Taiwan-Pop

Krissy and Ericka's New Album: Twelve:Fifty One

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 22:19:53 PST

Returning after a break, the sisters are back with a brand new album featuring original tracks which will be released internationally!!

Packed with 11 tracks including their titular plug "12:51" which Krissy wrote herself, the album is set to offer you nothing but the best.

After their phenomenal song "Up Up Down Down" which brought them to fame, I think their new album is very amazing and really worth it.

I really recommend the song "12:51" because it is just so lovely and proves their versatility. I love how they shifted from country to a mellow one. Also, the first track "Rewind" was just so cool. And their version of "Rolling in the Deep"... amazing!

Every song was just so great that if I would write everything down, it would probably take so long. So anyways, if you want to check out the songs, below is a preview of every song in the album courtesy of MCA Music.

The album is also set to be released on Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.

My Rating: 10/10

Track List:

1. Rewind feat. AJ Rafael
2. Rolling In The Deep
3. 12:51
4. That Should Be Me
5. Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)
6. Back To December
7. In Your Arms
8. Rocketeer feat. The Lamars
9. Love The Way You Lie 2
10. Anything feat. Marie Digby

BONUS TRACK
11. Change The World

Song Snippets

- Justin -

Girls’ Generation Jessica’s graffiti mural in Australia ruined

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 21:51:25 PST

A few weeks ago we reported that Girls’ Generation member Jessica was tagged on a famous alley in Melbourne, Australia.

Many fans personally visited the beautiful portrait of Jessica but unfortunately it has been ruined.

A fan recently visited the graffiti mural, only to find that the top half of the portrait was sprayed and tagged over.

Source: KpopUnli

- Justin -

Krissy and Ericka Releases "12:51" MV

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 22:20:57 PST

This song was officially released a month ago and I hate it for not knowing a thing about that.

Anyways, so Krissy and Ericka, the lovely sisters are back with a brand new album entitled "12:51".

Together with it is the release of their newest original track that bears the same title which Krissy wrote herself.

In their official YouTube account, she said:

It took 2 years to finally finish this song, and this was probably how long it took me to move on and forget about the guy i wrote this for haha! I actually wrote this at exactly 12:51 am, hence the title. The lyrics reflect pretty much how I was feeling at that time and somehow every now and then I'd still find myself feeling this way - sad! Yeah, perhaps the mood is a bit emo but my sister and I find it the most heartfelt of all the songs we sung and we dedicate this especially for all the girls out there for the upcoming Valentine's day!

What I like about this song is that it has no other effects or whatsoever. Just simplicity and her voice. The song is actually a solo one with Krissy singing it while the music video features her sister Ericka.

I just hope that more songs like this one will be released because nowadays, songs are really really created for money. They lose their sole purpose.

Still, I love this song and hopefully, they go far especially that this album is released internationally. Hooray!

My Rating: 10/10

- Justin -

Anthony Neely's New Album: Wake Up

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:53:45 PST

With an upcoming movie, Anthony Neely releases his newest short album entitled "Wake Up".

The album consists of a song and a coaster, a music video DVD and the trailer for his movie "The Soul of Love and Bread".

I really love his song "You Are My Baby" though I wish he just inserted some other tracks in the album.

Anyway, if you have spare money though, buy this album. If not, just listen to it online. :)

My Rating: 8.1/10

Track List:

[CD 1]
1. You Are My Baby

[CD 2]
2. You Are My Baby MV

[DVD]
3. 愛的菠蘿麵包造型杯墊

- Justin -

Jay Park's New Album: New Breed Part 2 Track List

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:45:25 PST

After the release of his first studio album's "New Breed Part 1", Jay Park continues his streak with the release of the second part of the album.

Consisting of 15 tracks, including his carrier track "Know Your Name" whose music video was released two days ago.

The songs in the album fuses RnB, Pop Rock and Rap which makes it very upbeat and so fun to dance with.

