Open Roads of Eucalyptus

I checked my Last.fm scrobbles, it seemed that I had been listening to so many Fleet Foxes songs unintentionally. Although I was not interested in this band for the first time, Now I'm addicted.

Anyway, my best memory of 2011 was that I attended Belle and Sebastian gig in Tokyo. A week after, terrible earthquake and Tsunami hit Japan though.
However, as I recall the gig moment, it cheer me up.

I expected that Arcade Fire will come to play in Japan this year but that didn't happened. I hope they will come to Japan next year.

Drawing practice

2011-10-31T04:27:00.001-07:00

From November 20, 2011

I created an another art-work.

iPhone 4S and OS X Lion

2011-10-30T05:29:00.001-07:00

I renewed my iPhone 3GS to iPhone 4S. At first, I'm not going to replace to new one but SoftBank career practice a campaign to free upgrade plans for 3GS owner.
So, I decided to replace it.

First, I need to upgrade from Mac OS X Snow Leopard to Lion. It was really easy to download Mac OS Lion through Mac App Store. Although it took several hours, I could upgraded to Lion without any effort.

But...I felt like my Mac is running very slow. Why???

When it comes to iPhone 4S, it's getting faster! Still I can't use the new functions thoughtfully though, I like Siri function. There is no Japanese version so far, but talking to Siri is really good way to train my English pronunciation. Because Siri can't understand strong accent.

Holy Flying Circus

2011-10-23T05:18:00.001-07:00

I just finally watched a TV drama called "Holy Flying Circus" which is based on the 1979 television debate about the film Monty Python's Life of Brian.

As luck would have it, I became a big fan of Pythons most recently, and I was just thinking if today's actors play Pythons, it would be great. My dream came true!

Before you go any further, all of the actors really look alike Pythons! Especially, Charles Edwards who played Michael Palin looked almost exactly like him.

Rufus Jones who played Terry Jones is really look-alike for cross-dressed Terry J as well. I love Terry J's cross-dressing<3

At first, I imagined the story going to be more serious, but in fact, the story includes a lot of jokes and Gilliam-esque animations just like Monty Python's Flying Circus sketches. I think it was satisfactory interpretation for Pythonians.

Unfortunately, John Cleese and Terry Gilliam did not seem to be satisfied with this drama because it's inaccurate. Admittedly, this story seemed a little bit unrealistic. But I like it. At least, Terry Jones liked this drama.

Anyway, as always, I hope Japanese TV station do a broadcast it. I think there are a lot of Monty Python fans in Japan.

R.I.P Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T05:28:00.000-07:00

With the benefit of hindsight, a Mac which I first started to use was Power Mac G4 Cube. It was my brother's. At this time, I hadn't owned a computer, so I used to share the Mac with my brother.
From back then, I really like the G4 Cube design. There were not other stylish and cool design computer as good as Mac at that time.

And now I'm owning iMac, iPod classic, and iphone. I can't live without Apple products. In the future, I'm going to buy MacBook Air and iPad.

The good thing about Apple is trailblazer in the field of personal computer and smart phone but, never go mainstream. Unfortunately, it seems Windows OS and Android OS dominate a Japan market. I suppose that's why Apple attracts people who hate mainstream hipster-like me. Anyway, you can't understand the user friendliness of Mac and iPhone until you've tried it.

Steve Jobs' life is so dramatic and he's the guy I'd want to look to as a model. Reading his quotes, they really cheer me up.

"Stay hungry, Stay foolish" Really good word.

I hope Apple will inheritor of Steve Jobs' spirit and keep producing innovative products in the future.

Thank you, Steve.

Guiar Lesson

2011-09-25T05:48:00.000-07:00

I went for guitar lesson yesterday. In any case, I went to learn changing acoustic guitar strings and the basics of guitar.
I've been learning to play the guitar on my own for years, but there are many things to learn.

Then I noticed my guitar is half broken. I need to buy a new guitar any time now. Actually, I want to buy this guitar.

It's Graham Coxon Telecaster!!! This guitar has Graham's signature. I'm just a fangirl. I don't know whether I can buy it from Japan though.

Lemon Curry?

2011-09-19T05:47:00.000-07:00

I bought complete series of Monty Python's Flying Circus! Although I can't understand some jokes from the period, most of sketches get a laugh. I became thoroughly Pythonian!

By the way, what is your favorite sketch?
Listed below are my favorite sketches.

Upper Class Twit of the Year

Look at their silly faces! The winner of this sketch was Gervais (Michael Palin) but, the real winner is Oliver (Graham Chapman) for me!
"And Oliver has run himself over!!!" Hilarious!

Silly Job Interview

For some reason, I like Graham as a straight man. John's authoritative character is good as well.

Hungarian Phrasebook

What a phrasebook LOL

Kilimanjaro Expedition

I like the unexpected punchline.

Marriage Registry office

Eric's wife is John!? Why they all got married XD

Art Gallery

I LOVE Graham and John as Pepperpot with high pitch voices. It's really tall women. I really like the scene where John slapped her child with no reason when Graham was seeing off her child.

In conclusion...

Dead Parrot

It seems Dead Parrot sketch is very popular all over the world, but actually I couldn't understand the humor. Conversely, perhaps because I had already watched Graham Chapman's funeral, the line of Ex-parrot made me cry.

Torchwood

2011-09-18T05:48:00.000-07:00

I started to watch Torchwood since last year because I'm a huge fan of Doctor Who. I really enjoyed 1st and 2nd series. It's like Doctor Who for adults, there are a lot of sexual and violent scenes but each character is unique and I liked the storyline as well.
However I was bored with after 3rd series. I came up with some reason. Too much characters are dead. Owen is dead, Toshi is dead, and Ianto is dead!!! Main characters death is dramatic but this is too much.

And the theme become too cosmic, there are more scenes which I feel they should call the Doctor. Considering that fact, Alien appearances and time travel scenes are decreased.

And it's a little bit Americanized after 4th series. Although I like British style...

Is there a 5th series? or collaboration with 11th Doctor? I hope It'll get better.

Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Gardens

2011-09-01T03:49:00.000-07:00

Actually, now I've been taking a web design course. Web design has been a thing I've been intrigued by. There are limitations to study by myself, so I decided to learn from professional.

The other day, we went to Kumamoto Zoo as a part of single-lens reflex camera lessens. It's really difficult to use because I've never used this kind of camera.

Difficult but interesting to use this camera. Expensive but there are a lot of compact and light single-lens reflex camera has been released. I want to buy it.

Britpop fever again!

2011-08-31T04:20:00.000-07:00

I was very impressed by Suede live at Summer Sonic the other day. After that, I became a huge fan of Pulp. Because I watched their show at Reading Festival on YouTube.
I am a fan of Pulp for some time but when I started to listening to Pulp, they have already disbanded.

Nowadays, Jarvis Cocker is more familiar to me as a presenter of BBC 6 Music.
Watching Pulp show, I felt Jarvis Cocker's sexy dance is alive and kicking. It is a fact that Britpop music scene is brilliant!

Look at the lyrics again, it's really dramatic and romantic.

"Let's all meet up in the year 2000" Really nice lyrics, isn't it? I wanted to meet them the year 2011 in Japan! It seems they won't work as Pulp anymore though...

Original Poster

2011-08-26T00:57:00.000-07:00

I made another original poster. It's Graham Coxon, one of my favorite guitarist. I used to create art works with Photoshop Elements but I finally got Photoshop.

I uploaded the art work on Tumblr, the post got many likes and reblogs! I'm very glad them like it. It will take some time before I become a master of Photoshop and Illustrator.

Summer Sonic 11@Osaka Day2

2011-08-17T05:44:00.002-07:00

One Night Only

They are known for one of their song was used for Coca Cola commercial.
The vocalist was wearing bandana with Japan's national flag around his head. Their songs are very brisk, energetic and made us happy!
Their last song was of course Japanese version of "Can you Feel It Tonight".
I later heard that the drummer is the vocalist's brother and ex member of Joe Lean and the Jing Jang Jong which was disbanded 2 years ago.

Cage The Elephant

I originally like this band, especially the vocalist Matt powerful looking guy. When I was watching this year's Coachella festival webcast, he cross-dressed!
Unfortunately, he's not cross-dressed at Summer Sonic but, surfed the crowd many times. They were lifting the audience so much!

The Thing Things

I was a little bit tired, so I watching them while sitting quietly in a corner. Nevertheless, they had released just one album, their show was in full swing. The singer Katie tried speaking Japanese. It was a little bit clumsy but cute!

KOЯN

To be honest, I'm not interested in this kind of music but I moved downstage to stand by for Beady Eye. I was a bit scared because I predicted KOЯN's audience doing heavy mosh.
Luckily, I didn't encounter the moshing people. Conversely, It's fun to watch head banging people:)

Beady Eye

Surprisingly, they appeared at the fixed time.
Despite of the boiling hot weather, Liam was wearing mods coat. But he was in a good mood and their show was really good. I expected big, loud, sing along like Oasis gig. Unfortunately, there were few people singing along to their songs.
Actually I wanted to see as Oasis because I've never seen Oasis gig. I really feel bad about the Oasis split.

The Strokes
Finally, long-awaited The Strokes. They are also one of my favorite band. Especially, they provided a motivation for me to start playing guitar. I often practice guitar with The Strokes songs. So, I was really looking forward to see them live.
All of the member is stylish and good-looking. I admired Nick and Albert's guitar play. The set was well mix of the old and the new.
However, I felt just not good enough because they didn't play Juicebox. And I should have gone to mosh pit area.

Summer Sonic 11 @Osaka Day1

2011-08-17T05:44:00.001-07:00

I attended Summer Sonic 2days this year because this year's lineup was so attractive in sharp contrast to the last year.

However, the weather was boiling hot day, really tough trip.

The Morning Benders

I usually arrive at the venue at around 11 each year. Their show will begin at 12:10, but I arrived at 12:20! The road was crowded with vehicles. Oh, no!!!
I was really looking forward to their show. But anyway, I could listen some songs.
Especially, I could sing along with their last song "Exuses"

Two Door Cinema Club

They came to play last year, but for me, this was the first time to watch their show. They are already attaining popularity among Japan, there was a large audience.
All of their songs are very catchy and the vocal, Alex has beautiful high voice.

