Saturday, December 24, 2011

Leopaul's Heaven and Hell: Hoodlums kidnapping kids for organs...

When I was an elementary student, during recess, I've encountered a "Wanted" poster somewhere at the school lobby and as I read through the poster, this criminal is lurking around and seeing little kids as his prey just that he can get their internal organs. I was thinking that it was too creepy and why did that wandering criminal really want the kids' organs for?

This is what parents always said to their kids that they should be careful while playing outside and their number one rule is "Don't talk to strangers". You know what they meant. If only such rubbish pedophiles only targeting little kids for internal organs, I'd say that this is truly somewhat ridiculous to tell but most people say that some reports are true or just urban legends. Besides, I always stay indoors because it is safe but if I was still an elementary student at some school in Putatan, Muntinlupa City, I should just roaming around and ask people who the heck is that criminal who roams around for the little kids' internal organs.

Just the rule of thumb; always keep the doors locked at all times and never ever talk to strangers.

Happy Christmas! From Top Gear!

Just before the upcoming Top Gear India Special, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, greeted us a "Very Happy Christmas" and "They're Sorry on our own" on this Top Gear online exclusive.

Really? Did they did some good deeds? Uh...

Check it out:


IDOLM@STER 7th Anniversary coming this June 2012!

THE IDOLM@STER (Animation) Finale


Announced during the commercial break of THE IDOLM@STER finale, the 7th anniversary concert takes place at the Yokohama Arena, this June 23 to June 24, 2012. For a bigger treat, there's a bonus ticket hidden at THE IDOLM@STER DVD and Blu-Ray Volume 5. Well, details for this concert remain slim for now, but best to save some before THE IDOLM@STER DVD and Blu-Ray Volume 5 comes out next year and yes, it will be a "Limited Quantity" offer so first come, first serve, OK?



That upcoming concert is quite a giggle and now for some omake, let's just say happy birthday to IM@S character, Yukiho Hagiwara!


Yeah, although we never greeted a fictional character "happy birthday", this is the first time I'm doing it.

Filipinos poke fun at Siri with Vangie!

Vangie: The Pinoy Virtual Assistant


When the iPhone 4S came in the Philippines in mid-December 2011, most Filipinos just can't get enough with the Siri feature. Unfortunately, most of the Siri features are not available in the Philippines and worse, it can't understand Pinoy English, like for instance, you are asking Siri where is the nearby C.R. (Comfort Room) but Siri said it can't find maps in Costa Rica (?).

A video pokes fun at Siri's inaccessibility in the Philippines by showing the so-called Macapuno Systems their Pinoy version of Siri called Vangie. Whoa, Vangie sounds more like the name of your middle-aged neighbor but indeed it understands you more than Siri. What's so funny is that it can detect a snatcher by saying that "bakit iba ang boses mo?" when the snatcher asks Vangie.

If that come true, most Pinoy iPhone 4S users will take advantage of Vangie for sure and..this would be fun. Watch the video!


BUBBLE GANG CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

It's almost Christmas. So for the December 23, 2011 episode, this is Bubble Gang's Christmas Special! It features;

- "Himala" gags

- Bureche meets Santa Claus for the first time ever!

Bureche meets Santa!

- Bikbiribikbik! Bubble Gang premiere of Michael V's new Christmas Song!

- Watching Carbs? Don't take the joy out of eating! Bubble Gang does CarbTrim Iced Tea Mix by spoofing this commercial as CurbTrim! Start Blocking Carbs Today!!

Bubble Gang does CarbTrim

- Christmas won't be complete without a dose of Bubble Gang Pickup Lines courtesy of Dahon (Antonio Aquitania), special guest (and star of upcoming Panday II movie) Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr., and Boy Pick Up (Ogie Alcasid)

1) Kisame ka ba? Kasi ikaw ang huling nakikita sa pagtulog ko!

2) Alam mo, gustong gusto kita awayin. Para patulan mo ako...

3) Deodorant ka ba? Kasi hindi ako mapakali kung wala ka!

4) Rabies ka ba? Kasi na uulol ako sa iyo!

5) Baka magulat ka pag pina-xray ang utak ko. Kasi puro mga picture ang isip ko.

6) Gayuma ka ba? Kasi ang square root ng 36 ay 6!

7) Sorry, wala na akong maisip na pickup line. Kasi ikaw ang naiisip ko sa iyo.

8) Free fall ka ba? Kasi ang plural ng cactus ay cacti!

- Raise the Roof because Brod Pete and the gang are here to answer your questions in Ang Dating Doon. Alien? Alien!

Alden Richards asks "keilan ba nagsimula ang pasko?" Ang Dating Doon believes that it came from the stone age. "Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell Rock".

Kris Bernal asks "alam niyo po ba ang mga pangalan ng mga reindeer ni Santa at tsaka pati na rin ang mga apelyido nila?"

The reindeers' full names according to COD 6:7
1) Wilma Dasher
2) Paul Dancer
3) Prancer Prieto
4) Vixen Sotto
5) Sharon Comet
6 and 7) Stupid Cupid (because their names were Cupid and Stupid)
8) Damien Donner
9) Blitzen Barreto
10) Rudolph Hitler

Boy Pick Up asks "May nasusulat ba tungkol sa bagong taon?" The Book from Ang Dating Doon says "Boom Tarat Tarat, Boom Tarat Tarat, Tararat, Tararat, Boom Boom Boom". Yes, Brod Pete refers about different kinds of fireworks!

- Looks like this boss has some regrets about his presents!

