Peri Ubu - 2You Magazine Interview

*This interview was published on 2020.3.24.

Peri Ubu has gone in an entirely different direction. After BiS disbanded in May 2019, she started new activities as a solo artist and everything is now 100% about Peri Ubu. She can wear any kind of clothes she likes and do whatever she wants musically. Peri Ubu is creating a new Peri Ubu. Her appearance makes us think that she can be a role model in an era where being true to yourself is what's right in the world. Holding these new values, we've published this interview with Peri Ubu as she begins building a new era. A spirit hungry for a shining world, keep your eye on Peri Ubu who strives to become an icon of this new era.

--Suddenly, I heard that Peri Ubu became a solo and is going in a whole new direction.

Peri: Yay! I'm shining brightly!

--After BiS disbanded, you started activities faster than anyone else. On the day of the final live performance, you started an Instagram and announced a photo exhibition.

Peri: While in BiS, I learned that speed is life. So, I opened an Instagram account right after the live ended. There was a special party until the next morning, but I was glad to hear allot of people say they followed me. I did the photo exhibition with a make-up artist who also worked with BiS, so it was interesting.

--At the time, it was a freelance activity, right?

Peri: I was freelance for about three months before I joined my current office. I was impatient, but also not in a hurry to decide. I wanted to be careful and not have to change offices later on, so I made my decision when I was able to say "I want to do it with these people!". I think I made a good choice. It's an environment where I can do what I want.

--I can see that when looking at you now. It's really cool to see you coming into your own.

Peri: I want to put out energy like "Wow!". Can you see it?

--Absolutely. I'd say Peri Ubu has become whole.

Peri: I'm glad! The second half of BiS was very sad. As a group, we showed allot of painful and heartbreaking things to our fans, didn't we? But that was BiS at that time, and I think it was very real. It's because of those activities that I'm hungry for happiness right now. I want fans to laugh and I want to laugh too. I don't have to worry about anything, so I want to enjoy it as much as possible. So I want to pursue happiness as a new Peri Ubu.

--The vehicle for pursuing this happiness became fashion and music. You've created a new genre called Peri Ubu.

Peri: That's right! I want to create a genre called Peri Ubu! When I thought about what I wanted to do as a solo artist, the visual image that came to me was "I want to make everyone happy with dazzling fashion and cool music". I love to express myself. I want to think about how to make the invisible visible and try answering questions that haven't been answered yet. I also like choreography because I want to make it fun to see. I'd like to find a way to connect with people that can also be enjoyed visually. So I would be happy if this became a new genre called Peri Ubu.

--You can enjoy the way of expressing Peri Ubu with all five senses. The affinity between fashion and music is a new approach for Peri Ubu. It adds an increased value to your image.

Peri: I'm very conscious of that. I hope that more people can do what they like and say what they like.

--You've been very open about having eye surgery.

Peri: Oh, I forgot I had plastic surgery (laughs).

--You don't have to be afraid to be yourself, right? But Japan still has to accept it.

Peri: I wonder about that. I should probably talk about it since I had plastic surgery. I want to be cute. I want to create a world where a girl who has plastic surgery doesn't have to hide it.

--That way of life seems to be supported as a fashion icon.

Peri: I want to become what girls dream about. By being in the public eye, I have the courage to take action. It can be plastic surgery or anything else, but if you're worried about it, you should do it. I think Japan will become more interested in what you like the more you explore it. I think it's good to stay true to what you like. Don't be impatient with what High Schoolers like. They are the ones who will shape the world!

--I think Peri Ubu intuitively does what she wants. Not only with fashion, but with the music that she records. I think it's great that you've gotten better about having the intuition to dive into what you like and have fun with it.

Peri: That's 100% Peri Ubu. Every day is really fun.

--Peri's compatibility with club music is outstanding.

Peri: Right! When I was in BiS, I happened to listen to EDM in Ike-san's car (the group's manager). I could feel the drums in my body and said "this is super fun!". Immediately after hearing it for the first time, I thought "I like this kind of music". After a while, when I thought about what kind of music I wanted to do as a solo, I wanted to pursue the kind of music that would define Peri Ubu, so I thought "I want to make music like I heard in the car at that time". But I didn't know the word EDM and told the staff "I want to do Hip-Hop". Then I heard the song and it was totally different. "This isn't Hip-Hop!" (laughs).

--(laughs)

Peri: The songs they sent me were too relaxing (laughs). I wanted something with more beats and I said "wrong!" because I was thinking of a noisy music (laughs). A little bit later, I learned it was called EDM (laughs).

--To express what Peri Ubu wants to do, EDM is extremely fitting.

Peri: I like colorful fashion and like to wear flashy clothes. When I thought about what music fits that the best, EDM was the closest. That's why there's fashion and then music, but the order might be a little strange.

(*I think Peri means that she came up with her fashion style first and then the music genre. Maybe she thinks it's strange to do it in that order)

--No, it's very healthy. And because the music, fashion, and your way of life really match, I wonder if Peri Ubu will become an icon if it spreads to High School girls.

Peri: I want that! I want to make it popular! Um, how do you say it? Do you know what Pa-Pi-Pu-Pe-Po is?

--Pa-Pi-Pu-Pe-Po?

Peri: Yes! Pa-Pi-Pu-Pe-Po!

--Uh...what's that?

Peri: How would you say a popping sound like Pa-Pi-Pu-Pe-Po?

--Is it half-voiced?

Peri: Yes! Japanese people like the Pa-Pi-Pu-Pe-Po sound, which sounds like half-voiced sound. Puchin, purin, etc. (*she's referring to Flan). So Peri Ubu might have a chance. I'd be happy if Peri Ubu became popular among High School girls. It would be great if a girl looked up to me and I became an influence on her life.

--Like Amurer or Shinorer who were popular in the 90's.

Peri: Oh, that's it!

(*Amurer is the name for Namie Amuro fans who imitated her fashions. The Japanese word would be Amura. Basically just adding a "ra" to the name or "er" in English. It originated in the Kansai region where women who loved the Chanel brand were called "Chanellers". Another example would be "Visualer". These were men with long hair who wore long black coats imitating bands like GLAY.

Even though the interviewer is saying that Peri could become a trendsetter among school girls, I don't think she means it will be as widespread as the Amurers in the 90's. Btw, Shinorer, or Shinora in Japanese, refers to fans of Tomoe Shinohara, a singer and multi-talented artist who popularized a brightly colored, layered fashion style that is still popular today. It's been featured in magazines like Fruits and Layers.)

--Like a Perer.

Peri: You sound so fluent (laughs). Peri Ubaer? (*She really says Ubara, but I'm trying to be consistent with my translation, lol) Perya? I think it was super popular in that era. Recently, I've been watching old dramas and it's really popular in "Ikebukuro Westgate Park" (*aired in 2000).

