DRAGON BALL Z: BATTLE OF GODS COMING TO US THEATERS!

W00T! All you lucky fans in the US will get a chance to see the 2013 Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods in theaters! This is happening  August 5, 6, 7, & 9! Sign up NOW to get your notification as to when tickets go on sale in your area. These will sell out fast!! Info & sign up HERE!

Straight from FUNimation:

Prepare for the Dragon Ball Z experience of a lifetime as Earth's greatest heroes hit the big screen in Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods! Stunning animation and epic new villains highlight this first new Dragon Ball feature film in over seventeen years! 

Following the events from the Dragon Ball Z television series, after the defeat of Majin Buu, a new power awakens and threatens humanity. Beerus, an ancient and powerful God of Destruction, searches for Goku after hearing rumors of the Saiyan warrior who defeated Frieza. Realizing the threat Beerus poses to their home planet, the Z-fighters must find a way to stop him before it's too late. Only Goku, humanity's last hope, can ascend to the level of a legendary Super Saiyan God and stop Beerus from destroying Earth, and possibly the entire universe! Fans of the series will be delighted to know that Battle of Gods is an original work from Dragon Ball creator, himself, Akira Toriyama.

Shibuya Crossing Episode 027 LIVE Friday May 30th!

Straight from the host Sat Delos Angeles!

[Episode 027] On Friday, May 30th, Shibuya Crossing is back with an all-new episode! Big news and big music up ahead! Our line-up so far:

- A preview of our interview with DaizyStripper and Rose Noire at Anime North 2014 thanks to J-Rock North and CJLO! We're devoting the entire full episode to these bands next Friday, June 6th!

- A Live Report from the May 19th Montreal show of Next Music from Tokyo featuring Jizue, Uchuu Conbini, Happy!Mari, Kinoko Teikoku and nayuta!

- We have a two-part Artist Spotlight on the music surrounding Dir en grey. Part one will be on the members of Sukekiyo (ENTRER EN SOI, kannivalism, 9GOATS BLACK OUT and of course, Dir en grey).

- In anticipation of their Canadian shows this summer, we're also sampling the music from MAN WITH A MISSION (playing in Toronto) and BABYMETAL (playing in Montreal)!

All that and more as Episode 27 kicks off live from 9 to 10am EST on CJLO. Check below how you can listen!

You can also stream the full show in its entirety anytime from 9pm EST at CJLO.com and at mixcloud.com/shibuya1690

Direct link: http://www.cjlo.com/cjlo.m3u

On Web: Tunein Radio: tinyurl.com/listentocjlo

On Mobile: CJLO App on the Apple App Store and Google Play

On Air: 1690 AM in Montreal.

Home Page: http://cjlo.com/?q=shows/shibuya-crossing

HUGE FanCam Post #3! DaizyStripper at Anime North 2014!

And of course, the band so close to my heart, DaizyStripper!!!! I wish we had more, but we were too busy dancing!

HUGE FanCam Post #2! Rose Noire at Anime North 2014!

You can never have too many videos right? Here's our clips from Rose Noire!!

HUGE FanCam Post #1! Next Music From Tokyo Vol. 6

Holy uploads Batman!!! But seriously, we have a TON of vids for you to check out. First up is our coverage of NMFT Vol 6. We were at both Toronto dates so we have a shot from each night for each band. Video's will be The Rivoli first, and Lee's Palace second for each band. Be sure to check them all, these bands blew us away! Full report coming soon!!

Kinoko Teikoku

Uchu Conbini

Gothic Beauty Pre-Order Issue 44

Pre-Order Up!

Features in this issue include Wysterium Wear, Ichigo Black, Victoria Price, director Robert Rodriguez, Pearls & Swine, artist Lora Zombie, London Edge fashion trade show, Hair From Hell, Dellamorte & Co., Reiki: The Mysterious Art of Healing, Unique Gothic Mask DIY and more. Plus music, book and product reviews!

