Pick Up Review
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Shojo no Hi no Omoide [CD+DVD, w/ Photobook / Limited Edition]Phantom SiitaIt's great CDJAPAN, Thanks
Thanks to cdjapan I got this album in very good condition, and I'm happy because I got a photocard MThanks to cdjapan I got this album in very good condition, and I'm happy because I got Miu's photocard
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I'm Your Idol / Adrenaline Game [Special Edition / Type B]Takane no NadeshikoAlmost Perfect, Yet Worthwhile
The Special Edition B of the B-side single “I’m Your Idol,” featuring “Adrenaline Game”, is a beautifully designed collector’s item with a neon-futuristic look that perfectly matches the powerful vibe of the song. The packaging and format are identical to Version A: widescreen with an elegant matte-finish cardboard sleeve. The neon-futuristic industrial setting, with the group in gray-and-white uniforms and surrounded by vibrant neon lights, gives this edition a unique character that complements the energy of the track. Inside, you’ll find a digipack with the music CD and a high-quality, approximately 20-page booklet. The CD itself is sleek, black with white text, while the booklet features stunning images from the music videos as well as behind-the-scenes shots. Additionally, it includes the popular Q&A segment where the members share what gives them an adrenaline rush. The layout, with large individual portraits and smaller individual photos, is consistently well-executed. However, the booklet is a direct copy of the one in Version A, without incorporating the distinct “Adrenaline Game” aesthetic. This could be a letdown for collectors who purchase both editions, as a more unique design would have been appreciated here. The tracks include those from the standard version but also feature the bonus song “LOVE ME MORE THAN I DO.” This makes the disc identical to the B version of the "Limited Edition", which is also a bit of a letdown. As a bonus, the edition includes a randomly selected photo card of a group member – in my case, Mikuru, which was an exciting highlight! That said, it’s a bit disappointing that these cards are only included in the Special Editions and not in the standard versions, as was often the case with previous releases. All in all, "Special Edition B" is a highly polished and stylish collector’s item that I’d still recommend to all fans, despite the booklet’s lack of differentiation. If you love “Adrenaline Game” and the neon-futuristic look, this edition is a real standout! However, for those who already own Version A, keep in mind that the booklet doesn’t offer any additional value.
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I'm Your Idol / Adrenaline Game [Takaneko Ban]Takane no NadeshikoA Standard Edition That Stands Out
I’m absolutely thrilled with the standard edition of Takane no Nadeshiko’s new single CD! The production feels high-quality and carefully crafted. The classic jewel case features a beautiful cover with the group standing on a green meadow in their stunning standard uniforms. The sunset in the background adds a nice touch of harmony, even if it’s a bit on the digital side. The colorful booklet with lyrics and gorgeous panoramic photos from the music videos ties everything together perfectly. Overall, it’s a simple yet premium edition that’s totally worth it! The songs are just as amazing: “I’m Your Idol” is a fantastic, epic anthem that beautifully captures the bond and love between idols and fans. Musically, it’s a masterpiece like no other. On the other hand, “Adrenalin Game” brings the heat with its energetic, powerful vibe—a perfect contrast to the first track. “Love Virus” perfectly completes the single: a melancholic power ballad full of emotional depth that, despite its melancholy, preserves a spark of hope. With its intense atmosphere, it ideally complements the previous songs and once again showcases the versatility and emotional range of Takane no Nadeshiko. A truly beautiful song!