(*Peri uses "pera pera" which can mean "fluent" or "flimsy", so I'm not 100% sure which one)

--Oh, the color gang.

Peri: The color gang is cute. I also want to do that. Everyone wore green in Shibuya. Wouldn't it be nice to do it now?

(*Abbreviated as "IWGP", Ikebukuro Westgate Park focuses on juvenile delinquents and street gangs among other things)

--If Peri-san leads the way, then the city will be overflowing with Peras.

Peri: I'd be happy if that happened. I won't give up on doing what I want. I want to wear the clothes I like and sing all kinds of music. I want to meet people in person instead of using SNS. By living this way, I want to create a world where all girls of this era can live their lives however they want. As Peri Ubu, I would like to send this message. Don't worry about what other people think and do what you like.

http://2youmagazine.com/2020/03/periubu/

Mameshiba no Taigun - "Surprise Common Sense Quiz!"

This year, Mameshiba no Taigun started a Variety Show on their YouTube channel. Each episode features the members undertaking different challenges, some of which involve punishments if they fail to complete them.

(*They have the best thumbnails, lol)

In the two most recent episodes, "Surprise Common Sense Quiz", the members answered a series of questions on a variety of subjects. All of them had to answer correctly or they would have to undergo a punishment game as a group. The punishments are all listed on a board, 9 in total, and each round a member draws a question randomly from a box. Whether they all answer correctly or not, the punishment is checked off and they move on to the next round.

My intention was just to translate the punishment board because, even though some will be obvious to anyone with a basic understanding of Japanese, others might not be so clear. After writing up the list, I wanted to translate the quiz portions as well and decided to turn this into a full blog post.

You can both episode here: Part 1 and Part 2.

Punishment Board

Top Row:

- デスソース　(death sauce)
- センブリ茶　(Senburi Tea)
- パンスト被り (Pantyhose wearing)

Middle Row:

- 顔面洗バサミ　(Face Scissors)
- ゲテモノ食い　(Getemono Taberu),
- コンビニダッシュ (Konbini Dash)

Bottom Tow:

- 足つぼ大丈夫サンライズ　(Ashitsubo Daijoubu Sunrise)
- メンバーの嫌なところ暴露　(Exposing the members dislikes)
- クロちゃんの口臭 (Kuro-chan's Bad Breath)

Episode 1!

Question #1: "The Astronaut Gagarin's famous quote "The Earth is__".
(*Gagarin is Yuri Gagarin, a Soviet Air Force Pilot and the first human to travel to outer space)

Answer: "Blue."

Kaede, Hanea, and Nao answered "青かった" (It's blue) which is correct. Aika got it wrong and I think Miyuki was close, but didn't quite have it. The members now have to face their first punishment game.

- Face Scissors: Pretty self explanatory, but you put the close pins on your face and have them pulled off.

Question #2: "In which direction does the sun rise and set in Japan?"

Answer: "Rises in the east and sets in the West."

Kaede, Hanae, and Miyuki answered correctly. Aika and Nao had it reversed. Time for the next punishment game.

- Seburi Tea: Senburi is also known as Swertia Japonica, an extract is an extract from the Swertia Japonica plant native to Japan. It has been recognized for centuries as promoting long life, strength and wisdom. It has a very bitter taste and is said to be the most bitter crude drug (herb).

Question #3: "What metal is the Japanese 1 Yen coin made of?"

Answer: "Aluminum."

Everyone got it right, so they avoid the acupressure performance of Daijoubu Sunrise.

- Ashitsubo Daijobu Sunrise (Acupressure Daijoubu Sunrise): Based on other variety shows, I'm guessing that the members would have to sing the song while getting an acupressure treatment on their feet. Depending on which points on the foot are pressed, it can be quite painful. After re-watching the episode, they included a picture of a mat with a rough surface on it. The members would probably have to step on this while singing.

Question #4: "They succeeded in humanities first powered flight. Who are these siblings?"

Answer: "The Wright Brothers."

Aika and Miyuki got it wrong. They both answered "Space Brothers" which they found amusing.

(*Space Brothers is actually a Manga. Here's the synopsis straight from Wikipedia:

In the summer of 2006, Mutta Nanba and his younger brother, Hibito, witness what they believe to be a UFO, which flies off towards the Moon. Hibito decides he will go onto the Moon whilst Mutta decides he will aim for Mars. Nineteen years later, in the year 2025, Hibito has become a fully fledged JAXA astronaut assigned to go on a mission towards the moon.  Mutta, on the other hand, has not been so successful in achieving his dreams. As Mutta eventually recalls his past ambitions, he receives a letter stating he has been accepted to join a JAXA training program for new astronauts. The series follows Mutta as he seeks to become an astronaut and achieve his longtime dream just like his brother did)

Here's a good image from the Anime adaptation.

The members have to play a punishment game.

- Exposing the members dislikes: This time, they have to say something they dislike, which is about other members. Looks like they just talk about whoever's sitting to the left of them.

What Hanae dislikes about Nao: "When you get sleepy, your attitude gets worse."

What Nao dislikes about Miyuki: "She suddenly yells in public."

What Miyuki dislikes about Kaede: "She hates dogs and children."
(*Sounds like Kaede didn't like the dogs that were on the set of the MV shoot for Daijoubu Sunrise)

What Kaede dislikes about Aika: "The bathroom is dirty (Aika and Nao live together in the dorm)"
(*Kaede says something about pink dirt stuck there)

What Aika dislikes about Hanae: "Her legs are thin and her skin is white."

Question #5: "List the Zodiac 1 by 1 in order verbally."

(*Based on their answers, it looks like they were listing the Twelve Earthly Branches of the Chinese Zodiac,specifically the Kunyomi pronunciations. Kunyomi is a reading based on the pronunciation of a Japanese word that closely approximates the meaning of the Chinese character after it was introduced. These refer to months, not years)

Answer: In order, they are: "Ne, Ushi, Tora, U, Tatsu, Mi, Uma, Hitsuji, Saru, Tori, Inu, and I." Of course, each corresponds to an animal.

Kaede screwed up, twice actually, so they undertake one more punishment game.

- Getemono Teberu: It refers to something that is generally unpleasant to eat like reptiles and amphibians. This is wear the grasshoppers came in.

Nao's final comment after eating the Grasshoppers: "We've had our variety baptism."
(*You could say they've taken their right of passage. Trial by Grasshopper?)

Episode 2!

Question #6: "Who is the person who killed Oda Nobunga at the Honnō-ji Incident?"

Answer: "Akechi Mitsuhide."

