It was announced on March 29th, 2024, that the utaite 9Lana, who primarily operates on TikTok and Youtube, will be making her major debut with Sony Music. Her debut song "Let me battle" is going to be used as the new ending theme for the TV Tokyo Network anime Pocket Monsters (airs every Friday at 6:55pm), and will be produced by Giga & TeddyLoid.

This highly surprising choice has a chameleon voice, being able to speak and sing in 9 entirely different ways, and is known for an expressiveness that almost makes you think the protagonist in the lyrics has taken possession of her. Her growling voice is particularly well regarded. Since the end of last year, she released 3 original songs in rapid succession; "Migi pocket", "Balalaika" and "Game", and was enjoying a steady increase in listeners as she announced her major debut.


"Let me battle", which is going to be the ending theme for the Pocket Monsters anime, was written by Giga & TeddyLoid, who have multiple hit songs on their resume. The lyrics are by TOPHAMHAT-KYO from FAKE TYPE. The song will premiere on April 12th, when the new chapter "Terastal Debut" begins, and will be available digitally on the 19th.


9Lana commented that it's such an honor both to do the ending theme for the Pocket Monsters anime, as well as to get to sing a song written by people she looks up to as much as Giga-san, TeddyLoid-san and TOPHAMHAT-KYO-san, that she still almost thinks this is just a dream.

A comment from 9Lana:
The first Christmas gift I ever got from Santa was a Pokémon video game, and I remember playing it for hours every day because it was so much fun I didn't know when to stop. It's such an honor both to do the ending theme for the Pocket Monsters anime, as well as to get to sing a song written by people I looks up to as much as Giga-san, TeddyLoid-san and TOPHAMHAT-KYO-san, that I still think this is just a dream.

９Lana,ソニーミュージックからメジャーデビュー！異例の大抜擢！デビュー曲「Let me battle」がアニメ「ポケットモンスター」エンディングテーマに決定！

プロデューサーはGiga ＆ TeddyLoid！株式会社ソニー・ミュージックレーベルズ

TikTokやYouTubeを中心に活躍中の歌い手９Lana(ヨミ：クラナ)がソニーミュージックからメジャーデビューすることを発表した。９Lanaは様々な歌声を自在に操ることができるマルチな才能を持っており、楽曲ごとに歌詞の主人公が本当に憑依したと感じるほど表現力に長けていることが圧倒的な強みだ。９Lanaは現在、昨年末から短期期間にオリジナル楽曲を3曲配信リリース中。楽曲ごとに表現方法が変わるその歌声に着々とリスナーを獲得している発展途上なアーティストだ。そんな中のメジャーデビューなだけにより一層活躍が楽しみだ。そして、デビュー曲がアニメ「ポケットモンスター」のエンディングテーマと異例の大抜擢。

楽曲タイトルは「Let me battle」。さらに本楽曲のプロデューサーを務めたのは数々のヒット曲を手掛けるGiga＆ TeddyLoid、作詞はTOPHAMHAT-KYO (FAKE TYPE.)。今回の楽曲を最強メンバーで臨んだという彼らが手掛ける音楽が一体どんなポケモンの世界観を表現するのか、そしてそれを９Lanaがどう歌い上げるのか期待してほしい。今までのアニメ「ポケットモンスター」のエンディングとは全く別物になることは間違いなしだ。楽曲は4月12日(金)の放送時に初公開、楽曲のリリースは4月19日(金)の予定だ。

9Lana
クリスマス、サンタさんからもらった初めてプレゼントがポケモンのゲームでした。ゲームを進めていくのが面白くて、やめ時がわからず一日に何時間もポケモンをしていたことを覚えています。こうしてアニメ「ポケットモンスター」のエンディングテーマを担当させていただけること、Gigaさん、TeddyLoidさん、TOPHAMHAT-KYOさんといった憧れの方々が手がけた楽曲を歌わせていただけることが、本当に光栄で、今もまだ夢のようです。

Let me battle
April 19th, 2024 Digital Release
Vocal:９Lana
Music：Giga & TeddyLoid
Lyrics：TOPHAMHAT-KYO (FAKE TYPE.)
Arrangement：Giga & TeddyLoid

Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000004132.000013546.html

The NHK Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet Members Celebrate the Hokuriku Shinkansen's Kanazawa-Tsuruga Opening Pokémon Mini Concerts (N響メンバーによる金管五重奏 祝 北陸新幹線 福井・敦賀開業 ポケモンミニコンサート) will take place on Sunday, April 21st, 2024. The performance will be streamed live on the official Pokémon Kids TV YouTube channel.


The Fukui support Pokémon Kairyu and Pikachu will be there as well as orchestra members: Tomoyuki Hasegawa (長谷川智之) on Trumpet, Eiji Yamamoto (山本英司) on Trumpet, Yudai Shoji (庄司雄大) on French Horn, Hikaru Koga (古賀光) on Trombone and Yukihiro Ikeda (池田幸広) on Tuba.

