Anime Expo only months away and the convention takes form

   AX 2008 promises some new blood and some interesting guests including Masamitsu Hidaka (director known for the famed “Pokemon” Series), David Hayter (Known most for his voice as Snake from the Metal Gear Series), and musical guest Jyukai.  Here is what AX has to say about the popular Japanese duo!

Jyukai, formed in the summer of 2004 and began performing live around Osaka. On March 15th, 2006, they had their TV anime debut with the ending theme for “Fate/Stay Night.” Their song, “Anata ga Ita Mori” (The Forest in Which You Were), ranked 16th on the March 27th Oricon Chart in its first week of release. Since then they have released songs for various anime and movies including the opening song for “Ah! My Goddess: Flights of Fancy,” the ending theme for “Buso Renkin,” and the opening theme for the live action movie “Shin – Onna Tachigui Retsuden” directed by Mamoru Oshii (Ghost in the Shell: Innocence). Last fall they released “Ai no Hoshi” (Love Star) and “Hanamuke no Melody” (Farewell Melody) as well as a cover of the opening and ending themes for “Ah! My Goddess: Fighting Wings,” a special commemorative program for the 20th anniversary of “Ah! My Goddess.” They recently released their second album, “Harvest,” on December 12, 2007. Their album has received favorable reviews for having such high quality songs.

Jyukai’s songs are usually composed and arranged by Dewa, while the lyrics are written and sung by Manami.  With his policy “never forget the pop parts in any song,” Dewa creates delicate music with a sense of sorrow. His songs are easy to listen to and fascinate people time and time again. Manami’s lyrics possess their own realistic and unique vision, often unlocking stories and memories deep within everyone’s heart. Manami’s emotional vocals strike a chord in the hearts of the listeners, touching them deeply.

Angie Quidim