Music interviews with Voltaire, Aesthetic Perfection and Beauty Queen Autopsy.

This is a PRE-ORDER and will ship once the issue becomes available (mid June).

BABYMETAL To Play Heavy Montreal

Heavy metal teen trio, BABYMETAL, has just been added to the lineup for Heavy Montreal!  Heavy Montreal is a three day heavy metal festival boasting appearances by big names such as Slayer, Anthrax, Lamb of God and many more.  If I was these girls' mom, I'd be...terrified, frankly.  The festival takes place August 8-10 and weekend tickets are on sale now, so get 'em while they're hot!

Don't Forget To Shop On iTunes!

Canadian Link

 Have you been by iTunes lately? Don't forget many of your favorite artists are available! Save the shipping and go digital!

US Link

YesStyle: End-Of-Season Sale!

Go check it! Lots of fabulous items super cheap!

SAMMYdress: Shoes!

I know you love shoes! And these prices are super cheap - go check out the latest selection at SAMMYdress!

YesAsia: Return Of VIXX And Ballad Duo Fly to the Sky!

VIXX and ballad duo Fly to the Sky have returned. You can preorder Fly to the Sky's autographed version with poster and Vixx's newest album from YesAsia.com! If you're looking for something hot & spicy, how about some Tom Yum Goong action from Tony Jaa? The movie is now also available at YesAsia.com! Click the banners to get your copies today!

We're Back!!!

OMG what a weekend! Insanity does even begin to describe what was Anime North 2014, but all in a good way. If you weren't there for Rose Noire and DaizyStripper's performance you missed a hell of a show!! 

We have a TON of coverage coming your way, all being edited now. We'll get it to you as fast as we can! Please wait for it!

I also want to take a moment to thank the most AWESOME staff of J-rock North Promotions for making everything possible and being such a fab team to work with. Every year they impress me and we are lucky to work with such an awesome team!

Also HUGE thanks to Rose Noire: Louie and Jill, Darkest Labyrinth and DaizyStripper: Yugiri, Nao, Rei and Kazami,  Beyond-MAX, Inc. You are all incredible and it was an honor to work with you. 

Stay tuned for all our updates!!

The Weekly Quickie: Nerd Fest, Mejibray, SPYAIR, Moi dix Mois

It sure seems like I talk about ViViD a lot lately, but, guess what.  I'm doing it again!  ViViD announced early this week that they will be headlining Nerd Fest in Orlando, Florida.  Nerd Fest is a music-centered, four-day nerd party featuring acts such as Earthbound Papas, Critical Hit, Steam Powered Giraffe and MC Frontalot.  It will take place August 7-11 at Orlando Airport Marriot.  See their homepage for details on passes and scheduling.  There's also about a 98% chance I'll be there, so if you see me, say hi!

Press Release: HOME MADE KAZOKU Plays A Triple-Header Show In The U.S.!‏

HOME MADE KAZOKU plays a triple-header show in the U.S.!

Guam International Music Festival now added.

After wrapping up their 10th Anniversary “THE BEST OF HOME MADE KAZOKU TOUR” in Japan, HOME MADE KAZOKU now departs for their U.S. leg of the tour! 

As part of their 10th Anniversary Project , they will make an appearance at FanimeCon (San Jose, CA) and Anime Weekend Atlanta (Atlanta, GA). In addition, they have added their 3rd U.S. show with their appearance at the Guam Live International Music Festival! 

Guam Live International Music Festival will take place from June 6-7 at the Paseo Stadium in Hagatna, Guam. 　

HOME MADE KAZOKU is set appear on stage on June 7 (Sat), with many artists from around the world attending this event.

This is a great chance for HOME MADE KAZOKU fans to see them in the U.S.!