Anyways, I know all of you are craving to hear his every song so here is the track list for his new album!

Track List:

01. NEW BREED (INTRO)
02. Know Your Name
03. Girl Friend
04. Up And Down
05. I Love You
06. Go
07. I Got Your Back
08. 별 (Star)
09. 놀러와 (Come On Over)
10. 전화기를 꺼놔 (Turn Off Your Phone)
11. 너 없이 안돼 (Acoustic ver.)
12. Aom&1llionaire
13. Enjoy The Show
14. 훅 갔어 (Wasted)
15. Clap

- Justin -

AKB48 Releases PV for "Sweet and Bitter"

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:32:52 PST

Preparing for their upcoming 25th single, "Give Me Five!" to be released on February 15, AKB48 finally reveals their short pv for their song "スイート＆ビター" (Sweet and Bitter).

The song was sung by Selection 6 which is composed of Rino Sashihara, Mariko Shinoda, Minami Takahashi, Atsuko Maeda, Tomomi Itano, and Yūko Ōshima.

Check out the pv below! :)

- Justin -

Ailee Reveals Debut MV "Heaven"

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:18:25 PST

Rising as a YouTube singing sensation then performing on Singers and Trainees, Ailee has proven enough why she must be your next idol.

Currently starring in Korean music drama "Dream High 2", Ailee finally releases her debut mv for her song "Heaven".

I really love the song since it is new and her voice was so soothing. Though I am not a fan of the mv itself, the song was very good. What I love about the song is that the beat and melody itself is not overpowering her voice. And her voice just stands out.

Craving to see more of her.

My Rating: 9.6/10

- Justin -

Vic Chou is looking for love

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:45:58 PST

HONG KONG: Taiwan actor Vic Chou revealed during a recent promotional event in Hong Kong for his new film "Perfect Two", that he hopes to settle down by 40 and is currently seeking a girlfriend, reported Hong Kong media.

The 30-year-old actor, who plays a father that grapples with the challenge of raising his young son in the film, said he previously planned to marry and have children at 25, but just couldn't find Miss Right.

His new goal is to do so by 40.

"I really want to be a father and start a family but it isn't easy. I need to first find a good other half, but I haven't found one yet.

"My social circle is too small, and I don't like socializing at events, so I sincerely ask that if there is anyone suitable, please recommend them to me!" Chou told reporters.

The former F4 member said many of his friends were in loving relationships and this caused him to yearn for love as well.

Chou added that he did not rule out having a lightning quick 'flash wedding' if Miss Right comes along.

"Should the right person appear one day, and wants to marry and have kids, I will do it," said Chou.

-CNA/ha

Source: Channel News Asia

- Justin -

Anthony Neely ft. Han Tian Chen Releases "You Are My Baby" MV

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:54:17 PST

Coming back with a movie, Anthony Neely releases his new song "You Are My Baby" featuring Han Tian Chen which is also the main cast for their new movie "The Soul of Bread".

The song is also the main theme song of the movie that stars Michelle Chen.

I first watched the trailer and I found it very cute especially to those who are looking for a movie this coming Valentine's day. It is a romantic comedy that is all about love... and well, bread.

About the song, it is very catchy and I love the chorus. After listening to it for a few times, I found myself singing it because of its lively beat and cute chorus. However, I am not sure if this song is for everyone since the chorus tends to sound very mediocre.

Anyways, I love it and I want to watch the movie!

My Rating: 9.2/10

- Justin -

Vic Chou is envious of co-stars

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 14:30:52 PST

The Vic Chou Yu Man and Mini Yang Mi starred film NEW PERFECT TWO yesterday promoted in Hang Hau. Leads Jai Jai and Yang Mi met with fans. Jai Jai revealed that he and co-star Ella Chen Chia-Hua have already exchanged numbers. If she would invite him he would attend her wedding.