Friendly Fires

I always feel like dancing when I listen to their songs. Of course their live performance made me dance! And the vocalist, Ed MacFarlane was doing really funny dance. Due to his heavy dance, he had an exhausted look :)
Anyway, It was really good dance music!

Metronomy

Still in the midst of the Friendly Fire's show, I left to another stage to watch Metronomy. They used now-familiar push lights stuck to their chests.
The show had really wondrous atmosphere. There were some songs from latest album called "The English Riviera"
When the last song "Radio Ladio" was played, I sing along with the song with a loud voice!

P.i.L.

I was standing on the sidelines to watch the next show, Primal Scream.
I was too exhausted, I was watching them very far from the stage.
I couldn't make up my mind which to choose between Primal Screem and Red Hot Chili Peppers and Suede. Finally, I decided to watch all of them.

Primal Scream

The band are touring their 1991's masterpiece "Screamadelica" I love Primal Scream but I never heard of their early stuff. So, I immediately got the album and learnt the songs beforehand.
As I expected, I really amazed by the show. The show begun with "Movin' On Up". The crowd was singing the chorus!

After I listened few songs, I left to watch Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Red Hot Chili Peppers

When I got to their stage, there was huge audience that I've never seen before. I felt that how popular they are among Japan!
I watched them really really far from stage. Hmm...it's underwhelming.
I left to watch Suede because I could heard famous song such as "By The Way" or "Scar Tissue"

Suede

For me, speaking of Brit Pop, it's Oasis, Blur, Pulp and Suede. Once Suede broke up in 2003. In 2010 they reunited and started the world tour. It was said that after the tour Suede will split again, this show will be the last concert in Japan.

When I got to the stage, the floor was surprisingly almost empty. Perhaps, I thought most of audience went to see Red Hot Chili Peppers. I felt pity for them. However, luckily I could watch them so close! And most of the audience seemed enthusiastic Suede fans. I was impressed by their loud sing along. I regretted that I haven't learnt their songs enough.
Brett Anderson was sexier and voluptuous than I might imagine.
Too late but I became a huge fan. I was nearly in tears when they were playing the last song, "Saturday Night".
Osaka venue audience could listen the song on Saturday night. It was great privilege!

27 Club: RIP Amy Winehouse

2011-07-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

I heard a really shocking news today. Amy Winehouse has been found dead in her home. She was only 27. I'm the same age as her. I can't believe this.
She seemed wild tomboy and scandal-tainted but she has glorious musical talent, I really love her distinctive voice.

Come to think of it, she has been taking a break from her musical activities lately. And she looked very emaciated. I was vaguely aware of her drug addiction.
I'm really sad because I was looking forward to her comeback.

At any rate, musicians should beware of drug abuse. I can't stop worrying about Pete Doherty.

Ironically, she became a member of "27 Club" just like Kurt Cobain, Jimi Hendrix etc.

However her music will live forever - R.I.P

Harry Potter Final (Spoiler)

2011-07-20T01:53:00.000-07:00

Finally, I went to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 the other day. In the end, I hadn't read the final novel. So, I didn't know the ending.

Anyway, I was really touched by Professor Snape's sincere love for Lily Potter!!!! From the beginning, I like the actor Alan Rickman. He has great voice and distinctive acting skill. So, I like as the character, Severus Snape as well regardless whether he is good man or not.

Finally, I found that real hero in this film is Severus Snape!

After I watched the movie, I got the final book immediately and read a book through at one go. I noticed some facts which didn't depicted in the movie.
For example, Remus Lupin's son, Ted Lupin hasn't appear. I think he's also good character.
Wherever feasible, I want to see Severus Snape and Ted Lupin's spin-off.

Anyway, I think Harry Potter series is wonderful production go down in movie history.

Monty Python

2011-07-15T21:45:00.000-07:00

I took a liking to old sketch comedy "Monty Python". I knew the comedy by name at first. I often heard that the word "SPAM" comes from this comedy.

At any rate, this is about 40-year-old comedy series, I couldn't even imagine I become interested in this comedy.
It all started when I'm reading some Pythonians' tweets. Their tweets are very interesting and funny. So, I often watch Monty Python's sketches on YouTube. When I watching their sketches, I felt they are genius! This comedy can still be adapted even today. If anything, their comedy has originality that recent comedy don't have.

I wanted to rent all Monty Python DVDs, but unfortunately any rental shop doesn't have them. I felt disappointed...
However, I the cutdown version will come out soon. I have to buy them!

My best under 2 minutes songs

2011-07-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

The Vaccines' song called "Wreckin' Bar (Ra Ra Ra)" is only 1:22 seconds long. Really short but it's enough to uplift the listeners.
Thinking about it, there are many great songs under 2 minutes.
I give a few examples that I can come up with.

'Fell in Love With a Girl' - The White Stripes (1:49)

'Bank Holiday' - Blur (1:42)

'Chi Ga' - Mando Diao (1:44)

'C. 16th ±' - These New Puritans (1:38)

'Sheena Is A Parasite' - The Horrors (1:41)

'Seaside' - The Kooks (1:39)

'Scooby Driver' - Belle & Sebastian (1:13)

'Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want' - The Smiths (1:51)

I think most of under 2 minutes songs are up tempo and aggressive.

Turntable.fm blocked outside US

2011-06-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

I wrote about the brilliance of Turntable.fm before but sadly, Turntable.fm blocked access to everyone outside the US. Although I was vaguely conscious of this control.
I suppose the service has many copyright issues. But it was very good way to spread my favorite artists.

However, come to think about it, that was a big time-waster for me. If I had been using it, I might shut myself off from society.

If allowed the opportunity I wanna use it again though...

New Raincoat

2011-06-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

Recently, we have been experienced a continuous spell of rainy weather. So, my dog got new raincoat.
He looks so happy :)

Virtual DJ

2011-06-19T06:22:00.000-07:00

I heard a rumor that new internet service called "Turntable.fm" is favorably compare with Facebook or Twitter. If I do say so myself, I have a weakness for things that are new. I started Facebook, Twitter, Turmblr in 2007. So, when I heard about this rumor, I was dying to try it. Unfortunately, this site is invite-only system. I must be logged in through Facebook and one of my friends must be a member. I didn't have a member friend but, I managed to get the friend.

When I tried it, I realized that how addictive it is! I spent a great deal of time DJing on Turntable.fm!!! I'm very happy when someone loves music which I played.

In light of Japanese law copyright, this site might have some control but, I do hope I want to use it continuously.

My Original Poster

2011-06-08T20:42:00.001-07:00

Finally, I went to see "Never Let Me Go" in the theatre. It is the first time I saw a film after I've finished the original book and translated book carefully.
For all these reasons, when I was watching the film, I focused on how the original book was adapted into a film. To my great disappointment about it was that cassette tape episode was left out by a large margin. Besides this, well-adapted.
Some people say this is so depressive but, I felt it not so. I think when it comes to "Depressing Movie" is "Dancer In The Dark" so far.

I made my original poster for this film.

Let The Right One In

2011-05-25T06:21:00.000-07:00

I watched a film called "Let The Right One In" the other day. This is Swedish vampire movie. Unlike other vampire movie like Twilight, this is no longer a mere teenage love story. Nordic scenery was very beautiful, serene hush for a horror. After I watched this, I got the urge to read the original novel.

Then, I read a book through at one go, I felt it profound, and more scary than the movie. I found that the title comes from Morrissey's song called "Let The Right One Slip In". The author seems The smiths' fan.

I heard that the movie has American remake. It hasn't released in Japan yet. I usually don't like remake. So, I thought it must be rubbish especially because Swedish one was so great.
But it seems highly acclaimed as well as the original.
I guess the American one is faithful to the novel. I wanna check it.

Witchazel

2011-05-21T04:18:00.000-07:00

Take My Hand - Matt Berry from Gerard Giorgi-Coll on Vimeo.

Do you know the actor who is playing Douglas Reynholm from The It Crowd is musician? I just noticed about this. Douglas Reynholm AKA Matt Berry has released two albums.

The latest album called "Witchazel" has just released in March 2011. I listened some of his songs, I felt it's really cool. I couldn't imagine that these songs were created by comedian. The sound is like 60's pop music.
To my surprise, this album was created using GarageBand.
One of his music video called "Take My Hand" is also narrative fashion and nostalgic feel.

Fans of the IT crowd and The Mighty Boosh should check this out!

Sakura

2011-05-03T00:47:00.000-07:00

Long-awaited Kyusyu Shinkansen opened on 12 March. Unfortunately the opening ceremonies were canceled due to the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. If the catastrophe hadn't happened Kyusyu Shinkansen opening news would have dominated by the subject.

I've been meaning to see Shinkansen but I'd forgotten about this.

So, I decided to go to see it because I'm planning to go Osaka by Shinkansen next summer.

I took some photos at the Kumamoto station. There were some person believed to be trainspotters.

Helplessness Blues

2011-05-01T00:47:00.000-07:00

Now I'm really into Fleet Foxes' latest record "Helplessness Blues". Few years ago, I noticed that their debut album was highly-praised by all the media. But I'm not interested in this band at the time because I felt it's too traditional. I didn't know why they were so appreciated. And they looked very old.

In these days, I heard really beautiful songs on the radio very often. It was Fleet Foxes songs.
I listened their debut album properly, I felt what a beautiful melody and harmony! I felt like I'm in the woods. To my surprise, they are only in their early 20s.

Their new album is also great. I think Robin Pecknold is genius.
Now I can understand the reason why they won critical acclaim.

Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues by subpop

Have you tried turning it off and on again?

2011-04-25T02:19:00.000-07:00

Finally, I got The IT Crowd Complete Series 1-4 Box Set. Unfortunately, this is not Japanese version. I can understand this comedy even poor English speaker just like myself.