This man has regrets

- You better watch out! You better not cry! You better not pout, I'm telling you why! Sumbong Sumbong kay Bonggang Bongbong is here to tackle the most annoying Christmas stuff to do such as Personalized Gifts, Solo Caroling with his envelope modus operandi, and people wearing clothes for Christmas but they're not going out!

Modified Cayenne by ASMA Design

ASMA Design Porsche Cayenne Turbo


The second-generation Porsche Cayenne Turbo gets a modified body kit courtesy of ASMA Design, famous for its Phantasma CL Chrome and Shark II CLS.

No engine upgrades occur but this modified Cayenne features carbon-fiber wide body kit that surrounds the whole exterior. If they meant putting "carbon fiber" on the outside, I'd say that's great. Also, it's got 22-inch rims finished in black for that smoky thrill.

Friday, December 23, 2011

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's Portable -THE GEARS OF DESTINY-

Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's Portable
-THE GEARS OF DESTINY-


The second Nanoha movie, titled Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 2nd A's doesn't come out until Summer 2012, but this sparked a second Nanoha PSP game that exceeds expectations from 2010's Battle of Aces. Titled Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's Portable -THE GEARS OF DESTINY-, it handles the same as The Battle of Aces but with new gameplay features, new original storyline, and new characters for you to battle.

Players can fit as their favorite characters such as Nanoha Takamachi, Fate Testarossa, Hayate Yagami, Vivio, Arf, Yuno, Signum, Zafira, Vita, Reinforce, Shamal, and most of your favorites from the three Nanoha anime series. The game welcomes two new original characters for this game and their names were Amitie Florian (played by Haruka Tomatsu) and Kyrie Florian (played by Satomi Sato).

Battle your way through the end with the Story Mode or use Ad-Hoc to compete with a friend, that's your choice. What matters is that the ZOE-style gameplay really lets players use some magic attacks to whisk away their rivals until their HP Gauge goes down to zero. Also, you can take advantage with the Skill System to change the pace and giving you the edge to fight. What's new is the "Lyrical Point" that you can gain when you play through the game and earn more in order to purchase new costumes for characters. If you have a BATTLE OF ACES save data, you can gain special NAMCO costumes on THE GEARS OF DESTINY!

There's the GOD BOX, which is a limited collector's edition which includes not just the PSP game, but also comes with three special Nendoroid Petit Materials set, special DVD, Weiss Schwarz Nanoha GOD Trial Deck, Nanoha GOD shower curtain, and two air cushions starring the Florian sisters! For the launch bonus, there are two special Weiss Schwarz cards and a promotion code for special costumes for Nanoha and Fate!

URL: http://nanoha.bngi-channel.jp/

South Korea tries out its first electric vehicle

Kia Ray EV


Kia Motors revealed the country's first electric vehicle which was based on the recently launched Kia Ray compact. However, the Kia Ray EV is made for government use so you won't be able to get your hands with this one.

Government agencies in South Korea should consider that the Ray EV is capable of going up to 139km in one full charge. Not quite efficient as the Mitsubishi i MiEV and Nissan LEAF but it comes with a unique navigation system that locates the nearest charging stations.

PRESS RELEASE:

Kia introduces Korea's first production electric vehicle

Kia Ray EV marks beginning of new era in Korean motoring
EV assembled on same production lines as regular models
Range up to 139 km (86 miles) with fast-charging in 25 minutes
Unique EV navigation system locates closest recharging stations
2,500 units to be produced in 2012 for use by government agencies

(SEOUL) December 22, 2011 – Kia Motors introduced Korea's first electric vehicle today (Thursday), with the launch of the new Kia Ray EV – a zero-emissions city car with lively performance and a range of up to 139 km (86 miles) on a single charge.

For supply exclusively to the domestic Korean market, the Kia Ray EV is a close relative of Kia's 1.0-liter gasoline powered Ray CUV, which went on sale in Korea last month. It shares that model's major dimensions and, in a global first for an EV manufacturer, can share a production line with conventional combustion-engine cars.

The front-wheel drive Ray EV is powered by a 50kW electric motor and a high-capacity 16.4 kWh lithium ion polymer battery pack that is engineered for a 10-year life cycle and skillfully packaged under the rear seat and cabin floor.

Although the Ray EV weighs 187 kg more than the gasoline model, the electric motor's generous torque – 167 Nm (an increase of 77%) – ensures responsive performance. The EV's acceleration is brisker than the gasoline models (0-to-100 kph in 15.9 seconds), while top speed is 130 kph (81 mph). Recharging times are six hours using a 220V household supply and just 25 minutes in fast-charge mode.

The Ray EV's automatic transmission offers the driver a choice of two modes while in 'D' drive. 'E' (or 'eco') mode optimizes the delivery of the motor's torque to achieve minimum battery consumption and maximum driving range. 'B' (or 'brake') mode can be selected when driving downhill on highways and on mountain roads to maximize braking power.

Bearing the same striking exterior styling as its gasoline cousin, the Kia Ray EV has four small distinguishing points. A flap in the front radiator grille covers an electricity inlet for a 220V supply for the slow recharge mode, another inlet (for the fast recharge mode) is fitted in the same location as the fuel intake of the regular models, special decals on each front door proclaim the 'Zero Emissions EV' message and super-smooth 14-inch alloy wheels improve aerodynamic performance by minimizing drag.

Inside, the Ray EV features a unique instrument cluster, displaying electric motor operation, battery status and distance to recharge. It is also equipped with the first-ever EV-specific navigation system that features a 7-inch screen and provides crucial information for EV drivers such as the nearest locations of the slow/fast recharging stations. The display shows a circular shaped area in which the model can travel with its current level of battery power, so that drivers can see which destinations are reachable without a recharge.

