Review by Nemophilatelie

Type A visually feels brighter and more immediately attention-grabbing, while Type B leans a bit more toward completionism and fan appeal because of its different live bonus track. Since the first five tracks are shared, the main difference is not the core music but the package and collectible value. If you want the version that feels more explosive and obvious in presentation, Type A has the edge.

Type B keeps the same core material but gives the release a slightly different identity through its exclusive live track. That makes it feel a little more intimate and collector-oriented, especially if you already enjoy the main songs. If you want the one that feels slightly more special as a purchase, Type B is the better pick.

While I'd argue agree that the first EP was more of a mixed bag it at least contains the highlight of their whole discography and is yet unmatched: EVOLVE. 2nd Piece was more of a complete package, but way less interesting. Seeds Of Hope was more ambitious and a step of growth away from 2nd Piece. Rising in Bloom strives toward the intrigue and energy of Evolve although none of the songs is as much that type of "masterpiece" yet. But East Of Eden are certainly getting there.

In this book Natsuki Sena is exploring different themes of a “Madonna”, which also contains looks that can be associated with the singer Madonna but also other icons of the past such as one shoot that remotely resembles Kim Basinger in 9 1/2 Weeks and another one that reminds you of Sharon Stone in Basic Instinct. Overall shifting through varying styles, though with high lingerie emphasis. So "Madonna" as an embodiment of an icon is the thematic cohesion rather than a being a lingerie book, showing a range of looks and cinema-like moods instead of one repeated aesthetic.

Yeah, a release for my 10th anniversary of being a fan. The maids show no sign of slowing down. This EP being their 11th studio release since 2014. Something that would take other bands 30+ years to achieve, yet with BAND-MAID the energy flows uninterruptedly and they're cranking the intensity of their 90s rock infused / metal edge sonic compositions to 11 again. The catchy, yet complex, guitar lines that avoid typical genre cliches and the dynamic drumming demand full attention and keep you on your toes from start to finish.

Strong, hooky full-length release that consolidates what NEK! did on their earlier EPs rather than reinventing themselves. The album features great energy, catchy choruses and expressive musicianship. It is cementing their sound more than breaking new ground: satisfying and very solid as a full album listen, but definitely no big leap from Exclamat!on and Tr!ck Tak!ng.

A masterpiece in symphonic and power metal. Features one of my new favorite tracks of their catalogue "Saviour After God" which has some unexpected funkyness to it, even a disco'esque feel though packaged in the whole baroque'esque sourroundings of the whole album. This has fire and flavour!

29 yo. Yasuyon bringing extreme heat in mostly bikinis and lingerie & some sensual shots. This photo book is showcasing her in full bloom.

Though released in January the common theme is that most of the ladies depicted end up taking a shower or bath to cool down. Must have been a summer preview.

Overall, Mahoroba is recommended for existing fans of Ningen Isu as a solid, heavier, and well-performed album that carries on the band’s legacy with some refinement around the excellent riffage and energy boosts with shouts and faster parts, without a major stylistic shift or experimentation. If you have an expectation before listening to this, your expectation will widely be met.

Shot entirely in Finland — apparently her first visit — the book captures her in artistic outfits in natural landscapes or in urban surroundings, tying into her sauna enthusiasm and the Finnish concept of "SISU" (inner strength). All her versatility packed in a travelogue photobook. This special edition comes with a cardboard slipcase and a calendar.

The book features a variety of photo shoots that showcase Kumazawa's versatility and charm, typical of idol photobooks. The photography aims to capture both casual, natural moments and more stylized, professional portraits.

Discovered through the video for Donten on Youtube this album is powerful and melodic. It can be considered a solid work within their oeuvre, with a mix of modern hard rock elements and catchy melodies.

NEK!'s first EP was released in 2024 and marked the band's official entry into the Japanese scene. Even then, NEK! already stood out with their energetic and diverse sound, blending elements of rock, metal, pop, and punk. Character: Particularly notable are the fast tempo, playful bass lines, sharp guitar riffs, and expressive, sometimes almost punk-like vocals. The songs are often short, concise, and full of energy, with catchy choruses and surprising breaks.

A book of beauty and color, some photos look a bit too dreamy, most of them are vibrant clear beautiful images of this fine lady.

The cover of this edition features Kisumi Amau from the idol group #2i2. She is known from various TV shows and social media, and in this issue, she appears with dyed blonde hair. The shoot took place in a former cabaret venue and features Amau in unusual, sometimes provocative poses, including with cigarettes and on a pole – a stylistic break from her previous gravure appearances. The other models in the magazine get a little less exposure and a little less exciting locations but are all of high quality nonetheless.

Presentation for this small-sized book is notable for its boldness and maturity of the expression compared to Ohara’s earlier works. The cover features Yuno Ohara with an expressive smile and in an implied pose, while the back cover includes a daring shot that exposes her hips-symbolizing her determination and a new phase in her career. There are several nude images but there are also the content Yuno Ohara is known for.

With TR!CK TAK!NG NEK present an energetic mix of rock and pop with a slight hint of metal, which was already evident on the first EP. The songs range from fast, punky numbers like "Fool" to ballad-like moments and anthemic rock tracks as in "Dreams!!!!". This EP solidifies NEK! as a rising force in the Japanese music scene and is should hopefully be a step towards international recognition.

Rena is my favorite, so it's a must buy even if it's just for a few pages. However this comes with posters, so there is a mighty fine bonus!

A great issue though it clearly could have used some more pages on Yuno Ohara. Her part is a little short.