I suppose these catchphrases are popular such as "0118 999 881 999 119 725...3" or "Have you tried turning it off and on again?" but "Did you see that ludicrous display last night?" is my best! Roy blubber out this phrase in a car. He is so cute. LMAO

Season 2, Episode 1's Gay Musical was also hilarious! This episode is supremely epic!!!

I realized Richard Ayoade has good talent as a comedian. I think it's better to say I can't imagine that he directed such stylish film called "Submarine".

The IT Crowd is broadcasts by satellite in Japan but The DVD is not available in my country after 2nd series. It's a shame...

Thanks for many supports for Japan

2011-04-24T02:13:00.000-07:00

Many celebrities all over the world offered financial support to the earthquake and tsunami victims. I'm extremely grateful for these prompt action.

And many musicians are released charity songs such as Beady Eye, My Chemical Romance, Feeder, The Morning Benders etc.
Beady Eye held Japan tsunami benefit gig in London as well.

I realized that power of music is enormous. These musicians gave a chance that many people can donate in a friendly manner.

I hope these relief money will go to disaster-struck areas soon. And I want to help these actions as much as possible.

Coachella 2011 webcast

2011-04-20T02:18:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed this year's Cochella Festival webcast. I suppose the webcast is getting higher image quality. I felt like I was really attending the festival.

Due to this 3days event, I couldn't go anywhere! hahaha. Totally stay-at-home life.
Above all, this year's headliners are Kings Of Leon, Arcade Fire and The Strokes. Unfortunately, it's impossible that KOL and Arcade Fire to headline at Japanese rock festival so far. Although I really want to see these bands most at this moment...

Anyhow, these headliner's performance was so amazing!!! Especially, I overwhelmed by Arcade Fire's "Wake Up" with lots of glowing balloons.

Go Renewable Energy

2011-04-16T02:12:00.000-07:00

I believed Fukushima nuclear plant's problem will end soon. However the situation is getting worse. I get sad thinking about residents of Fukushima prefecture. People who lived inside Fukushima 30Km evacuation zone are not able to get back home even if their house was undamaged.

And this nuclear accident scatter not only deadly radiation but also harmful rumors. Amount of radiation of any Japan area except around the nuclear plant is normal level, but many tourist spots have been hit by harmful rumors.
That's exactly the economic damage.

I'm thinking about future energy problems. I think as a Japanese, I don't need nuclear plant anymore. I think nobody can't say for sure that nuclear plant is safe hereafter. Nuclear power plants do not produce CO2. However when it have an accident once, a great deal of nature is destroyed.

We have to consider switch to clean energy. Especially, with this problem as a start, Japan should take the lead on sustainable clean energy future.

Submarine

2011-03-31T05:41:00.000-07:00

I found an another my favorite film director. His name is Richard Ayoade.

Yes! It's Moss from The It Crowd. I didn't know that he directed many music videos such as Arctic monkeys or Vampire Weekend.

I just bundled all of his works on this blog.
Most of his works are familiar to me.

Finally, he made his debut as a film director. The title is "Submarine", which is a 2010 coming-of-age comedy-drama film adapted from the 2008 novel of the same name by Joe Dunthorne.
Alex Turner from Arctic Monkeys also provided 6-track EP for this film.

It seems really stylish film. I hope it will come out soon in Japan.

JAPAN QUAKE

2011-03-13T00:07:00.001-08:00

Something astonishing has happened. Now we are encountering unparalleled disaster. Incredibly huge earthquake hits Japan on 3/11 and tsunami covered the coastline area.

This massive earthquake created an irrecoverable great range of damage among eastern Japan.
Fortunately, I'm living in Kyusyu, the south island. No damage was done at our area. However, I'm really distressed by this tragic news. This is not an event isolated from my own life. This is my country.

In fact, my relative lives in relatively worst-affected Kanto area. Luckily, no one was harmed in the quake.

Japan has historically been confronting such disaster. Earthquake or typhoon occur at a high level. And we are the victims of the atomic bombs.

But we have been overcame these difficulties. So, I believe Japan will entirely recover from this tough corners again.

In any case, I just wanna say don't panic and stop spreading the false rumor.

Tokyo Sightseeing

2011-03-05T21:40:00.000-08:00

The next day of Belle and Sebastian concert, we went sightseeing in Tokyo. Most young people may have visited Shibuya or Harajuku as a sightseeing area. But we went to Tsukiji fish market because my parents said that pick up some souvenir from Tsukiji.

I can see Tokyo Sky Tree from Haneda Airport. It's quite blur though.

Belle and Sebastian Concert @Studio Coast

2011-03-05T21:39:00.000-08:00

Finally, I went to long-cherished Belle and Sebastian's live gig last night. I've been thinking I must see their gig before I die. And I didn't wanna miss out this chance because I couldn't go Fuji Rock Festival last year.

I usually choose Osaka venue when I go to gig but this time I chose Tokyo venue because I can't get off of work on Thursday.

The day was really freezing! While waiting for the doors open outside, I was shivering.
But I bought the ticket in good season, I could go front row!

Anyway, their show was conciliatory mood. The set was well chosen, they played old and new songs. They even met audience's request.

And the greatest pleasure of their show is to engage with the audience. They often invite some audience on their stage. I really wanted to go up on stage but I couldn't. But some people who stay in close me went up to the stage one after another. It means I had a chance most surely. But it's OK. I'm so bashful person.

Photo from http://www.smashingmag.com/jp/

I was really happy to hear "I'm A Cuckoo" in Tokyo because in the lyrics of that song, there is the phrase,

I'd rather be in Tokyo
I'd rather listen to Thin Lizzy-oh
And watch the Sunday gang in Harajuku
There's something wrong with me, I'm a cuckoo

And here is the setlist

Never Let Me Go

2011-02-26T01:50:00.001-08:00

The other day, I watched very interesting movie trailer called "Never Let Me Go" by chance. On first glance, I had no idea what kind of story. But somehow, it's very intriguing for me.

Apparently, the original story was written by Kazuo Ishiguro who was born in Nagasaki, Japan. Although he became a British citizen, I became more and more intrigued with his works.

Then, I bought the novel "Never Let Me Go" immediately, and I have finished reading the book with a lighting speed. It was really mysterious and tragic story that I have never read in my life.

(Spoiler)
The scene is set in a certain British boarding school called Hailsham. The story is about love and friendship of three friends who have grown up in Hailsham. But, it include SF-ish elements.
To be perfectly frank, all of the students who grew up in Hailsham are cloned human. They are made to become a donor for someone else. It means, their fate is to die young.
One of the main character, Kathy is facing death of friend, loved one and near-term own death. It's really tragic but well worth reading.

I'm really looking forward to seeing this film at the theater.

Hachiko square in a mess

2011-02-26T01:42:00.000-08:00

Have you downloaded Radiohead's latest record called "The King Of Limbs"? To tell the truth, I haven't yet because I want to buy CD. So, I have to wait by next month.

But anyway, I checked a song called "Lotus Flower" which was uploaded on YouTube on Friday.

Wow! That's incredible Thom's dance.

Due to Radiohead's mysterious tweet "Hachiko Square Shibuya, 59 minutes at 18 Friday", Hachiko Square was absolute chaos. Unfortunately, the event was canceled. But I realized how popular they are among Japan.

I had been thinking Radiohead's music is a little bit obscurity for general public after Kid A. But it seems completely untrue.

Anyway, I can't wait to buy their album.

Kyusyu Shinkansen

2011-02-17T05:12:00.003-08:00

Now opening of Kyushu Shinkansen line is dominated by the subject where I come from. Because the extension of the line is expected to greatly benefit tourism in the Kumamoto.

The new Shinkansen's name is Sakura, which means cherry blossom. It's great thing that we can go direct to Osaka. Actually, I'm still scared to fly in a plane. So, I want to go to Osaka by new bullet-train next time!

The Suberbs

2011-02-17T05:12:00.001-08:00

When the first time I heard Arcade Fire won a Grammy for Album of the Year, I was really happy. As you know, I LOVE Arcade Fire! I felt certain that they gained global recognition.

But... Soon after that, I became very complicated. Grammy Awards was televised live via satellite even here in Japan. And in much of the media coverage, they talked about who'll win the Grammy.
Day after the Grammy Awards, I checked morning news show. Unfortunately, any TV station didn't cover about Arcade Fire at all. Although I believed they provide news coverage of Arcade Fire. Don't turn your back on them!

Japanese media go on and on about "Lady Gaga's fashion and performance are overwhelming" or "Justin Bieber didn't win Best New Artist".

It's natural because some Japanese artists won the Grammy this time, so there is no wonder that Japanese artists attract more attention in Japan.

To my surprise, even many Euro-American people said "Who the hell is Arcade Fire?".
On the other hand, some people still think "The Suberbs" is a band name.

But this is just the real world. I thought Arcade Fire were already mainstream...

Anyway, I would like to take this opportunity to highly recommend you the great band called Arcade Fire. All of their albums "Funeral", "Neon Bible", and "The Suburbs" are masterpieces.

Speaking of The Suburbs, Spike Jonze shot a short film and to premiere at Berlin Film Festival. I'm really want to see the film!

Blood chocolate

2011-02-02T04:35:00.000-08:00

Japanese Valentine's Day is gradually becoming quirky. Originally, Japanese Valentine's Day is only women give chocolates to men who someone in mind. Steadily many women feel obliged to give chocolates to all male co-workers or male friend. Then finally, it seems that exchange chocolate with friend become mainstream. It's really strange, isn't it? That's exactly the day to eat chocolate!

Meanwhile, do you know Ivory Coast things getting worse? Ivory Coast is the world's biggest cocoa grower. It is often pointed out that this problem, cocoa revenue have been used for the conflict in Ivory Coast like blood diamonds or oil, with the tacit acceptance of the cocoa companies based in America and Europe.

Can you believe this? Most familiar sweets, chocolate is used for wars.
I'm not saying don't eat chocolate, but we need to know the fact about chocolate.