Currently there are 500 slow/fast recharge stations in Korea, and the government plans to increase that figure to 3,100 stations by the end of 2012.

The Kia Ray EV embodies numerous innovations. The electric motor achieves 93% efficiency, which is the best in its segment. The lithium ion polymer battery's cell is optimized and highly integrated, which has enabled its weight to be reduced by 13% and its energy density to be increased by 15% compared to competitors' systems.

The on-board charger, current inverter, high-low voltage converter and EV-specific VCU (vehicle control unit) each features advances over previous equipment.

Ray EV is also equipped with a new type of regenerative braking system featuring an Active Hydraulic Booster that utilizes the electric motor, instead of the gasoline engine in the regular model, to create hydraulic pressure for the brake system. The result is consistent brake pedal force throughout a wide variety of driving conditions and the ability to harvest excess energy and use it to recharge the car's battery.

Unlike regular gasoline vehicles, Ray EV generates no engine noise, which can be a potential problem with pedestrians being unaware of the approaching car. To prevent accidents, Kia has fitted Ray EV with a VESS (Virtual Engine Sound System). When driven at speeds below 20 kph (12 mph) this system delivers a mixture of recorded gasoline engine noises, which are also emitted whenever the car is backing up.

Japan and the USA are already considering the introduction of a legal requirement for EVs to have a virtual engine sound, and Kia has taken the first step to commercialize this system in order to anticipate the global industry's trend.

zoom

To ensure that the Ray EV is as safe as gasoline cars, it is equipped with six air-bags, and electronic stability features – VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) and HAC (Hill Assist Control, to prevent roll-back) – as standard.

During 2012, Kia is planning to manufacture 2,500 units of the Ray EV, which will be provided to government departments and public offices as part of Kia's long-term real-world research and development program to provide environmentally friendly transport to Kia customers around the world during the next decade.


Kia Ray EV / Technical Specification

DIMENSIONS
Length 3593 mm Width 1595 mm
Height 1700 mm Wheelbase 2520 mm
Kerb weight 1185 kg

POWERTRAIN
Electric motor 50 kW
Max power 68 ps Max torque 167 Nm (17.0 g/km)

BATTERY
Power 330V Lithium ion polymer
Capacity 16.4 kWh
Charge time 6.0 hrs (slow) / 25 minutes (fast)

PERFORMANCE
0-to-100 kph 15.9 sec (to 62 mph)
Max speed 130 kph (81 mph)
Max range 139 km (86 miles)

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Hammond's Cheap Alfa RELOADED

This is the enhanced version of the Spider
Richard Hammond should be getting instead!!!!

An Alfa Romeo Series 3 Spider appeared on a certain Top Gear episode and this was Richard Hammond's cheap Alfa. We poke fun at him when his cheap Alfa suffered from a broken water pump, and he was left behind when being towed by James May's Alfa wasn't became a good idea.

 

To add consideration for Hamster's Alfa, it was included at Forza Motorsport 4 via the December IGN DLC pack but this is not the normal Series 3 Spider. This here is the 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider Quadrifoglio Verde. This is Hammond's cheap Alfa, reloaded.

Take note, the seats were made from
Jeremy Clarkson's jacket!!

With such tweaks such as side skirts, mirrors, front and rear spoilers, hard rubber trunk spoilers, and 15-inch rims, I'm sure Richard Hammond would be happy to know about..THIS IS WHAT HAMMO'S SUPPOSED TO GET BEFORE THE ALFA ROMEO CHALLENGE!!! Anyway, because it was included at Forza Motorsport 4 via the December IGN DLC pack, players are going to get Alfa-ritis, what Top Gear said, when they get their hands on the Alfa Spider. Oh, just don't get involved in the overtaking massacre and driving it on "Track Days" races, this wasn't such a good idea. You won't overtake even the fastest with this one and yes, you will suffer more like Richard Hammond.

Hennessey HPE800

Hennessey HPE800


Texas-based tuner, Hennessey, famous for their Ford Raptor-based Velociraptor and the all-original, Exige-based Venom GT, revealed their modified version of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, called the HPE800.

Despite the naming, the HPE800 improves the V8 engine to have 7.0L and 805HP of power output. It is capable of doing 0-60 in 3.1 seconds and top speed of 130mph. The transmission system's been tuned as well and it comes with 15.1-inch Brembo brakes that you can see it behind its monstrous 20-inch mags.

It is limited to 24 units available with the starting price of a hefty 235,000 US Dollars.

way to answer

way to answer


The recently released To Aru Kagaku No Railgun PSP Game made Geneon Universal rushed through the schedule by releasing the main opening theme song, way to answer by fripSide, with this latest maxi single CD.

This maxi-single includes not only the theme song from the Railgun PSP game but also includes the song, last fortune, which is the main theme song for the PC game titled "Twinkle Crusaders -Passion Star Stream-". You may never heard about this game but feel free to listen both of these songs for fun.

LIMITED EDITION:
The limited edition includes not just the music CD but also a special DVD featuring the music video for "way to answer" plus bonus features!

TRACK LISTINGS:
01 way to answer
02 last fortune
03 way to answer (instrumental)
04 last fortune (instrumental)

Caravan tuning at its finest!