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I'm Your Idol / Adrenaline Game [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type A]Takane no NadeshikoA Perfect Continuation
The Limited Edition Version A expands on the concept of the standard version of “I’m Your Idol” with exclusive details and a graceful, magical aesthetic. The cover features the group in their official uniforms, seemingly standing on water, surrounded by an idyllic landscape with a blue sky. This creative twist gives the image a divine aura and perfectly aligns with the warm and positive message of the song. As with Version B of “Adrenalin Game,” this edition also includes a transparent slipcover. The white lettering of “I’m Your Idol” floats above the cover image, creating an elegant 3D effect that enhances the premium design. The booklet is stylistically similar to the standard version and is designed in delicate pastel tones, emphasizing its friendly and vibrant mood. It features a double-page spread of Polaroid-style photos that show the members during a barbecue event. The light blue background of this edition gives the images an even brighter and more optimistic atmosphere. The tracklist is identical to the standard version, with the addition of a fourth bonus track, “Motechen!”, as well as instrumental versions of all songs. The bonus DVD showcases the first part of the group’s BBQ event, while Version B presents the second part. “BBQ Part 1” captures charming mini-games, shared meals, and joyful moments, giving fans a glimpse into the group’s well-deserved tour finale. Unfortunately, no subtitles – neither in English nor any other language – are available, leaving fans hopeful that a translated version will soon appear on platforms like YouTube to provide a better understanding and enjoyment of the event. With its warm, friendly design and exclusive features, the Limited Edition Version A offers a perfect contrast to Version B and beautifully complements the collection. It is a true highlight for fans, capturing and continuing the harmonious and optimistic spirit of “I’m Your Idol.”
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I'm Your Idol / Adrenaline Game [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type B]Takane no NadeshikoGreat Focus on Adrenalin Game
The Limited Edition Version B focuses entirely on the B-side of the single “I’m Your Idol”, with “Adrenalin Game” as the main theme. It visually and conceptually emphasizes the song’s darker, futuristic, and elegant atmosphere. The CD cover features the group in a serious gray-white-black look with a slightly futuristic, gothic style. The members’ uniforms follow this color scheme, showcasing clean, simple lines that exude elegance and strength. This edition’s aesthetic creates a perfect contrast to the warm and harmonious vibe of the “I’m Your Idol” Limited Edition (A) or the Standard Edition. The CD is packaged in a standard jewel case but enhanced by a special transparent slipcover. The slipcover features the title “Adrenalin Game” in gray and white Kanji characters, which, when placed over the jewel case, create a striking three-dimensional effect that further enhances the design. Upon opening, the thoughtful layout reveals space for two discs. The main CD is designed in a sleek dark blue-black theme, while the bonus DVD contrasts with a white design and black text. The DVD includes the second part of the group’s barbecue event, filmed in a relaxed and personal setting. Highlights include funny mini-games and a heartfelt sharing session among the members. Unfortunately, there are no English subtitles, so I couldn’t understand much… :-( Hopefully, a translated version will appear on YouTube soon! The booklet also reflects the Adrenalin Game aesthetic with its black/gray design and white text. In addition to the panoramic photos from the standard edition and the lyrics, it features a special double-page spread of Polaroid-style snapshots. These candid photos of the group during the barbecue event add a behind-the-scenes charm that complements the concept beautifully. Musically, the Limited Edition includes the same main tracks as the standard edition, along with an additional bonus track, “Love Me More Than I Do”, and instrumental versions of all four songs. This meticulously crafted and high-quality edition perfectly captures the powerful and dynamic character of “Adrenalin Game” and offers fans an exclusive collectible experience with its unique extras.
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LIVE AT TOKYO DOME BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2016 LEGEND - METAL RESISTANCE - RED NIGHT & BLACK NIGHT [Limited Release]BABYMETALBabymetal Live at the tokyo dome
I have been collecting babymetal vinyl since 2014 and this is one of the best live albums I have ever heard
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Utsukushiku Ikiro / Koi wo Shitta Sekai [Special Edition / Limited Release]Takane no NadeshikoOne the best new group since 5 years !
I am often surprised by the level of quality of young Japanese female singers, but here we are reaching a very high level. Next step: a first concert! Even if there are only 12 songs o the DVD/BLURAY in a modestly sized venue, it will already be excellent. Many groups that started in these conditions have had, and still have, an excellent career! So, go for it girls, go for it!!!
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Willshine [Regular Edition]PassCode2 great new tracks.
Both tracks are great but I prefer the 2nd one it's more of Passcodes sound, definitely a must own for any Passcode fan.