My favorite social media

2011-01-18T06:54:00.000-08:00

As I predicted, Facebook is going to be popular in consequence of "The Social Network" release.
However, recently I realize that Facebook and Twitter are really addictive. I want to keep away from Facebook and Twitter wherever possible.

Actually, I prefer these social media. I started these earlier than Facebook or Twitter.

Flickr
I joined this social media since 2005. I like taking pictures. If I improve my photography skills, I want to upload more pictures.

Delicious
It's a social bookmarking web service. I can bookmark any websites even in the field without own PC. There was a rumor about Delicious will be shut down. NO! Anything but that! Because I'm so rely on this website.

Last.fm
I think The annual Last.fm music ranking reflects real music demand. I'm looking forward to checking the chart every year. Using Last.fm, I can find music which I am listening to unconsciously.

Tumblr
To tell the truth, I'm most addicted to it. I made three blogs. I always feel so much more inspired when I browsing Tumblr dashboard.

But, I should cut back on spending time doing these...

The Social Network

2011-01-16T03:34:00.000-08:00

I went to see "The Social Network" today. I was really interested in this film because I'm addicted to social network service in recent days, so I was curious about how the Facebook was founded. And on top of that, the director is David Fincher.

After I watched this film, I found a lot of fascinating things about Facebook. I didn't know that co-founder of Napster, Sean Parker was involved in Facebook. Actually, I don't like Justin Timberlake but I felt his acting was pretty good.

Such web services were created by trivial trigger. In a lot of cases, these were created in a undergraduate days.
Mark Zuckerberg has a really strong personality. Without his personality, Facebook was never made.
I realized there's no success without a price. He lost his friend, made enemies.
I don't know how much truth there is in this story though.

By the way, I know this kind of internet story is very dramatic. Few years ago, I watched documentary called "The True Story of the Internet". This documentary about how internet services were founded such as Amazon, Napster, eBay etc.
Especially, "Browser Wars" was really interesting. I found a hard fighting between Netscape and Internet Explorer. After I watched this episode, I felt what a sneak Bill Gates is. I felt pity for Netscape side.

Even now, Browser Wars are escalating. Many other browsers join the wars like Firefox, Opera, Google Chrome, Safari.
I just thought, it could be a movie!

Rickety TV

2011-01-15T03:54:00.002-08:00

Now in Japan, TV broadcasts will be completely digitalized by July this year. I bought 45 inch digital TV about 6 years ago. However, the TV is going to break.

Me and my family believed analog broadcasting will be terminate so soon the digital broadcasting as launched. But it was wrong.

When I bought digital TV, it was really expensive. Now, digital TV is getting cheaper. We can buy the same model at half price. I think it was too early to buy it.

My TV is really come through until the analog broadcasting start?

Cold wave

2011-01-15T03:54:00.001-08:00

Cold days have been continued since this year. The snow accumulated even here in Kumamoto. Every once or twice a year, we have a dusting of snow but accumulated snow is pretty rare in this area. Now, we should be concerned about global warming, but it's too cold outside! There is no doubt that the world has been experiencing abnormal weather.
But I enjoying these snowy days!

My Best of 2010

2010-12-30T22:20:00.000-08:00

Finally this season has come. It's turn of the year. I have to choose my best 20 tracks of 2010.

"Modern Man" - Arcade fire

"Animal Arithmetic" - Jónsi

"Superfast Jellyfish" - Gorillaz

"White Sky" - Vampire Weekend

"I Didn't See It Coming" - Belle and Sebastian

"Best Friend" - The Drums

"Costume Party" - Two Door Cinema Club

"Rinse Me Down" - Bombay Bicycle Club

"Little Lion Man" - Mumford & Sons

"Doubt" - Delphic

"Sing Me to Sleep" - Fran Healy

"Ambling Alp" - Yeasayer

"Someone's Missing" - MGMT

"So Long St. Christopher" - Goldheart Assembly

"Radar Detector" - Darwin Deez

"I Feel Better" - Hot Chip

"Miami" - Foals

"It Is Not Meant To Be" - Tame Impala

"She Needs Me" - Fyfe Dangerfield

"Island" - The XX

If I choose by albums, my best album is "Suburbs" by Arcade Fire. Their special kind of vision of the world is still exist and the 3rd album was just what I'd expect, not only sound but also lyrics.
Actually, I had been believed they will come to japan around the time of BIG DAY OUT 2011 but it less likely to happen. I wish I could see their show in the near future.

And my best live performance is Jónsi. He made an impression on me. The feeling can't be described in words! I was really happy to watch their amazing show.

Except for the music nowadays, I've been listened 80's music this year. Of course it's under Ashes To Ashes' influence. That was most brilliant TV drama series ever I've seen in my life so far.

Come Fly With Me

2010-12-25T22:15:00.001-08:00

I just watched Matt Lucas and David Walliams' new comedy series called "Come Fly With Me". That was hilarious!!!!!! The story set in a fanciful airport. I always think Matt and David are most talented screen chameleon.

As you know, I am a huge fan of Little Britain over the years. They provided some motivation for me to watch UK drama in English.
However it appears to be true that there are some people who dislike Little Britain. I admit some of their sketches lack class. But I think Come Fly With Me is not so bad.

Although, there were joke about Japanese school girls. I'm not upset about this joke, conversely I had a big laugh! I think Matt was singing in fake Japanese :)) I know there are a lot of fangirls in Japan but who the hell is Martin Clunes?
And Japanese don't join their hands in prayer very often.

But anyway, I can't wait to see next episode!

Music Videos That Should Be Movies

2010-12-24T21:36:00.001-08:00

Total Film featured "Music Videos That Should Be Movies" the other day.

My favorite music videos in this list are

"Just" - Radiohead

For the first time I watched this video, I'm really curious about what the man said at the ending. The director is Jamie Thraves, who also directed music videos such as "Charmless Man" by Blur, "God Put a Smile upon Your Face" by Coldplay etc...
It seems a man in suits often appeared in his videos.
Lately, he directed "Fire Escape" by Fanfarlo. This is also storytelling and well made music video. Do you know this video has two version? The other version is a bit more scary.

"Untitled 1 (Vaka)" - Sigur Rós

The video shows a post-apocalyptic world. Children with gas masks are playing in black snow. This music video always make me cry.
Not limited to this video, most of Sigur Rós' music videos could be movies. For example, Glósóli or Hoppípolla. For your information, The director are Arni & Kinski.
Icelandic scenery are very beautiful on their works.

Not included on the list, I think these music videos should be movies as well.

Headliner of Summer Sonic 2011

2010-12-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

I had a great news yesterday. Red Hot Chill Peppers and The Strokes to headline Summer Sonic 2011! This announcement was very early than usual. It makes me happy.

The promoter said they had difficulty to book artists this year. To be honest, I was really frustrated about this year's line up. Most inexcusable thing was they has increased appearance of pop group. I think range of audience was profoundly altered this year.

It seems the promoter also admitted their failure. So they put in an effort to make satisficing booking in the early stages.

But, I still have anxiety about the venue of Osaka. Because the location of the venue is still up in the air. I hope they won't change it and slim down the festival.

Actually, I don't know whether I can attend the festival though, I really wanna go somehow or other.

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 1

2010-11-22T04:15:00.000-08:00

I went to see "Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 1" last night. I was really surprised that the death of unexpected characters, though not to the extent of Dumbledore.
Overall, the storyline is more strained than the previous movie. I'm really can't wait for upcoming battle with Voldemote and Cameo appearance of Ricky Wilson from Kaiser Chiefs!!!

I got the urge to reading the novel series. I've read until Goblet of Fire though. The reason why I stopped reading the series is just Japanese version's books are expensive and too heavy to carry. But now I found portable version is available. So I'm gonna read to the last. I don't mind spoiler for the movie's final.

By the way, all of the Harry Potter casts are fully grown and became cool actor/actress. Maybe it's just my imagination, but it seems Draco Malfoy and Severus Snape are popular than Harry, Ron and Hermione among Japanese.

Japan's iTunes Movie Rentals

2010-11-17T05:55:00.001-08:00

Now, Apple has made movies available on the iTunes Store in Japan the other day. I've waited so long for this! The lineup is still insufficient but it's a great step.

I always realize how much Japanese copyright law is so strict. Japan is way behind compared with other countries about this kind of services.

Hopefully, I want to rent TV drama series from the iTunes store. 'Cause I love British TV dramas. But I think it must be difficult.
To my delight, I heard some startling news that an international version of the iPlayer will be launched next year. That means I can watch BBC dramas such as Doctor Who or Merlin from Japan! Although there are no Japanese subtitles.
But unfortunately, it will cost $10 for an episode. This has to be a joke! $10 is too expensive!!!

Fire up the Quattro!

2010-11-17T05:46:00.000-08:00

I just completed to watch the series of "Ashes to Ashes". This is a sequel to "Life on Mars". First season of A2A was aired in Japan by satellite but I haven't signed on with the channel. So, I've been waiting for the DVD release.
Nevertheless, the DVD never come out and will not even be aired after 2nd series.

Finally, I bought the DVD box set from UK although I don't have enough confidence to understand English. Because I felt sure that this series include strong Manchester accent and jargon.

After all, I enjoyed it very much! I still have a lot of questions but I thought A2A final surpass LOM. The ending made a lot of sense.
Concerning musical use, nothing is left to be desired.
I'm not the generation but 80's music was more familiar than 70's for me.

(Spoiler)

I'm going to tell the ending. Tell me if I'm wrong.
When I watched LOM final, I had a question about who Gene Hunt really is. Is he tumor of Alex's body? or a villain, or something? Finally I understood. He was an Angel, right? And Jim Keats was a Devil.
I mean, the world where Alex had traveled back in time was "death's river" and all of her colleagues, Chris, Ray and Shaz were all dead coppers.

Gene did not kill Sam Tyler, he had Sam moved on to Heaven.

It's a little bit sad that Alex never come back home but I wanna thank Gov. for sending them to the "Pub". I was so touched the ending. Whenever I watch it, I can't stop crying at the last scene.

Here is one of my favorite scene.

Come to think of it, Annie Cartwright was killed by Sam's dad???