For tickets and details, check out http://www.guam-live.com

PV Analysis: Kyary Pamyu Pamyu - 'Yume no Hajima Ring Ring' / 'Family Party (+ 'Kira Kira Killer')

Over the course of the last few years, Japan's music scene has seen global exposure through an unstoppable solo artist - Kyary Pamyu Pamyu. Whether you're into her sugary brand of pop or not, the attention she draws to J-pop is an undeniable force on the worldwide stage. After catching her live in Toronto at the Sound Academy in March, I couldn't help but notice that KPP put out 2 more singles as she wrapped up her Nanda Collection world tour. The graduation-themed 'Yume no Hajima Ring Ring' and movie soundtrack single 'Family Party' offer more compelling PVs to ponder, and the previews of the upcoming 'Kira Kira Killer' show that the maturation and evolution of Kyary doesn't affect her sense of fun in the least.

Review: REIGN - Kyumei

 
 About the Band: REIGN is a brand-spanking-new Loud-Kei band made up of ex-AND members Ikuma (Vo) and Kaji (Dr), and newcomers Ryuzi (Ba), Nagi (Gt), and Tano (Gt). Their image is that of mischievous demons and their fans are referred to as Koakuma, or Little Devils. Kyumei is the second of a promised five releases.

Anime North In Just 2 Days!!!

It's my favorite time of year! Who knows why I love this con so much, but I do. And this year one of my absolute favorite bands, DaizyStripper will be returning to Canada, accompanied by Rose Noire, as well as North American locals Hoshi Furu and Sol Ardour. I know I'm a little behind on some postings - but I promise they are coming...after the con! And boy are there a bunch coming! Please be patient as this is our busiest month and we are but humble worker bees. And of course, if you're at the con (and you better be!) come find us! We'd love to say hi!

See you there!

Sailor Moon Official Announcement Trailer

This has me all kinds of excited and it starts TODAY!!! Check out the official announcement below!!

Starts Monday 5/19/14 on Neonalley.com and Hulu! 

Sailor Moon is finally back! 

Watch the legendary anime series, Sailor Moon from the very beginning. New episodes every Monday featuring uncut and remastered footage! All 200 episodes coming, including the never before seen fifth season, Sailor Stars!

Usagi Tsukino is a clumsy but kindhearted teenage girl who transforms into the powerful guardian of love and justice, Sailor Moon. Meeting allies along the way who share similar fates, Usagi and her team of planetary Sailor Guardians fight to protect the universe from forces of evil and total annihilation.

Sailor Moon Set 1 -available on DVD and Blu-ray this Fall from VIZ Media. 

Join us for our special Anime Expo 2014 event on July 5, 2014 for more release and cast information. Until then, enjoy this trailer!

http://www.viz.com/sailormoon

The Weekly Quickie: BORN, Lycaon, ALSDEAD, ViViD, DaizyStripper, GazettE

This week, it's all about lives and new releases!  First up, BORN and Lycaon just announced an EU Tour!  The tour, called RAMPAGE, will consist of a series of two-man lives across Europe.  Schedule and ticketing information to be announced via MJP on May 23rd, so keep your eyes peeled!

Guess what.  I don't have to eat my hat!  ALSDEAD just held their much awaited JUDGEMENT DAY live on May 16 where they announced the official induction of drummer, Nikky, to the ranks and the release of an as yet untitled album later this year.  If you were lucky enough to attend the live, you had the opportunity to grab a limited edition of their newest single, STAR LESS , which officially releases 6/4.  It also means I hate you.  I lot.  Check out a preview below.

Next Music From Tokyo Vol.6 At Lee's Palace Tonight!

Next Music From Tokyo Vol.6 show at Lee's Palace on tonight!! Tickets are still available at the door, but come early as it will sell out again!

Featuring:

きのこ帝国（Kinoko Teikoku) / 宇宙コンビニ（Uchu Combini) / Happy!Mari / jizue / Nayuta

Last night was phenomenal - don't miss the second Toronto date tonight!

