Nogizaka46 30th Single

Nogizaka46's 30th single titled "Suki to Iu no wa Rock daze!" (好きというのはロックだぜ！) has been released on August 31 under Sony Music Entertainment, Japan. 4th Gen Member Kaki Haruka returns as the center of this single. 

Inital Performance:

Nogizaka46 performed "Suki to Iu no wa Rock daze!" for the first time during the Osaka concert of their nationwide tour 'Manatsu no Zenkoku Tour 2022.' They also performed the Under Members's new song "Under's Love" and 5th gen members' new song "Bandaid Hagasu You na Wakarekata" with Wada Maaya and Sugawara Satsuki as centers respectively. The two songs are the coupling tracks for the single.

Senbatsu Formation & Center:

The group introduced their senbatsu for the title song on their variety show Nogizaka Under Construction on 17 July 2022. In total 19 members were selected as members (Senbatsu) and 11 members for Fukujin (first and second-row members).

From Right to Left.....

3rd Row: Yumiki Nao (NEW), Sato Kaede, Shibata Yuna, Higuchi Hina, Suzuki Ayane, Kakehashi Sayaka, Seimiya Rei, Kanagawa Saya (NEW).

2nd Row: Tsutsui Ayame, Iwamoto Renka, Akimoto Manatsu, Umezawa Minami, Kubo Shiori, Tamura Mayu.

FRONT ROW: Endo Sakura, Yamashita Mizuki, Kaki Haruka (CENTER (2)), Saito Asuka, Yoda Yuki.

Tracklist (Digital / Stream):

1. Suki to Iu no wa Rock da ze! (好きというのはロックだぜ！) - 5:32
2. Under's Love - 4:19
3. Boku ga Te o Tataku Hō e (僕が手を叩く方へ) - 4:35
4. Jumping Joker Flash (ジャンピングジョーカーフラッシュ) - 4:00
5. Band-Aid Hagasu Yō na Wakarekata (バンドエイド剥がすような別れ方) - 4.49
6. "Passion Fruit no Tabekata" (パッションフルーツの食べ方) - 3:40
7. Yume o Miru Kinniku - 3:55

Total play time is 30 mins and 50 secs.

All Lyrics by: Akimoto Yasushi

Music Videos:

Suki to Iu no wa Rock daze! (by Senbatsu) 

The MV is Directed by Yuki Kamiya (Maxilla), shows the center Kaki pondering on what she will do this summer vacation, and her thoughts represented by the other members in an office/workplace atmosphere, holding meetings to discuss what she will do. She thinks of shopping, staying at home, camping, going to a dessert café, a museum not to say the least. Finally, she decided to do everything. Parts of the choreography were shot at Haneda Airport new Terminal 2 international departure lobby which is rather cool. The song was composed by Yōichirō Nomura and arranged by Nomura.

The song is a good listen except for the annoying loud drum beats hammering throughout the some. Some indicated it's another song from the AKB48 closet with a different melody. Also the ever infamous use of WoW, Oh strings in between verses is a pain again.

Under's Love (by Under Members) 

UNDER song “Under’s Love” features 1st gen member Wada Mayaa as Center who graduates the group with this single. Directed by Shinichiro Kobayashi, the MV was shot at a studio in Tokyo and the former kart track in Saitama, depicting the members as vampire. The song was composed and arranged by Amazuti.

I have no clue about this song's message. Music is nice with good old Japanese feel and similar to Influence in parts. But the tempo shifting is again off putting as it details the base of the song. Shame!

Boku ga Te o Tataku Hō e (by 3rd Generation)

Directed by Shūto Itō, the MV showing the 3rd Gen members play the musical. Shiori Kubo (the center) as both actress and director. The song was composed and arranged by Ichiro Fujitani.

Typical Nogi Song. Soft Melody with piano drops, guitars, acoustics and drums beats. Pieces have been lifted from old Nogi Song.

Jumping Joker Flash (by 4th Generation)

Directed by Ōkubo Takurō, the MV shows a new student (Tsutsui Ayame, who is the center for MV) mistakenly joins the "cleaning and washing club". The song was composed and arranged by Kuboty.

For once Nogizaka46 has dished out a kick-ass song even though the song name is very wierd. The best one since "I See" which came way back now in 25th single. The music composed by Kuboty is awesome. Very modern with strong guitar riffs, just love the booming bass lines with Jazz/Ska elements. Most definitely the best song in the single. It has 3 different tempos that alternate throughout the song but keep it together. The last 25% of the song is the best !! Every upbeat and energetic... Awesome song!

Band-Aid Hagasu You na Wakarekata (by 5th Generation)

Directed by Nozomu Hayashi the MV was shot at Ashikaga, Tochigi, depicting a high school student (Satsuki Sugawara, the MV Center) who attends a rigorous study-intensive school and gradually becomes friends with their classmates. A very typical AKB48/Sakamichi Gimmick for MV. How many times you have seen these done before? The song was composed and arranged by A-Note • S-Tone.

It's a typical soft toned Sakamichi song. Another song which has bits from previous songs repackaged. It's ok kinda song for the 5th generation. Let's see what's next for them.