(*About the The Honnō-ji Incident or Honnō-ji no Hen (本能寺の変). It refers to the forced suicide on 21 June 1582, of Japanese daimyō Oda Nobunaga at the hands of his samurai general Akechi Mitsuhide. This occurred in Honnō-ji, a temple in Kyoto, ending Nobunaga's quest to consolidate centralized power in Japan under his authority. I won't go into too much detail, but Nobunga had central Japan under his control and wanted to continue his military expansion by attacking the remaining three clans who were in a weakened state. While Nobunga's forces were spread out, Mitsuhide used the opportunity to take his troops to the temple where Nobunaga was resting (Honnō-ji) and staged a coup. While the temple was surrounded, Nobunaga committed suicide. There are theories as to why Mitsuhide betrayed Nobunaga, but the exact reason is still unclear)

Kaede is the only one who got it right, although she only wrote "Akechi". Aika wrote "Ishida Mitsunari", a Japanese samurai and military commander of the late Sengoku period. I have no idea what Hanae wrote, but I don't think she finished. Nao wrote "Toyotomo Hideyoshi", a daimyō and politician of the late Sengoku period regarded as the second "Great Unifier" of Japan. Miyuki wrote "Sakamoto Ryoma", a samurai and influential figure of the Bakumatsu and establishment of the Empire of Japan in the late Edo period.

Time for the first Punishment game of the episode!

- Pantyhose wearing: It's pretty self explanatory.

The Punishment game for the next question is Death Sauce. They make a point of mentioning that Nao already experienced it at the Training Camp.

(*Death Sauce is made by the US company "Blair's Sauces and Snacks" and frequently served at the Wack Training Camp. It's insanely hot)

Question #7: "The Era before the Hesei is the Showa, but what is the Era before the Showa?"

Answer: "Taishō era."

Everyone got it correct, so they escape the dreaded Death Sauce.

Question #8: "Take turns and list the months from January to December in English."

Miyuki answered incorrectly, so they have to do a Punishment Game. The other members tried to help her by bringing up the "June Bride" tradition.

- Konbini Dash (Convenience Store Dash): This is pretty self explanatory, but I think there's more to it. As far as the show is concerned, the last person to arrive has to buy something for the rest of the members. They wanted Haagen-Dazs.

(*Konbini Dash is also a hashtag on twitter, but I can't find a good explanation. It's usually connected to video games like the super hot Dragon Egg mobile game. It might be really simple like you really need something, so you have to make a quick run to the store)

Miyuki was first to the Convenience Store followed by Aika, Kaede, and then Hanae. Nao picked the wrong shoes to wear that day, lol.

Question #9: "What number is behind 3 on a set of dice?"

Answer: "4."

Hanae is the only one to get it wrong, so it's time for the final Punishment Game. They remind her that each corresponding side can be added up to seven. Aika even wrote it out: 1/6, 2/5, 3/4.

- Kuro-Chan's Bad Breath: So, that concoction they made a couple episodes ago where they recreated Kuro-chan's bad  breath...yeah they're reusing it here. The usage is self explanatory. They're so efficient on this show. They should find more uses for it, lol.

The members get a dollop of the concoction on their nose and have to do their intro.

With that, the members conclude the quiz and survive this show for another week.

Mameshiba no Taigun - 2ch Comments

I've been hearing some rumblings that fans aren't that happy with the direction Mameshiba no Taigun is going in as well as being unhappy that Kuro-chan is gone, so I decided to dive into 2ch to see what I can find out. Before I get into the comments, here's a brief history of the group.

Mameshiba no Taigun (Horde Of Little Shibas) is a new Idol group under the WACK company. It was formed during the audition project "MONSTER IDOL". It ran from early October until the end of December in 2019 as a featured segment on the popular variety show Downtown. The project was produced in cooperation with Watanabe Junnosuke (the founder of WACK) who produces and manages groups like BiSH,  BiS, GANG PARADE, and others. The competition portion was carried out at a Training Camp in Okinawa similar to the annual WACK Training Camp auditions held in March.

In the end, 4 members were selected from a total of 16. The overall producer is Kuro-chan, a talento and Idol fan.

Mameshiba's debut single "Restart" did well, selling 64k copies in it's first week and reaching #1 on Oricon. This is thanks in part to the gimmick used. There are 3 versions. Kuro-chan's fate would be decided on which version sold the most copies:

Version 1 - Kuro-chan continues as their Producer.
Version 2 - Kuro-chan is fired.
Version 3 - Kuro-chan is fired and punished.

Unsurprisingly, version 3 sold the most. Kuro-chan's punishment was to be hung upside down and periodically dunked in fish tanks full of ice water. Mameshiba performed their debut song while the punishment was administered. With Kuro-chan out of the picture, Mameshiba will be operating completely within WACK.

(This is the best source I could find to make a gif of the punishment)

Shortly afterwards, a fifth members was added, although she didn't participate in the recording of the debut single or shooting of the MV. She had failed on the last day of the Training Camp and was given another chance.

With that out of the way, here are some comments I translated from the most recent Mameshiba thread I could find on 2ch. These threads get pretty massive, so I just scanned through the first 100 or so posts (They cap out at 1k posts and then a new one is opened). It still gives us a good idea of what fans are talking about. This is the 11th Mameshiba thread:

Mameshiba 2ch Thread 11

*Note: Nao and Miyuki seem to be favorites among fans.

13 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/21(火) 21:08:00.93 ID:JSY83ucla.net[1/2]

Because there aren't many singing programs, Idols can be difficult to sell.
I wonder if Utaban or heyhey will be revived.

(*Utaban was a music show that ran from 1996 - 2010. It was hosted by the comedy due Tunnels which consisted of Ishibashi Takaaki, a comedian, actor and singer, and Nakai Masahiro, the leader of SMAP. Morning Musume were frequent guests. heyhey must be "Hey! Hey! Hey! Music Champ". It was another music related show hosted by Downtown that ran from 1994 - 2012)

52 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 06:17:10.00 ID:MlX8RxTpa.net[2/4]

Since Mameshiba became a WACK style group, their popularity has dropped,
so I haven't read Nao or Kaede's (twitter posts).
I'll start paying attention again when they're more active/when it gets exciting.

53 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 06:18:00.89 ID:MlX8RxTpa.net[3/4]

Nao is popular with adults and women in the general public,
Currently, WACK sylte (groups) are at a disadvantage because they only appeal to Kimo-ota.

(*Kimo-ota is short for Kimoi Otaku, which is worse than a regular Otaku. It means you hold them in contempt and consider them to have a disgusting character, appearance, and preferences/tastes)

54 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 06:19:20.98 ID:MlX8RxTpa.net[4/4]

If Nao and Kaede became models for a Fashion Magazine, they could develope female fans separately and opporutunities as a Talento could open up.

57 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 07:54:28.93 ID:LP2AK6pK0.net

Why did they change their costumes?
I wish they had kept the ones they had on the last episode of the tv show.

Now they're dressed like Yankees and normal fans have disappeared.
What do they do?

61 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 08:16:25.48 ID:L9xdRIjZ0.net[1/7]

I'm grateful that I can easily buy a ticket.
If their popularity really explodes like BiSH, you'll have to line up at 5:00 or you won't be able to get in to the privilege party.

