“Press Se7en For An Autograph…”

Now this is what I like to see.

Rain’s flirtation with Stephen Colbert may be amusing, but Se7en (or his management at least) have the right idea. Following on from his recent promotional appearances at various hotspots ahead of the loooooooooong-awaited album release, Popseoul is reporting that Se7en will be making appearances in California Verizon Wireless shops. A sort of meet and greet/autograph signing, I imagine.

While some view this as a step backwards for the Korean superstar, I think it’s exactly what he needs. Let’s face it, as far as the English-language music market goes, Se7en is a nobody. So far. It’s unreasonable to expect the red carpet treatment so early in his Western career. He needs to build up a fan base beyond those that he has carried over from his Asian success.

Who are people more likely to take an interest in – another R’n'B singer pushed by a faceless record label,  or the guy who takes the time to meet people and win them over in person?

It might be tough at the bottom, but it will be worth it if you reach the top. And Se7en has the talent to go all the way.

Au Revoir?

Fans of Japanese rockers L’Arc~en~Ciel thought that the current L’7 tour was too good to be true.

They were right.

Rumours have been spreading across the web that this might be their last outing as a group for some time. The source of this story has been tracked down to a newspaper ad for their upcoming release. The feature also referred to “2011 NEXT LIVE 20th L’Anniversary Live.” It’s no surprise that that the mother of all gigs is being planned for the band’s 20th anniversary, but should we expect a three year hiatus in the interim?

Despite my growing love for the band after seeing them at the Paris show, some time off might do them good. A band that has been around for so long can only do so much. L’Arc have a great sound, but it’s not one that contains a MASSIVE amount of variety, thus they are always at risk from over-doing it. Personally, I prefer rarer releases of high quality rather than saturating the market.

Furthermore, the KISS album was supported by heavy publicity and two tours. A surprising large amount of songs have been licensed for use in CMs and video games. HYDE has a new solo project. Tetsu’s getting married. Etc. Etc. Etc. Three years is not a long time. Especially with the promise of some exciting solo releases in the meantime.

And think of how sweet that anniversary would be.

Take a break guys, make us wait.

It’ll be worth it.

http://www.tokyograph.com/news/id-3234