They received support from several hundred fans as they played games with the audience and signed autographs. Yang Mi even performed the theme song. However Yang Mi appeared nervous from inexperience as she deliberately lip sync. Jai Jai who has not appeared in Hong Kong in a long time said that he has not been in Hong Kong for two years. Speaking of the promoting missing the soon to wed Ella, Jai Jai joked, "This way I can have more time to chat with Yang Mi! (Yang Mi already has someone!" We are friends!" Yang Mi earlier officially admitted her relationship with Harwick Lau Hoi Wai. However, she will spend this Valentine's Day at work. Jai Jai said, "Both female leads are so fortunate, I want to be too!" Jai Jai said that if he had the chance he would fight for happiness and joked that he wanted Yang Mi to introduce someone. Yang Mi said, "Why me?" Jai Jai complained, "My friend circle is small!"

Still single, Jai Jai said that he had some cold humor. "On the last day of the Taiwan shoot Yang Mi and I told a lot of jokes!" In the film they played a couple. Did Jai Jai feel he was a good husband. He said, "I can be a good husband! I also hope to build a perfect family! However finding a suitable girlfriend is the most important, only then can I plan to wed!" As for box office pressure, he said that during the film's Lunar New Year Taiwan release, his nephew was moved to touch. Thus he was confident. Would he attend Ella's wedding? Jai Jai responded, "Has it been announced? I don't dare to say anything. Last time after promoting in Taiwan we said we didn't know when we would see each other again so we exchanged numbers. If she called to invite me I will attend!" In addition when asked why she did not perform live, Yang Mi stated that she was too nervous. Did she ask her boyfriend Lau Hoi Wai to support her? Yang Mi sweetly said, "Not yet! But I will urge him to watch!"

Source: HKTopTen, On.cc

- Justin -

Lee Hyori returns to Korean music scene years after plagiarism controversy

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:24:16 PST

SEOUL: Korean singer Lee Hyori's management company B2M Entertainment announced on Tuesday that Lee is in the midst of preparations for her new album, which will be released later this year, reported Korean media.

"She is now selecting songs and will start recording the tracks for the album once they have been confirmed," said a spokesperson.

Lee's upcoming album will be her first since her 2010 offering "H-Logic", which was mired in controversy following allegations of plagiarism.
The "H-Logic" scandal had resulted in Lee calling off all promotional activities for the album and suspending her singing career after the album's release, though she continued to appear in advertisements and occasionally hosted television programmes.
Lee, who is currently dating Korean singer-songwriter Lee Sang Soon, was the leader of now-defunct 90s K-pop girl group Fin.K.L before going solo and releasing her debut single "10 Minute" in 2003.

-CNA/ha

Source: Channel News Asia

- Justin -

Elva Hsiao denies that Kai Ko hugged her

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:21:21 PST

The Taiwanese singer rebukes allegations of a new relationship

Recently, singer Elva Hsiao was rumoured to be dating actor Kai Ko, who is 12 years her junior. One witness even claimed that the pair was behaving intimately at a night club last Saturday.

A Taiwanese tabloid picked up the news and reported that Elva and Kai first went to the movies with a group of friends, before visiting the night club together. Later, when they became drunk, Kai was said to have hugged Elva from behind.

After the report was published, Kai admitted that he had gone to a club with Elva, but insisted that they were "merely friends". He also denied that he had hugged Elva.

Yesterday, Elva's recording company, Golden Typhoon, released a formal statement rebutting the false news reports.

The company stated that while it does not respond to baseless claims, it was forced to do so this time as the matter had severely affected Elva's reputation.

The company stated that the tabloid had continued to report the false news, even after the artistes involved had denied the allegations. If the person who tipped the tabloid is found, Golden Typhoon promises to take legal actions.

Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

Remioromen announces hiatus

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:16:49 PST

The popular band Remioromen announced on Wednesday that they are going on hiatus. The decision is partially a result of vocalist Fujimaki Ryota’s solo debut, which was announced in December. While Fujimaki focuses on his solo career, bassist Maeda Keisuke plans to become active as a producer and composer, and drummer Jinguji Osamu also aims to continue developing as a musician.

Fujimaki is releasing his first solo single, “Hikari wo Atsumete,” on February 29. When the single was announced in December, Fujimaki apologized for making the band’s fans wait, and since then many have been concerned about the future of Remioromen’s activities. However, in the band’s message regarding their hiatus, they assured their fans that “our story is not over,” promising to resume activities sometime in the future. At this time, there is no estimate of when they will end their hiatus.

Remioromen formed in December 2000 and made their major label debut in August 2003. Some of their best known hits are “Konayuki” and “3gatsu 9ka.”

Source: Natalie, Tokyograph

- Justin -

Ella Chen to marry Malaysian beau this year

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:36:45 PST

TAIPEI: Taiwan pop trio S.H.E.'s Ella Chen announced over her micro blog on Thursday that she will marry her Malaysian boyfriend Alvin Lai this year.

"Holding hands, treasuring the present, I am very happy! Yes, I ... am finally getting married.

"The marriage rumours have been around for some time, I am very thankful for everyone's concern. Here, I'd like to announce and share the good news," gushed Chen in a post on her micro blog.

"This year, I am really getting married. I hope everyone will meet their true love, then treasure and cherish one another."

She accompanied her post with a photo of her and Lai, with a sign saying "good marriage fortune" in the background.

In response to her post, Lai said on his micro blog that he is "very lucky" and vowed to cherish Chen, love her and "give her eternal happiness".

Chen's S.H.E. group mates Selina Jen and Hebe Tien quickly congratulated her over their own micro blogs.

"Yes! You have found happiness and I am really happy," said Tien.

"Wait till you (Tien) get married too, then we can become a true 'wife band'," said Jen, who tied the knot with husband Richard Chang last year.

-CNA/ha

Source: Channel News Asia

- Justin -

Singer Bautista Deported for Visa Breach, Says Will Be Back in February

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:16:07 PST

Multi-platinum-selling singer and actor Christian Bautista was deported on Friday night after violating the terms of his visa by giving a performance in Indonesia this week, an official said.

Immigration official Herawan Sukoaji said on Friday that the Philippine national was deported for disobeying Indonesia’s 30-day visa regulations, which prohibit foreigners from working while in the country.

Bautista is also barred from re-entering Indonesia for six months, Herawan added.

The singer was scheduled to leave Jakarta’s international airport on an 8 p.m. Singapore Airlines flight. “Christian’s departure to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport will be escorted by investigators from the Directorate General of Immigration,” Herawan said.

Bautista was pulled in for six hours of questioning and had his passport confiscated on Thursday after it was discovered that he had staged a performance in Lippo Karawaci, Tangerang, the previous night.

He went back to immigration on Friday for more questioning, after which it was announced that he would be deported.

Philippine passport holders are allowed to enter Indonesia on a free, 30-day tourist visa but are prohibited from working in the country. According to Herawan, Bautista has traveled to Indonesia numerous times on a work visa.

“But this time, the sponsor did not fully understand the immigration regulations, so Christian used the free visa,” Herawan said.

Bautista, however, denied the report on his Twitter account.

“No I was not deported, there were just some visa issues that needed clarification with the immigration in Indonesia,” he tweeted. “Everything is OK, I’ll be back in Indonesia during Valentine’s Day.”

Source: Jakarta Globe

- Justin -

Girl's Generation to return to New York!

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:34:04 PST

Fans of Girls’ Generation in and around New York City have been mobilizing for the return of their favorite idol group! It has been announced that the girls will be returning to New York to appear on national television.

The episode details on TVGuide for the popular morning talk show “Live! With Kelly” on February 1st show that the guests of the day will be Jennifer Lopez, Howie Mandel, with a performance by “South Korean pop group Girls’ Generation.” The news was met with surprise as the idea of the girls returning to the States only existed in the dreams of fans until the announcement.