(*I used privilege party because it the closest translation I could get. It refers to several things: mini lives, release events, autograph sessions, etc. You usually buy a CD at the venue to get a ticket)

62 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 08:19:20.46 ID:kHv7kYAr0.net

Before the costume change, there was a sense that they could aim for the Kohaku.

(*Kohaku Uta Gassen, NHK's annual New Year's special where Red and White teams compete in a singing competition)

65 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 08:58:22.13 ID:ZrzpSid/a.net[3/13]
>>57

I don't think it's because of the costume change.
They've just been forgotten by television viewers.

67 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 09:06:10.27 ID:CglFjqfa0.net[1/2]

Kuro-chan likes cute Idols, but Watanabe isn't interested in them.
Their polar opposites in what type of Idols they prefer.

68 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 09:11:01.88 ID:ftPcKd/ma.net
>>65

Really, I don't even see Mameshiba's name anywhere.
The people watching TV aren't really out in society.

(*I went with a literal translation for the second sentence, but I think they just mean that fewer people are watching TV)

69 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ (ｱｳｱｳｳｰ Sa4b-OCo9)：2020/01/22(水) 09:36:25 ID:tcxEBSWVa.net[2/3]
>>65

These are my feelings now.
Songs are the most important.
At the moment, their songs are being made by Idol loving amateurs like Kuro-chan.
I'm sure he got help from a professional.
Even if they continued with Kuro-chan, fans would get bored with it,
and they won't sell enough albums to participate in the Kohaku or the Japan Record Awards.
Even when the 2nd single comes out, I think interest will drop in seconds. (*I think he means this will happen if Kuro-chan continues as Producer)
When you think about it Mameshiba's options, they need to do a song like BiSH.

70 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ (ﾜｯﾁｮｲ 477b-mfm/)：2020/01/22(水) 09:39:22 ID:CglFjqfa0.net[2/2]

If they want to make a major debut, I think it's necessary to add members who are good at singing.
Compared to other groups, their singing level is low.
Dancing is unavoidable.

71 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ (ｱｳｱｳｳｰ Sa4b-OCo9)：2020/01/22(水) 09:58:17 ID:tcxEBSWVa.net[3/3]

Personally, I like the current lineup and hate the idea of adding more members.
Mameshiba has only just begun, so it's okay if they're not that good yet.
It's amazing how BiSH can scream while giving flashy performances,
but when they formed they weren't that great.
I want these 5 members of Mameshiba to reach that level of skill.

73 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ (ｻｻｸｯﾃﾛﾚ Sp7b-dry8)：2020/01/22(水) 11:09:26 ID:Bq5Q7dcqp.net

It's impossible to keep these members in WACK.

75 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 12:21:07.89 ID:NyP7ARFHa.net

They're TV Idols.
People on the Internet don't know them.
Only people who watch TV are aware of them.

82 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ (ﾜｯﾁｮｲ 7f25-u2lK)：2020/01/22(水) 14:03:28 ID:eYokWJPH0.net

Their names after the name change are too lazy.
They already did it with BiSH, like Aina The End.
Are all the Idols working under this Producer named like this?

90 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 15:25:06.79 ID:UYH/NVCo0.net
>>69

Even if they go the BiSH route, stay away from EMPiRE.
They were definitely better going the cute route.

99 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 16:15:08.14 ID:4G1HCpMpp.net

Even if the the general public knows about them, the Japan Record Awards only care about Major Offices.

104 ：ファンクラブ会員番号７７４ ：2020/01/22(水) 16:26:45.85 ID:g8QuvAob0.net[2/4]

I don't think it's necessary to put Mameshiba next to BiSH.
Watanabe has a narrow view as a Producer, so he can only makes similar groups.
The other groups are just rehashes of BiSH
The same thing will happen to Mameshiba.

http://nozomi.2ch.sc/test/read.cgi/idol/1579560857/0-

Even though this is just a small sampling of what fans are saying, it gives me enough to give an opinion. And I should point out that this is just fans that post on 2ch. Anyway, it's a bit too early to tell where Mameshiba will go, but fans bring up some good points.

As far as popularity, it's hard to gauge if it's really dropped or not. The first single has sold over 100k copies, but allot of that can be attributed to bulk buying. They were also on a popular show like Downtown. Had this been a separate show all on it's own, it might not have gotten the same amount of viewers, so their initial popularity might have been overestimated.

(Current costumes for the 5 member lineup of Mameshiba no Taigun)

About the costumes. It might not seem like a big deal, but I can see where the complaints are coming from. The WACK groups have gone with the Yankee/Sailor look allot. When I first saw the new uniforms, I thought "Oh, they're going with these again. They've just debuted, and Mameshiba are already dressing like the other groups have".

(Top - GANG PARADE / Bottom - BiS 1st and BiS 2nd)

Even the ones they wore on the TV show are similar to what groups like BiSH and BiS wore in the early days. The same person designs the clothing for all the WACK groups, so I guess he can't help himself. Looking at them from a different angle, it's typical for newer groups to go with a fairly generic look when they debut, no matter what company they're from. The second single will be a test to see if they change up their look for the better.

The other big issue is that fact that they're entirely under the direction of WACK now. Like one fan wrote, Watanabe has a tendency to repeat himself, and there's a real chance Mameshiba just end up as another group with no real identity. I think it would be better to distance them from the company and utilize outside producers. There's an opportunity to cross over and appeal to people that don't typically follow WACK groups. It would be a shame to waste it.

Moving forward, I would like to see them take advantage of giving each single some kind of stipulation to each version. As long as it doesn't get too crazy like voting out a member.

Which brings me to the last point. It's hard to say just how many members will stay in the group. WACK can get pretty crazy and allot of members have left during the companies existence. We'll have to wait and see if Watanabe takes the same hands off approach with Mameshiba that he does with BiSH.

All this being said, it will be interesting to see how things turn out. Will Mameshiba end up as just another WACK group or will they be able to create their own unique identity and break away from the pack? I'll continue looking through 2ch comments and post any more that I think offer good insights.

BiS Natalie Interview - Part 3

"You never know what will happen in WACK"

--DiPromise is meant to be Pour Lui's Graduation Song. In contrast to Whole Lotta Love, I think it was difficult to express your emotions during the recording.

Peri: Actually the opposite was true. The tension has completely changed.

Gojira: In a sense, "Whole Lotta Love" and "DiPromise" are similar in that we shed our sweat and tears, however because the music is different, the way we approached them was different.

--Was Pour Lui present during the recording?

Kikka: Yes, Pour sings first during recording. It's BiS's recording method for Pour to sing first and then Matsukuma inflates the image. I didn't notice until afterwards, but Pour Lui was crying after the recording. I wonder if she sang with all her heart.

(*Kikka really does use "inflate")

--Matsukuma and Watanabe are in charge of the lyrics for this song. For Watanabe, it's like sending one last song to a Wife who's always been with you. It's a feeling that only these two people can know.

