Go Until Anime North!!!

Seriously, I can't believe it! It's so close! 30 days to go until absolute fantastic awesomeness with not 1, not 2, not even 3, but FOUR awesome bands joining us. You do NOT want to miss this convention! Come join ＨＯＳＨＩ★ＦＵＲＵ, Sol Ardour, Rose Noire and headliners DaizyStripper along with the J-rock North Promotions crew and of course us, Project: Lixx!!

If for some reason you've been under a rock and do not have your pass yet. Check out HERE for how to get one. See you in 30 days!!

The Weekly Quickie: ALSDEAD, AWOI, Starwave Records Fest Vol. 8

Loud-kei rockers ALSDEAD are back in action with the announcement of a new single and a new member!  The new single, called 『STARLESS』, will release on 6/4 and be up for presale at the ALSDEAD sponsored live, Judgement Day, on 5/17.  During the live, they will also be announcing the addition of a new member.  There's nothing official (I don't think) yet, but all signs point to this guy:

Nikky, formerly of GALEYD, has been filling in for Setsua at nearly every live since his departure in December of 2013.  Like I said, nothing official that I know of as of yet, but if it's not him, I'll eat my hat.  Check out the trailer for the show while you're at it.  It's pretty cool.

Gothic Beauty: 15% Off Sale!

Gothic Beauty has a SALE going on: use promo code SPRING2014 to get 15% OFF all purchases! Add 5 or more back issues and get EXTRA 10% OFF! Shop HERE!

They are also taking submissions for their Social Media.

Instructions here: http://kcy.me/z6vy

Photographer and MUA: Jes Hunter Photography

Model: Raven Rose - Alternative Model

ICE ELEMENT - Red Bull Live On The Road

Another awesome band that we love here at Project: Lixx has thrown their hat into the ring! ICE ELEMENT is competing for your votes in the Red Bull Live on the Road competition for the Summer Sonic Festival. 

There are multiple ways to vote. First head on over to this LINK then click the big red button at the bottom left of the profile picture. Then spread the love through Facebook and Twitter. After that stick around to watch their video just below and throw them a comment. It's that easy! These bands work their asses off to get their music heard, let's show them how much we appreciate it!

Review: Memento Mori - "Zenryaku, Shinai naru Kiguruibito e. - Shibuya Jigoku Ezu no Maki -"

About the band: 見世物小屋演者集団「メメント・モリ」(Misemono Goya Enja Shudan “Memento Mori”), which translates loosely into Freakshow Performance Group “Memento Mori”, is what I like to call a Neo-Traditional Visual Kei band formed in 2010 by vocalist Ai, guitarists Tsubaki and Jin, bassist Yohan and drummer Yue (unfortunately, Yue has left the band since this performance for medical reasons). Wearing kimono, hakama, and sometimes even samurai armor, they use a mix of hard rock and traditional elements to create a unique sound all their own.

PV Analysis: Black Gene for the Next Scene - "Welcome to Monster World"

Black Gene for the Next Scene (abbreviated as BFN or Black Gene) was formed in late 2011 by veterans of a multitude of other acts, currently following a theme of "Goshikaru transformer". Comprised of Ice on vocals, toki on guitar, Rame on bass and Sala on drums, they've released four singles and an album to date. Their latest PV for 'Welcome to Monster World' features an array of cinematic recall and considerable western influence in the visuals at play. The band talks about the PV in an interview, where they discuss the track addressing the nature of good and evil as well as the monsters inside us all.

Press Release: ELISA Releases 3 Singles, Including Her Newest Single “Millenario”‏

ELISA, making her U.S. debut this weekend at Sakura-Con 2014*, has just released 3 singles including her brand new single “Millenario”! 

Her latest song has been gaining attention for its tie-in to the popular TV anime series “The irregular at magic high school” as the ending theme song. Also released today are singles, “REALISM” and “Sobani Iruyo”, which were featured as ending theme songs for the hit TV anime series “Valvrave the Liberator”.

These singles are now available on iTunes, so add them to your music collection in time for ELISA’s concert at Sakura Con!