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Honda Hitomi AKB48 Graduation Commemorative Photo Book: Ashita no MukogawaHonda HitomiAbsolutely stunning Hiichan!
Hitomi looks so beautiful in all shots of this photobook. A brilliant collector item for sure! Supporting through AKB48, IZ*ONE and now SAY MY NAME... so happy to have this!
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identity [Regular Edition]Sayaka YamamotoGreat!
Sayaka has great selection as an artist. I enjoyed her voice throughout the album of course! It has such a chill vibe!
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Utsukushiku Ikiro / Koi wo Shitta Sekai [Special Edition / Limited Release]Takane no NadeshikoGreat collector's item
A super nice collector's item for all Takneko fans!!! The photo book is beautifully done, showcasing their journey with great image quality. As for the awesome songs, there's nothing more to say – we already know and love them all. :-D
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Utsukushiku Ikiro / Koi wo Shitta Sekai [w/ DVD, Limited Edition / Type B]Takane no NadeshikoFan Edition B
Version B sticks to the same concept, with the song selection altered by one track (on both the main disc and the DVD). The cover is also split according to the music video (Hina, Himeri, Erisa, Momoko, and Riri). Even though fan-favorite Momona is on Version A, my two oshis, Momoko and Erisa, are on this one, which made it a must-buy for me... ;-) But seriously, it’s an awesome disc, and this one also includes two live performances on the DVD from a show I’ve never seen anywhere else.
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Saijokyu ni Kawaii No! [CD+2DVD / Type A]Cho Tokimeki SendenbuDay 1: an energy that takes you far!
Day 1: an energy that takes you far! It is always with great emotion when we have the opportunity to see a Cho Tokimeki Sendenbu concert published, because they are still rare. Although recently, this seems to change... This first day of the tour in YOKOHAMA is simply a major turning point in the career of this group. There will have been a before and after these 2 days. It all starts with a small animation during which the 6 young women are introduced. It is very pretty, funny, and absolutely delicious. A big congratulations to the artists who worked on it. And once this is finished, you are quickly projected onto the stage and the concert begins. An incredible energy propels you 47 minutes (!!!) later to a small intervention at the microphone of the young singers. Everything is perfect: singing, choreography, light animations, laser beams (grandiose), etc... We see as always with Cho Tokimeki Sendenbu that there was a high level of preparation: there is an incredible harmony, an obvious synchronicity, between these 6 people. The result is astonishing. On DVD 2, there is a microphone intervention of almost 35 minutes in one sequence, so much the members of the team have things to tell us (but unfortunately no subtitles!!!). The most moving moment of this sequence is when AKI SUDA begins to speak: three times, she has a complete speech block, so strong is the emotion. But quickly she recovers, and continues her intervention, with tears in her eyes. As if one can be incredibly energetic, but also be extremely sensitive. The show is mainly organized like this: DVD1: recent songs. With a small "game" sequence in the middle. DVD2: the less recent songs, with a 35-minute intervention in the middle, full of emotions, laughter, and tears of joy. Technically, it's excellent, we forget that it's not a BLURAY, whether for the sound or the image. Be careful not to turn the sound up too loud: it's already strong enough as it is. I had the impression that the old songs had seen their musical part a little reworked compared to the original versions, and especially replayed in full: it's very well done, it's very pleasant. In summary: a superb show, and in addition the price is particularly reasonable.
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Saijokyu ni Kawaii No! [CD+2DVD / Type B]Cho Tokimeki SendenbuDay 2: even more emotions!