Kikka: It's a great love song, isn't it?

--I wonder how the new songs will be showcased on 3/4 at Ryogoku Kokugikan?

Aya: I think it will be an unforgettable day for me as well as for BiS, since it's also the day that Rental Trade will end and I will become a member of BiS again. It will restart from here.

--Pan-san, what do you want BiS to become in the future?

Pan: When I debuted at the Liquid Room, I said I wanted to be the Ace of BiS, however recently, I've said I want to go beyond Pour. But at the time, I didn't foresee Pour Graduating, so I thought I would do my best until I could surpass Pour. But even if Pour has Graduated, my goal is still to surpass her. For myself, I need to become the Ace, but I still don't know. When I'm working as hard as I can during Voice Training, Dance Lessons, and Lives, I wonder if I can reach the ideal that I want to be?

--In that sense, I think Aya's presence is good for Pan.

Pan: We haven't performed together yet, but I'll do my best so we can be good rivals from now on.

--Momoland, what do you want the new BiS to become?

Momoland: I don't think it's useless. I feel like I want to change. During the MCs and interviews, I was able to talk because Pour-chan and Saki-chan would bring me into the conversation, but once the two are gone I have to speak up on my own or I wouldn't speak at all, so I feel that I need to try hard. I need to change my character as well.

Gojira: What? Change?

Kikka: It would be great if you created a Character!

--What kind of character do you want to become like?

Momoland: Up till now, everyone has helped and pushed me, so I'd like to think and act on my own from now on. That's the character I want to become, so I have to study about Communication in books.

--Compared to previous Interviews, I'm actively talking about this, so it feels extreme listening to it. I'm looking forward to Pan and Momoland's future growth in BiS.

Kikka: Since Shaved Head (Kamiya Saki) left, the framework is emptier, isn't it?

Aya: Maybe White Paint with a Shaved Head could be good.

(*Aya uses the word "Bouzu" which is a Buddhist Monk. I went with Shaved Head since Kikka specifically says that)

Kikka: Separately, it's good...Only I am tasty!

Peri: I want to do something different. Go even further with the White Face and Shaved Head. I want to add some tattoos! Full body tattoos!

Aya: There are also Underground Idols that are surprisingly tattooed.

--I can't write this (laughs).

Peri: It doesn't belong to a WACK group!

Kikka: But if you get Tattooed, you can't go to a public bath, right?

(*For anyone unaware, allot of Bath Houses ban people with Tattoos. They're still taboo in Japan because tattoos are associated with the criminal element. Some have relaxed it to only ban full body tattoos, to keep Yakuza from intimidating customers, and Foreigners are usually exempt from the Bath House rule because Tourism brings in money)

Pan: Not only that, you'd really stand out. (laughs)

--Momoland, you don't want to do a thing like this, do you?

Momoland: (Nods Silently)

Gojira: Everyone's happy just talking, right Momoland?

Aya: If a new member joins from the next Training Camp, they might get initiated with White paint or a shaved head.

--Yes, there's an Audition Training Camp. It's possible a new member might join.

Aya: As far as a Trade, I don't think it will happen a 2nd time.

Gojira: WACK is a "Scrap and Scrap". We don't know what will happen.

Peri: Kikka will join EMPiRE.

Pan: Kikka will be the only one to leave.

Aya: Everyone's saying they want to see Kikka leave (laughs).

Kikka: Wait a second! What is all this!? We were supposed to have a nice discussion about what BiS is going to do from this point on!

--There's been various things, but everyone's been positive and it was nice.

Kikka: Everyone's lightened up, haven't they?

Pan: We really have. I think it's like this even when rehearsing. The atmosphere has changed. After all, the curse has lifted, right? (laughs)

https://natalie.mu/music/pp/bis07/page/3

BiS Natalie Interview - Part 2

*This was originally posted on OneHallyu on April 5th, 2018.

"Thoughts about Pour Lui's "Stop messing around"

--This will be the first time that Pan and Momoland will stand on a stage with Aya.

Pan: When we joined, Aya wasn't in BiS anymore, so I saw her like any other member of Gang Parade. It feels strange, but for me and Momo, since we started with Saki-chan, this feels more like a trade.

Momoland: That's what kind of feeling it is.

--All 6 of you are taking dance lessons, but how do the 3 Initial members feel about Aya's growth?

Peri: It was a long time ago that Aya was here, so I forgot (laughs). This time, I'm in charge of the choreography, but Aya gives advice on the details we don't notice. While in Gang Parade, she had various experiences and I feel like she's grown up.

Gojira: She's started saying very precise things. Pour-san was going to make Aya the Dance Instructor when the 5 of us started, but she would say "it's good!" no matter what we asked (laughs).

Peri: Yes, yes, yes! That's all she really said! She's really grown.

Aya: Once I became in charge of checking everyone's dances, our expressions became more rich. Since I was so happy about that, I meant to say 'I'm glad!

Kikka: But your supposed to give advice and impressions, so it felt like "That's it!".

Gojira: It's so nostalgic. I thought you grew allot when thinking about it. Now you make precise comments about timing and hand movements.

Aya: But I was happy that everyone Powered Up.

--Aya-san, what do you think about being in BiS again?

Aya: First of all, I heard from the Researchers, not the Members or Watanabe-san, that Pour said she was retiring. I guess the other members knew about a month ahead of time, but I found out then. In a previous Interview, Pour-san said the group was falling apart, but I was a Gang Parade member at the time, so I thought "I should do my best not to lose". At that time, Pour was unintentionally seen as rivaling BiS, so when I heard that Pour-san, who was the core of BiS, would retire, I was like "What?".

(*I'm not sure what Aya means that Pour was rivaling BiS. Was this coming from fans?)

--Although I don't know the situation in BiS, as Aya said, she didn't understand why Pour-san would retire at that time.

Aya: Yeah. As soon as I became a part of BiS, I had a dream of being in the top two position with Pour-chan. Even after I went to Gang Parade, somewhere in my heart I felt that I still wanted to make that dream come true. So my straightforward feelings towards Pour Lui is 'Stop messing around'. What was that about when you said you would crush us? So a while back in some interview, I said 'I want to continue being in Gang Parade', but it's because after hearing about her graduation there was something on my mind, or I guess I can say there was a change in how I felt.

(*Aya uses the phrase "Two Top" which is a type of formation in Soccer where two Forwards are placed at the front. There's also a "Three Top" formation. She could be referring to a W Center)

--Since you couldn't decide where you belonged, you felt conflicted about what you wanted to do.

Aya: Actually, before the WACK Fest, Watanabe asked me "which do you prefer?".

Peri: Is that so?

Aya: Yup. At the time, my head was messed up with various things like Pour-chan, so I said "I'm sorry! I don't know!". Then Watanabe-san said, "Give it a little more thought" and I answered "I understand. I think", but then at the event 3 days later, it was announced the Rental Trade would end (laughs).