NEW single! “Millenario” (TV anime series “The irregular at magic high school” ending theme song)

“REALISM” (TV anime series “Valvrave the Liberator” ending theme song)

“Sobani Iruyo” (TV anime series “Valvrave the Liberator” ending theme song)

The Mootekkis - Red Bull Live On The Road

THE MOOTEKKIS * SUMMER SONIC * RED BULL LIVE ON THE ROAD * VOTING OPEN APR15-MAY16 (MAX ONCE A DAY)

All you awesome people. The Mootekkis are celebrating their 6TH YEAR together by having a crack at getting a spot in one of Japan’s biggest festivals ‘Summer Sonic’ via Red Bull’s ‘Live on the Road’ vote-off. (Too bad it ain't a who-can-dance-the-worst-off or we'd win hands down)

Needless to say, your help would be huuuuugely appreciated! You can help by going to this link http://www.redbullliveontheroad.jp/band/2014/themootekkis and:

1) voting (the red button next to the biography and just above the video), 

2) clicking the ‘like’ or ‘tweet’ button, 

3) clicking or sharing the video

4) EXPECIALLY by leaving a comment as this helps Red Bull gage the level of enthusiasm backing us up.

MAXIMUM RESPECT, THANK YOU & ARIGATO!!!

http://www.redbullliveontheroad.jp/band/2014/themootekkis

Via: Facebook

Dan's Pick: "在日フアンク (Zainichi Funk)"

                                                             

Hey!

Welcome to "Dan's Pick"! On the 15th of every month, I'm going to share with you a song that I really enjoy or find interesting. Usually it's just both. So to start off, I'm going to offer you something I'm quite fond of!

I came across this group through a friend of mine about a year ago. They're a funk band called 在日フアンク (Zainichi Funk). The song I'm posting isn't the song I first heard, but it's my favorite of the songs I have listened to. It comes off of their self titled album released in 2010. I think a lot of James Brown when I hear the vocalist, Hamano Kenta, singing. Also the way he moves and dances is also very James Brown-esque. The horns are soothing and remind me of summer. Between the band members they create a good sound and atmosphere and are a very tight band.

I'll quit jabbering and let you find out for yourself, eh?

[Official PV Zainichi Funk "きず"]

Band members:

Hamano Kenta (vocals)
Keita Murakami (bass)
Yoshihiko Oogi Liang (guitar)
Makoto Takeshi Nagata (drums)
Fukushima, "Pete" Mikio (sax)
Kubota Shigeru (trombone)
Murakami Motoe (trumpet)

You can purchase their music from YesAsia HERE!

Visit their Official Website,

Or follow them on Twitter!

SALE! SALE! SALE!

There's lots to see at 2 of our favorite affiliates! Check out the massive sales at SAMMYdress, then head on over to RoseWholesale and check out the latest spring and summer items.

RoseWholesale is also offering a special coupon code just for our readers. Use coupon code: roseaff14 to save an extra $6 off orders over $50 at RoseWholesale.com. Coupon code ends June, 14, 2014. Don't miss out!!

The Weekly Quickie: The return of PIERROT! and BLACKLINE

Holy 90's VKei, Batman!  I think I just timeslipped and fell in my childhood.  Earlier this week, a mysterious message appeared on PIERROT's homepage.  It simply read "PIERROT  -  2014.4.12 18:00 - Shinjuku Alta Vision."  Naturally, this got me buzzing.  It was on that day in 2006 that PIERROT announced their disbandment after a 12 year run.  What could this mean?  Was the band reforming?  Sure enough, on April 12, 2014, the band announced they will be reforming and playing two shows at Saitama Super Arena.  The first called "I said 「HELLO」" (cheeky) on 10/24 and the second, called "Birthday," on 10/25.  They also posted this message on their homepage:

4.12.2006

On this day, we announced our breakup

The decision was made in order to push forward earnestly

With feelings we can't put into words in our chests

And uncountable thoughts on our backs

We pushed forward without stopping, only seeing the past

4.12.2014

On this day, the five of us once again stand before you to make an announcement

This isn't to revive the past

Please observe the current PIERROT*

Personally, this makes me want to hop a plane to Tokyo and never look back.  Currently, there are only plans for the two shows, but I can't help but dream of a full-fledged reunion.  Check their homepage for details.

And another band back from the dead.  BLACKLINE recently announced their return from hiatus with a two-man show at Ikebukuro Edge on 5/15.  BLACKLINE announced their hiatus in December of last year.  Since then, frontman, Mikaru, has taken his synthetic art project, G.L.A.M.S., on the road to Paris.  Personally, I'd hoped to see more of this project before jumping back into the same old game, but it's always good to see an old favorite make a comeback.  Check their homepage for a teaser and live details.