Performances:

Sunday, April 21st, 2024 at 14:00 and 17:00
Venue: Fukui City Happiterrace (福井市にぎわい交流施設 ハピテラス)
Capacity: Approximately 200 people for each performance (Free admission, Reserved seating via advanced lottery)

Source: https://www.pokemon.jp/special/pokemonminiconcert/

The Pokémon Company International has collaborated with GRAMMY-nominated multi-platinum DJ and producer Jax Jones along with Zoe Wees to proforma a new song called Never Be Lonely alongside the beloved Pokémon Pikachu.

YouTube Clip - Jax Jones, Zoe Wees - Never Be Lonely (Official Video)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PoRVO741aM

Pikachu Appears in Jax Jones’s New Music Video, “Never Be Lonely”

The musician joins forces with Zoe Wees for this new song performed alongside the iconic Pokémon.

In the world of Pokémon, Trainers strive to achieve their dreams with their Pokémon friends by their side. That special sort of bond is the subject of GRAMMY®-nominated multi-platinum DJ and producer Jax Jones’s new single, “Never Be Lonely,” which also features German pop singer-songwriter Zoe Wees. You can watch the music video now to see Jax and Zoe play to a stadium audience in a future world. The two performers are joined on stage by Pikachu, and keep your eyes peeled for a brief appearance by Ceruledge!

Jax Jones is not only a double platinum-selling artist, but he’s also a huge Pokémon fan. Pokémon previously collaborated with Jax in 2021 on Pokémon 25: The Album, and we’re excited to share this latest project with Pokémon fans.

Enjoy the video, and remember to always keep your Pokémon partners close.

Source: https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/pikachu-appears-in-jax-joness-new-music-video-never-be-lonely

Press Release - JAX JONES MAKES 2024 DEBUT WITH “NEVER BE LONELY” FEATURING ZOE WEES

OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO IN COLLABORATION WITH THE POKÉMON COMPANY INTERNATIONAL

London, UK, Friday 9 February 2024 — Jax Jones undeniably ruled the charts and radio airwaves in 2023 and now, GRAMMY®-nominated multi-platinum DJ and producer Jax Jones is back to set the stage ablaze in 2024 with his electrifying new single, “Never Be Lonely”, featuring the sensational German pop singer-songwriter Zoe Wees. Get ready to embark on an enchanting adventure that transcends music and imagination.

In the world of Pokémon, Trainers strive to achieve their dreams with their Pokémon partners by their side. In the official music video for “Never Be Lonely”, we journey to a future world where Jax Jones and Zoe Wees deliver a mesmerising performance. The real magic happens when the beloved Pokémon Pikachu makes a grand entrance. With electrifying sparks that illuminate the stadium, Pikachu unites the crowd in an awe-inspiring celebration of this remarkable new single including a special appearance from Ceruledge.

A huge Pokémon fan, Jax Jones enthuses, “This collaboration with Zoe Wees and Pikachu represents a dream come true for me. ‘Never Be Lonely’ is a sonic journey into the heart of music and friendship, and it’s a privilege to have Pikachu join us on this adventure.”

Zoe Wees adds, “Working with Jax Jones was an absolute joy. ‘Never Be Lonely’ is a testament to the power of unity through music, and I’m thrilled to be part of this magical experience.”

“Never Be Lonely” is the latest partnership between Jax Jones and The Pokémon Company International after he collaborated with them for Pokémon 25: The Album in 2021.

Jones capped off his phenomenal year with the exciting announcement of his forthcoming 2024 EP Midnight Snacks. This marks a thrilling evolution from his pop-centric Snacks collection to a dedicated focus on club-centric creations.

And now, with “Never Be Lonely” from his Snacks repertoire, Jax Jones invites you to join him on his journey with Zoe Wees and Pikachu; the first of a series of hits in 2024.

ABOUT JAX JONES

Beyond the beats and melodies, Jax Jones continues to cement his status as a trailblazer in the music industry. With an illustrious career boasting 8 UK Top 10 singles, 8 UK platinum singles, over 60 million single sales and a staggering 10 billion global audio streams, Jax Jones remains a powerhouse of electro-pop earworms, solidifying his place as a modern British music icon.

Step into the world of Jax Jones, the second biggest UK dance artist after Calvin Harris, praised by Hypebeast as "an all-round, multi-faceted musician" and lauded by Rolling Stone UK as "the UK dance super producer on a mission to break down barriers." His compelling journey, as described by The Guardian during his appearance on The High Performance Podcast, provides a moving account of his motivations and crediting the transformative moments of his teenage years.