2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan
Autech Rider


If the Nissan NV350 Caravan at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show wasn't enough, there was a modified version coming at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon courtesy of Autech! This is the 2013 Nissan NV350 Caravan Autech Rider and this is just one of the vehicles to be on display at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon as well as the Nissan Skyline Sedan 55th Anniversary model.

2012 Nissan Skyline 55th Limited

In case you haven't heard about it, this is the special model to the Nissan Skyline to commemorate the car's 55th anniversary. Only 555 units will be made and it comes with a special red interior.

BBC previews Top Gear India Special

Top Gear India Special


Those Top Gear wazzocks are back for their holiday special, to be aired this December 28 on BBC Two, 20:00 (8:00 PM) GMT!

For this year's Christmas special, Jezza, Hamster, and Captain Slow are headed to India and let's just hope they don't screw up ever since last year's Middle East special, where the public sparked fury about "Boys in Burkas" and "Baby Stig".




Photo: BBC

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

How come there are two Edisons?

That seems strange...

An ABS-CBN drama titled "My Binondo Girl" has a character named Edison, while another ABS-CBN drama titled "Ikaw Ang Pag-Ibig" has a character named Edison. How come there are two Edisons?

That Edison from "My Binondo Girl" was played by Ricardo Cepeda, who was the father of Andy, played by Xian Lim. 

On "Ikaw Ang Pag-Ibig", a character named Edison was the orphan played by Louise Abuel (you probably remember him from being Kevin from 100 Days To Heaven). Edison was one of the orphans who are going around the streets to find baby Rafa's real parents while encountering different people.

If an annoying neighbor came to my house, he or she may ask that how come there are two dramas featuring one name that is Edison from My Binondo Girl and Edison from Ikaw Ang Pag-Ibig.

You know what, I couldn't work it out at all...

Leopaul's Heaven and Hell: About the Rum Raisin-flavored Ice Cream

Rum Raisin

Since the Summer of 2011, my little sister Cecille, bought some unfamiliar kind of ice cream flavor whom to believed that it was another one of their fancy Haagen-Dazs flavor. This flavor in question is believed to be "Rum Raisin".

Rum Raisin? What's that? At first, I thought this was some kind of an ice cream mixed with alcoholic content and yes, I misheard the word "Rum" to "Rhum". You know, the liquor kind of Rhum. I was trying to find out why my little sister bought this kind of ice cream flavor and how did my big sis, Elise, hated this flavor so much because she claimed that this flavor's rubbish.

When I first tasted this Rum Raisin Ice Cream, I never say that this was so delicious. Despite the tasting, I braved my way to saying that this was the best Haagen-Dazs flavor ever made. As time progresses, I finally found my answer. Rum Raisin was actually just "as seen on" Yuru Yuri. All thanks to this character who loves Rum Raisin, Kyoko Toshino.

Kyoko Toshino

Yes, you got me. The reason why a certain anime otaku's on a hunt for the "Rum Raisin" ice cream is because of the obsession of Yuru Yuri's Kyoko, which of course, she loves to eat an ice cream which flavor was Rum Raisin.

Rum Raisin

Sadly for me, I checked most stores in Seattle and most of the Rum Raisin flavored Haagen-Dazs are gone and I don't know when are these kind of flavors coming back. Pretty soon, I will find one store which has one of these but that takes time. Realizing that I'm the Asian in Seattle who was grown to have developing obsession with a certain ice cream flavor thanks to the influence of anime, it's hard to say that when will I find one again. It wasn't easy finding one but soon, I will find one and experience heaven to a whole new level.

K-ON! MOVIE ORIGINAL SOUND TRACK


K-ON! MOVIE ORIGINAL SOUND TRACK



With the success of the K-ON movie, premiered in theaters since December 3, 2011, Pony Canyon was pleased to announce the launch of the original soundtrack based on the K-ON movie.

With original music score by Hajime Hyakkoku, who was behind the BGM from the two seasons, and with a total of 40 in-movie BGMs, they'll be sure enough for fans to relive the moments of Hokago Tea Time in London!

TRACK LIST:

01 Have some tea?(MOVIE Mix)
02 白銀の朝
03 干し芋の季節
04 こなゆき
05 ごり押しの理由(ルビ:わけ)
06 茶箪笥のかほり
07 二人の世界(MOVIE Mix)
08 茶柱運勢研究会
09 Bossaでコーヒーを
10 お化けの同窓会
11 ガラスの向こう側
12 正直者が考えた嘘
13 その笑顔が好き
14 海に行こうよ!
15 水浴び大好きあひるちゃん
16 地中海楽団
17 Spilled tea
18 Traditional tea
19 Air of northern countries
20 London E
21 Yearning for the Far East
22 Pleasant despair
23 Train-D
24 私のきもち
25 かりんとう男爵の一週間
26 Fairies’ Party
27 退屈な時間
28 結局今日も遅刻じゃないですか!
29 そんな訳でタクシーで…、
30 げげっ!大渋滞!!
31 お日様キラキラ散歩道
32 Artificial Candy
33 ごり押しの言い訳
34 女子の集中力
35 Red jacket
36 Stylish mistake
37 Winter night in a warm room
38 一等賞
39 Far distant past
40 しあわせのかけら

The World God Only Knows Character Cover Album


The World God Only Knows Character Cover Album



The cast of The World God Only Knows (日本名: 神のみぞ知るセカイ) and The World God Only Knows II (日本名: 神のみぞ知るセカイII) are coming together for an all-star tribute to the best songs heard from anime and games in The World God Only Knows Character Cover Album. With ten tracks made courtesy by yours truly, Chihiro Kosaka (Kana Asumi), Elsie (Kanae Ito), Ayumi Takahara (Ayana Taketatsu), Mio Aoyama (Aoi Yuki), Kanon Nakagawa (Nao Toyama), Haqua (Saori Hayami), Kusunoki Kasuga (Ami Koshimizu), Shiori Shiomiya (Kana Hanazawa), Jun Nagase (Aki Toyosaki), Yuri Nikaido (Atsuko Tanaka), and the star of the show, Keima Katsuragi (Hiro Shimono).