And that's the Quickie.  Catch you on the flip side.

*translated by me and my Japanese is a bit rubbish, so quote with caution

Press Release: TOKU, Special Appearance In New York City!‏

Well known in Japan as the only flugelhorn player as well as a jazz singer, TOKU has also collaborated with several world renowned artists such as Hank Jones, Cyndi Lauper, Billy Hart, Eddie Gomez, David Kikoski, Toshinobu Kubota, Miki Imai, Maki Oguro, EXILE, and ZEEBRA. His latest collaboration will be with jazz group, Tommy Campbell’s TEA TrEE^O.

The performance will be on May 16 at the WhyNot Jazz Room, the first show at 9 pm and the late show at 11 pm. Don’t miss your chance to check out his special one-night only show in New York City!

Tommy Campbell’s TEA TrEE^O with special guest TOKU

Location: WhyNot Jazz Room

14 Christopher Street (between 6th and 7th Aves)

Friday, May 16, 2014

9:00pm and 11:00pm (2 sets)

$10 cover charge

https://www.facebook.com/whynotcoffeeNYC

Phone: 646.756.4145

Review: Nocturnal Bloodlust - Gears of Omega

About the Band:  Nocturnal Bloodlust is one of those genre-bending bands that can sometimes be difficult to categorize.  The best way I’ve found to describe them is Visual Melodic Metal-core.  The lineup consists of Hiro on vocals, Cazqui and Daichi on guitars, Masa on bass and Natsu on drums.  Since their inception in 2009, they’ve released 6 singles, one mini-album, and two full-length albums and show no sign of slowing down.  Gears of Omega, released on 3/19/2014, marks their first DVD release.

Shop Amazon.com!

Don't forget to check out Amazon.com for the latest releases. And be sure to check out their selection of .69 cent songs while you're there!

Anime North Day Pass Update

We have sold half of the all available Saturday-only Admissions for Anime North 2014. With less than 2500 admissions left, now is the time to purchase yours if you wish to join us for the Saturday. - via Facebook

PURCHASE HERE!

Easter Deals Galore: Street Casual, Floral Print + Elegant Chic‏

NEW! From RAMPStudio Production "Disposed Virtue"

Yuto's got another new track for us to check out and he wants your feedback! So check it out and let him know what you think. You can reach him via Facebook or post on the YouTube channel. 

T.O.P.'s First Solo Photobook Is Out!

T.O.P.'s very first solo photobook is out! Get it NOW at YesAsia!

SAMMYdress: 8% OFF Coupon Code: APRIL07. Ends On 17th, April, 2014.

8% OFF Coupon Code: APRIL07. Ends on 17th, April, 2014. Shine This Summer with Amazing Swimwears! Also be sure to check their weekly clearance sales! Up to 55% OFF!!! Be ready for spring!  

The Weekly Quickie: Crazy Shampoo, Synk;yet, My Bacteria Heat Island

 Disbandments have struck once again.  This time it's Crazy★Shampoo.  They recently announced that they will be disbanding on May 18th following their oneman at Shibuya La.mama.  They will release one final album, as yet untitled, sometime in May.  The official statement released on the members' blogs gave no reasoning for the disbandment, just thanked the fans and staff and asked for their continued support.  We wish all the members luck in their future endeavors.

Good news from members of Sink;yet.  Bassist Shiori, who has been on hiatus since January for treatment of Hodgkins Lymphoma, is expected to make a full recovery and return to band activities in May.  A free oneman live will be held on May 12 at Ikeburkuro Cyber to commemorate the event as well as the release of their MV collection, [dimension of vision.]  You can find comments by the band and Shiori himself kindly translated by the folks at Visual Keios.

I love hearing about new bands!  Ex-Chemical Pictures vocalist, Tenten, has announced he's started something new.  It's called My Bacteria Heat Island.  Information is sparse at this point and their OHP is pretty bare, but you can find a preview video and a very mysterious visual.  Keep an eye on their official twitter for quick updates.

I want to end this week's Quickie with a shout out to the readers.  You guys are awesome and we couldn't do this without you.  By the way, how am I doing?  Let me know in the comments.  Got a hot tip and want to see it on the Quickie?  Hit me up on twitter. 

And that's the Quickie.  See you next week, my lovelies!

Crestillion: Kriss To Step Down

In a series of very recent Facebook posts, Kriss and the band have announced he will be leaving Crestillion for personal reasons and priorities. The band will continue, with Kriss remaining very much a close friend. Though we are sad to see him go, we are happy to support him in all his future endeavors. The band comments can be seen below.