Yume o Miru Kinniku (by Nogizaka Keionbu)

Yume o Miru Kinniku gets a special mention as it sounds not like Nogizaka46 but mainstream JPop Classic Rock with which is a pleasent surprise. A must listen song as it is some beautiful singing by the members punctuated by excellent guitars, bass lines and drum work. It was composed by Tetsuya Tsukimitsu and arranged by Araken. This song is sure to make any Mainstream JPop Artist Proud!

The song was performed by a new Nogidan called as "Nogizaka Keionbu", the six-member band subunit made of Wada Maaya (supporting member), with regulars Ito Riria (vocals), Hayashi Runa (vocals), Mukai Hazuki (guitar), Yakubo Mio (bass) and Matsuo Miyu (drums).

Graduations:

On July 18, 1st Gen members and Under Regulars - Higuchi Hina and Wada Maaya both announced they will graduate from the group after finishing the 30th single activities.

Wow! Nogizaka46 will soon have just two 1st Generation members in Captain Akimoto Manatsu and Saito Asuka and one 2nd Generation member in Suzuki Ayane. 

Album Covers and Editions:

Cover artworks for all editions were revealed on July 27. Done by Akiko Isobe, the artwork shows the members relaxing on the beach happily in the strong sunlight. Very beachy feel, colorful and vibrant.

Single is available is Types A, B, C, D and Regular Editions. All Types contain CD and accompanying Blu-ray disc. 

Official Links: Nogizaka46 30th Single Page 

Listen on: YouTube | Apple Music | Spotify 

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Jumping Joker Flash is the best song which has already clocked 2.3 million views on YouTube. Must watch.

Another song that deserves credit is Yume o Miru Kinniku. 

Nogizaka46 29th Single Actually

Nogizaka46 is all set to comeback strong with the release of their 29th Single titled "Actually..." on March 23, 2022 under Sony Music Entertainment Japan. This is also the first time the 5th Generation members will be appearing on a single. The single come with the usual 7 songs in 5 variants - Type A, Type B, Type C, Type D, Regular Edition and an accompanying Blu-ray disc as well. Highlights of the single include the members of the “New 2001 Flower Generation” getting their own song with “Kachiaru Mono”. Also this will be the last single of the graduating 2nd Gen member Kitano Hinako from the group who gets her own song called “Wasurenai to Ii na”. This will also be 4th Gen member Shibata Yuna's first Senbatsu.

Single Overview by Nogizaka46:

Nogizaka46 29th single "Actually ..." is to be released on March 23, 2022 (Wednesday)!! Although it was unveiled for the first time on "Nogizaka 46 Hours TV" which was delivered live from February 21st to February 23rd, it has a unique world view and a mysterious feeling, which is not in the single title song so far. It is a song.  And the common C / W song includes "Fukayomi" sung by the 29th single senbatsu members. Also, the third song of Type-A, which is limited to the first edition (CD + Blu-ray), is a unit song "Kachiaru Mono" by "New 2001 Flower Generation" members who celebrated the adult ceremony this year. The third song of Type-B includes the first and last solo song "Wasurenai to Ii na" by Hinako Kitano, who has already announced her graduation from the group. The third song of Type-C is the 29th single Under member song "Todokanaku tatte". The third song of Type-D includes the song "Zetsubou no Ichibyou Mae", by the members of the 5th generation who newly joined the group.  And the third song of the regular edition includes "Suki ni Natte Mita" sung by the members selected for the 29th single, and each type is a 29th single full of originality! !! The 29th single "Actually ..." is full of highlights such as Music Videos and 5th Generation Member Documentaries, and bonus videos. We will continue to provide you with various information, so please check it out!!! 

"Center" of Controversy: 

In a surprise move Nogizaka46 Management earlier has announced that a 5th Gen Member would be the center of 29th Single. But there were in for a shock as allegations surrounding the chosen 5th Gen member - Nakanishi Aruno began to surface quickly regarding her past on how she reacted on Social Media (Twitter) and some of her posts. Nogizaka46, vowed to get to the bottom of this and to preserve the group's reputation promptly removed the member in question form not only the center but the whole single altogether. And for good measure, they even suspended her for any activities. Following these developments, the management quickly came up with Plan B, which was to go with the tried and tested Center pairing of Saito Asuka and Yamashita Mizuki, which has been a popular choice among Nogizaka46 fans. Quite frankly, if they were to choose a 5th Gen Member as center it had to be none other than Inoue Nagi!!!

IMHO... This is a big PR stunt by Nogizaka46 management at the expense of a 5th gen member. Remember they pulled off a similar stunt exactly a year ago before the release of 27th Single "Gomen Ne Fingers Crossed", with an MV featuring fast cars just ahead of the 2021 Hollywood "Fast & The Furious" franchise blockbuster release "F9".  

Senbatsu Members and Formation (Jyuu Fukujin):

3rd Row: Tamura Mayu, Kakehashi Sayaka, Seimiya Rei, Suzuki Ayane, Higuchi Hina, Iwamoto Renka, Shibata Yuna, Hayakawa Seira

2nd Row: Kubo Shiori, Kaki Haruka, Yoda Yuki, Endo Sakura, Tsutsui Ayame

1st Row: Umezawa Minami, Yamashita Mizuki (w-C), Saito Asuka (w-C), Akimoto Manatsu

Music Videos:

Actually... (Title Song)

Senbatsu Members

"Actually..." is the main song from Nogizaka46's 29th single "Actually...", by Senbatsu members.