To train my instrumental skills

2010-11-07T01:04:00.001-07:00

I just upgrated iLife '11 because I wanted to use new feature of GarageBand. This is the first time to upgrade iLife. I had been using iLife '08.
Immediately, I downloaded Fall Out Boy's Artist Lesson. I have taught myself to play the guitar. Although I'm still poor guitarist. So, this feature is very useful!
I'll try to learn to play "Sugar We're Going Down" perfectly.

Actually, I also started to learn piano few months ago. I'm just beginner so, I want to connect my piano to iMac. But unfortunately, it's impossible to move my iMac to the other room. Hmm...should I buy a new Macbook Air 13-inch?

I regret that I should have learn to play many instruments when I was a kid.

Misary Bear

2010-10-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

A video pertinent at this Halloween.

This is Dawn of the Ted from BBC comedy's Misary Bear series! Now I'm really into this poor teddy bear.

This video reminiscent of "Shaun of the Dead"
I saw BBC comedy twitter account recommending this video to Simon Pegg, Edgar Wright and Nick Frost. I hope they have watched it.

The Wrong Door

2010-10-17T01:02:00.001-07:00

About two years ago, I found very funny comedy sketch show called "The Wrong Door" through YouTube. I really wanted to watch the drama in full. I tried to buy the DVD but it hadn't sold yet.

Then finally this year, the DVD released. So, I bought it from Amazon UK.

After I watched the drama, I felt this is a little bit filthy than I expect. Sometimes I often feel overseas comedies are incredibly filthy. Although there are a lot of funny sketches. For example, giant Pac-Man, skipping iron towers etc...

Cosmos garden

2010-10-10T02:13:00.001-07:00

I went to Cosmos festival! Well, it's really near from my home. It's a 3 minutes drive. However, Cosmos flowers are in full bloom. There is a nip of fall in the air!

Snow Leopard

2010-10-10T02:12:00.001-07:00

Finally, I upgraded my mac to Snow Leopard. I think it's too late though.
Because I got recommendation letters from my internet provider. It says we doing vast amounts data transmission, If we stop doing this they terminate my use of internet.
I don't think I've been doing such a thing. So, my brother asked to the internet provider. They said there is a chance that our computers have a computer virus, so we need to initialize our computers.

I did clean install but the transition was very easy with use of Time Machine. I hadn't back up any data, it took a little while.

I thought I should back up important data regularly.

Hmmm... But the next major version of Mac OS X will be out soon.

Skip To The End

2010-09-24T18:14:00.001-07:00

As I wrote about this before, I just watched Edgar Wright's works such as "Hot Fuzz", "Shaun of the Dead" and "Spaced".
I'm really absorbed in it!!!!! What a great double act of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost.

Especially, I love TV drama series, "Spaced". This is hilarious! It includes a lot of pop culture references like Star Wars, The Matrix or Fight Club etc.

After I watched this drama, I got the urge to flat share with someone who's just like Spaced's characters and I want to fake gun fight with them! This is masterpiece of comedy drama series. I rented it this time but I think I should buy the DVD because I'm sure I will have a sudden desire to watch it again!

And I hope "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" will be screened soon in Japan.

Vegan Menu

2010-09-20T06:53:00.001-07:00

I found Jónsi & Alex showing Recipe on their web site. As you may know, Jónsi is vegan. I'm not vegetarian or vegan but I want to be vegetarian for my health.
Watching videos of Jónsi & Alex's cooking, I really want to cook. In fact, I'm not good at cooking though.

At first, I chose this menu from their recipe.

And this is my dish.

I think it's not too bad. Unfortunately, my blender is half-broken. so, it couldn't mix enough. Most of their recipes require blender. I have to buy new blender...

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World

2010-09-13T05:14:00.000-07:00

Few weeks ago, "Scott Pilgrim vs. The World" had been at the top of Twitter's Trending Topics. I just wondered, what's this?

So I looked up on web. Then I realized that this is a comedy film directed by Edgar Wright. I just watched this film's trailer, it really sounds like fun!

The story is the main character Scott Pilgrim must defeat all seven of Ramona evil exes to date with her.

According to my twitter follower, Edgar Wright's other works are also great. So, I'm gonna watch them.

Rock anthems vanishing???

2010-09-13T05:13:00.001-07:00

I heard a news about festival recession in Japan, I read a bad news again. According to this article, The number of rock hits appearing in the UK singles chart has shrunk this year. Is that real?
I just checked UK official single chart. Indeed, I'm not interested in this week's top 10 because pop music like Katy Perry or Ke$ha rank high.

By the way, this article saids that the only other hits in the top 100 list to be classed as rock were Florence and the Machine, Mumford And Sons and Pendulum. Mumford & Sons are not so popular in Japan but I like them.

Aside from this, foklish bands such as Mumford & Sons and Bombay Bicycle Club are really popular in UK, aren't they? Actually, now I'm totally into Bombay Bicycle Club's latest album "Flaw".
A side project of Keane, Killers and Mumford & Sons called Mt. Desolation is also country music.
Taylor Swift said to be a country singer but it's sounds like just a pop music for me. I'm not familiar with country music but if Mt. Desolation is country, I like country music.

Festival Webcast

2010-08-29T06:29:00.000-07:00

Every year around this time, I often watch oversees festival webcast for several years. At first, BBC had been broadcasting Glastonbury or Reading and Leeds festival. But after the introduction of iPlayer, I couldn't watch any festival webcasts.
Although, some festivals broadcast like water such as Coachella festival.

However, many festivals are doing a live webcast recently. I think it's because the widespread use of streaming service like Ustream.

Fortunately, They make me feel festive mood from home. But I have to consider time differences. To watch British festival's headliner, I have to wake up early morning!

Luckily, V festival started webcast from this year and Reading and Leeds festival also gave me Highlights streaming!

By the way, I just watched The Libertines performance. I'm not so fan of The Libertines but I really touched this reunion because I know this reunion was so hard. Well done! Pete Doherty!

Sherlock

2010-08-17T05:43:00.000-07:00

Speaking of Sherlock Homes, VERY famous mystery novel. Actually, I was not interested in Sherlock Homes but this time I became huge fan!

Few months ago, I heard that Doctor Who writer, Steven Moffat creating a new series of Sherlock Homes. Intriguingly, the series is different from classic series or recent movie. It's 21st century's sherlock homes! Immediately, I thought I have to watch it!

After I watched the series, I realized what a great story it was! Benedict Cumberbatch who acting as Sherlock Homes, really suits this character. Just like modern time, he handle smart phone skillfully. My most favorite scene was Nicotine patch helps his thinking. This is very modern-ish. I even know sherlock likes pipe smoking. I never imagined that today's sherlock Homes using Nicotine patch.

Visual Effects are elaborately used. For example, the scene text-message text appeared on screen was as if I'm peeking Sherlock's thoughts.

Anyway, I can't wait for next series. Although it'll take more than one year... Before that, Japanese TV should broadcast!

"Colour my life with the chaos of trouble"

2010-08-15T06:41:00.001-07:00

Though a little late I watched a film called "(500) day's of summer". Actually, I'm not interested in love story. I prefer comedy, SF, Crime/Suspense. However I heard a lot of accolade from music lovers.

Admittedly, I felt their encounter is so romantic and ideal. They meet in the elevator and they found they both love the Smiths.
Another my favorite scene is Summer's yearbook quote. She uses "Colour my life with the chaos of trouble" in her yearbook. It's lyrics of the "Boy with the Arab Strap" by Belle & Sebastian!

The story is bitter sweet and different from another love story. A Boy believes in destiny, a girl is realist. I'm not really sure but I think the reverse situation is more common.
Sometimes I empathize with Summer though, I felt Tom is very poor boy.

Anyway, this is well-made film. The random temporal sequence is letter-perfect rendition. This is be worth seeing!

Fairyland in the Wood @Summer Sonic Osaka

2010-08-11T06:24:00.000-07:00

I complained about this year's Summer Sonic line up, however I attended this year again. I seem that I can't live summer without festival since my first attendance.

But this time, I didn't get tired because I had been in indoor stage.

FANFARLO

I LOVE their sounds. Fanfarlo is an indie pop band which formed in London. They using many instruments such as trumpet, violin, mandolin, keyboard harmonica and clarinet. They are often compared to Arcade Fire. Indeed, it's a little bit sounds like them but the vocal Simon Balthazar's voice is so gentle and soft. It was a really comfortable moment.

THE DRUMS

They drew a full house. So popular among Japanese audience. I was in the first two rows, when they started to play "Best Friend" I got mobbed!
I knew the main vocal Jonathan doing really strange dance. Now I found there is an another strange tambourine man. His name is Jacob. He is a guitarist but when they perform "Best Friend", he swap his guitar for tambourine and showed splendid dance. It really cracks me up!

BAND OF HORSES

Actually, this was second time to watch their show at Summer Sonic. Last time (two years ago), I watched them without any preparation. But this time, I listened their albums beforehand.
All of their songs are really suits for star gazing! So romantic!

BLACK REBEL MOTORCYCLE CLUB

I only know few songs but I heard that most of people who have similar tastes in music are going to watch them. So I decided to watch them.
They were so cool! This is rock 'n' roll. Dark and noisy guitar sounds made me rocked!

JONSI

The main focus of this attendance was Jónsi. I am biggest fan of Sigur Rós. I always feel like crying with emotion when I listening to Sigur Rós. Actually, I really regret that I missed their show two years ago.
Compared to Sigur Rós, Jónsi's solo album is pop and most of his songs are English. So, I get more understanding of the lyrics.
Anyway, their show became so special for me.

This is quote from fan who watched Jónsi show few months ago.

"Often times I go to see Sigur Ros and I'll shed a tear. But last night, I broke down uncontrollably."

I totally agree with this sentiment! The visual effects was beautiful and fantastical as well as Jónsi's music. I kept ecstatic eyes on him during the stage...

A boy in red is Jónsi's boyfriend Alex.