Peri: (laughs) He didn't wait at all!

Aya: I found out later, but Saki said Watanabe asked her the same thing. Since I wasn't able to make a decision, I wasn't able to make a good comment at the time of the announcement, so it ended up being "I'll do my best no matter where I am". In conclusion, I joined BiS after passing the Audition. Then suddenly, I was traded to Gang Parade last April. It was announced that I would return to BiS this March. I understood the goodness of both groups and thought that I love both groups. When asked "which do you prefer?", I couldn't make a decision. I'm looking forward to the new BiS activities and I'm glad I could be here.

"Released from the curse of BiS"

--I think that Pour Lui's graduation is an important moment for the group, but I wonder if the grown up Aya returning is not a negative. If I listen to everyone's story, I don't feel too much loss.

Gojira: It is a bit lonely. But I'll decide on my own.

Peri: It feels more like "Thank you for all your hard work", so it's not negative at all. It's more like "Please entrust BiS to us".

Kikka: Yup. You can say it at last. I didn't have that kind of story at all, and I felt like it might become weaker, so I was worrying. When we made the retirement announcement, it was said with a refreshing emotion, and kind eyes. I thought I was glad when I saw it.

--You had been trapped by the image of the old BiS, so you could say you were released from "the curse of BiS".

Kikka: That's right. Indeed, the curse disappeared and we've become pure.

--Up 'till now, you were speaking a bit darkly (laughs).

Kikka: No, no, no (laughs). At the time, I could see Pour was set free, so this decision was really good for BiS and Pour.

--None the less, I think the atmosphere became "What about BiS?" within the Idol Industry. Kamiya will return to Gang Parade and it will be said that nobody has the old soul of BiS. Meanwhile, the Double A-side Single "Whole Lotta Love/DiPromise" is the Major re-debut release, but only the 6 members of the new system sing Whole Lotta Love.

(*I think she might have meant "What about BiS's place" within the Idol Industry, but the above translation seemed more literal)

Peri: They're 2 contrasting songs.

--As a matter of fact, "Whole Lotta Love" is the first BiS song without Pour Lui's voice. Becasue I couldn't imagine such a thing happening, personally I was nervous listening to it. But as I listened to it, it was BiS after all. Does BiS say they think it's BiS again?

Peri: That's a nice way to say it!

--For everyone, because it hasn't fundamentally changed, it's not a new group feeling either.

Peri: I prefer to say this is the upgraded version of BiS.

--I see. Have the 6 of you talked about something in recording?

Kikka: We never got together and talked.

Peri: There were discussions about small details, like how to sing the rap and how to hold a microphone.

Kikka: That's right. We discussed how to present the choreography on the stage.

--How would you like to present the new BiS?

Peri: Up to now, I haven't had much time to think about how to sing, so for the first time, I've decided to stick with that.

--As for the direction of the song, it has a similar intensity to recent songs like "Socialism" and "I Can't Say Nooo!!!" so the Rock sound remains unchanged and fits with BiS's current style, but you're also trying something new like Rap. I feel like it comes from a place that only 6 people living and working together could create.

Gojira: As opposed to "DiPromise", "Whole Lotta Love" is sung by the 6 of us, so I think they wanted to add new things when we started as 6. While recording, Mastukuma-san (Kenta/scrambles) requested that "we sing like Thee Michelle Gun Elephant", so we sang with a higher tension than usual. I didn't think rap would fit with the new song, but I want to do fun things. The lyrics also use phrases from the time of the old BiS a little bit.

--I think the symbolic one is the phrase "I have to go" that was also used in "BiSBiS". Changing the phrase becomes a turning point of the group as it becomes comical as "I have to go, I'm singing too much Melody, Wasshoi!".

(*Wasshoi is difficult to translate and has several meanings, so I didn't attempt it. However, this entry will shed some light on it's origin:

"Wasshoi" is considered to have developed in Edo, originating from the phrase "Wajo Dokei", meaning 'to unify the people's hearts together and be full of enjoyment'. This "Wajo Dokei" was shortened to "Wajo", then changed to "Wakasho" (meaning to carry harmony), and finally changed to "Wasshoi", meaning 'to stay with harmony')

Gojia: "I have to go!" isn't a feeling full of determination, but "I have to go, Wasshoi!" is something that's more cheerful (Laughs).

Peri: It's the new "I have to go!" isn't it.

Aya: Because these 6 people have to go.

Pan: Before, after we got tons of blisters on our feet it was 'We have to go!' but I thought 'So for these six members that's the kind of "I have to go" (laughs).

https://natalie.mu/music/pp/bis07/page/2

BiS Natalie Interview - Part 1

*This was originally posted on OneHallyu on March 29th, 2018.

"6 People released from the curse of BiS"

On 3/7 BiS makes their Second Major Label Debut by releasing the Double A Side Single "Whole Lotta Love/DiPromise" through Nippon Crown's Crown Stone Label. A few days ago, at "BiS 2nd BEGiNNiNG TOUR FiNAL WHO KiLLED IDOL??" at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan, founder and leader Pour Lui graduated. This also marked the end of the Rental Trade, and Kamiya Saki returned to Gang Parade while Aya EightPrince retured to BiS.

Music Natalie Interviewed BiS on how they will carry out their new system. BiS faced various dramas before crawling back into the Major Scene after 1 yr. and 8 months since restarting. Aafter several months of turbulance, what do they think about Aya and Kamiya's Trade and Pour Lui's Graduation?

"The Joys and Pressures of a Major Debut"

--Music Natalie will be the first Interview under the new system. First of all, congratulations on the second Major Debut.

Peri: I'm very happy. I'm happy about the time it was decided upon.

Gojira: On the other hand, I had strong feelings about the Major Debut. When BiS restarted, allot of people were saying "BiS is group with a proven track record, so if they do it seriously, it's not a dream that they could have a major debut in 6 months". However, it actually didn't work at all at the beginning of the restart and I didn't have very satisfying Lives.

--Looking back at Interviews from those days, everyone was having a hard time.

Gojira: Even thought we continued activities for half a year, we were unable to deliver results so I was depressed. But then Pan and Momo joined and Saki-chan came for a limited time and gradually able to have good lives. So when the time of the Major Debut was decided, I was very happy.

Kikka: I felt the same as Peri, but I was thinking about the group and lives, and bout singing the same songs as the previous BiS when they were Major.

--For your Major Debut, What kind of Image do you have of the Nippon Crown Label?

Pan: Kitajima Saburo-san.

Peri: The image of many Enka Singers that belong to it was strong.

Gojira: Yoshizawa Kayako-san. I like Yoshizawa-san so much that I sang her song "Minor's Assertion" (Miseinen no Shucho) in a very loud voice when I auditioned for BiS. Since this is my beginning, it's amazing that I can be on the same Label.