This music video features double center Asuka Saito and Mizuki Yamashita along with the other senbatsu members dressed in classy white/gray outfits. MV was directed by Atsunori Higashiichi and shot at “Triangle Square” in Shinjuku. The performance of all the members was stand out. The cinematography is brilliant. The song itself is different and is the best work as a title song when compared to the previous 3 releases. You may say its a more graceful version of Sakurazaka46's BAN. 

The song has Lyrics by Akimoto Yasushi, Composed by NAMITO, Arranged by APAZZI.

Kachiaru Mono (価値あるもの)

Shin Hana no 2001nen Gumi (New 2001 Flower Generation) 

Performed by 8 Members with Kubo Shiori as the Center, this is a typical Nogizaka46 song.

3rd Generation: Kubo Shiori, Sakaguchi Tamami, Nakamura Reno

4th Generation: Endo Sakura, Kaki Haruka, Kanagawa Saya, Kitagawa Yuri, Sato Rika

Wasurenai to Ii na (忘れないといいな)

This song is performed by Kitano Hinako (Kii-chan). It is her Graduation Song.

Todokanaku tatte... (届かなくたって...) 

This groovy song is performed by the 16 Under Members with Sato Kaede as Center.

1st Generation: Wada Maaya | 2nd Generation: Yamazaki Rena | 3rd Generation: Ito Riria, Sakaguchi Tamami, Sato Kaede, Nakamura Reno, Mukai Hazuki, Yoshida Ayano Christie | 4th Generation: Kanagawa Saya, Kitagawa Yuri, Kuromi Haruka, Sato Rika, Hayashi Runa, Matsuo Miyu, Yakubo Mio, Yumiki Nao

Zetsubou no Ichibyou Mae (絶望の一秒前)

This is the best song of the single!! It was Composed by Tadashi Tsukida, with Arrangement from Wakatabe Makoto.

A very good coupling song for the 5th generation members with Inoue Nagi as center. Other Performing Members include Ioki Mao, Ichinose Miku, Okamoto Hina, Ogawa Aya, Okuda Iroha, Sugawara Satsuki, Tomisato Nao, Nakanishi Aruno. This song was performed by all 5th generation members, excluding Kawasaki Sakura due to postponed debut. Ikeda Teresa participated in the song recording without appearing in the music video.

Complete Tracklist:

CD Package(s):

Actually... / Senbatsu

Fukayomi (深読み) / Senbatsu

(Type-A) Kachiaru Mono (価値あるもの) / Shin Hana no 2001nen Gumi

(Type-B) Wasurenai to Ii na (忘れないといいな) / Kitano Hinako

(Type-C) Todokanaku tatte... (届かなくたって...) / Under Members

(Type-D) Zetsubou no Ichibyou Mae (絶望の一秒前) / 5th Generation

Actually... (off-vocal)

Fukayomi (off-vocal)

(Type-A) Kachiaru Mono (off-vocal)

(Type-B) Wasurenai to Ii na (off-vocal)

(Type-C) Todokanaku tatte... (off-vocal)

(Type-D) Zetsubou no Ichibyou Mae (off-vocal)

Blu-Ray

Actually... Music Video

(Type-A) Kachiaru Mono Music Video

(Type-B) Wasurenai to Ii na Music Video

(Type-C) Todokanaku tatte... Music Video

(Type-D) Zetsubou no Ichibyou Mae Music Video

(Type-A) 5th Generation Documentary: Ioki Mao, Ichinose Miku, plus one additional member

(Type-B) 5th Generation Documentary: Inoue Nagi, Ogawa Aya, plus one additional member

(Type-C) 5th Generation Documentary: Okuda Iroha, Sugawara Satsuki, Tomisato Nao, Nakanishi Aruno

(Type-D) Making of 5th Generation MV

Charts & Sales: 

The 29th Single became Nogizaka46's 28th Single to chart #1 in Oricon Daily Charts. Total Reported Sales on Opening Day were 345,669 units. 

CD Cover Art (Nogizaka46 Statement):

The jacket photo of Nogizaka46 29th single "Actually ..." to be released on March 23, 2022 (Wednesday) will be released. A unique world view and a mysterious feeling, "Actually ..." in a world where the natural world has changed to metal, the pretty Nogizaka46 members stand dignifiedly. By, the two contradictory worlds of "transience and strength" are expressed at the same time. We have created a jacket that is conscious of the visuals that you can feel "hope for the future" with the appearance of Nogizaka46 members who stand proudly and beautifully and look strongly. The art director of this work is YUKARI (OFBY FOR TOKYO), who is active as a video director / art director / 3D CG ARTIST from Shanghai.The photographer is mainly in the fashion industry. This is the first jacket photograph of the whole body that Mr. Hayato Takahashi, who is active, worked on. We will continue to send you various information about "Actually ...", so please check it out!

All Versions:

SRCL-12100 (Limited Edition Type-A, CD+Blu-ray) / ￥1,900

SRCL-12102 (Limited Edition Type-B, CD+Blu-ray) / ￥1,900

SRCL-12104 (Limited Edition Type-C, CD+Blu-ray) / ￥1,900

SRCL-12106 (Limited Edition Type-D, CD+Blu-ray) / ￥1,900

SRCL-12108 (Regular Edition, CD) / ￥1,100

Listen On: Apple Music | YouTube Music | Spotify | YouTube 

Single Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars. Much better than the last three singles! Zetsubou no Ichibyou Mae (絶望の一秒前) is the best song of the single!!