In addition to the “Live!” appearance, SMTOWN has also confirmed through their Facebook page that Girls’ Generation will also be performing on “The Late Show with David Letterman” on January 31. Fans have been clamoring to reserve tickets to the taping for a chance to see their girls live.

Girls’ Generation released the U.S. version The Boys on January 17, which included the English version of “The Boys” as well as the remixes released in the maxi single (including a feature by Snoop Dogg) and select songs from the original Korean version of the album.

It’s definitely an exciting time to be a K-pop fan! With idols increasingly appearing on television, it’s clear that the Hallyu wave has hit the States full force.

Source: MTV K

- Justin -

S.H.E shoots commercial without Selina

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:32:19 PST

Ella and Hebe poses sensually for their new advertisement

All three members of S.H.E have been working on their solo careers for some time now while fellow member Selina recuperates from her onset accident.

Earlier, the trio had reunited for a commercial much to the delight of fans.

However, in a most recent commercial shoot, Selina was left out.

In a photo shoot for a Chinese clothing label, Ella and Hebe were seen dressed in a bright shade of red, posing sensually.

The set of photos were released during the Lunar New Year, causing a stir amongst fans. While some complimented Ella and Hebe for spreading the "festive joy" in the photos, others lamented that "without Selina, it doesn't seem perfect."

In particular, Ella, who had recently announced that she was in a relationship, was lauded for her femininity.

The group's label, HIM International, have yet to respond if Selina will be doing a separate shoot for the advertisement.

Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

Sam Milby will get a heartwarming sendoff this Sunday on ASAP 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:16:08 PST

After their successful double celebration of the Chinese New Year in Quirino Grandstand that drew in thousands of fans, ASAP 2012 continues the fun and entertainment this Sunday (January 29) with a string of grand production numbers from the whole ASAP Kapamilya topbilled by Gary Valenciano, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Sarah Geronimo, Billy Crawford, Luis Manzano, KC Concepcion, Kim Chiu, and Gerald Anderson.

Prepare for a roster of surprises this Sunday with the "SOS" segment of Sarah; collaboration of Philippine rock icon Bamboo and Pinoy Pride Arnel Pineda; concert treat of Yeng Constantino; new single launch of Jed Madela; and the unforgettable musical extravaganza from Angeline Quinto, Karylle, Christian Bautista, Erik Santos, and ASAP Sessionistas.

Making the party more fun and exciting are the special numbers from Ms. Lea Salonga and John Lloyd Cruz; E-Boy lead star Bugoy Cariño; cast of Oka2Kat; and the cast of Mundo Man Ay Magunaw to be led by Nikki Gil and Empress. Also witness the heartwarming sendoff to one of ASAP's well-loved Kapamilya, Sam Milby.

Meanwhile, put on your dancing shoes and groove with ASAP Supahdancers Maja Salvador, Rayver Cruz, Gab Valenciano, Iya Villania, Enchong Dee, Enrique Gil, Jessy Mendiola, and Sam Concepcion. Plus, watch out for the introduction of the newest Kapamilya star who will surely capture everyone's heart.

Don't dare miss 2011 PMPC Star Awards Best Musical Variety Show and Golden Screen Awards 2011's Outstanding Musical Program, ASAP 2012, this Sunday, 12:15nn on ABS-CBN.

Source: Pep.Phhttp://www.pep.ph/guide/tv/9706/sam-milby-will-get-a-heartwarming-sendoff-this-sunday-on-asap-2012

- Justin -

Ella Chen admits her big day is near

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:40:59 PST

The Taiwanese singer revealed her desire to tie the knot after witnessing fellow band mate Selina Jen’s wedding

S.H.E. member Ella Chen and Vic Chou has been busy promoting their new movie Perfect Two.