This would be the best Kris Kringle gift for "something sweet" and yes, if you got one from one of your Monito Monita, you're in luck for listening the Kaminomi cast's all-star anime and game music tribute. This would be more better than Hayate the Combat Butler Character Cover Album! If only Richard Hammond and James May would listen to this...

LIMITED EDITION:
The limited edition packaging includes a different front cover, and a bonus CD aside from the standard CD. Act now because supplies are limited.

TRACK LIST:

01 「すいみん不足」小阪ちひろ starring 阿澄佳奈 ※オリジナル「キテレツ大百科」オープニングテーマ
02 「Dancing Star」エルシィ starring 伊藤かな恵 ※オリジナル「うる星やつら」オープニングテーマ
03 「笑顔に会いたい」高原歩美 starring 竹達彩奈 ※オリジナル「ママレード・ボーイ」オープニングテーマ
04 「プラチナ」青山美生 starring 悠木 碧 ※オリジナル「カードキャプターさくら」オープニングテーマ
05 「愛・おぼえていますか」中川かのん starring 東山奈央 ※オリジナル 映画「超時空要塞マクロス 愛・おぼえていますか」主題歌
06 「ANGEL NIGHT ~天使のいる場所~」ハクア starring 早見沙織 ※オリジナル「シティハンター2」オープニングテーマ
07 「輪舞 - revolution」春日 楠 starring 小清水亜美 ※オリジナル「少女革命ウテナ」オープニングテーマ
08 「トゥインクル☆スター」汐宮 栞 starring 花澤香菜 ※オリジナル「Cosmic Baton Girl コメットさん☆」エンディングテーマ
09 「Dearest」長瀬 純&二階堂由梨 starring 豊崎愛生&田中敦子 ※オリジナル 映画「機動戦艦ナデシコ - The prince of darkness
10 「もっと!モット!ときめき」桂木桂馬 starring 下野 紘 ※オリジナル「もっと!モット!ときめきメモリアル」オープニングテーマ

HiNA2 Spring has come!!


HINA2 Spring has come!!



Hinagiku Katsura is back on her all new second album that exceeds expectations since her first full album since 2009. Titled HiNA2 Spring has come!!, Shizuka Ito spices up the role as Hayate no Gotoku's fan favorite, Hinagiku Katsura and she's locked and loaded with 11 tracks that is going to be a must have for someone who is a big fan of Hinagiku Katsura, president of student government!

LIMITED EDITION:
The fun doesn't stop here because the LIMITED EDITION packaging includes not just the music CD but also a very special CD containing Hinagiku Katsura's new song titled "Christmas No Shonen". Consider this your holiday gift!

TRACK LIST:

01 Spring has come!! 4:13
02 本日、満開ワタシ色!HiNA-GIG ver. 3:48
03 Teenage Diary 4:23
04 sotto voce 3:48
05 決心 3:26
06 メリーゴーランドメロウ 4:40
07 キミに「好き」と言えたら 4:23
08 Fly High↑↑ 4:15
09 TOMORROWスケッチ 5:00
10 Tiny Star 4:50
11 本日、満開ワタシ色! 3:43

Driving Music (What is the name of the song on car commercial?) Volume 21

As Christmas is coming, seems that most car enthusiasts who loved car commercial songs are initiating more HOT PURSUITS. If I meant to say HOT PURSUIT, well yes. The hunt for more car commercial songs on the net continues. Recently, my blog's been attacked by an unknown hacker who left messages like "alpheon commercial music" or "alpheon luxury for professional commercial music". Those car enthusiasts came back then and shot myself!

Photograph this! ANOTHER SET OF FIVE DRIVING MUSICS (CAR COMMERCIAL SONGS)! ARE YOU READY?!

5) Ouverture de Restaurant de Roi (from Restaurant de Roi Original Soundtrack) - as heard from Toyota Reborn Channel Japanese TV Commercial starring Yukari Nishio

4) Kiseki by GReeeeN - as heard from Toyota Reborn Doraemon Japanese TV Commercial starring Satoshi Tsumabuki, Naoya Ogawa, Tomohisa Yamashita, Asami Mizukawa, and Jean Reno

3) Mannish Boy by Muddy Waters -  as heard from Chrysler 300 "See It Through" American TV Commercial

2) Always on the Run by Yuksek - as heard from Peugeot 207 Urban Move French TV commercial

1) Amorosso by Kristina & Laura - as heard from GM Korea Company Alpheon "Luxury for Professional" Korean TV Commercial.

Well, here you go. Hope this helps!

Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai Original Soundtrack


Boku Wa Tomodachi Ga Sukunai
Original Soundtrack



The year 2011 now had traditions for TBS to air an anime based on a light novel serialized from Media Factory's Bunko J. From winter 2011, they have Infinite Stratos. From spring 2011, they have Aria the Scarlet Ammo. And from summer 2011, they have Mayo Chiki. Now, there's a new one aired since autumn 2011 and it's titled Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (日本名:僕は友達が少ない). Haganai for short.