Nogizaka46 28th Single Released

Nogizaka46's 28th Single 君に叱られた (Kimi ni Shikarareta) released on September 22, 2021 by Sony Entertainment Japan. The single was announced on July 14th 2021 at Day 1 of the Osaka leg of their Summer Tour 2021. 

After 26th single gave Center Opportunity for 3rd Gen beauty Yamashita Mizuki, its now the turn of  4th Generation smile queen Kaki Haruka to center for the first time is Nogizaka46 for the Title Song of a Single. Kaki however is no stranger to the center position as she took the spot for the groovy song I see ... a coupling song from Nogizaka46's 25th single, Shiawase no Hogosyoku, by members of the 4th Generation.

Apart from the usual buzz surrounding the single release, it is worth noting that Moodmaker of Nogizaka46 and Gen1 member Takayama Kazumi has announced her graduation from the group. She made the announcement on July 22 during a live broadcast on YouTube and revealed that she will be graduating after the release of the 28th single on September 22.

Takayama Kazumi quoted:                                                                                              "I received a lot of happiness over the past ten years. My life changed when I auditioned ten years ago. I was so happy that even if I'm born again, I would choose this life." She added, "There is still about two months until graduation, so I hope to cherish the time I spend together with everybody. Thank you very much until now."                                                          - Poji Peace to all.... cuz.. its AMAZING!!

The Senbatsu Selection: As with every other single, the Senbatsu was announced on Nogizka46 Under Construction Variety Show mid August.

Senbatsu:

3rd Row:
Higuchi Hina, Hayakawa Seira, Seimiya Rei, Kitano Hinako, Iwamoto Renka, Tamura Mayu, Suzuki Ayane, Shinuchi Mai, Kakehashi Sayaka

2nd Row:
Tsutsui Ayame, Umezawa Minami, Hoshino Minami, Takayama Kazumi, Ikuta Erika, Kubo Shiori, Akimoto Manatsu

1st Row:
Endo Sakura, Yoda Yuki, Kaki Haruka (Center), Saito Asuka, Yamashita Mizuki

Tracklist:

[Title Song] Kimi ni Shikarareta (君に叱られた) 
Performed by: Senbatsu Members 
[Main Song] Yasashii Dakenara (やさしいだけなら)
Performed by: Ikuta Erika, Kubo Shiori, Kaki Haruka
[Type-A] Machine Gun Rain (マシンガンレイン) 
Performed by: Unders  Members 
[Type-B] Moshimo Kokoro ga Tomeinara (もしも心が透明なら) 
Performed by: Umezawa Minami, Nakamura Reno, Hayakawa Seira, Matsuo Miyu 
[Type-C] Watashi no Iro (私の色)
Performed by: Takayama Kazumi 
[Type-D] Dorodarake (泥だらけ)
Performed by: Endo Sakura, Kubo Shiori, Saito Asuka, Tsutsui Ayame, Yamashita Mizuki, Wada Maaya 

[Regular] Tanin no Sorani 他人のそら似 

Performed by: All members

Listen on: Apple Music | Spotify

Music Videos:

"Kimi ni Shikarare" music video released on Sep 2, 2021!

Lyrics: Akimoto Yasushi

Creative Director: Mare Imbrium

Director: Mitsunori Yokobori

Composer/Arranger: youth case

Watashi no Iro (私の色) - Takayama Kazumi (Graduation MV)

Dorodarake (泥だらけ)

Machine Gun Rain (マシンガンレイン) 

Moshimo Kokoro ga Tomeinara (もしも心が透明なら) 

CD/BD Details and Album Art:

-Product Summary-

■ First Press Limited Edition (CD + BD) Type-A

SRCL-11880 ～ 11881/1900 yen (tax included)

■ First Press Limited Edition (CD + BD) Type-B

SRCL-11882-11883 / 1,900 yen (tax included)

■ First Press Limited Edition (CD + BD) Type-C

SRCL-11884 ～ 11885/1900 yen (tax included)

■ First Press Limited Edition (CD + BD) Type-D

SRCL-11886 ～ 11887/1900 yen (tax included)

■ Regular Edition (CD)

SRCL-11888 / 1,100 yen (tax included)

Promotions

Impression: The Title song is more in line with previous Nogizaka46 songs but still has got get up to the mark considering 22nd Single - Kaerimichi wa Tōmawari Shitaku Naru was the last real humdinger of a song while 25th single - Shiawase no Hogosyoku is also a worthy mention.

Single Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Official release page: https://www.nogizaka46.com/news/2021/07/post-464345708.php

Nogizaka46 27th Single Released

Nogizaka46 released their 27th single titled "Gomen ne Fingers crossed" (ごめんねFingers crossed) on June 9, 2021. 

The Back Story - Nogizaka46 website says:

The second product outline of Nogizaka46 27th single "Gomen ne Fingers crossed" to be released on June 9, 2021 (Wed) has been decided!!