Honoured with multiple GRAMMY, BRIT, and Ivor Novello nominations, he has become a mainstay in modern British music and continues to create genre-defying music for both the charts and specialist dance scene, working and collaborating with industry legends like Whitney Houston, Ed Sheeran, Diana Ross, RAYE and Mark Ronson while also nurturing the future of music through his own WUGD music label.

ABOUT ZOE WEES

Breakout star Zoe Wees has a knack for making her complex, emotional stories feel universally relatable. Her raw, powerful debut single “Control” amassed 2,5 billion streams and became a worldwide hit. It entered streaming- and radio charts across the globe, including top 20 at Pop radio in the US, and reached Gold- and Platinum status in more than 20 countries. “Girls Like Us”, Wees’ follow-up single, was highlighted in the New York Times Magazine tracing the lineage of “the sad banger,” and hailed by People as “a vulnerable pop anthem that pushed for togetherness and solidarity to girls around the world.” The also multi-platinum certified song reached #1 in Germany’s radio charts. She then released her debut EP "Golden Wings" which saw her songs gather a mass interest including Spotify’s Radar-, Apple’s UpNext- and YouTube’s Artist On The Rise program. She's featured on the likes of The Guardian, Forbes (30 Under 30), Gal Dem, Line Of Best Fit, and Clash whilst having cover stories written about herself on Notion, Euphoria, Hunger and Germany’s Glamour Magazine. Zoe has performed at the American Music Awards, "The Late Late Show with James Corden, “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”, Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2021 and collaborated with top artists like 6LACK, Kygo, Felix Jaehn, Tom Walker and Calum Scott before finally releasing her Debut Album “Therapy” late 2023.

For the 21-year-old, writing and recording songs is her “Therapy”, so much so that she’s named her debut album just that. She needs this form of therapy especially in difficult situations of fear and insecurity. After each session, she sits in an old car seat and then reflects. It is within this same routine the word ‘therapy’ took a lasting, special and musical meaning for Zoe in a slew of impactful, emotional songs.

Source: https://pokemon.gamespress.com/JAX-JONES-MAKES-2024-DEBUT-WITH-NEVER-BE-LONELY-featuring-ZOE-WEES

The NHK Symphony Orchestra String Quintet Pokémon Mini Concerts in Sanuki City, Kagawa Prefecture (N響メンバーによる弦楽四重奏 ポケモンミニコンサート in 香川県さぬき市) are being promoted by the Pokémon Daisuki Club and will take place on January 28th, 2024. The performance will be streamed live on the official Pokémon Kids TV YouTube channel.


This time Galar Yadon and Yadon will be there as well as orchestra members: Masahiro Morita (森田昌弘) on violin, Masamichi Yokoshima (横島礼理) on violin, Ryo Sasaki (佐々木亮) on viola and Shunsuke Yamanouchi (山内俊輔) on cello.

Performances:

Sunday, January 28th, 2024 at 13:00 and 16:00
Venue: Gennai Music Hall, Sanuki City, Kagawa Prefecture (源内音楽ホール 香川県さぬき市鴨庄4610-44)
Capacity: Approximately 500 people for each performance (Free admission, Reserved seating)

Source: https://www.pokemon.jp/special/pokemonminiconcert/

YouTube Clip - Pokémon Mini Concert in Kagawa | Pokémon Music | Kids Music | Pokémon Kids TV

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOQwGVmJqG8

The soundtrack CDs for Pokémon Sword and Shield, Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus, and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will all be released simultaneously in Japan on February 27th, 2024! Those that purchase all 3 CDs from the Pokémon Center online for 12,650 yen can receive a special 3-sided slip cover box that stores all three releases. The special combo pre-order is available to purchase from December 8th, 2023 to February 26th, 2024. Details for these CD's have been added to our Media Database.

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Sword・Shield + Expansion Pass Super Music Collection

New BGM from the games are gorgeously recorded!
The CD contains over 4 hours of music from Pokémon Sword & Shield and Pokémon Sword & Shield Expansion Pass, 142 songs!

Includes a gorgeous all-color 24-page booklet!
The booklet contains comments from the composers of the songs, setting materials during development, playback commentary of the games story, and more. Enjoy the world of the Galar region by reading the booklet and listening to the rich variety of music!

Artists: Go Ichinose, Minako Adachi, Junichi Masuda, Hitomi Sato
Catalog #: OVCP-0011
Discs/Tracks: 142 tracks on 4 discs
Price/MSRP: 3,850 yen

Nintendo Switch Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus Super Music Collection

Gorgeous new BGM for the game!
The CD contains more than 110 songs and over 4 hours of music from "Pokémon LEGENDS Arceus"!

Gorgeous all-color 28-page booklet included!
The booklet contains comments from the composers of the songs, setting materials during development, and a playback commentary of the game's story. Enjoy the world of the Hisui Region by reading the booklet and listening to the rich variety of sounds!