J-rock North Promotions - Update from Japan!

Our friends over at J-Rock North Promotions have posted a few updates from their current trip to Japan. Be sure to head on over to their Facebook page and let them know your support! First show up, Otafest in Calgary!!! Then Anime North in Toronto. See you there!!!

Hi J-rock fans! 

We got to see DIV, Born and DaizyStripper today in Ebisu, Tokyo at the Liquidroom for Hysteric Circus Asia Circut Vol. 1

So great to see DaizyStripper again. DIV and Born were amazing as well. If you miss the chance to see DaizyStripper in Toronto for Anime North you will regret it ^^! I hope you all have your tickets? 

Check out a few of the goodies we picked up for the fans today. 

More coming soon ^^

Hi J-rock fans! 

Born played another awesome live today at Takadanobaba Area in Tokyo along with Kiryu. Awesome bands. Anyone interested in seeing them in Canada? 

We grabbed a few goodies as well for the J-rock fans.

More coming soon ^^

PV Analysis: Sibilebashir - "Nounai Black Doll"

(From left to right: Yuto, Izumi, Marya and Rei)

Sibilebashir was formed in 2012, featuring Izumi on vocals, Marya on guitar, Yuto on bass and Rei on drums. The video for 'Nounai Black Doll' incorporates some elements seen in other Visual Kei offerings, but also pushes the envelope considerably as it challenges the viewer. The band's sense of the grotesque melds with their unique sound to create an indelible assortment of graphics presented at a breakneck pace. With the help of my pause button and screen caps, I've pieced together a narrative from the clip without the aid of lyrics.

ICE ELEMENT Teaser 'ENEMY' MV

Check out ICE ELEMNT's new preview of their upcoming MV 'ENEMY'. Not familiar with them? Check out their official links below. And also keep an eye on our blog, something may just be coming your way!!

Official Website

http://ice-element.jimdo.com

Official Twitter accounts

Vo:SYOGO → https://twitter.com/iceSYOGO

Gt:SYOTA → https://twitter.com/iceSYOTA

Ba:YU-SUKE → https://twitter.com/iceNOMUNII

Dr:YU-YA → https://twitter.com/iceYUYA

Press Release: HOME MADE KAZOKU Celebrates 10th Anniversary With Shows In The U.S.!‏

HOME MADE KAZOKU is currently in the midst of their 10th Anniversary “THE BEST OF HOME MADE KAZOKU TOUR” in Japan.

As part of their 10th Anniversary project, they have just announced that they will bring the show on the road in the U.S.!

Their first appearance will be at FanimeCon 2014 from May 23-26 in San Jose, CA and their fall show will be held at ANIME WEEKEND ATLANTA in Atlanta, GA from Sept 26-28.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate HOME MADE KAZOKU’s 10th Anniversary together with the band!

    

Also, don't forget to pick up their latest BEST album,

"Kahou - The Best of Home Made Kazoku-"

Review: Chthonic 'Bu-Tik'

CHTHONIC (from left): Doris Yeh (bass/backing vocals), CJ Kao (keyboards), Freddy Lim (lead vocals/erhu), Dani Wang (drums), Jesse Liu (guitars/backing vocals)

CHTHONIC:
REDEFINING GENRE BOUNDARIES THROUGH INNOVATION

By James C. Stewart

Recently I’ve been listening to a lot of the Taiwanese act Chthonic. I should’ve added some sort of genre designation before the word act…maybe the usual western bullshit terminology like “black metal”, “death metal”, or “symphonic metal”. But none of these labels—and we all know how the metal scene loves its labels—really define Chthonic’s music. Instead Chthonic produces a genre-bending brand of Taiwanese heavy that meshes the familiar with the unfamiliar.

Miyu, Rock'n'Roll Witch From Japan Returns To The US!

My friend Miyu returns to the US, this time hitting up Lancaster, PA!!! Frontwomen and vocalist of Roundface, she'll be performing solo at the Launch Music Conference in just a few weeks. Details can be found at the link below! 

April 19th, 2014

Launch Music Conference2014 in Lancaster,PA.

Performance at The Lancaster Dispensing Co.

http://www.launchmusicconference.com

You can also check out my live footage of her from her performance at Free Times Cafe here in Ontario during Indie Week last fall. Watch it!