The title song "Gomen ne Fingers crossed", which aired for the first time on Tokyo fm "SCHOOL OF LOCK!" last week, and aired a full-size music video for the first time on the new YouTube content "Nogizaka Haishinchu".

The 3rd generation song "Otona Tachiniwa Shiji Sarenai" and the 4th generation song "Nekojita Chamomile Tea", which were unveiled for the first time at the period live "9th YEAR BIRTHDAY LIVE". In addition, the common C/W song "Zenbu Yume no mama" which will be a Nogizaka46 Rhythm Festival collaboration song. Under song "Rusted Compass" of which Yamazaki herself is in charge of the first center as announced on Tokyo fm "Rena Yamazaki no Darekani Hanashitakattakoto".  Unit song "Zabun zaza bun" in which Yuuki Yoda and Ayame Tsutsui make their first meeting. And Sayuri Matsumura, who is graduating from the group with this single, had her first solo song "Sa~Yu~Ready?".

The 27th single will be 7 songs that are full of originality and rich in variation!! We will keep bringing you more information related to the 27th single "Gomen ne Fingers crossed", so please check it out!

Ahem.. this was according to Nogizaka46 website!

Music Videos: 

~ Gomen ne Fingers crossed ~

Story:

A diner secretly open at a beach.

There were runners from all over Japan competing for speed.

Car tuning and my technique.

The whereabouts of the race as seen by my own eyes.

Legendary acceleration that no one believes.

"Who is the fastest?"

There is no end to the story with this diner today.

WTF!!! What are they trying to do here! Preview Fast and Furious new movie F9???? Its gonna release in June anyway. Do they seriously wanna gain mileage out of F&F Franchise? 

Song doesn't ring a bell. Choreography is a total Fail. Nothing Outstanding. 

Are you seriously still interested? 

Ok then, here you go! All the lowdown you need.

Read More here: https://www.nogizaka46.com/smph/27th_single/

『全部　夢のまま』- zenbu yume no mama - All as a Dream

Aki-p must have got high and forgot that he has already composed a tune for Hinatazaka46 called "Do Suru?". After stumbling through the initial part he got sober and wisely took the song in another direction. Still fails to match Do Suru. I thought only poor STU48 got hit with refurbished tunes! Sigh!

Premiered: May 28, 2021

『錆びたコンパス』- “sabita konpasu” - Rusted Compass

Premiered: May 25, 2021

『ざぶんざざぶん』- zabun zaza bun

Never leave Tsutsi Ayame alone with Yoda Yuuki.. Very creepy! 

Premiered: May 25, 2021

『さ～ゆ～Ready？』- Sayu Ready?

And Finally!!! Matsumura Sayuri's final act.

Premiered: May 31, 2021

A whole host of Member PVs are out on at Nogizaka46 Youtube Page:

https://www.youtube.com/user/nogizaka46SMEJ/videos

Senbatsu Members and Formation:

The 27th single selection members was announced on April 18th during the broadcast of their variety TV show "Nogizaka Under Construction".

Nogizaka46 4th generation member Endo Sakura is chosen as the Center for the title song. Looks like Saito Asuka got the boot after all. And this will be the last single of founding member Matsumura Sayuri who will graduate after the single release. Now, that's a Sayuringo Punch to the gut!! And, it will also be the last single of 2nd Gen members Ito Junna and Watanabe Miria.

3rd Row:

Higuchi Hina, Hayakawa Seira, Tsutsui Ayame, Ozono Momoko, Iwamoto Renka, Seimiya Rei, Tamura Mayu, Shinuchi Mai

2nd row:

Akimoto Manatsu, Umezawa Minami, Hoshino Minami, Matsumura Sayuri, Ikuta Erika, Kubo Shiori, Takayama Kazumi

1st row:

Yoda Yuki, Saito Asuka, Endo Sakura (Center), Yamashita Mizuki, Kaki Haruka

Want your digital copy? Then head over to Apple Music and listen to the Regular Edition (all 7 songs) here:

https://music.apple.com/us/

Single Product Information: 
First-run limited CD + Blu-ray board:
● Type-A - https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/SRCL-11836

M1: "Gomenne Fingers crossed" (27th single selection)
M2: "Zenbu Yume no mama" (26th single selection * excluding Miona Hori)
M3: "Otona Tachiniwa Shiji Sarenai" (3rd Gen Members)
M4: "Gomenne Fingers crossed" ~ off vocal ver. ~
M5: "Zenbu Yume no mama" ~ off vocal ver. ~
M6: "Otona Tachiniwa Shiji Sarenai" ~ off vocal ver. ~

Product number: SRCL-11836 ～ 11837
Price: 1,900 yen (tax included)
<Bonus video>
① "Gomenne Fingers crossed" "Zenbu Yumenomama" Music Video
② Bonus video for each form (contents will be announced later)

● Type-B - https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/SRCL-11838

M1: "Gomenne Fingers crossed"

M2: "Zenbu Yume no mama"

M3: "Zabun Zabun" (Yuuki Yoda, Ayame Tsutsui)

M4: "Gomenne Fingers crossed" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M5: "Zenbu Yume no mama" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M6: "Zabun Zabun" ~ off vocal ver. ~

Product number: SRCL-11838-11839

Price: 1,900 yen (tax included)