Artists: Go Ichinose, Hitomi Sato
Catalog #: OVCP-0012
Discs/Tracks: 110 tracks on 4 discs
Price/MSRP: 3,850 yen

Nintendo Switch Pokémon Scarlet・Violet + The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero Super Music Collection

Includes background music from "Pokémon Scarlet Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero"!
In addition to Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, music from Pokémon Scarlet Violet: The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero is also included featuring 208 songs and over 6 hours of content!

Includes a gorgeous all-color 36-page booklet!
The booklet contains comments from the composers who created the music for each title, setting materials during development, playback commentary on the game's story, and more. Enjoy the world of the Paldea region by reading the booklet and listening to the rich variety of music!

Artists: Go Ichinose, Minako Adachi, Teruo Taniguchi, Toby Fox
Catalog #: OVCP-0013
Discs/Tracks: 208 tracks on 6 discs
Price/MSRP: 4,950 yen

Source: https://over-lap.co.jp/cd/ssarsv/

YOASOBI released the song Biri-Biri in Japanese and English simultaneously on Saturday, November 18th, 2023, the first anniversary of the release of the Nintendo Switch games Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. On Friday, November 10th, 2023, an original short novel After the Rain With You was also released and is based on the games as well.


This is the first time that YOASOBI has collaborated with a video game to produce a song. The cover of the album features the Pokémon Pawmot. A music video was released later on in the day. High resolution pictures from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.


Starting on Saturday, November 18th, 2023, patrons that purchase 6,000 yen or more (including tax) at Pokémon Centers and the Pokémon Center Online, they can receive a physical copy of the After the Rain With You (きみと雨上がりを) short novel written by Ayano Takeda. The content of the book are the same as the web version.

YouTube Clip - YOASOBI「Biri-Biri」 Official Music Video

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shZyg5VFI1Y

Promotional Video:

Ayase Comment:
I wrote the song "Biri-Biri" to commemorate the first anniversary of the release of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. I am very happy to be able to be involved with Pokémon, which I have loved for a long time. I am a fan of the series, and I have played through the game so much that I have beat it 3 times. Based on the novel written by Ms. Takeda, I wrote this song with a lot of love for Pokémon, thinking about the Paldea region, which I have explored. I would be happy if you could feel the thrill and excitement of battles and adventure.
Once again, congratulations on the first anniversary of the release!

ikura Comment:
Congratulations on the first anniversary of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet!
I am truly honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with Pokémon through music, as it continues to be loved by many people. I read the novel After the Rain With You written by Ms. Takeda and tried to create a singing voice that would make the audience feel the enthusiastic thrill of adventure and battle that the main character Nemo has as well as her love for Pokémon. I hope that many people will enjoy Biri-Biri along with the novel. Thank you very much.

『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売1周年記念日となる11/18(土)に、同作インスパイアソング「Biri-Biri」、日本語・英語版を同時リリース決定＆配信ジャケット公開！

YOASOBI初のゲーム作品とのコラボ楽曲となり、楽曲原作は武田綾乃書き下ろしオリジナル短編小説「きみと雨上がりを」！

YOASOBIが、Nintendo Switchソフト『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売1周年記念日となる11月18日(土)に、同作インスパイアソング「Biri-Biri」を、日本語・英語版で同時配信リリースすることが決定した。11月10日(金)に、ゲーム発売1周年を記念して、『響け！ ユーフォニアム』シリーズなどの代表作をもつ実力派作家・武田綾乃が執筆した、『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』を原案とするオリジナル短編小説『きみと雨上がりを』（監修：株式会社ポケモン・株式会社ゲームフリーク）が公開された。楽曲「Biri-Biri」は、その小説を原作としてYOASOBIが、『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』インスパイアソングとして書き下ろした作品。ゲーム作品とコラボして楽曲制作を行うのは、今回が初めての取り組みとなる。日本語版「Biri-Biri」に加えて、英語版「Biri-Biri(English Version)」も同日にリリース。配信ジャケットは、なんと作品に登場するポケモン“パーモット”絵柄となる。さらに本人からのコメントも到着！Music Videoも近日公開予定となるので、楽しみにしていて欲しい。

◆Ayaseコメント
『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売１周年を記念して「Biri-Biri」という曲を書かせていただきました。昔から大好きなポケモンに音楽という形で携わることができて本当に嬉しいです。僕自身シリーズのファンであり、今作においても、今回の企画とは関係なく3周クリアするくらいにはやり込みました。武田先生が書き下ろしてくださった小説を元に、自分自身で歩いたパルデアの大地に想いを馳せて、ポケモンへの愛をたっぷり詰め込んで作りました。ビリビリと痺れるバトルと冒険の息吹を感じてもらえたら嬉しいです。
改めて発売一周年、おめでとうございます！