Haganai centers on the life of a transfer student at St. Chronica Academy named Kodaka Hasegawa (played by Ryohei Kimura) who really DON'T HAVE MANY FRIENDS until his encounter with Yozora Mikazuki (played by Marina Inoue) who talks to her imaginary friend and founded the school's Neighbor Club to solve his "loner" problems, which later joined by a bunch of mishaps like Sena Kashiwazaki (played by Kanae Ito), Yukimuya Kusunoki (Nozomi Yamamoto), Rika Shiguma (played by Misato Fukuen), Maria Takayama (Yuka Iguchi) and Kobato (played by Kana Hanazawa).

This is an anime with Tourette's and treading on its storyline is like wiring it up to a nuclear bomb. It makes more noise than other Media Factory-related titles and hopefully, this pass the Apple of the Apex, Apple of the Exit test, we think.

So now, the original soundtrack for Haganai is now here and you can relive the storyline that explodes more at the blink of the eye. Most of the BGMs were composed by Tom-H@ck and it includes TV-size versions of Zannenkei Rinjinbu★★☆ and Watashi no Kimochi. Overall, it packs a grand total of 37 tracks. For an added treat, there's a Data CD part where you can hear various instrumental versions of the opening and closing theme songs.

It's cool if you don't have many friends...

TRACK LISTINGS:
1. 隣人部かつどう中
2. 隣人部きゅうけい中
3. 隣人部こんらん中
4. だめだこいつ はやくなんとかしないと
5. 女狐VS肉
6. 理科×夜空
7. 変態乳牛
8. あぁ~ん
9. 何か裏があるですね
10.結局こんな感じになりました
11.ふぁんきーあこーすてっく
12.ゲーム「モンスター狩人」よりFinal Battle
13.ゲーム「モンスター狩人」よりStage
14.のんびーり
15.おもちゃっぽいファンキー
16.映画なはがない
17.リア充の気分
18.くらしっくピアノな感じ
19.野生の変拍子
20.小鷹はトモちゃんが見えない
21.うれしはずかし
22.ゆにばぁぁあああ~~~~~す!!!!
23.リア充の妄想
24.あいきゃっちその1
25.あいきゃっちその2
26.はがないバック
27.聖クロニカ学園
28.うんこ幼女シスター
29.おどろおどろ
30.小鷹VS不良
31.俺は不良なんかじゃない
32.エロゲの朗読
33.隣人部しっと中
34.純粋なる恋心
35.小鷹は気がつかない、けど
36.私のキ・モ・チ(TVサイズ)  
37.残念系隣人部★★☆(星二つ半)(TVサイズ)

A very special, STIG APPROVED, GT5 Christmas Gift for all - the 2013 Toyota 86

Song played in my Personal BGM: あ~よかった (Version Iori) by Iori Minase (CV: Rie Kugiymiya)
From the album: THE IDOLM@STER MASTER ARTIST 2 -SECOND SEASON- 01 Iori Minase


Testing the 86 at its home ground.
That is, Fuji Speedway.


This is a very special Christmas Present from Gran Turismo 5 for those who've updated to Version 2.02 and the new Toyota 86 (Hachi-Roku), or what GT5 calls it Toyota 86 GT '12, would be the best gift we've ever opened to experience the first bite before the actual model goes on sale in Japan next year. Now, we have the chance to sample Toyota's first boxer-engine sports car that was been a joint venture between Toyota Motor Corporation and Fuji Heavy Industries, makers of Subaru.

The Stig meets the new Hachi-Roku

Now, for my very first impressions about the new Toyota 86 is that the handling is very great for an FR sports car. What bothers me is when is flicked the view to "Normal View". Seems that the camera angle is gone at the wrong side of the screen and all I can see is some minor rumblings every time I corner the Toyota 86. Upon setting it on Interior View, seems that the new Toyota 86 has a good looking instrumental cluster and the steering wheel looks cool when it has something red on it. It's just one of the many reasons why the Toyota 86 is made to be somewhat special for the player. In fact, this car is a Gran Turismo 5 exclusive. I kinda love the sound of the 86's engine start though and I can almost hear the noise of the Boxer engine.

The 86 logo looks great with some pistons on it!

Glad to know that the Toyota GT 86 is a Premium Tier car so it can be essentially great to go out for some Photo Travel with this sports car. Also, if you're dressing as The Stig (or as the Ghost of Black Stig), you're welcome because we can expect seeing The Stig meets the new Toyota 86 face to face, which unfortunately I did.

The Stig happily drives the new Toyota 86
at the Top Gear Test Track!!!

The Toyota 86 is the best GT5 Christmas present we ever had because we've updated the game to Version 2.02 and once you tried it, forever smitten...

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Saab bids Farväl because of bankruptcy filing

2011 Saab 9-5


So, guess this marks the end of Saab...

Numerous attempts to save the troubled Swedish car maker, especially with help from Chinese carmaker Youngman, have gone dodo and this means trouble. And if by trouble, Swedish Automotive N.V. announced that Saab Automobile, Saab Automobile Tools, and Saab Powertrain filed for bankruptcy with the District Court in Vanersborg, Sweden.


Verdict: After all, after years of survival for this Swedish brand, it's sad to say that Saab is dead. Bankrupt...

Now what will exactly happened to the new generation Saab 9-5? Guess it would go to waste...

Also bidding farewell is an utterly old company that claimed to be "Old GM", that is, Motors Liquidation Co. After being their for a record-breaking 103 years, it seems that the death of the Old GM, thanks to U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Gerbert. Seems that splitting the two GM companies had caused a major toll on the company and yes, the "New GM" is somewhat an exact opposite. The "New GM" did better than the Old GM and yes, it was too pity about the Old GM's death.