<Bonus video>

① "Gomenne Fingers crossed" "Zabun Zabun" Music Video

② Bonus video for each form (contents will be announced later)

● Type-C - https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/SRCL-11840

M1: "Gomenne Fingers crossed"

M2: "Zenbu Yume no mama"

M3: "Sa-Yu-Ready?" (Sayuri Matsumura)

M4: "Gomenne Fingers crossed" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M5: "Zenbu Yume no mama" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M6: "Sa-Yu-Ready?"-Off vocal ver.-

Product number: SRCL-11840 ～ 11841

Price: 1,900 yen (tax included)

<Bonus video>

① "Gomenne Fingers crossed" "Sa-Yu-Ready?" Music Video

② Bonus video for each form (contents will be announced later)

● Type-D - https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/SRCL-11842

M1: "Gomenne Fingers crossed"

M2: "Zenbu Yume no mama"

M3: "Sabita Compass" (27th single Under)

M4: "Gomenne Fingers crossed" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M5: "Zenbu Yume no mama" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M6: "Sabita compass" ~ off vocal ver. ~

Product number: SRCL-11842-11843

Price: 1,900 yen (tax included)

<Bonus video>

① "Gomenne Fingers crossed" "Sabita compass" Music Video

② Bonus video for each form (contents will be announced later)

* Bonus footage common to "First-run limited CD + Blu-ray edition"

① 27th single title song Music Video + Music Video for one C / W song
② Bonus footage for each form (the contents will be announced at a later date)

* Common to "First-run Limited CD + Blu-ray Edition" Included benefits
① National event participation ticket or special gift application ticket 1 included
② Nogizaka46 member 1 raw photo (43 members, 4 types each = 1 type out of 172 types Random inclusion)

Regular Edition - https://www.cdjapan.co.jp/product/SRCL-11844

M1: "Gomenne Fingers crossed"

M2: "Zenbu Yume no mama"

M3: "Nekojita Chamomile Tea" (4th Gen Members)

M4: "Gomenne Fingers crossed" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M5: "Zenbu Yume no mama" ~ off vocal ver. ~

M6: "Nekojita Chamomile Tea" ~ off vocal ver. ~

Product Number: SRCL-11844

Price: 1,100 yen (tax included)

* This product has no special benefits and is only available on CD.

Nogizaka46 Staff mentioned that:
"We are not currently planning a national handshake event that customers with a "National event participation ticket or special gift application ticket" can participate in, to prevent the spread of the new Coronavirus infection.

We are planning another event for our customers to participate in, so we appreciate your understanding in advance."

* For the original benefits of each CD shop chain, please contact each chain.

Single Rating: Being a great Nogizaka46 fan, you expect a lot more. This is not up to my Expectation! Music, Lyrics, Theme, Choreography are not Nogizaka46 standard. 3 out of 5 Stars!! Just cuz they are Nogizaka46!

Thank you.. Matsumura Sayuri !! 

Sayuringo Punch to all!! 

Sayonara Sayuri!! Arigato gozaimasu! 

Nogizaka46 26th Single

The much anticipated 2021 release is out now. Nogizaka46 come out with their 26th Single「僕は僕を好きになる」Boku wa boku o sukininaru. It was released on 27th January 2021.

No surprises, on the first day it sold 445,852 units and a further 100,000 in the following 3 days! That is a classic Nogizaka46 hit!

But some reports suggest that when compared to last year's release of 25th Single (around 800,000 units sold first day), sales are actually down by 50%. Here are some theories as to why is that.

1. Lack of Handshake / Idol Interaction (last year CD came with a ticket for fans).

2. Post Maiyan Effect. Shiraishi Mai's Graduation.

3. COVID-19 and it's after effects.

4. Promotional Activities scaled down.

It's kind of bittersweet single as this will be Hori Miona's last single with Nogizaka46. She should have had centered without a doubt, which would have been a fitting sendoff from the group. Alas, it was not to be. On the flip side, the 3rd Gen member who was way overdue finally got the nod - Yamashita Mizuki.

Senbatsu with Jyuuni Fukujin:

1st Gen: Akimoto Manatsu, Ikuta Erika, Saito Asuka, Hoshino Minami, Takayama Kazumi, Matsumura Sayuri

2nd Gen: Hori Miona, Shinuchi Mai

3rd Gen: Iwamoto Renka, Ozono Momoko, Umezawa Minami, Kubo Shiori, Yamashita Mizuki (Center), Yoda Yuki

4th Gen: Endo Sakura, Kaki Haruka, Tamara Mayu, Seimiya Rei, Tsutsui Ayane

Tracklist:

1. "Boku wa Boku wo Suki ni Naru" (Senbatsu) - Title Song - 4 m 51 sec
2. "Ashita ga Aru Riyuu" (18 Members) 5 m 11 sec
3. "Wilderness world" (Senbatsu) 4 m 14 sec
4. "Kuchi Hodo ni mo Nai Kiss" (Under Members) 3 m 41 sec
5. "Tsumetai Mizu no Naka" (Hori Miona Graduation Song) 5 m 19 sec
6. "Out of the blue" (4th Gen Members) 4 m 32 sec
7. "Yuujou Pierce" (Ozono Momoko, Endo Sakura - duet) 3 m 33 sec

Impression after listening to the Single:

Boku wa Boku wo Suki ni Naru - is a typical Nogizaka46 track like we have come to know.