Update From J-rock North At Otafest!

Morning J-rock fans!

We were so busy that we almost forgot to post! Thanks to everyone who attended the Chii Sakurabi live yesterday! Did you get your mini Chii? ^^

Otafest is here! Day 1 was a fabulous start. On to Day 2!

- Today Chii will be appearing at a Meet and greet/Q&A panel along with Rose Noire in ST141 at 2:30pm

- Chii Sakurabi signing from 4:00pm - 6:00pm in the Special Guests area (Near Vendors' hall)

- Rose Noire signing from 5:00pm - 6:00pm in the Special Guest area

- Rose Noire Concert starts at 8:30pm in the MSC Ballroom

We will be at our table in the Vendors Hall. Come by and say hello!

Don't miss the Concerts tonight. See you all soon!

Via: Facebook

Dan's Pick: ''オワリカラ (OWARIKARA)''

                                                         

It's the 15th! That means it's round two of Dan's Pick! 

   This month, I'd like to show you オワリカラ (OWARIKARA). 

   Formed in 2008, in Japan (Duh, I just couldn't find out where, exactly) they bring lots of indie influences, pop rock, and a little funk influence to this wonderful table of music they create. 

   They, of course, being:  Takahashi Hyouri (vocals, guitar), Kameda Taku (keys), Tsuda Fumihiko (bass), and Kawana Kenta (drums).

   Whether it be a PV or live performance, they put out the same level of energy in both. And from what I've seen, is a lot. A lot a lot. I mean like 7 Red Bulls a lot. I would love to see this group live. I can only assume it would be a blast. 

   Much like last month's pick, this isn't the first song I heard from this band. But it's hard choosing a song you want to share with people when you like so many of their songs! However, I chose one from their most recent album. I don't have much to say about it, other than it's just an all around good ass song. Funky dynamic bass, techy drumming, funky guitar, awesome vocals, and a bopping keyboard. 

                              

I present 踊るロールシャッハ (Odoru Rorschach).

I'll also post a live video of this song so you can witness the lively and dynamic performance they put on. 

~Dan

Purchase their music at CDJapan!

Saihate Songs

Owarikara

Check them out online at their official links below:

Official Site: http://owarikara.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OWARIKARA

Myspace: https://myspace.com/owarikara

NMFT Vol. 6: It All Starts This Weekend!!!

If you haven't heard about this yet, you need to! This weekend kicks off a 4 stop tour of "Super Music Lover" Steve's hand-picked, kick-ass indie bands straight from Japan. And you get all this for just $10! It's beyond a steal. Steve goes all out and these shows are not to be missed. You won't get this anywhere else. Come join us for Next Music from TOKYO Vol.6! 

Featuring:

きのこ帝国 (Kinoko Teikoku)

http://www.kinokoteikoku.com

Happy!Mari

http://happyyymari.tumblr.com

宇宙コンビニ (Uchu Conbini)

http://uchuconbini.com

jizue

http://www.jizue.com

nayuta

http://www.sayonara-ambient.com

May 16, 2014 - The Rivoli (Toronto, ON) SOLD OUT

May 17, 2014 - Lee's Palace (Toronto, ON)

May 19, 2014 - Divan Orange (Montreal, QC)

May 21, 2014 - Biltmore Cabaret (Vancouver, BC)

For more information and tickets, visit www.NextMusicFromTokyo.com

Last Day For Voting!

We're into the home stretch! Just under 24 hours left for voting to support both The Mootekkis and ICE ELEMENT as they compete for various super, awesome rewards. 

In fact, The Mootekis were so moved by the fan support shown thus far, that they created a video in this honor. Check it out below! But don't forget to click on the band names above to be directed to their voting link. Let's get them both to #1!!

For the past month fans, friends and family have been piggy-backing The Mootekkis up the Tokyo Red Bull daily rankings from a sobering #77 to a dizzying #1 and so we felt it was only fair to run up a hill ourselves… -Mike

Anime North Pre-Reg Closes May 18th!