◆ikuraコメント
『ポケットモンスター スカーレット・バイオレット』発売1周年おめでとうございます！
多くの人に愛され続けているポケモンと、音楽という形でコラボの機会をいただくことができ、心から光栄に思います。武田先生が書き下ろしてくださった小説「きみと雨上がりを」を読み、主人公ネモが馳せる冒険やバトルへの熱意と信念、ポケモンへの愛を、感じてもらえるような歌声を目指しました。作品と共に「Biri-Biri」も沢山の方に楽しんでいただけたら嬉しいです。よろしくお願いします。

また、全国のポケモンセンター・ポケモンセンター出張所では11月18日(土)から、ポケモンセンターオンラインでは11月17日(金)10時から、6,000円以上（税込）お買い物をした方に、原作小説である『きみと雨上がりを』冊子版を、1冊プレゼントするキャンペーンも実施中。ゲーム、小説、楽曲を行き来して、是非楽しんでほしい。
※冊子版の内容は、WEB版で掲載されている内容と同じものです。
※プレゼントは、なくなり次第終了となります。

Sources: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000817.000055377.html and https://novel-kimiame.pokemon.co.jp/

Sony Music Marketing United has announced the Aim To Be A Pokémon Master [Limited Edition 7inch Analog Vinyl] will be released in Japan on December 27th, 2023 for 2,970 yen. It includes a sticker and zukan shaped card. Details of this release have been added to our Audio Database.

The first opening song Aim To Be A Pokémon Master (Rica Matsumoto) and the ending song "151" (Professor Okido (Unsho Ishizuka) and the Pokémon Kids) from the Pocket Monsters anime was released on December 27th, 2023 as a 7-inch vinyl in limited quantities. A special website was opened to promote the vinyl release.

Both songs were originally released as a 8cm CD single in 1997, but this will be the first time that they will be released on vinyl.

Extras:
① Removable! Satoshi & Pikachu transparent sticker (W87 x H127mm) - A tribute to the removable Pikachu sticker that was a bonus item with the 8cm single released in 1997!
② Pokémon Zukan-shaped Foldable Card (H120 x W82mm) - A Foldable card in the shape of a Pokémon Zukan. The card is folded twice to resemble a Pokémon Zukan, which will certainly be a joy to hold.

Store Exclusives:
Amazon.co.jp: Mega Jacket
HMV: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Fushigidane design)
TOWER RECORDS: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Hitokage design)
Sony Music Shop: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Zenigame design)
Other Stores: Nostalgic Postcard Scene (with sticker) (Pikachu design)

It has been announced that chapter 1 of the popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke"), "Liko and Roy Set Off", is about to reach its climax. A new trailer depicting upcoming events was also released.

YouTube Clip - Terapagos' Shine Arc Trailer (Japan Region Locked)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMJBx_HTuB8

Episode 23, "Galar Fire Blazes Up", which aired on the 22nd, featured not the Black Rayquaza, but a Galar Fire carrying an ancient monster ball, the proof of being one of the Six Heroes that traveled with Lucius! Liko and the others want to close in on this Galar Fire somehow, but it's burning with anger and keeps everyone at arm's length, so they came up with a plan that incorporated Gym Leader Kabu's advice that winning battles isn't the only way to be a Trainer.

The new trailer finally reveals the tale of the Ancient Adventurer Lucius' adventures, as well as the true identity of the mysterious Pokémon the pendant turned into. The story centered around this mysterious Pokémon starts taking some sudden twists and turns as the executives of the Explorers, the organization Amethio belongs to, begin taking personal action.

The next episode, episode 24, "Reunion at the Old Castle", will air October 13th. Liko's pendant has turned into a mysterious Pokémon, as, wanting to learn the truth about this Pokémon, she and the others head for Liko's grandmother Diana's location and finally reunite with her at a hidden old castle. Diana tells them the tale of Lucius' adventures, and of the mysterious Pokémon "Terapagos". Meanwhile, Amethio and his fellow Explorers approach the old castle, having followed Liko and the others there...

Weekly sets of episodes of the Pocket Monsters anime will be available on the official Pokémon Youtube channel from Friday September 29th to Friday October 27th! This allows you to binge the "Liko and Roy Set Off" arc in time for the upcoming "Terapagos' Shine" arc, so make sure to check it out!

It has been decided that Nanase Nishino, who plays the protagonist in the original Pokémon live action serial Pokétsume, will join the Pokémon anime as a guest voice actor in December. She will be playing an Eteboth. Further details will be announced later.