Ashita ga Aru Riyuu - is my personal favourite. Very good and a joy to hear. Nogi Classic. Best track in the Single. 

Wilderness world - nope, it's weirdness world. Modern track with classic elements. Heavy Techno Pop beats. Bop infestation evident. Reminds me of Nigemizu.

Kuchi Hodo ni mo Nai Kiss - very groovy track by Under Members.

Tsumetai Mizu no Naka - Good lord, now they make Hori Miona sing a sorrowful Blues Ballard for her graduation song. She aces it perfectly!

Out of the blue - This is eccentric and hyped up pop beats song like I See... by 4th Gen Members. Pillow fight!

Yuujou Pierce - is a drag of a duet by 2 leading members of their respective generations. Synth Organ + Drum Beats. 

Music Videos:

■Boku wa Boku wo Suki ni Naru - Senbatsu Members (3.5 Stars)

Senbatsu (選抜) (19 Members) (Yamashita Mizuki Center with Jyuuni Fukujin)

1st Generation: Akimoto Manatsu, Ikuta Erika, Saito Asuka, Takayama Kazumi, Hoshino Minami, Matsumura Sayuri

2nd Generation: Shinuchi Mai, Hori Miona

3rd Generation: Iwamoto Renka, Ozono Momoko, Umezawa Minami, Kubo Shiori, Yamashita Mizuki, Yoda Yuki

4th Generation: Endo Sakura, Kaki Haruka, Seimiya Rei, Tamura Mayu, Tsutsui Ayame

■"Wilderness world" - Main Members (3 Stars)

Senbatsu (選抜) (19 Members) (Saito Asuka Center)

1st Generation: Akimoto Manatsu, Ikuta Erika, Saito Asuka, Takayama Kazumi, Hoshino Minami, Matsumura Sayuri

2nd Generation: Shinuchi Mai, Hori Miona

3rd Generation: Iwamoto Renka, Ozono Momoko, Umezawa Minami, Kubo Shiori, Yamashita Mizuki, Yoda Yuki

4th Generation: Endo Sakura, Kaki Haruka, Seimiya Rei, Tamura Mayu, Tsutsui Ayame

■"口ほどにもないKISS" (Kiss not too much) - Under Members (4 Stars)

Under Members (アンダーメンバー) (14 Members) (Sakaguchi Tamami Center)

1st Generation: Higuchi Hina, Wada Maaya

2nd Generation: Ito Junna, Kitano Hinako, Suzuki Ayane, Terada Ranze, Yamazaki Rena, Watanabe Miria

3rd Generation: Ito Riria, Sakaguchi Tamami, Sato Kaede, Nakamura Reno, Mukai Hazuki, Yoshida Ayano Christie

■"Out of the Blue" - 4th Generation Members (3.5 Stars)

4th Generation (4期生) (16 Members) (Hayakawa Seira Center)

Endo Sakura, Kaki Haruka, Kakehashi Sayaka, Kanagawa Saya, Kitagawa Yuri, Kuromi Haruka, Sato Rika, Shibata Yuna, Seimiya Rei, Tamura Mayu, Tsutsui Ayame, Hayakawa Seira, Hayashi Runa, Matsuo Miyu, Yakubo Mio, Yumiki Nao

Single Rating: 3.5 Stars out of 5

Not much expectations when compared to its predecessors. 

Another serial alternating Single flawwed by Aki-p.

Product Summary:

Label: Sony Music Entertainment Japan

■First-run limited edition（CD＋BD）Type-A

SRCL-11680～11681／￥1,727＋tax

■First-run limited edition（CD＋BD）Type-B

SRCL-11682～11683／￥1,727＋tax

■First-run limited edition（CD＋BD）Type-C

SRCL-11684～11685／￥1,727＋tax

■First-run limited edition（CD＋BD）Type-D

SRCL-11686～11687／￥1,727＋tax

■Normal Edition

SRCL-11688／￥1,000＋tax

Buy now from: http://www.nogizaka46.com/

PS: Thank you Hori Miona. Will miss you! 

Nogizaka46 Route 246

Nogizaka46 release New Material!

Digital Single - Route 246 - July 24, 2020.

Well in Japan, COVID-19 seems to be well under control and after a very controlled and highly regulated couple of months of Social Distancing, the Sakamichi46 Series groups all of a sudden are back to life with Live TV programming rather than the Remote ones. Of these Nogizaka46 and Keyakizaka46 will be releasing new material in July & August respectively this year (pretty smart don't you think spreading out the releases). 

Nogizaka46 - Route 246 (Digital Single)

Route 246 will be released on July 24, 2020 as a Digital Single by Sony MUSIC Japan. This is again a typical Nogizaka46 song with a mix of Japanese and English Lyrics. Very modernish music with heavy drum beats and electronic synth, bass punctuating throughout the song. Singing is very flat & lackluster. The music is all over the place... Keeps changing Up & Down, Up & Down. But, having said that my taste is a bit weird anyway so I will let the masses be the judge of that. 

The lineup:

1st Gen (6): 

Hoshino Minami, Ikuta Erika, Takayama Kazumi, Akimoto Manatsu, Matsumura Sayuri, Saito Asuka.

As expected! 