Kikka: Yes, yes. Frankly, I wonder if we can be considered the same as these people (laughs).

--It's certainly interesting that BiS is on the same Label as Kitajima-san.

Kikka: It's very strange that BiS who does Gori Gori Rock is in the same company.

(*Gori Gori is slang for "Hard, Sharp, Biting")

--I see. Idol groups Passpo and Predia also belong to the Nippon Crown Label.

Peri: As expected, it's strange (laughs).

--Pan and Momoland, what are your thoughts on the Major Debut?

Pan: I was privelaged to debut at the Liquidroom in May 2017, so it was great environment to start in. It was difficult to understand everything the Initial Members struggled with since restarting, but it's a pleasure to have earned the rewarded of a Major Debut after making it through the Training Camp.

Momoland: I'm very happy. I just recently joined, and don't have allot of experience, so I feel like I have to be more firm.

--And Aya is back in BiS after a long time.

Aya: That's right. I feel like I've come back home.

Everyone: Welcome home!

(*Aya used the standard "Tadaima" and everyone gives the formal response of "Okaeri")

Aya: Thank you! I'm very happy. At the same time I'm coming back home, we're having our Major Debut, so personally, I feel glad. During the time of the Trade, I did my best in Gang Parade. I gained momentum and realized my fans have increased allot. I also realized how hard it is to make a Major Debut. That's why, although BiS themselves struggled to produce results, there are roads that the Seniors of the former BiS went down that are connected to our results, and we should not forget to show them gratitude.

(*When Aya says she knows how hard it is to make a Major Debut, she's referring to how Gang Parade are still Indie after all these years, and are still trying to go Major)

--I also talked about the Interview with Gang Parade which was published. Aya was active in Gang Parade longer than she was in BiS.

Peri: Even though I'm aware of this, it surprises me.

--Aya will be able to make her debut as soon as the Trade ends. At the time when Aya comes back, what are your thoughts about the other members?

Peri: Right before the Encore Stage at the WACK Fest, I heard that the Trade between Saki and Aya would end. I didn't know the reason at that point, but as time goes on, I gradually understand. During the time when Aya was in Gang Parade, I thought it was a totally different kind of Aya.

Gojira: Even when meeting on site, I felt like "Ah, Aya-chan". I wasn't that interested (laughs).

(*I think Gojira means when both groups would be performing at the same place)

Everyone: (Laughs)

Gojira: Rather than not being interested, I just thought "She looks like she's doing well" (laughs).

Kikka: It's like "That is that and this is this".

Gojira: As I read the Interview, I felt that my way of thinking has changed since I've been in BiS.

Kikka: Although it was decided she would come back sooner or later, Aya was doing her best in Gang Parade, so we thought it would be rude to say we felt sorry for her.

--Aya thought the same way. You cut off BiS during the time you were in Gang Parade. Can you talk about your feeling back then?

Aya: It was remarkable especially when I was just traded. I was muting the BiS Member's Group Line. Truthfully, I still mute it.

Peri: Hey, hey, hey!

Gojira: Well, then I'll block you (laughs).

Aya: It was troublesome! I think I'll cancel the muting once the Trade ends.

Peri: On the other hand, aren't you going to mute Gang Parade?

Aya: Ah, what should I do? If I look at it my heart will hurt. It's because I can only concentrate on one thing. However, when I said I muted BiS's Group Line, it's because I love everyone!

https://natalie.mu/music/pp/bis07

BiS to disband (again). Will reform (again) after auditions later in the year.

At the finals of WACK's Training Camp over the weekend, it was announced that BiS would disband, with their final concert taking place on May 11th. Details were posted on WACK's Official site.

BiSより大切なお知らせhttps://t.co/qTXtY07sQx

— BiS−新生アイドル研究会-オフィシャル (@BiSidol) March 30, 2019

"Regarding the BiS members, thank you for always supporting them.

We would like to make a report on the members.

We accepted a request by all 9 members to disband.

The date of their final performance has been decided on May 11th, the final show of the "Are you ready to go?" Tour.

We sincerely apologize to all the Researchers (BiS fans) for the sudden announcement.

We look forward to your continued support of BiS."

Watanabe Junnosuke, the mastermind behind WACK and all it's groups, announced auditions for the next incarnation of BiS.

速報
BiS解散にともない、
新しいBiSを結成いたします。
オーディションを改めて開催いたします。
詳細は後ほど。

— 渡辺”ジュンジュン”淳之介 (@JxSxK) March 30, 2019

This marks the second time BiS has disbanded. The original group disbanded in 2014. 2 years later, it reformed with 4 new members and founder Pour Lui returning.

To put the announcement into perspective, here's a little history.

The WACK Training Camp, or WACK Audition Camp, is a place where young hopefuls can audition to join WACK's stable of groups which include BiSH, BiS, GANG PARADE, and EMPiRE, and a new trainee program called WAgg. The audition takes place over the course of one week at the end of March, culminating with the WACK Exhibition where the winners are chosen from the finalists. The Exhibition also features live performances from all the WACK groups as well as a major announcement.

Last March, the BiS.League was announced. BiS, which at the time had grown to include 12 members, was split into 2 Units: BiS1st and BiS2nd. There would be an AKB48 style Election where fans could buy CDs and use a code to vote for members online or at live events. Whoever ranked the highest would be in BiS1st and receive the majority of promotions. The low ranked members would be in BiS2nd and get minor promotions. The members didn't enjoy competing like this, and the BiS.League ended after the 2nd Election.

It's been speculated that the members decided to disband out of protest. During the 2nd Election, Watanabe announced that the lowest ranking members could be removed from BiS. The 5 members who ranked in the bottom were: Toriaez Hana, YUiNA EMPiRE, Muropanako, Nel Nehru and Aya Eightprince. Because of their low ranking, all of them except Nel Nehru would participate in this year's Training Camp (Nel Nehru withdrew from BiS in January due to poor health). The stipulation was added that, if any of them were eliminated, they would be fired from BiS. Ultimately, Aya Eightprince and Toriaez Hana were eliminated and required to leave the group, but would still remain in the company. It seems that the members decided if all 9 couldn't be in the group, they would rather disband.

Peri Ubu, an original member of the reformed BiS, confirmed the decision was made by the "BiS Team" to disband.

BiS解散します。
悲しんでくれる方や惜しんでくれる方がいて心が痛い半面嬉しいです。
これを前向きな解散だとわかっていただけると幸いです。
これが最善だとBiSチームが思った結果です。
これからそれぞれ何をするのかまだわかりませんが、ひとりひとりにもっと輝ける場所があると思います。

— ペリ・ウブ (@UBU_BiS) March 30, 2019

The status of the remaining members is unknown. Will any of them still be part of WACK? We'll have to wait and see.

Anyway, thanks for over 2 yrs. of fun and chaos.

2016

2019

This means that "Are you ready?" will be the final single for this Era.  It's a fitting farewell song. Judging from the MV, it's almost like they knew it would come to an end.