A comment from Nanase Nishino:
I've loved the Pokémon video games ever since I was a child, so I was extremely happy to learn that I would be appearing in the Pocket Monsters anime TV show. I was initially surprised that I had been cast as an Eteboth, since I wasn't expecting that I'd play an actual Pokémon, but I'm considering this a great honor.
I actually found it to be quite difficult since the way I had to approach my lines was so different from when I'm doing live action. It required a strong sense of imagination since I needed to get across my character's thoughts and current situation purely through making noises.
I got the hang of it little by little though, and it made me really happy when the sound director told me I was "getting close to an Eteboth now"! This entire thing was a really good experience for me, and one that really made me fall in love with Eteboth. The episode won't be airing for a while though, but look forward to it!
-Nanase Nishino, the voice of Eteboth

Terapagos' Shine

The popular anime Pocket Monsters (airs on the TV Tokyo Network every Friday at 6:55pm, officially abbreviated "Anipoke") is about to enter its second chapter, which is going to be subtitled "Terapagos' Shine". A new poster depicting the Pokémon Terapagos, which holds the key to the protagonists Liko and Roy's adventure, has been released, as has a new trailer.

In Chapter 2, "Terapagos' Shine", a new adventure begins for Liko and Roy when they meet Terapagos, the mysterious Pokémon that has just transformed from its pendant form.


Liko has previously learned about the legend of the "Ancient Adventurer Lucius" from her grandmother Diana, and the trailer released today shows her pledging to grant Terapagos' wish by searching for "Rakua", a place filled with its memories of Lucius.

It has also been revealed that the Black Rayquaza Roy is chasing down was one of the Six Hero Pokémon that went on an adventure with Lucius in the distant past, and that the Explorers, the organization Amethio belongs to, have started their pursuit of the Black Rayquaza as well.


But what is the true goal of the Explorers...? The curtain goes up for a new adventure for Liko, Roy and the others centered around Lucius, the Six Heroes, as well as Terapagos.

It has also been revealed that the new opening theme that will adorn the story of Chapter 2 will be "Hello". Outstanding creators yama and Botchi Boromaru, who have recently been getting really popular on the Internet, primarily on social media, have teamed up as the special unit "yama x Botchi Boromaru" in order to vigorously sing this fast-paced song!

The new opening theme "Hello" will debut on October 27th with episode 26, "Terapagos' Adventure", and can also be heard in the trailer that released today.


A comment from yama:
When I was little, I was particularly fond of the Pokémon movies, which moved me to tears as I kept watching them over and over. This wasn't because I was a particularly emotional child, but because I found the deep bond between Pokémon and humans, along with the music in these movies, to be so moving. I still play video games even as an adult, and Pokémon ones give me these therapeutic, warm and exciting memories. It's a genuine honor to be allowed to handle the theme song this time.
It will make me really happy if this song wil help ease its listeners' anxieties and insecurities and make them recall how cheerful and exciting their daily life can be, even if just a little. Botchi Boromaru-san and I poured our hearts and souls into this song, so I hope its message will reach as many people as possible.


A comment from Botchi Boromaru:
Pokémon has been there with me in some shape or form ever since I was little, not just as video games, but also as a card game, stickers included with sweets, and plushies. I was especially into the anime, taping it every week and watching the episodes over and over, and singing the opening and ending themes at karaoke competitions during grade school. I even used to draw manga starring Pikachu that I'd show to my friends.
But I never even dreamed that I'd one day get to sing a theme song for the Pokémon anime I loved so much! If I tried telling this to my past self that hadn't even started playing the guitar yet, it'd probably sound too ridiculous to believe. This is hands down the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, no exaggeration! yama-san and I took great care in creating this song as we remembered our past selves and thinking about our present selves at the same time. Please enjoy!!!

The NHK Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet Pokémon Mini Concerts to Support Reconstruction in Miyagi Prefecture (復興支援 N響メンバーによるポケモンミニコンサート in 宮城県) are being promoted by the Pokémon Daisuki Club and will take place on October 8th and 9th, 2023. A performance will be streamed on the Pokémon Kids TV YouTube channel at a later date.


This time Pikachu and Lapras will be there as well as orchestra members: Tomoyuki Hasegawa (長谷川智之), Eiji Yamamoto (山本英司) on Trumpet, Yudai Shoji (庄司雄大) on Horn, Koga Hikaru (古賀光) on Trombone and Kazuhiko Sato (佐藤和彦) from the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra on Tuba.

Performances:

Sunday, October 8th, 2023 at 16:00 (approx. 60 minutes)
Venue: Yamamoto Town Disaster Prevention Base, Yamashita Community Hall (山元町防災拠点・山下地域交流センター)
Capacity: Approximately 200 people (Free admission, Reserved seating)

Monday, October 9th, 2023 at 12:30/15:00 (about 30 minutes each time)
Venue: Marble Road Omachi Shopping Street (マーブルロードおおまち商店街)
Capacity: Approx. 100 persons per session (Admission free, Reserved seating)

Source: https://www.pokemon.jp/special/pokemonminiconcert/

YouTube Clip - NHK Symphony Orchestra Brass Quintet Pokémon Mini Concert (October 9th, 2023)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy67tuT4AE4

A collaboration project between Hatsune Miku, a virtual singer developed by Crypton Future Media, and Pokémon created by The Pokémon Company, began on August 31st, 2023. The project is called Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku Project VOLTAGE 18 Types/Songs.