PIXIES

Speaking of Pixies, it's "Where Is My Mind?" First time I found this song through "Fight Club", it was featured during the final scene and ending credits of the 1999 film.
Actually, I know only few songs of them but as may be expected of long-term band, Japanese audience was really charged up.
As an aside, Japanese comedian said Black Francis gives hope to fat people. Seriously, they are stunning.

I didn't go any other outdoor stage this year. I don't even have any muscular pain. This is good thing though. Just not good enough because I wanted to dance more!

Dragon Ball

2010-07-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

My dad started watching Dragon Ball anime series. That brings back some memories. Actually, I'm not so enthusiastic anime fan but I'm the generation of Dragon Ball! When I was a kid, I used to watch the series.

I also watched some episodes this time. And I realized Dragon Ball characters have very funny name.

e.g.
Bulma = gym shorts
Piccolo = literally name of musical instrument
Gohan = rice
Vegeta = vegetable? "Saiyan" also means vegetable
Chi Chi = milk
Namek = slug Accurately "Namekuji" in Japanese
Frieza = refrigerator
Kakarot = It came from Carrot

It's funny, isn't it?

I don't know why my dad started watching Dragon Boll. My dad likes to read manga though.
However when will he finish watching this series? I think it has tons of episodes more than 100!

Come to think of it, I watched "Dragonball: Evolution" the other day. It was really awful. I think Dragon Ball is inept in live-action film.

Non-air-conditioned environment is over!

2010-07-28T05:38:00.000-07:00

Rainy season is over, uncomfortable humid summer has come. I hate summer, I feel it's getting hotter and hotter every year. I can't stand this! Unfortunately, my air conditioner has broken down. No way!

Then, I bought a new air conditioner as a last resort. However, I heard that many people die of heat stroke even in a room. I did well to buy it. And, the most recent air conditioner conserve energy efficiently. Actually, I was using about 15-year old one. It must be inefficient.

My dog seems get tired because of the summer heat as well. Because, he is too furry.
I sheared his hair!

BEFORE

AFTER

6 Music forever!

2010-07-11T05:22:00.001-07:00

I heard a great news from Twitter. 6 Music has been saved. I'm really relieved because I hadn't heard anything about this movement lately. I thought 6 music was forgotten by everyone.

Anyway, well done 6 Music. I'll keep listening!

At any rate, I admire power of social media. According to a report, 180,000 people have joined the Save 6Music Facebook campaign and there have been millions of tweets hashtagged #save6music.

I think many people started to listen 6 Music due to these campaign. And I knew as much about how 6 Music is loved by many artists.
Last week, 6 Music played Glastonbury's live music without stint. I really enjoyed and I felt it is proud radio station.

Speaking of social media, Twitter growing exponentially in Japan. On the other hand, Facebook have a low visibility. One of the reason is Mixi dominating Japanese social networking market. Actually I don't like it because Mixi is closed community and lack of applications.

However, Facebook may become popular in the aftermath of Twitter.

Japan's Festival recession

2010-07-11T05:22:00.000-07:00

I heard disturbing news about Japanese rock festival. It says the two largest Japanese Festivals hit the wall to attract large crowds recently.
Admittedly, one of the festival called summer sonic seems struggling to get top acts.
on the contrary I found this article.

Music festivals 'are paying too much for artists'

According to this article, the money top acts are demanding to play has continued to rise despite the recession. Because of this, small independent festivals may close down.
I think this is true for Japan. Assumedly, Europe and American festivals have huge budget and above all, these countries have great demand for music.

Now in Europe, Spotify a music streaming service is put into general use. That means European people can listen to music cost almost nothing. So, these countries people are willing to spend money for Lives or festivals. Of course, Spotify is not used in Japan and Japan will not accept Spotify because Japanese copyright law is very strict.

After all, Japan's Western music fans are minority group. Most of the people like Japanese or Korean music.

I mean, I'm really worried that Japanese rock festival starting to gather Japanese and Korean pop band.
I just wanna say "Don't forget this is rock festival"

iPhone iOS4

2010-06-25T07:31:00.001-07:00

I just updated my iPhone 3GS to iOS 4. I heard that iOS 4 have over 100 new features, but I haven't figure out all of the features yet.

First, I noticed the homesceen wallpaper. Now I can change background of my homescreens. Which is great!

Next, is about Multitasking. I think most of all iPhone users have been waited for a long time for it but actually I cannot understand what is good about this feature.
I tried Background audio with streaming Radio App such as AccuRadio or FStream but it won't work so far. I expect for the update.

Concerning iBooks, I really disappointed.
In recent days, Japanese media gang up to report about digital book for iPad. So, I assumed that Japanese iBooks have many titles. In point of fact, paid e-books are not available so far, not to mention e-books in Japanese.

So I downloaded Kindle for iPhone App as a last resort. Kindle providing many titles but English only.
However, this is great opportunity because my English reading skill is so week. I should read English books.

The Smiths successor?

2010-06-17T06:08:00.001-07:00

Now I'm listening to The Drums new album. The Drums are often compared with The Smiths, indeed their sound and the way Jonathan, lead vocalist's reverb vocal is a little bit sound like The Smiths.
However, different from Johnny Marr's guitar play, their guitar riffs are very simple.

Catchy song, "Best Friend" is about death of his friend. It's the Smiths-like dark song.

You're my best friend,
but then you died,
when i was 23 and you were 25
you're my best friend,
but then you died,
and how will i survive, survive, survive, survive?
oh how will i survive, survive, survive, survive?

Actually, I like Jonathan's quirky dance move.

I think American indie bands are really hot lately, such as Vampire Weekend, MGMT etc...

Vincent van Gogh

2010-06-06T07:37:00.000-07:00

I really impressed by the latest episode of Doctor Who, "Vincent and the Doctor".
This special episode was written by Richard Curtis, who created such as "Notting Hill" ,"Bridget Jones's Diary", "Mr. Bean" and "The Boat That Rocked" which I've watched lately.

The story was normal as usual the first half. The Doctor found a weird creature was painted on a famous picture "The Church at Auvers" by Vincent van Gogh.
Then, the doctor and Amy travel back to 1890, meet Vincent van Gogh, and finally, beat the monster. By the way, the monster looks like chicken.

The last 10 minutes, The Doctor takes Vincent to the Musée D'Orsay in 2010 and showed his works are displayed. And the Doctor asked the curator to importance of Van Gogh in art history. And he said.

To me, van Gogh is the finest painter of them all. Certainly the most popular, great painter of all time. The most beloved. His command of colour, the most magnificent. He transformed the pain of his tormented life into ecstatic beauty. Pain is easy to portray but to use your passion and pain to portray the ecstasy and joy and magnificence of our world... no-one had ever done it before. Perhaps no-one ever will again! To my mind, that strange wild man who roamed the fields of Provence was not only the world's greatest artist, but also one of the greatest men who ever lived.

When the curator was describing about him, Vincent was glistening with emotion. He realized how he is loved by everyone.

This scene was most touching moment. I also became teary eyed. Much to my delight, my favorite band Athlete's song "Chances" was used in this scene.

Speaking of Vincent van Gogh, as you know, VERY famous artist who everybody knows. However in this story, Vincent was looked down upon as mad man. He always feels lonely. I didn't know much about him, Wikipedia also says he had been troubled by mental illness throughout his life.

The reason why the Doctor and Amy take to 2010, is to change his fate of suicide. If he could live longer, we can find much more his paintings.
After all, they couldn't change his sad fate. Vincent gave a message for Amy on his paint "Sunflowers".

A little bit sad ending but, this episode was thought-provoking.

Is it real responsibility?

2010-06-03T06:53:00.001-07:00

The other day, Japanese prime minister Hatoyama Yukio resigned his post and Kan Naoto becomes new prime minister.

Why does the Japanese prime minister changes so quickly?
Indeed, I was irritated by ex-prime minister's political style because he can't make a decision. But I think he doesn't need to resign. He resigned to take responsibility for Okinawa base dispute and problems linking politics and money.
But for me, this resignation seems like he just dodging his responsibility.

Above all, it really is a shame that Japanese leader doesn't put down roots at all! I think these prime minister's changes build a sense of distrust from other countries.

The Suberbs/Month of May

2010-05-31T06:53:00.000-07:00

A. The Suburbs

AA. Month of May
Have you listened Arcade Fire's new double a-side single called "The Suberbs/Month of May"? I really liked these new songs! Especially, "Month of May" is comletely different from other songs. It's sounds like punk rock.

At any rate, I can't wait for the release date of new album "The Suburbs"!

By the way, this vinyl record shaped player is great!

No Internet week

2010-05-16T00:49:00.002-07:00

My Internet connection speed has been so slow lately. And finally, I couldn't access the internet completely. Oh, nooooo!
It seems my Wi-Fi router is broken. At first, I couldn't figure out what's wrong with it, I spent one week without Internet.

In the modern world, spending without Internet is really tough. I realized how I'm addicted to the Internet. However, I'm not the only one who thinks this way.

Wireless LAN access spot have become popular, so most of people can access the Internet easily and everywhere.

On the other hand, I should refrain from accessing the Internet a little bit more. Actually, a certain examination is near at hand. I couldn't concentrate on study lately because of the Internet. So, thanks to this situation, I could keep my mind on studying.

Now, I had replaced my Wi-Fi router, So I can access the Internet. But I thought it's important that I cut back on it!

Pirate Radio

2010-05-16T00:49:00.001-07:00

I watched "The Boat That Rocked" as I said it before. I'm so impressed by this film! This make it into the top 5 of my favorite movies so far.

Basically, this is comedy film but the end of the story, I'm really touched. I turn nostalgic eyes on 60's. Actually, I'm also interested in the profession of radio DJ.

I found that pirate radio has really existed in the past. And these radio stations built a foundation of BBC Radio 1 which is my favorite radio station.
In the modern age, we can listen rock or pop music radio no matter where we are, but at that time, pop music were restricted. In such times, DJs who broadcasting popular music were heroes even if it's illegal.