Day 2: even more emotions! See my review of day 1 for more details. How is it possible to do even better than the first day? Because here, we reach an even higher level than for the first day. I dare say that here it is at the level of very big groups like Morning Musume, AKB48, and Momoiro Clover Z. Too bad if some will find the comparisons audacious. I don't care, and I know Momoiro Clover Z VERY well: I have ALL their concerts, same for AKB 48 (well almost all), and I am discovering Morning Musume (well I already knew, but I don't have all their concerts yet). Of course, the musical styles are different, but it doesn't matter: the artistic quality of Cho Tokimeki Sendenbu has made a huge qualitative leap. When you follow a group, you end up realizing it. On DVD 2, there is a microphone intervention of almost 35 minutes in one sequence, as for the first day, so much the members of the team have things to tell us (but unfortunately no subtitles either, it's a bad habit that will have to be corrected: even in France, this group is appreciated!!!). The most moving moment of this sequence is when AKI SUDA is simply too overwhelmed by emotion to speak, unlike the previous day: she almost has to sit on the ground so strong is the emotion!!! But she manages to overcome this moment, and finally everything ends with her incredible smile! Technically, it's excellent, we forget that it's not a BLURAY, whether for the sound or the image. Be careful not to turn the sound up too loud, though. I just have one regret: that there are no musicians on stage, like for the show "Tokimeku Koi to Seishun Koi Edition "TYPE-A". Because it radically changes the atmosphere. And I hope that the tour in South Korea will be published quickly, as well as the concert planned for Christmas at the SAITAMA SUPER ARENA! I am impatiently waiting. In summary: a superb show, and in addition the price is particularly reasonable. Why deprive yourself? To see with family without any worries.
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As you know? [CD+Blu-ray]Sakurazaka46A great show by a great band!
A particularly enjoyable show to watch and listen to, as always with Sakuraza46. As I have all their concerts, and those from the previous era under the name of Keyakizaka46, which I highly recommend! Here are my remarks: 1) It is an artistically perfect product: songs, melodies, vocal interpretation (the young women really know how to sing). A lot of groups, even well-established on the public scene, could take singing lessons when we make comparisons. It is TERRORISM of artistic quality. 2) The packaging is very pretty, very pleasant, with two booklets: one with the lyrics of the songs, the other with the photos of the young women who participated in the making of the album. Even the image on the Bluray is in perfect continuity with the landscape represented on the case once opened and suddenly if we do not pay attention, we say to ourselves "But where is the Bluray ???". Fortunately there is the "Bluray" logo (laughs). A great success. 3) The Bluray is excellent, image and sound. A 1h25 show (there is a video clip at the beginning): it is a duration that suits me very well. It was filmed at the end of the COVID lockdown in 2021, outdoors and with rain, which does not prevent sending gigantic jets of water in addition: the audience having brought all the necessary rain gear (laughs). There is even a small fireworks display at the end. And no one fell even a little despite a very wet ground (laughs). These are the hazards of outdoor concerts. A big congratulations to the organizers who managed these problems with excellent professionalism. Be careful with the sound level, like unfortunately too many concerts in the last 10 years... 4) The Audio CD is a technical horror, worthy of the worst HEAVY METAL bands. It is completely useless, and dangerous for the hearing system! I had to put the level of my amplifier, which is already very low almost all the time, to a level never reached before for me, and I am lucky to have an electro-mechanical potentiometer of formidable precision. This makes listening in the end not very pleasant, including on a title like "BUDDIES", a shame!
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=LOVE 6th Anniversary Premium Concert [Type C]=LOVEVery high quality show
As usual, EQUAL LOVE offers us here a very high quality show. Everything is perfect, meticulously interpreted. As in the previous concert, there is a group of musicians who accompany the young women on some songs, and this gives a very rock and roll atmosphere at times (be careful though, the sound level is rather loud!). Technically, for the DVD, whether in the field of image or sound, we are dealing with a very high quality work, this is also the case for all the concerts of this group. I can judge it like this because I have them all. I wanted to thank and congratulate each of the young women in the group: Otani Emiri Oba Hana Otoshima Risa Saito Kiara Sasaki Maika Takamatsu Hitomi Takiwaki Shoko Noguchi Iori Morohashi Sana Yamamoto Anna And I don't forget Sashihara Rino, whom I discovered with pleasure in old concerts of AKB48 and HKT48 (their golden age): the path traveled since the beginning is rather impressive. Here is a person who has many talents! EQUAL LOVE's shows are all the more enjoyable because there is never any music or singing that is more or less aggressive, everything is very harmonious, and I repeat, particularly well done. The costumes are always very pretty, even extremely pretty, and very elegant, and they are worn by very elegant young women. The stage sets become more sophisticated as the years go by, but never anything useless, gigantic, excessive, here again everything is very elegant. In summary, if you want shows of very high artistic quality, I recommend EQUAL LOVE without any reservation.