Using the 18 different Pokémon types as a reference, 18 music creators will release a series of sampled songs and music videos based on the official Pokémon game soundtracks over several months starting on September 29th, 2023. Prior to the release of the songs and music videos, 18 illustrations and setting materials featuring Hatsune Miku as a Pokémon trainer will also be released starting on Monday, September 4th, 2023.

INTRODUCTION

Pokémon started as a video game in 1996. In 2007, Hatsune Miku began as singer using voice synthesizing software.

The two have connected and enriched both the real and virtual worlds, and creators that are full of individuality have collaborated together to challenge their expression.

With 18 different "types" like cool, cute, mysterious, and fun...... a variety of music and illustrations await you.

This is where dreams, adventures, the future, and sound meet in a worlds first. Turn up the voltage high and please enjoy.

Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku Project VOLTAGE 18 Types/Songs, starts now!

CONTENTS:

Illustrations and setting materials of the 18 types featuring Hatsune Miku and her Pokémon partners will be released from September 4th, 2023 to September 28th, 2023. One type per day will be released at 19:00 every weekday! Check out the official X account!

Six artists have drawn 18 illustrators under the theme, "If Hatsune Miku was a ___-type Pokémon Trainer.......?"

The participating illustrators will be announced at the same time as the release of each illustration and setting material.

Over the next few months, 18 songs and music videos by 18 Vocaloid Ps will be released sequentially on each Vocaloid P's YouTube channel.

The common theme of the project is Pokémon feat. Hatsune Miku and feature samples of BGM and sound effects from the Pokémon games.

Teaser Illustration:

The illustrator in charge of the teaser visuals is KEI, who worked on the character design of Hatsune Miku. He drew Kamonegi and Pikachu along with Hatsune Miku holding a monster ball. The teaser visual is filled with a sense of anticipation, signaling the beginning of a collaboration that no one has seen or heard of yet.

Comment from KEI:

I was surprised and happy because I never thought I would be asked to draw Pokémon illustrations. Thank you very much for this amazing experience.

Sources: https://www.project-voltage.jp/ and https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000248.000052709.html

Artwork:

The pictures are also available on an Imageboard thread.

Announcement	Main Art	Character Sheet	Info

PokéMiku Support Illustrations:

Starting on October 27th, 2023, support illustration artwork based on a theme were revealed.

Announcement	Main Art	Character Sheet	Info

1. DECO*27 - Volt Tackle feat. Hatsune Miku

Lyrics: DECO*27 / Project VOLTAGE
Music: DECO*27
Arrangement: DECO*27 & tepe
Orchestral Arrangement: Satoshi Setsune
Bass: Kei Nakamura
Movie by: OTOIRO
Director: awashima
Illustrator: omutatsu
SD Illustrator: rozuki
Animator: kee
Art Director / Graphic Designer: DMYM
Graphic Designer: lowpolydog
Assistant Designer: Mitsumi Yanokawa
Movie Editor: Shimpei Oniki
Sound Product Manager: Yusuke Sato
Chief Producer: Iori Majima

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-7TIDIKc98

2. INABAKUMORI - Electric Forecast feat. Hatsune Miku

Lyrics: INABAKUMORI (稲葉曇) / Project VOLTAGE
Music: INABAKUMORI (稲葉曇)
Vocal: Hatsune Miku (初音ミク)
Illustration: Nukunuku nigirimeshi (ぬくぬくにぎりめし)

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-7TIDIKc98

3. INABAKUMORI - What kind of future awaits feat. Hatsune Miku

Lyrics: Mitchie M / Project VOLTAGE
Composer: Mitchie M
Arranger: Mitchie M

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG05Sm68z4s

4. PinocchioP - The Pokémon Inside My Heart feat. Hatsune Miku

Music, Character & Pokémon Illustration: PinocchioP
Lyrics: PinocchioP, Project VOLTAGE
Music Video Direction: Shun Yamaguchi
Illustration, Animation: Sowiti, mise, Shun Yamaguchi
Graphic Design: Katsuki Yoshinaga

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIoi2r3f5fU

5. Battle! (Hatsune Miku)

Music: cosMo@bousouP
Lyrics: cosMo@bousouP / Project VOLTAGE
Illustration: Yuichi Murakami
Background Art: meso
Movie: omu