2nd Gen (3):
Shinuchi Mai, Hori Miona, Kitano Hinako.
These three have been the pillars of 2nd Gen.  Others unfortunately remain Under! 

3rd Gen (6): 

Kubo Shori, Ozono Momoko, Yoda Yuuki, Umezawa Minami, Yamashita Mizuki, Iwamoto Renka.
Good numbers 

4th Gen (3): 

Endo Sakura, Tsutsui Ayame, Kaki Haruka.
Big time for Kaki & Tsutsui 

Music Video Teaser:

In their website it says (loosely translated below):

"The music video of this work, which was filmed over two days in Yokohama・big pier and various places in Tokyo in early July, has the concept of Nogizaka46 dancing with Tetsuya Komuro's sound and the current Tokyo projected.

This is dance music for Nogizaka46, but it's the first time for the group to shoot with Tetsuya Komuro's sound and to wear short skirts and shorts! 

Also, because of the coronavirus, we shot with as much space as possible, and always paying attention to the mask and face shield."

Think they also say Kenshi Yonezu & Team maxilla were involved in making of the MV!!

The Song - Route 246:

In the main chorus you can hear them sing... 

Hang In There! <something Japanese> WoW WoW WoW WoW!!

Wait a minute, didn't we just hear... WoW WoW WoW and Yeah Yeah Yeah in I See.. in their last single. I liked that song, barring minor musical saxophone jerks in middle.

Not again Aki-P.... Didn't we have enough WoW WoW WoW already! Repeat Offender here!

Ok! Google: 

Akimoto Yasushi

 + Nogizaka46 + WoW     

• Nogizaka No Uta (WoW x 8) from S1 - Guru Guru Curtain
• Kimi No Na wa Kibou (WoW x 3) from S5 - Kimi No Na wa Kibou
• Kimi wa Boku to Awanai Hou ga Yokatta no Kana (WoW x 1) from from S5 - Kimi No Na wa Kibou
• Sukima (WoW x 8) from from S13 - Ima, Hanashitai Dareka ga Iru
• Secret Graffiti (WoW x 3) from S15 - Hadashi de Summer
• Sanbanme no Kaze (WoW x 3 + WoW x 4) x 2 from S17 - Influencer
• Boku no shoudou (WoW x 5) x 2 from S19 - Itsuka Dekirukara Kyou Dekiru
• Jikochuu de ikou! (WoW x 4) from S21 - Jikochuu de ikou!
• Aimai (WoW x 3) from S23 - Sing Out!
• I See... (WoW x 3) from S25 - Shiawase no hogoshoku
• Yokubouno Reincarnation (WoW x 3) from Album - Sorezore no Isu

And Now....

• Route 246 (WoW x 5) from New Digital Single - Route 246

And the Award for the best WoW goes to....................................... 

The Composer: 

Now who is this Komuro Tetsuya-san? 

This composer happens to be a legendary J-Pop hitmaker they say who retired in 2018. Aki-P meets him at a dinner and asked him to compose a tune for Nogizaka46. Komuro being Aki-P's friend agreed and Friendship would be the concept for this tune. Friendship.. Right! And Aki-p will always be Aki-p with his lyrics.

The Title: 

Why Route 246? What's there in Route 246 anyway? 

It's like Travis asking Oasis "What's a Wonderwall Anyway?". 

Nogizaka46 staff explain... Please don't read it as Route 246, read it as Route to 46! 

Lame-o!

Who is where in the Music Video?

Asuka-chan is the preferred Center for this song again, she is supposed to be Komuro biggest fan who was a pioneer in J-Pop music in the 90's. She further adds that she wants to see what is the reaction they get with Komuro's music and Nogizaka46 as a combination. Other member positions to be officially revealed. Some initial clues from Pictures & Teaser has sent the English & Non-Japanese speaking fans into a frenzy and the members position has become a part of a heated discussion across various fan forums. The outfits of the members are very Keyakizaka46-ish in style. Last heard, their management are gonna shut shop, hit the final nail in Keyakizaka46 coffin and bury it for good and start off as a fresh group with a new name! That's for Keyakizaka46 please, not Nogizaka46!

Music Platforms:

The music is available on all mainstream Japanese & International music Platforms such as:

Link: https://nogizaka46.lnk.to/Route246_

• Amazon Music
• Apple Music
• LINE MUSIC
• Spotify
• AWA
• YouTube Music
• music.jp
• KKbox
• Mora
• music.dwango.jp
• recochoku.jp

Credits:

Lyrics: Akimoto Yasushi (Aki-P.. Oops you did the WOW WOW again!!)

Music: Komuro Tetsuya (Blame it on the Boogie)

Arrangement: Komuro Tetsuya (Seriously, its the Final Countdown)

Bottomline: 

If this were to be a Physical CD Single up for sale, for sure, this would by default be their 25th consecutive #1 on Oricon Charts and 10th Consecutive Single to hit sales of over 1 million CDs for sure! 

Unfortunately this is not even close to the dynamic Influencer, Synchronicity, Hadashi de Summer or the classic, Karemichi Wa... or Jap-Eng combo Sing Out for that matter. Even the last single was damn good. 

Hang In There! Yabai!! No No No No, Hell No!! 

This song will go unrated, so no stars.

PS: Give the next one to Akira Sunset!!