Hunan Broadcasting System aired a Lunar New Year special the night before, where Vic and Ella appeared as guests. The topics covered include about their recent on-goings, as well as the pair's love life.

Ella, who is currently in love and looking more feminine recently, commented on her recent changes, "I don't know why I tend to look boyish when I have short hair. There was a time when I wasn't working and my hair grew. I was suddenly oozing feminineness."

While the three members of S.H.E are currently pursuing their solo careers at the moment, Ella revealed that they have plans to reunite this year.

The singer let on that band mate Selina Jen's health is improving, although she would still feel blue at times and her emotions are not stable yet.

Ella was also asked about her wedding plans, now that Selina is married. She attempted to evade the question, but after must pressurising from the host, Ella admitted that her big day is drawing near.

She let on that after witnessing Selina's wedding, she realised that she should cherish her happiness more than ever.

On the same episode, Vic, who is usually an introvert, showed another side of himself when he started telling jokes.

However, when asked to comment on his dispute with actor Mark Chao -- the two actors were nominated at the 44th Golden Bell Awards, but Mark won in the end -- Vic replied, "I'll bury this secret inside me for the rest of my life."

Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

Jay Chou loses to Vic Chou at box office

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:36:53 PST

The Asian superstar’s latest movie ‘The Viral Factor’ raked in only S$23,000 on the day of its premiere

Taiwanese singer Jay Chou has been dominating the music industry since his debut. However, he did not seem to enjoy the same luck when it came to movies.

Jay purposely shed his usual image, grew a stubble and had a crew cut for his latest movie The Viral Factor, which had a production cost of NT$800 million (S$33.6 million).

While movie critics loved the film and gave it above-average reviews, The Viral Factor did not appeal to the Taiwanese masses. Two days ago, its Taipei premiere only grossed NT$540,000 (S$23,000). It was also estimated that the film would rake in only NT$810,000 (S$34,000) across the country.

The production company of The Viral Factor responded to the report, saying, "There's a longer holiday this year. The reviews so far had been generally positive, and we believe that word of mouth is useful and that there will a good result in the end."

On the other hand, Vic Chou's movie Perfect Two earned NT$1.92 million (S$80,000) on the same day. It was estimated to bring in a total of NT$4 million (S$168,000) countrywide.

Yesterday, cinemas across Taiwan began increasing the number of movie screenings for Perfect Two. The movie starred Vic, Ella Chen and Xiao Xiao Bin and had a production cost of NT$250 million (S$10.5 million).

Vic, happy with the movie's achievement thus far, encouraged those who have yet to watch the film, to watch it with their families during the festive season.

Ella also thanked everyone for their support.

Source: Xin MSN

- Justin -

YG Family Concert Tour Successfully Ends

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:34:47 PST

The YG Family Concert tour in both Korea and Japan have successfully came to an end.

This tour was in commemoration of YG's 15th anniversary and featured the top YG artists such as Jinusean, Big Bang, 2NE1, Se7en, Gummy, Psy, Tablo and more. The YG family toured around Korea and Japan, reaching crowds of 20,000 people and more. Each group/artist showed strong and charismatic performances. Since it was the first joint concert in five years, fans showed a lot of love as well.

As expected, all of the artists performed their hit songs. But there were a few special performances that left a greater impression such as Taeyang, Daesung, Seungri and Se7en's rendition of 2NE1's "It Hurts" and "Lonely," Gummy's jazz remake of G-Dragon's "Heartbreaker," and Jinusean, Se7en and G-Dragon's "Fly Gentlemen."

The HD LED screen at the Osaka Kyosera Dome and the Saitama Super Arena, which holds over 40,000 people, held those in the farthest seats to catch every glance of their favorite artists up-close. There were moving stages, cranes, magic lifts and other special stage props as well as flashy video clips to further entertain the audience.