2018 Is Shaping Up To Be A Big Year For WACK

*I originally posted this in May 2018. I'm reposting it for archiving purposes.

The "Watanabe Artistic Creative Kabushiki Gaisha", or WACK for short, was founded by BiS's Manager and Producer Watanabe Junnosuke in 2014 after the group disbanded. Over the past 4 yrs, the company has come to include 4 groups: BiSH, the reformed BiS, GANG PARADE, and most recently EMPiRE. 2018 is turning into a year full of changes and growth for the company.

It's flagship group, BiSH, continues to rise and is landing deals left and right: Anime Openings, CM's, Drama Themes, etc. They even have their own guitar. 

BiSHが夢をデカく叫ぶ「ブラッククローバー」新刊発売記念ムービー（動画あり） #BiSH https://t.co/988smjIGwu pic.twitter.com/pB8NmrOHlP

— 音楽ナタリー (@natalie_mu) 2018年5月2日

【ROUND1新CMキャラクターに就任！】
ラウンドワンの新CMキャラクターにBiSHが就任しました！
4月1日（日）より全国でO.A.開始。
ボウリングやスポッチャ、楽しんでます。
チェックよろ。https://t.co/oTf5srHa5l#BiSH #ラウンドワン pic.twitter.com/aifm4DRVJP

— BiSHオフィシャル (@BiSHidol) 2018年3月26日

【「レオパレス21」CMソング歌唱決定！】
広瀬すず主演の「レオパレス21」新CM
CMソングをBiSHが担当。
5月10日（木）から全国で放送開始！よろ。

＜レオパレス21公式サイト＞https://t.co/3YLsgWIxJ9#BiSH #レオパレス21 #夢中で頑張る君へエールを

— BiSHオフィシャル (@BiSHidol) 2018年5月9日

【BiSH新曲、ドラマ主題歌決定！】
dTV×FOD共同製作ドラマ「彼氏をローンで買いました」主題歌に
BiSH新曲『Life is beautiful』が決定！
脚本は野島伸二氏。
3月9日（金）配信開始。よろ。https://t.co/oTf5srHa5l#彼ロン #BiSH pic.twitter.com/muUzS6EzAv

— BiSHオフィシャル (@BiSHidol) 2018年3月6日

【BiSH×HELLO KITTY 清掃員ハローキティBIGぬいぐるみ】BiSHのファン、「清掃員」になったキティのBIGぬいぐるみが登場するよ☆5/22（火）より全国のラウンドワンのお店でGETしてね♪ https://t.co/jBPomdfnev pic.twitter.com/Bp5qGtoC1K

— サンリオ (@sanrio_news) 2018年5月18日

フェンダーとBiSHのコラボギター「Fender Telecaster Thinline "BiSH"」発売決定（写真13枚） #BiSH #fender #BiSHギター https://t.co/zuI1aQhjnX pic.twitter.com/fd8xUpyRfd

— 音楽ナタリー (@natalie_mu) 2018年5月22日

To top it off, BiSH just performed in front of their largest audience to date, approximately 12,000 fans, at their solo show at Yokohoma Arena. 

BiSH、横浜アリーナ12,000人の前で決意表明「ここで終わりじゃない。ここからぶちかましていきます」https://t.co/TaanzSPrVx#BiSH

— BARKS編集部 (@barks_news) 2018年5月24日

Meanwhile, the current incarnation of BiS recently went Major for the second time and is now operating under the J League System. This means they will be holding their own Senbatsu's for every Single. The 10 member group is split into 2 Teams, BiS1st and BiS2nd. Whichever members rank in the top 6 of the Popularity Poll will be in BiS1st. I've read that WACK was intended to be a parody of the 48Gs, so this plays into that.

【メンバー入れ替え戦『BiS.LEAGUE』詳細!!】
『BiS.LEAGUE』では、ファンの投票で、7/4発売の「Don't miss it!!」の次の作品でのBiS1st/BiS2ndメンバーを決定します!!https://t.co/SSAqPQVWHw

— BiS−新生アイドル研究会-オフィシャル (@BiSidol) 2018年4月26日

分裂したBiS、1stと2ndの対照的なビジュアル公開 #bisidol https://t.co/sy8cSt3La0 pic.twitter.com/ypSQhg7tss

— 音楽ナタリー (@natalie_mu) 2018年5月15日

WACK also created it's own Indie sub-label, WcDonald Records, which will release the first solo single for GANG PARADE member Yui Ga Dokuson in June. The MV is out now! 

ユイ・ガ・ドクソン、ユーロビートでパラパラ踊る「Like a virgin」ガングロMV（動画あり） #ギャンパレ https://t.co/UNZX8VOUFt pic.twitter.com/C6dPawzcKn

— 音楽ナタリー (@natalie_mu) 2018年5月30日

MVゐτ ＜ れ ﾅﾆ ｶゝ ﾅょ ？OTOTOY ､ﾅ ω τ″ ┐ └| ─ DLもτ″ ､ｷ ちゃ ぅ ！
感想 彳寺 っτ ゑ ｶゝ ω ね https://t.co/y6YWr0VFQchttps://t.co/F3n47djIBZ pic.twitter.com/3LdlLZYleV

— ユイ・ガ・ドクソン (@yuiGD_GANG) 2018年5月30日

Regarding the business side of things, a few weeks ago Watanabe, the WACK Founder and Manager we all love to hate, announced the company was hiring more staff for Artist Management. That was a good sign the company is growing.

【間も無くWACK求人終了】5月11日まで。よろ。人手不足。https://t.co/DWsZoD9T4D

— 渡辺”ジュンジュン”淳之介 (@JxSxK) 2018年5月7日

Just the other day, the full picture was revealed when it was announced that WACK will start it's first ever Kenkyuusei Trainee Program, called WAgg. Girls age 12 - 17 can receive training with the possibility of eventually joining BiSH, BiS, or other WACK groups. 

【NEWS】BiS、BiSH、GANG PARADE、EMPiREを手がける「株式会社WACK」が、次世代のアイドル育成を目指し活動する「WAggプロジェクト」を立ち上げることを発表! 12～17歳までの女性を対象に、新メンバーオーディションを開始!!https://t.co/9N8TNBGlaI pic.twitter.com/8ZcAHEeMV8

— オトトイ (@ototoy_info) 2018年5月28日

It's Hello Pro Egg, WACK style  Even though WACK was intended to mirror 48Gs, it's structure feels more similar to Hello Project (they even did Shuffle Units last year), so the name is fitting, especially considering so many WACK members are big H!P fans. Previously, Applicants went through an arduous, week long Training Camp to get into WACK. I can only assume WAgg will incorporate some of these elements as well as some new ones that we probably can't imagine.

All this has happened in just the first half of 2018. It's going to be exciting to see what happens in the second half and for the years to come as WACK continues to grow.