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knxWl1LzJ10

6. Fly With You (きみとそらをとぶ) (Hatsune Miku, Megurine Luka)

Lyrics: Tota Kasamura / Project VOLTAGE
Composer: Tota Kasamura / machiomiii
Illustration: Akako

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dq2HJl5vKbY

7. I GOT YOU! (ガッチュー！) (Hatsune Miku, Rin, Len)

Vocal : Miku・Rin・Len
Zukan Dex:KAITO
Music: Giga
Lyrics: q*Left,Giga / Project VOLTAGE
Illust: △○□×
Movie: お菊,筆者
Special Thanks : Sena Kiryuin, rachie

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dq2HJl5vKbY

8. JUVENILE (Hatsune Miku, Rin, Len)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: じん
Lyrics: じん / Project VOLTAGE
Rhythm Guitar: じん
Lead Guitar: しょけん
Bass: ナツメ ユウキ
Drum: ジャンク
Piano: まらしぃ
Arrangement Assist: 緩斗
Vocaloid EDIT: びび
Music Video Direction/Storyboard/Animation/Composite: 山下RIRI
Character Design/ Illustration/Logo Design: たま
Background Art: NaBaBa
Animation Paint: 海月/Reon/山下RIRI

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2-HzUpMY7c

9. DECO*27 - Volt Tackle (Jewel Remix) feat. Hatsune Miku

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
©DECO*27/OTOIRO
Lyrics: DECO*27 / Project VOLTAGE
Music: DECO*27
Remix: DECO*27 & tepe
Movie by OTOIRO
Director / Composite / 3DCG: GA
Logo Designer: DMYM
Original Music Video Credit
Director: awashima
Illustrator: omutatsu
SD Illustrator: rozuki
Animator: kee
Art Director / Graphic Designer: DMYM
Graphic Designer: lowpolydog
Assistant Designer: Mitsumi Yanokawa
Movie Editor: Shimpei Oniki
English Translator: Iori Majima

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVcqFMDG2UM

10. I'm a Ghost Type

Song: syudou
lyrics: syudou / Project VOLTAGE
Video/Picture: Kuroume
©Crypton Future Media, INC.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVSSFcP90k0

11. GO! Team BIPPA

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: じーざす
Lyrics: じーざす / Project VOLTAGE
Illust: グライダー
Movie: aco

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtSKbj_Nz_c

12. Hyu~dorodoro feat Hatsune Miku & MEIKO (ひゅ〜どろどろ feat 初音ミク＆MEIKO / 栗山夕璃ろ)

Music,Arrange,MIX＆MAS：栗山夕璃
Lyrics：栗山夕璃 / Project VOLTAGE
Guitar：Nagasaki
Bass：tmsw
Vocaloid Programming：端倉鑛（Van de Shop）
Animation：sakiyama

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8D_7-jNaErg

13. Encounter

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: Orangestar
Lyrics: Orangestar / Project VOLTAGE
Illustration: M.B
Guitar: 遼遼

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUMn-kJbNc0

14. Eon Ticket - Hatsune Miku × KAITO (むげんのチケット / まらしぃ × 初音ミク)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music & Piano：まらしぃ
Lyrics ：まらしぃ / Project VOLTAGE
Arrange & Mix：KOUICHIさん
Vocaloid-Edit：びびさん
Illustoration: 望月けいさん
Video: にへさん
Sub Illustration: そゐちさん

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7Y30h8S7Uw

15. PARTY ROCK ETERNITY feat. Hatsune Miku

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music: 八王子P
Words: 八王子P / Project VOLTAGE
Illustration: 赤倉
Movie: omu

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyV8DhouDXY

16. Journey's Prequels, Journey's Traces / Iyowa feat. Hatsune Miku (たびのまえ、たびのあと / いよわ feat.初音ミク)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music : いよわ
Lyrics : いよわ / Project VOLTAGE

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbS1T4d1P70

17. Nayutan Seijin - Esper Esper (ft. Hatsune Miku) (ナユタン星人 - エスパーエスパー (ft.初音ミク))

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music : ナユタン星人
Lyrics : ナユタン星人 / Project VOLTAGE
Pokémon Illustration : 火種
Movie : ナユタン星人

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VA35FGCCX0E

18. Kairiki bear - MELLOMELLOID (ft. Hatsune Miku) (メロメロイド／かいりきベア feat.初音ミク))

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Music : かいりきベア
Lyrics : かいりきベア / Project VOLTAGE
Illust：のう

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFpizvPDbec

19. Glorious Day feat.Hatsune Miku (Glorious Day feat. 初音ミク)

©Crypton Future Media, INC.
Vocal：初音ミク
Lyrics：Eve / Project VOLTAGE
Music：Eve
Arrangement：Numa / Zingai

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABQvefYR9ec