One particular attendee exclaimed, "The YG Family members give off an artist/musician feel rather than an idol feel due to their strong and charismatic presence. I think their performances can be compared worldwide. I hope the YG artists will be more active in Japan in the future. I even wish that they would put Japan activities as their priority."

This concert tour held many special meanings, which further impacted the audience. Last year, Big Bang temporarily stopped their activities due to certain happenings and events but through this opportunity, the five members were able to reunite and perform as a team.

Daesung gave his insight by saying, "Through this experience, I realized once again how precious and valuable music and the stage are. I hope I can meet all of you again through a Big Bang concert next time." This showed how the members of Big Bang came together, stronger than ever as they prepare for a new start in February.

Psy also showed how K-Pop doesn't only have to be about idol stars. With his crazy and energetic performances and his comments in Japanese in between performances, Psy almost had no time to sit down and rest through the entire concert as he showed excellent stage manners.

Gummy sang a song called "Departures" by popular Japanese group, globe. This became such a hot topic that globe member and famous producer, Tetuya Komuro made a surprise appearance and held a joint performance with Gummy. Though it was their first time meeting on the day of the concert, they showed perfect chemistry and surprised the Japanese audience.

The artists of YG Family will return on January 23 and begin their separate activities henceforth.

Source: Soompi

- Justin -

Stop the SOPA and PIPA bill!

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:16:11 PST

Imagine your world without music... can you be able to live? Information black out has been made.. can you handle the music black out?

This issue might not be new to those everyday surfers in the world of internet. But for some who doesn't know a little bit about this, here is a brief description of the issue:

PIPA
PIPA is an acronym for the Protect IP Act, and was first introduced to the U.S. Senate on May 12, 2011 by Senators Patrick Leahy, Orrin Hatch, Chuck Grassley. It is also good to take note that PIPA is a re-written legislation, the original being the failed to pass Combating Online Infringement and Counterfeits Act (COICA) of 2010.
PIPA, if passed, will give U.S. corporations and the government the right to seek affirmative legal action with any website that they see as enabling copyright infringement whether of U.S. origin or not. Here is a breakdown of all that they will have the power to do.

Force U.S. internet providers to block access to websites deemed as enablers of copyright infringement

Seek legal action by suing search engines, blog sites, directories, or any site in general to have the black listed sites removed from their website

Will be able to force advertising services on infringing websites, and those supporting of them, to remove them from their advertising accounts

Companies will also have the power to sue any new websites that get started after this bill is passed, if they believe that they are not doing a good job of preventing infringement on your website

SOPA
SOPA is an acronym for the Stop Online Piracy Act, and is a bill introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives by Represenative Lamar Smith on October 26, 2011. In similarity with PIPA, SOPA is a build on a previous legislation. This legislation being the PRO-IP Act of 2008.
SOPA, if passed, will work in conjunction with PIPA. As described by such entities as the Electronic Frontier Foundation, SOPA is nothing more so than the U.S. government and private corporations black list. Here is a breakdown of the power given to the government and private corporations.

The U.S. Attorney General can now seek a court order that would force search engines, advertisers, DNS providers, servers, and payment processors from having any contact with allegedly infringing websites

It will allow private corporations to create their own personal hit lists composed of websites they feel are breaking their copyright policies, ironically this doesn’t have any odd feelings of a legal mafia at all. These companies will be able to directly contact a website’s payment processors a notice to cut all off payment involvement with the targeted website. This payment processors and website of question will then have five days to act before it is simply taken down.

Payment processors will have the power to cut off any website they work with, as long as they can provide a strong reason of why they believe this site is violating copyrights

1stwebdesigner.com

So how does this issue affect our blog and community..?? Well, we are very affected. I must admit that we are not one of those giant music blogs or whatsoever but I think that we contribute a lot in reviving Asian music and spreading it to the whole word. And if this bills passed, we are dead. Our blog will be coming to an end.