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Machigai ja Nai Naitari Shinai / Skip Skip Skip / Kimi to Boku no Kizuna feat. KIKI [CD+Blu-ray / Limited Edition / Type SP]Tsubaki-factoryTsubaki Christmas Cheer
This SP release of Tsubaki Factory's 10th major single, is of special note for it's bonus Blu-ray contents. The tracks on the CD are: 01 Machigai ja nai Naitari Shinai 02 Skip-Skip-Skip 03 Kimi to Boku no Kizuna feat. KIKI 04 Machigai ja nai Naitari Shinai (Instrumental) 05 Skip-Skip-Skip (Instrumental) 06 Kimi to Boku no Kizuna feat. KIKI (Instrumental) Limited Edition SP Blu-ray has two groups of items. The 1st group is the music videos and interview: 01 Machigai ja nai Naitari Shinai (feat. Kiki Asakura Ver.) 02 Skip-Skip-Skip (feat. Kiki Asakura Ver.) 03 Kimi to Boku no Kizuna feat. KIKI (You & KIKI Ver.) 04 Kiki Asakura Interview The 2nd group is a Live Christmas concert. 6 songs are performed by Tsubaki Factory as a whole and 6 are performed by specific members as indicated below: Tsubaki Factory Major Debut 5 Shuunen Kinen! SPOOX MUSIC ~Tsubaki Factory Xmas LIVE~ 01 Opening 02 Teion Yakedo 03 Yowasa ja nai yo, Koi wa 04 Saijoukyuu Story 05 MC 06 100kai no KISS (Aya Matsuura cover by Kiki Asakura) 07 Aitai Lonely Christmas (C-ute cover by Riko Yamagishi, Kisora Niinuma, Ami Tanimoto, Yumeno Kishimoto, and Kiki Asakura) 08 Pittari Shitai X'mas! (Petitmoni cover by Mizuho Ono, Saori Onoda, and Mao Akiyama) 09 Oujisama to Yuki no Yoru (Tanpopo cover by Yuumi Kasai, Shiori Yagi, Marine Fukuda, and Runo Yufu) 10 Kimi wa Jitensha Watashi wa Densha de Kitaku (Winter Ver.) (C-ute cover by Riko Yamagishi, Kisora Niinuma, Ami Tanimoto, Yumeno Kishimoto, and Kiki Asakura) 11 MC 12 Yuki no Planetarium 13 I Need You ~Yozora no Kanransha~ 14 MC 15 My Darling ~Do You Love Me?~ Bonus Track Sexy Snow (W cover by Shiori Yagi and Marin Fukuda) This Christmas Concert is the main reason to acquire this disc. Enjoyable renditions and updates of older H!P classics.
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Legend - Metal Galaxy (Metal Galaxy World Tour In Japan Extra Show) [Regular Edition]BABYMETALExtraordinary show!
If you want to see and hear lots of different songs performed live by Babymetal, this is the perfect choice. Each Blu-ray has a totally different concert, mainly performing the Metal Galaxy album and so many classics from the first two albums. The video quality and audio are very good. The energy you can feel watching the shows is incredible. Highly recommended. The shipment to Mexico was excellent!
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BABYMETAL [Regular Edition]BABYMETALamazing first album
their first album is definitely the best. a mix of metal and kawaii. a highly recommended album to all babymetal fans.
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0 to 1 no Aida [w/ 3CD+DVD, Limited Edition / Complete Singles]AKB48Nice
Awesome album and a nice collection of singles. Arrived early and in great packaging. All cds were clean and played well.