Now I'm listening BBC Radio from Japan, because Japanese radio station won't play what I want to listen. My situation is very similar to this film.
Speaking of threat of closure, it reminds me of the BBC 6 music's present circumstances.
However I heard that 6 music listener numbers surge thanks to massive online support. In fact, I tweeted about "save 6 music" in Japanese few months ago, my follower started to listening 6 music. That's great thing!

Where is Humpty Dumpty?

2010-05-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

I went to see Alice in Wonderland last night. That was first time to watch 3D movie. However, I'm not so amazed by 3D effect. I don't need 3D effect for me. It makes even less sense that 3D TVs become common. It's just my opinion, though.

But I'm relieved I could watch 3D movie because I have long wanted.

Nevertheless, the story is not bad. Every character is very cute. Especially, I like Cheshire Cat. And I thought Tweedledee & Tweedledum looked look familiar, then I noticed that he is Matt Lucas from Little Britain!

Iceland volcano

2010-04-21T05:44:00.000-07:00

Iceland volcano brought travel chaos all around the world. I couldn't imagine the volcano ash can be spread across Europe.

When I'm looking at some volcano photos on the web, I felt that's exactly a marvel of nature and apocalyptic.

The land covered with black ash reminds me this music video.

Sigur Rós are also Icelandic band.

Music Movies

2010-04-11T00:46:00.000-07:00

NME chose their 50 greatest music films ever made. This article is very interesting.
Although I don't know the definition of Music Movies, I think it's documentary film of a band or movies which used music effectively.
In fact, I hardly know these movies on the list. But my favorite Music Movie is "Almost Famous"
I watched the film when I was university student with my friend at university library. Around that time, I was not so music enthusiast but me and my friend really impressed by the film.

The other day, "Almost Famous" was broadcast on satellite TV as it happens. This film is about a 15-year-old school boy journalist writing for Rolling Stone magazine while touring with a band.
Actually, I was admiring the job of rock journalist, but I think it's really difficult job. Mere music fans can't be up to the job because, music journalists have to criticize or disclose about rock bands not only compliment them.

Anyway, as written in the article, my best music moment is the tour bus scene, where they all sing Elton John's 'Tiny Dancer' as well.

Come to that, my brother bought "The Boat That Rocked". I think this is also music movie. I'm gonna watch it.

The Axe Factor

2010-04-11T00:44:00.001-07:00

Who is your favorite guitarist?
The other day, BBC 6 Music's online poll result have been announced, which to find the best guitarist of the last 30 years.

Here is the result

1. John Frusciante – Red Hot Chili Peppers
2. Slash – Guns n’ Roses
3. Matt Bellamy – Muse
4. Johnny Marr – The Smiths
5. Tom Morello – Rage Against The Machine
6. Kirk Hammett – Metallica
7. Jonny Greenwood – Radiohead
8. Prince
9. Jack White – White Stripes
10. Peter Buck – REM
11. The Edge – U2
12. Thurston Moore
13. John Squire
14. Josh Homme
15. Graham Coxon
16. Omar Rodriguez Lopez
17. James Dean Bradfield
18. Jeff Buckley
19. Noel Gallagher
20. Kurt Cobain

I voted for Graham Coxon but he was 15th. Hmm...
I didn't know John Frusciante is so popular as a guitarist. I realized Red Hot Chili Peppers lost really great guitarist.
At any rate, Matt Bellamy's popularity is continually surprising me.
Of course, my guitar hero is Graham Coxon but I also like Johnny Marr or Jonny Greenwood's guitar play.

The Eleventh Hour

2010-04-04T01:02:00.000-07:00

Finally, Doctor Who series 5 has started. Actually, I was afraid of the new series because I was a huge fan of 10th Doctor. After I watched the first episode of series 5, I realized I was totally wrong. The 11th Doctor is great!!!
I think ex-Doctor, David Tennant was mesmerizing a lot of female fans. However 11th doctor's eccentric looks really suits as alien Time Lord.
I can't wait for next episode!

Come to that, Matt Smith as the Doctor appeared on Radio1's Zane Lowe show the other day. It seems Matt is also music fan so, he has very good taste in music.
The most impressive moment of this show was Matt joined 'Verses' competition.

Then here is Matt's choice

Old School Classic
The Notorious B.I.G. - "Juicy"

Dance Song
Shimon & Andy C - "Body Rock"

New Artist
Tribes - "Houses"

Music to listen to in the TARDIS
Arcade Fire - "Keep the Car Running"

Music to fight Evil to
Radiohead - "Weird Fishes"

Music for gazing at the stars
Pink Floyd - "The Great Gig in The Sky"

Really good! He imagine Radiohead song when he is in front of the Daleks? Listening to "Keep the Car Running" in the TARDIS.... wow, what a brilliant moment!

Next big thing!?

2010-03-23T04:19:00.000-07:00

BBC Radio let me know really good bands again!

The Middle East

It was often played a song called "Blood" on Radio1's Zane Lowe show.
The Middle East is Australian band formed in 2005. They released only EP called "The Recordings of the Middle East" in 2009.
When I first watched "Blood" video, I felt it seems like "Laika" by Arcade Fire and the songs also sound like them. The lyric is very touching as well.
Another song called "The Darkest Side" is also my favorite. I like the female voice and harmony in this song.
I can hardly wait for their full album.

Goldheart Assembly

This was also played on BBC 6 Music. They are London-based sextet formed in 2007. Their lead single called "King of Rome" sounds like really old music. I can't imagine they are still 20's.
Their debut album, Wolves and Thieves is now on sale so I bought it at once!

They performed on the BBC Introducing Stage at the Glastonbury Festival. BBC Introducing is showcasing the best in unsigned music.

And here is their performance at Glastonbury.

Fstream

2010-03-14T04:57:00.001-07:00

I tried to listen BBC Radio with iPhone but I can't access iPlayer outside UK. So I gave up to do it.
However, I found very good iPhone App. It is called "Fstream"

This application is totally free. Just feed your favorite station's URL, and you can listen the show. But it's important to note that when you feed the URL, you have to change language from Japanese to English. With Japanese setting, it doesn't work.
This is my best iPhone App so far.

Hayao Miyazaki's short film

2010-03-10T04:45:00.001-08:00

Do you like Hayao Miyazaki's films? Of course I really love his works. As Japanese, I'm very proud of him. But actually, I'm not a enthusiastic fan so I only know his famous works.
Some time ago, I found a short film called "On Your Mark" by chance.

Presumably, most of Miyazaki's fans know about the film but I didn't.
Anyway, this is great film isn't it? I thought it is best of his works ever. He should make as a feature-length pictures.

In the mean time, Gorillaz new video called "Stylo" is not far behind from this short film. In this video, on the cutting edge CGI-rendered characters are used. And big star Bruce Willis appear in the video! I'm really looking forward to watch the next music video. It would be "Superfast Jellyfish" by any chance? In fact I love the song as well.

We have to fight!

2010-03-10T04:42:00.001-08:00

Since 5 years ago, listening to BBC Radio after came back home has been my daily duty. I think 6 Music was my first internet radio station which I have started to listen.
I was very shocked by a news that BBC plan to axe 6 Music. OMG! Please, don't do that!
Still, I often listen to Radio 1 lately but 6 Music has a unique taste of music. Radio 1 always broadcasts brand new music. In contrast, 6 Music broadcasts not only new music but also good old music. It always gives me new discoveries of my music life.

Back in the day, there was a show called "The music show" which always gave me very interesting music issues such as "Which rock star should be next to have a film made about their life?","Who are rock's most unloved superstars?", "Guilty Pleasures – Good taste or musical snobbery?" etc...
I really loved these topics.

So many people around the world complain about this BBC's announcement. I want to save 6 Music too! What can I do?
In the meantime, I joined Facebook campaign called "Save BBC 6 Music" and signed this petition.

Jarvis Cocker, singer and presenter of 6 Music also said "We have to fight" on his show.

Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics

2010-02-26T20:54:00.000-08:00

I've been watching Olympics on TV. As you know, it seems Japanese athletes are not good at winter sports. However, Japanese figure skaters made strenuous efforts.
Japanese media were saying that women's figure skating is the most likely to win a gold medal. unfortunately, they couldn't won gold medal but I really enjoyed watching their skating and I was impressed so much.
By the way, I felt figure skate's judging system is very hard to understand for me. There are a lot of points what I can't understand.

Aside from this, who the hell is Jonny Weir??? I've been curious about him since I watched his Lady Gaga skating. He is a kind of... Well, it seems he is much inspired by Lady Gaga. His costumes are also eccentric.

No Distance Left To Run

2010-02-20T04:09:00.001-08:00

I got "No Distance Left To Run" which is Blur's documentary film! It includes Hyde Park concert in London from summer 2009. It's just what I long wanted because I couldn't watch the reunion concert in full set. Although I was able to watch some songs at Glastonbury or T in the Park on YouTube.

Hyde Park concert was different from other festivals. I think a lot of Blur's fan all around the world were grouped in this concert. I heard that many Japanese fan attended as well.
Watching their concert, I'm greatly impressed and feel close to tears. Now I realized the world has been waiting for this reunion.
Maybe, I'm going to watch this DVD a thousand times!

Their documentary was also impressive. I can find their feelings when Graham left the band. I may not be able to watch this kind of concert in person but I hope their friendship will never end in the future.

Toy camera application

2010-02-14T02:46:00.000-08:00

As I wrote this blog before, primary reason of replacing my mobile with iPhone is I wanted for Toycamera application.
At first, I was not going to replace with iPhone, so I was creating toy camera-like photos. But now, I am iPhone user! I can create toy camera photos with iPhone so easily.

Like this.

My shadow!

Being Human

2010-02-10T06:17:00.000-08:00

I found another very interesting BBC drama again. It is called "Being Human". When I first watched the trailer on YouTube, it sounded fascinating! Of course, this is not broadcasting in Japan. So, I bought the DVD from UK at once.

The story is about three apparent twenty-something characters sharing a house in Bristol, trying to live a normal social life, despite being a vampire, a werewolf and a ghost respectively.(from Wikipedia)
When I first read the summary, I thought what a amazing story!

