Bandai Namco Music Live Inc. has unveiled its latest venture: MoooD Records, a label poised to make waves on the global music scene.
Known for managing prominent labels such as Lantis, specializing in anime music, and Kiramune, dedicated to talented male voice actors turned artists, Bandai Namco Music Live now sets its sights on broader horizons with MoooD Records. In response to the evolving definition of “anime songs” and the burgeoning worldwide appeal of Japanese anime, MoooD Records emerges as a bridge between dreams and reality, connecting enthusiasts not only in Japan but across the globe through the universal language of music. (The “ooo” in “MoooD” represents interconnected circles of music.)
The label is set to showcase a roster of exceptional artists primed for international acclaim. Leading the charge is the renowned “Samurai Guitarist,” MIYAVI, whose global appeal has already captured audiences worldwide, alongside ASH DA HERO, a dynamic rock band whose second cour intro theme song “Judgement” for the TV anime Blue Lock has amassed over 15 million views. MoooD Records promises to introduce more artists with the potential for global success in the near future.
MIYAVI
MIYAVI’s unique “slap guitar” style has earned him global acclaim, with over 380 live performances across 30 countries and nine successful world tours. Beyond music, he’s made Hollywood appearances, walked the runways of Paris Fashion Week, and starred in international ad campaigns. As the first Japanese Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR, he’s also known for his humanitarian efforts. Recently, he formed “The Last Rockstars” with renowned artists. MIYAVI’s relentless pursuit of creativity cements his status as a leading figure on the global stage.
ASH DA HERO
Formed by ASH (Vo.), Narukaze (Gt.), Sato (Ba.), WANI (Dr.), and Dhalsim (DJ), this five-member band creates music rooted in rock, punk, and hip hop, expressed through a versatile style. ASH’s vocal strength and the band’s collective, overwhelming live performances are a must-see. This is a new era mixture rock band where five talents have fatefully converged.
As MoooD Records continues its journey towards global recognition, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for exciting developments in the world of anime music as more artists will be added to the label in the coming future. Visit their official website for more information, https://mooodrecords.jp/
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Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. has revealed exciting teasers for their upcoming anime series, “I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability.” This eagerly awaited series is set to premiere in Japan in April 2024 and will be available for streaming on platforms such as Crunchyroll.
Key visuals give us an insight on the main characters; Lloyd de Saloum, the demon Grim, Sylpha, Tao, and Ren, as well as assassin’s guild member Jade who is making her debut in the series. Japanese voice actors Lynn, Akira Sekine, and Rie Takahashi will be lending their talents to bring Sylpha, Tao, and Ren to life.
Additionally, Bandai Namco Filmworks shared a video clip offering a sneak peek at the opening theme by Nijisanji VTuber Higuchi Kaede– a taste of the adventures that await Lloyd and the diverse cast. The closing theme will be handled by voice actor and singer Akane Kumada.
The artists stated the following about the series’ themes,
Higuchi Kaede (OP theme): “The anime is colorful and exciting so I tried to depict that in the song. I hope you like the song!”
Akane Kumada (ED Theme): “The lyrics are about the emotions of the girls that are in love with Lloyd and mirror my love for singing! I hope you like it!”
Akane Kumada
Originating from the popular light novel by Kenkyo na Circle and illustrated by Meru, the series has gained immense popularity with over 4.3 million copies sold in both print and online formats. The storyline follows the journey of an ordinary sorcerer who, lacking bloodline and aptitude, dies in a duel but finds himself reincarnated as Lloyd, the seventh prince of the Kingdom of Saloum.
The story takes place in an isekai where monsters and demons dwell. The main character Lloyd possesses mana so immense that those who’re well versed in sorcery fear him. In this tale, we see him continue to grow as he studies sorcery as much as he pleases and tries to perfect it. He’s also a little happy-go-lucky, though he exhibits overwhelming power. This 7th prince’s carefree reincarnation story filled with exhilarating and impressive sorcery battles now begins!
“I just want to enjoy sorcery. That’s all.”
Comments From The Cast:
Makoto Koichi, voice of Lloyd
“When I first read the manga, I was completely taken aback by the amount of comments, the main character’s edgy personality, and the storyline. I’m excited that it’s coming to life as an anime!”
“As the debut of the anime nears, I am getting very excited! The characters have very distinct personalities so I’m sure viewers will find someone they can relate to. “
“When I read the original, I was attracted to the storyline, the unique characters, and Lloyd’s magical powers. I really wanted to be a part of it so I’m very happy to be playing Sylpha. I hope you like the series!”
“I was a fan of the comic even before the audition so I was very excited to hear that I got the part of Tao. Tao is cute, strong, and likable. I hope you enjoy it!”
“When I first read the manga for the audition, I fell in love with the fun-loving, innocent Lloyd. The anime is fun, gut-wrenching, frustrating, and cool all at the same time.”
Over the weekend, Bandai Namco held a free event for all Digimon fans at the convention center in Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Convention Center is the site of Anime Expo, but for Digimon fans, that experience came a bit early as fans gathered to celebrate Digimon’s 25th anniversary! The event featured a DigiMuseum, which consisted of original artwork from the Digimon card game and included the artwork winners of the illustration competition. In addition, the museum also featured an all-new illustration by Digimon designer Kenji Watanabe. The artwork represents the past, present, and future of Digimon.
Illustration by Kenji Watanabe
DigiMuseum showcasing various artwork from the Digmon TCG
Attendees could also purchase Digimon Merchandise directly from the Bandai merch booth. Merchandise included Anime Heroes Digimon figures, Vital Hero Digimon bracelets, and Digimon V-pet devices designed by Kenji Watanabe. Not surprisingly, the merch booth sold out by noon on the first day. Luckily for fans, Bandai restocked by the following and sold merchandise throughout the event.
DigiMuseum also had a small area dedicated to Bandai’s upcoming Digimon Project, Digimon Seekers. Fans could get a preview of the new Digivices and lead character costumes, as shown below.
Digimon Seekers is a project comprising a novel, A live-action short, and brand-new Digimon products. The novel will start serialization on April 3, 2023, at Digimon Web, with chapters being updated every week. A live-action short will be used to promote the novel. Japanese actor and YouTuber Syota Hatani will portray Nagasumi Eiji, the lead protagonist of Digimon Seekers. In addition to the novel and trailers, new merchandise based on Digimon Seekers is set to be released. Watch the Digimon Seekers Live-Action Teaser Trailer!
Digimon’s newest video game, Digimon World: Next Order, was available for the fans to enjoy, and those who participated received a special Digimon promo card. Every fan who attended the event received a card pack, Digimon sticker and exclusive event guidebook, and a limited edition Digimon postcard celebrating Digimon Frontiers’ 25th anniversary and the one-year anniversary of Digimon Partners.
Other activities included a card trading station, card purchasing tables, and participation in the 2022 Digimon Card Game Championship Finals. However, the highlight of the event was the special meet and greet with Digimon designer Kenji Watanabe and Digimon Seekers’ Art Director Fumiya Kobayashi.
Attendees wait in line for Kenji Watanabe
Digimon fans had the opportunity to have their Digimon memorabilia signed and take photos with the guests. Kenji Watanabe is known for designing various Digimon known today and the mind behind the Tamagotchi virtual pets series. Fumiya Kobayashi is the art director for the upcoming Digimon Seekers and various other Digimon projects such as Universe App Monsters, Pendulum Z and the Vital Bracelets.
Kenji Watanabe and I
The event could be a gateway to gaining knowledge on Digimon, its card game, new products, and making new friendships.
Special thanks to Vincent Reyes for providing various photos for this coverage article.
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