2012 Bentley Continental GT tuning by Mansory

2012 Mansory Bentley Continental GT


Mansory tunes the 2012 Bentley Continental GT to be somewhat extraordinary and somewhat intimidating. On the outside, you should expect carbon fiber applied on the hood, front spoiler, and rear spoiler. Also, it is mated with a set of 22-inch rims plated in black to make it more cool. On the inside, two-tone upholstery and carbon fiber trimming takes place. What's good is that they beefed up the performance with an improved ECU, high performance air filters, and exhausts, capable of releasing 672HP of power and 780Nm of torque. That modified Continental GT looks perfect to stand out...

This is how they Sonic - 2013 Sonic RS

2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS


The 2013 Sonic RS enhances the styling of Chevrolet's wild compact and yes, it doesn't get any wilder than this because of its even more aggressive front face, 17-inch rims, lowered suspension, standard MyLink infotainment system, sports seats, and much more. Seems that it will go on sale late next year but it will make a premiere at the 2012 NAIAS in Detroit!



Monday, December 19, 2011

Toyota Land Cruiser 200 (URJ202W) Facelift


2013 Toyota Land Cruiser



2013 Toyota Land Cruiser



2013 Toyota Land Cruiser interior


The Toyota Land Cruiser 200 (URJ202W) is the only V8-powered full-size SUV made in Japan. It was having a good time pummeling against rivals such as Mitsubishi Pajero and the Range Rover. You can see them commonly in the Middle East but it is rarely seen in the streets of Los Angeles, Manila, or even Tokyo. Sadly though it's not available in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia because of the ASEAN-built Fortuner takes place.

This generation was been there for four years since its debut in late 2007 but for the 2013 model year, the Toyota LC200 deserved its mid-life facelift to keep it fresh for the only V8-powered SUV made in Japan. So for the exterior details, you should expect a new headlamp design, a new front bumper, new rims, and a new rear design. That should make it perfect to keep it more muscular for this flagship model.

Once again, the interior design looks the same as the previous model. It still features a choice of 5-seater and 7-seater, climate control, heated seats, available G-BOOK mX Pro HDD Navigation System, Toyota Premium Sound System with 18-speakers, rear-seat entertainment system, USB Connectivity, and a new "Shell" interior color. Guess that they've been running out of ideas but this interior is all about "Business Class" comfort. So, it was like you're on a business trip to the Middle East and going around for some Arab money. Well, knock yourself out...

The Toyota Land Cruiser 200 is powered by the 1UR-FE (4.6L V8) engine that produces 318PS of power and 460Nm of torque. With its Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) and 6-speed Super ECT, it is capable of achieving a fuel economy of 6.9km/L based on Japan's JC08 Test Cycle. The Multi-Terrain Select allows the user to take advantage of five different modes based on terrain responses such as ROCK, ROCK & DIRT, MOGUL, LOOSE ROCK, and MUD & SAND. It even features Crawl Control, Variable Gear Ratio Steering, Active Height Control Suspension with Adaptive Variable Suspension System, and the most basic feature of them all is KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System).

Available colors are White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, Black, Attitude Black Mica, Dark Red Mica Metallic, and Beige Mica Metallic.

My comment:
Keeping the LC200 updated is just one of the reasons why they want to keep the legendary Land Cruiser despite the tough times caused by the March 11 disaster, the European Debt Crisis, and the Thai Floods. Now if we could only hope for is sit down and wait for it to decide its fate.

Sales for this facelifted model start this January 6, 2012, and it will come soon in the Middle East and in the USA. Now, if we could hope is to wait for Toyota Motor Philippines to bring the facelifted LC200 soon or wait for some sneaky gray market importers, especially Auto Trend, to have one, especially if this one's a Dubai Version...

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation.

Kim Jong-Il's Death

Kim Jong-Il


The death of North Korean leader, Kim Jong-Il, really sparked worldwide attention that a country like North Korea had lost the most powerful leader, a man who ruled with an iron fist and influenced the country's military power. As of that, we felt silent about the death of Kim Jong-Il,


Because Kim Jong-Il ruled North Korea upon his father's death in 1994, there is a tendency that Kim Jong-Il's third son, Kim Jong Un will succeed but Kim Jong Un was just in his 20's and we believed that he's too young to continue his father's duties...


Verdict: So what will North Korea do with the death of its leader? We never know...

The Run of Boss 302 Mustang 2012

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302


Name: Ford Mustang Boss 302

Nationality: American

Top Speed: 155 MPH

0 to 60 Time: 5.1 seconds

BHP: 444 @ 7,400RPM

Performance: Tier 2

Handling: Very Difficult

Class: Muscle

Drivetrain: RWD

Manufacture Year: 2012

Description:
For the Ford Mustang's 2012 Model Year, the Boss 302 nameplate has been reborn and it uses the Ford Mustang GT V8 variant as its foundation. Although I do think that the Boss 302 Mustang is a sort of "in-the-middle" version of the legendary Mustang name. Why? Because it's sharper and faster than the regular Mustang but not as aggressive as the Shelby GT500. Anyway, this model uses the Mustang's V8 engine and it was tuned to have 444BHP of power. Best of all, it comes with Brembo front calipers and rotors, 3.73:1 limited slip differential, and an adjustable suspension that allows owners to switch through different modes for that "One Track Mind".