After I finished watching this drama, I thought it was as interesting as I had expected. However, it includes a lot more grotesque and sexual scenes than I thought there would be.
At first, I thought it was a comedy drama but in fact, it's like fantasy plus horror.

However, this drama was very diverting. I can hardly wait to see series 2!

I love this trailer!

Advantage of iPad

2010-01-29T19:55:00.001-08:00

There's been a lot of buzz about a tablet Mac, finally Apple announced iPad the other day. Unfortunately, it can't run Mac OS. It's just a netbook PC. At first, I thought who does carry around such a big iPhone?
But iPad application called Brushes seems very useful. Actually, now I'm using pen tablet but it's hard to draw. So I really want Pen Display. But it's very expensive! Then, using iPad, just like drawing on a canvas.
But, I can't afford to buy a iPad.

Where The Wild Things Are

2010-01-23T22:05:00.001-08:00

Finally, I went to see a movie called "Where The Wild Things Are" last night. As I wrote about this before, I was really looking forward to seeing this movie.
Unfortunately, Arcade Fire's song called "Wake Up" is not used in the film. Karen O's songs are very cute!

As for the story, I thought there is no plot because the original story is very simple. But it was a visually appealing film. According to other people's reviews, it seems contentious and divisive. However, despite having such a short original story, Spike Jonze depicted it well as a long story.

Anyway, Max's costume is so cute!

Muse@Osaka Jo Hall

2010-01-11T05:29:00.000-08:00

I went to see the Muse concert at Osaka Jo Hall. I can't explain my excitement in English! Actually, I was torn about whether I should attend the concert but it was big mistake.
When I got to the venue, I thought, "Oh no, I'm so far from stage!"
I thought it was too late to get the ticket.I didn't know Muse gained so much popularity among Japanese.
Muse really suits this big stage. I couldn't imagine that they had come Fukuoka's small venue 3 years ago. I deeply regret that I missed that concert.

I'm very happy that I got to watch their show this time. To tell you the truth, The show started an hour late. But, I don't care at all.

I'm sorry, I truly can't describe this amazing show. All I can say is ... I have severe muscle ache and a sore throat after the show because of my effervescent.

And here is the setlist.

And this photo from Muse official website.

Regeneration

2010-01-04T05:28:00.000-08:00

I watched the last episode of Doctor Who which David Tennant will be starring in. It was called "The End Of Time". I cried like a baby...
This regeneration was very violent for me, although I didn't know about the other regenerations of Doctors one through eight.
Anyway, the last episode was so moving. There are a lot of tear-milking scenes. I heard many Doctor Who fans cried over the 10th doctor's regeneration.
I realized how much I love the 10th Doctor. Noooooo, I miss you Doctor!
Now I'm just wondering, can I appreciate Matt Smith as 11th Doctor?
Anyway, I really would like all Japanese to watch this drama series.

My best of 2009

2009-12-29T23:43:00.000-08:00

It 's the end of a decade. I should choose the best of the decade but it's hard for me. So, I chose my best tracks of 2009 in random order as usual.

"Death" - White Lies

"Uprising" - Muse

"21 guns" - Green Day

"Jackie Collins Existential Question Time"- Manic Street Preachers

"Fire" - Kasabian

"Beach" - Mew

"Tonight's Today" - Jack Peñate

"The Captain" - Biffy Clyro

"Cornerstone" - Arctic Monkeys

"Good Gone Girl" - Mika

"Dominos" - The Big Pink

"Just Say Yes" - Snow Patrol

"Skelton Boy" - Friendly Fires

"The Unknown" - Athlete

"Meccano" - Red Light Company

"I'm Not Your Toy" - La Roux

"1901" - Phoenix

"Rabbit Heart (Raise It Up)" - Florence + The Machine

"Chaka Demus" - Jamie T

"Turn It On" - Franz Ferdinand

I think the highlight of my 2009 is Blur's reunion. I couldn't watch their gig in person though.
And a lot of musicians started Tweeting this year. I enjoyed reading their Tweets!

The End Of Time

2009-12-26T23:08:00.003-08:00

The Tenth Doctor, David Tennant will leave the drama series called "Doctor Who" on New Years Day 2010. I feel soooo sad. I've been the biggest fan of Doctor Who for two years. However, I am looking forward to watching his last scene.

Most Japanese fans can't watch the drama after the 2nd series. NHK, Japan's national public broadcasting organization had been broadcasting the series for two years, but now NHK won't broadcast the rest of the series. It's really exasperating!
Some Japanese fans sent petitions to NHK, but they pay no attention to fans' advice.
Aaaah, I hope another station should broadcasts the series.

Doctor Who has nearly 5 decades of history, so the story is profound but it's not old-fashioned. I think people of all generations are enthusiastic about it.

Change!

2009-12-26T23:08:00.001-08:00

After a lot of hair pulling out, finally I replaced my mobile to iPhone. It was difficult decision. Because I'm living in a weak signal area of Softbank, a carrier service provider which offers iPhone.
But my mum is also using Softbank mobile, so we received a discount of call charge. That was good point.

I'm unable to use iPhone effectively yet. Now I'm seeking for useful applications or game applications.

Merlin the wizard

2009-12-22T21:06:00.000-08:00

Finally, Merlin started this October in Japan! Merlin is British television drama series. Last year, I found it on YouTube and I became critically absorbed in it. I also wrote about this drama just one year ago on my Japanese blog.

The story is based on the traditional narrative called "Arthurian Legend". But this drama series is depicted through the eyes of the mythical wizard Merlin not through King Arther. For me, the story is just like The Lord Of The Rings. Therefore, I got really involved!
At the same time, the second series began in Britain. I just watched some episodes. Compared to the first series, it seems the story explores more romance between Arther and Gwen, plus Lancelot.
Much to my delight, the third series will be made. This is going to be great!

By any measure, Arthurian Legend is very in-depth. I didn't know about the legend but now, I am very intrigued. I want to know it in more depth.

HOTCH POTCH STATION

2009-11-28T00:01:00.000-08:00

When I was an elementary school kid, a certain children's Muppet show was broadcasting. It was called "HOTCH POTCH STATION".
I just found it again on YouTube by chance. When I was a kid, I thought it was just a funny musical show.
The show often featured mashed up traditional Japanese children's song VS rock song such as The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, KISS, Queen, Michael Jackson etc...

Looking back, it was really innovative. I think it was created by musical enthusiast. The show might be intended to indoctrinate children to accept Rock or 70's pop songs. I might be totally wrong but, now I am completely brainwashed!

Vintage Photos

2009-11-25T04:21:00.001-08:00

Two years ago I bought Holga which is medium format 120 film toy camera because I wanted to take vignetting effect pictures. When the first time I got the film developed, I really messed up. There are no vignetting effect! I'd like to try it again but surprisingly, 120 film's image development is very expensive. And I couldn't upload to Flickr because I don't have scanner.
Since then, my Holga has been out of use.

I was reminded of Photo Retouch recently. I thought I can create vignetting or vintage photo like Holga!

Immediately, I took on a challenge!

Hmm... I need more practice.

Black Swan Theory

2009-11-16T04:03:00.000-08:00

Do you know the "Black Swan Theory"? According to the Wikipedia, The Black Swan Theory concerns high-impact, hard-to-predict, and rare events beyond the realm of normal expectations.

The reason why I am so interested in this word is because I just bought Athlete's new album called "Black Swan" the other day. The album came out in September but I hadn't noticed. The single called "Black Swan Song" was about the death of Joel's grandfather. This is really moving song. Then I became curious about the song title. So, I looked up the meanings of "Black Swan".
To tell you the truth, I didn't know the black swan is really exist. At first, when I saw the black swan picture, I thought what a beautiful bird!

Going back to the album, I think it includes a lot of impressive and melodic songs. Although I prefer more up-tempo songs such as "You Got the Style" or "El Salvador" from their debut album.
Nevertheless, this new album is brilliant! Unfortunately, Athlete is not very popular in Japan. If you like Snow Patrol or Embrace, please listen to Athlete!

"Is This It"....No! "This Is It"

2009-11-01T04:40:00.000-08:00

I often slip up the title. It's not the Strokes album.
Anyway, I went to see Michael Jackson's movie, "This Is It" last night. I enjoyed it so much. I'm not fan of Michael Jackson until he died. If he were alive, I would not care about him. I'm less of fan than I biased him. I had been thinking he is weird person.

After I watched the film, I have a better opinion of him now. He was a one and only great singer and dancer. What was surprising was he had never lip-synced. I heard that Britny Spears can't sing without lip-sync when she is dancing. His dance was also brisk in motion. I can't believe that it was just before he died.

Nevertheless, I had never seemed such music film before. Most of theatre attendance was watching it quietly. However the film seems live music itself for me. So, I felt like putting my hands up and clapping. But nobody did it. That was irritating thing.

Halloween in Japan

2009-10-31T00:21:00.000-07:00

Halloween getting more and more popular in Japan as well as Christmas and Valentine. I often see Halloween display anywhere in Japan. When I was a child, I don't even know what's the Halloween. But I wanted to wear Halloween costumes.

As I learned about the Halloween custom in Europe and the United States, I thought it must be become popular in Japan. Because, there are a lot of cosplayer in Japan, you know. I'm not saying that Halloween is popular whole of Japan yet. I'm sure it will become customary.

Anyway, what is the most popular Halloween costume this year? I think it would be Joker from Batman or Michael Jackson.

Despite that, what is this poster?

Stiff shoulder

2009-10-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

I found a lot of people suffering from heavy stiff shoulder or headache lately, when I surfing other people's blogs. I think the cause is too much spending time in front of their computer screen.
Actually, I've been suffering from heavy stiff shoulder and headache few years ago. At that time, I was leaning CSS by myself to change this blog template. I also had nausea. At first, I thought that headache comes from mental trouble. But it's not. It came from stiff shoulder.
Then I found how to get rid of this pain. The solution is release the stress from my body by stretching. I stretch my shoulder every night before go to bed. Just doing this, my headache and stiff shoulder went away. If you have same symptom, I just want you to try it.