Sunday, May 18 at midnight will be your last chance to pre-register at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/anime-north-2014-tickets-9976374605. This is your last chance to purchase Friday and Sunday admissions before the convention, along with merchandise, and special event tickets for the Moonlight Ball and Momiji Award Brunch.

Please note that Saturday and weekend admissions to Anime North 2014 are sold out.

Via: Facebook

Press Release: Eir Aoi To Take Part In The “Kill La Kill” SPECIAL EVENT At Anime Expo 2014!‏

Sony Music Entertainment Japan, A/X, and Aniplex present

Eir Aoi at “Kill La Kill” SPECIAL EVENT

It has just been announced that Eir Aoi will be part of the “Kill la Kill” special event at Anime Expo 2014 in Los Angeles, California from July 3-6. This special “Kill la Kill” event will take place for one night only on Friday, July 4th and feature a star-studded line up that will include a special talk session with all the guests, an exclusive screening of the of “Kill la Kill”, and a special concert by Eir Aoi, who sings the opening theme song.

Eir will also be participating in panels, autograph sessions, and special events throughout the weekend of Anime Expo 2014. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of one of the biggest events in history!

Tickets for the “Kill la Kill” event go on sale starting today for Premier Fans and starting on May 15th for the general public. For ticket purchases please visit: https://tickets.anime-expo.org/

*The ticket also includes a glow stick called "FreFlow®" that interacts simultaneously to music and staging effects, which will be used for the first time in the US!

Anime North Update: Saturday Admissions SOLD OUT!

Saturday-only admissions for Anime North 2014 are now sold out and will not be available for purchase at the door. However, there are still plenty Friday and Sunday admissions available for pre-registration until midnight, May 18, and at the door.

Via: Facebook

Fresh Fashion From YesStyle!

Check Out The Latest From YesAsia!

Weekly Deals From SAMMYdress And RoseWholesale.com!

The Weekly Quickie: D'espairsRay, G.L.A.M.S., Royz, DIV

I'm not ashamed.  I admit it.  When I read this bit of news, I literally screamed.  For the first time since their breakup in 2011, neu-metal rockers D'espairsRay will be once again hitting the stage.  They will be playing Angelo Presents 「THE INTERSECTION OF DOGMA」 on 7/29 at Zepp Diver City.  D'espairsRay broke up in 2011 after a long haitus due to vocalist Hizumi's throat condition and he says he's still not at 100%, but is excited to be performing with D'espairsRay again and will do his best to put on a great show.  They will be joined by Angelo, RIZE, Lynch and FAKE?.  Here's hoping for a DVD.

Live Report: Chthonic At The Opera House In Toronto - May 1, 2014

Freddy Lim plays the erhu at The Opera House
(photo: Sabrina Ramos)

CHTHONIC IMPRESSES AT THE OPERA HOUSE IN TORONTO

By James C. Stewart

On April 24, 1970, a member of the World United Formosans for Independence, Peter Huang, attempted to assassinate Chiang Ching-kuo (former Vice Premier of the Republic of China), in front of the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The attempt ended in failure; however, when pushed to the ground by security personnel Huang shouted, “Let me stand up like the Taiwanese!”
“We are Chthonic from Taiwan!”
—Freddy Lim, May 1, 2014. The Opera House, Toronto.

Following their striking instrumental introduction Arising Armament, Taiwanese metal icons Freddy Lim, Jesse Liu, Dani Wang and the stunning Doris Yeh, launched into their first concert in Toronto since 2011 with Supreme Pain for the Tyrant, a powerful song boiling out of the rage and memories of Taiwan’s war torn history. From the 2013 album Bú-Tik, the war cry “Let me stand up like a Taiwanese! Only justice will bring you peace!” infected even non-Taiwanese fans.