As a blogger, our main goal is to share our thoughts to the whole world. And our opinions have a wide effect to our readers. Being a part of the music industry, I have an access to the latest and freshest things going on and it is my duty to share them to the whole world. Unfortunately, we will be under those websites that contains copyright infringement.

What the hell are copyright infringements anyway? These are the copyrights that the protects our favorite artists from being pirated. We hate piracy and illegal downloading so we continue to protest against this illegal acts. But copyright infringements doesn't stop at this. It is only the start... Every lyrics, melodies, compositions, even music videos have their own respective copyrights. Sad to say, sharing them without the knowledge of their companies can be considered as a crime.

In the point of view of a music blogger, there is nothing wrong in what we are doing. In fact we are helping them gain viewers and followers that helps them grow as an artist. We are fans. And it is very impossible to ask permission to post everything.

What is wrong with the world?? I hate to say it but it seems that our blog will be closing soon if this issue will not be resolved.

So I am calling the attention of every music bloggers, musicians or just plain fans. We all love music. We can't live without music. It is our life. Your thought counts... STOP THE SOPA AND PIPA BILL!

Thank you for supporting Taiwan-Pop.

- Justin -

Katncandix2's New EP Album: Explosion of the Earth

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 04:54:13 PST

After a long break, one of my favorite indie musicians are back! Hooray for Katncandix2..

Making a loud comeback, the band is set to release 2 new EP albums. The real idea is to release only one EP packed with 4 tracks but they thought that the songs are somehow different from each other so they decided to separate them and release 2 EP albums instead.

So the first one of the two is "等地球爆炸" (Explosion of the Earth) which has that lovely tracks that are really relaxing and takes you to a whole new world.

The first track, "一起等地球爆炸吧" (Explosion of the Earth Together) is the alternate and the livelier version of the other one with its whimsical melody and shifts of tempo. Also, it was so... cute in a way that it is not over done and too corny.

The second one "等地球爆炸" (Explosion of the Earth) is the original version that has that same quality of fantasy but is more serious.

If you just want to relax and take yourself to a trip down to memory lane, I think this EP album is great. And I would definitely prefer the original version.

My Rating: 10/10

Track List:

一起等地球爆炸吧
等地球爆炸

- Justin -

KARA's first Japan tour to kick off April 14

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 04:35:53 PST

TOKYO — All-female Korean pop group KARA will make their first concert tour of Japan, starting April 14. The group will perform in five cities—Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka—with two concerts at each venue.

The group has appeared at live events many times in Japan, but they usually only sang one or two songs to promote CDs or to meet and greet fans.

The Japan tour is part of the group’s long-awaited Asia tour which kicks off in Seoul on Feb 18. The tour, titled “KARASIA,” will also see the girls give concerts in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Thailand.

Source: Japan Today

- Justin -

Singer JJ Lin dismisses rumours that he has a crush on Hebe Tien

noreply@blogger.com (Jaztien) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:27:32 PST

SHANGHAI: Singaporean singer JJ Lin has denied that he harbours a crush on S.H.E. member Hebe Tien, reported Chinese media.

Lin had said at a previous event in Taiwan that his heart "skipped a beat when my company told me about inviting her (Tien) as a guest performer" at his concert, sparking rumours that Lin is attracted to her.

However, the singer quickly dismissed these rumours when he spoke to reporters at a charity event in Shanghai on Monday.

"A while ago, my company had a concert for our new material and they mentioned to me that they wanted to invite her (Hebe) as a guest performer.

"I joked that if she really came, I would be very happy but the news kept snowballing," said Lin with a chuckle.

Although Lin appeared keen to clarify that he simply "admired" Tien, the 30-year-old singer said he looked forward to working with her professionally.

"I think she is an excellent singer and a great girl. We can work together if there is an opportunity," said Lin.

"If she wants me to write a song for her, I will do my best to write one for her and will keep working on it until I get one that suits her,"

-CNA/pn

Source: Channel News Asia

- Justin -