In The Run, it served as Eddie Cooke's main car, which is a boss at the start of Stage 10 (East Coast). Watch out because while you're facing against him at Tumbling Run, PA, his Boss 302 is one heck of a cornering maniac! Strategy is important!

Eddie Cooke's Ford Mustang Boss 302

New Bentley Continental GTC

2012 Bentley Continental GTC


Even when the company dubbed this the "second-generation" Bentley Continental GTC, it's still looked more like a minor change to the previous model, but still Bentley considers this a full model change, and the new Bentley Continental GTC, a convertible version of the Continental GT, is now all grown up as expected.

The new GTC is powered with the brute 6.0-litre W12 Twin Turbo engine, which has a maximum power output of 575PS/6000rpm and the torque output of 700N-m/6000rpm. The standard transmission is a ZF 6-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Coming soon is the V8 engine that delivers an impressive fuel economy and lower emissions, suitable for the eco-conscious driver.

My Comment:
Once again, the open top version of the Continental GT, the Continental GTC, looks almost identical as the previous model, but the new V12 engine really sure knows how this British sports car behaves just like the Italians and the Germans. It could almost be a perfect ride to the finest gentlemen's club in London, Tokyo, Dubai, Barcelona, New York, Paris, or Seoul but it will soon reveal its true self, something that will shock the others.

If Bentley arrives in the Philippines soon, well this could be our bet...

Photo: Bentley Motors Limited

A Real Nightmare Before Christmas

Flood caused by Typhoon Sendong

A nightmare before Christmas happened somewhere at Visayas and Mindanao. That is the typhoon Sendong (International Name: Washi) had caused all of these nightmares last Weekend. So far, over 600 people were killed and over 800 people remained missing.


This is proven to be a real nightmare before Christmas for those who are affected by typhoon Sendong. We are very sad to see hundreds of people died or missing.

In fact, the Philippine Red Cross is always open for those who are ready to donate for Typhoon Sendong victims. For donations, visit http://www.redcross.org.ph/donatenow

Thank you and have a safe Christmas everybody!

Photo: Top Gear Philippines (Facebook)

Wow Mali pranks - December 18, 2011

As Christmas draws near, more pranks pulled by Joey De Leon, Doray Alaskadora, Enchong Go, and everyone at the December 18, 2011 episode of Wow Mali!

1) Nightmare Before Christmas - AFREAK! Creepy things happened when someone left alone! Especially when there were zombie carolers!

2) Gusto mo bang magkapera ngayong pasko? - Need cash for the holidays? Sorry but you have to be freaked out by them carolers!

3) Malamig ba ang pasko mo? - This girl asked "Is your Christmas cold?" Perhaps it's your skin that is not cold for the holidays?!

4) 8 Feet Christmas Tree - An eight-feet Christmas tree? More like, 8-inch to us!

5) X-Mas Heart - 8 Feet Christmas Tree not enough? How about a X-Mas Heart? DISCLAIMER: Claim your gift this February 14! That's Valentine's Day to you, jerks!

6) Star Confusion - Celebs like Michael Flores and Tessie Prieto-Valdes got their butts kicked on another Star Confusion!

Michael Flores

Tessie Prieto-Valdes

7) Gift Wrap Machine - Is gift-wrapping by hand hard? Try our Gift Wrap Machine! Warning: Results Unsure

8) Gift Wrap Barubal - Gift Wrap Machine not your thing? How about lend it to someone who can gift wrap faster than what you think? Warning: Her gift wrapping style is rubbish...

Simbang Gabi with the Bulilits!

What just happened at the December 18, 2011 episode of Goin Bulilit?

- Goin Bulilit music video of Da Best ang Pasko ng Pilipino by Maria Aragon

- Simbang Gabi jokes

- Ligawan sa Hatinggabi

- Watch out gay boys! Here comes Manila Queenpin! The Acheng Salong-Gay Story... (Uh, is that the Manila Kingpin parody?!)

- Meet Robotic Santa, a robot version of Santa Claus that scares everybody!

- Segunda Manny, a Segunda Mano spoof...

- Ready Get Set Goin in Santa Clash!

Sunday, December 18, 2011

English speaking involved on Lokomoko

What just happened at December 18, 2011 episode of Lokomoko?

- Christmas in the Snow gags. English Speaking involved.

- Another Lokomentado segment and this time the crew are commenting about Jenny Miller's answers.

- Another dramatic episode of Babuyan where Donya Martha demands an ultimatum to Pedring and the whole family to leave in order to save Pedring's piglet.

- Another Lokomentado segment where the gang asks about Rodjun Cruz's answers

- Whose Line is it Anyhow?!

1) Close naman tayo hindi ba? Natutulog nga ako kung saan ka natutulog. Kinakain ko ang kinakain mo. Kahit saan ka pumunta, nandoon din ako. Bakit gusto mo akong paalisin? - Bulate

2) Kaya kitang apak-apakan at sipa-sipain! - Paa

3) Ano ba?! Wag niyo akong hipun...Nakakahiya!!! - Makahiya

4) Type na type ko ang sulat mo! - Typewriter

5) Lagi na lang akong buy 1 take 1! - Medyas/Sapatos

6) Sabi nila may tililing ako - Bell

7) Ikaw ang bugaw ko! - Langaw

Promised to kick the RX-8's back and vomit the Brera's face

When the new Volkswagen Scirocco came here on FM3, we thought that this was our only chance to try out Volkswagen's explosive hot hatch because it was sold in most parts of the world but not in the USA and in the Philippines. Turns out some rejected ad made by Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson and James May were right (reference to Season 13 Episode 7 of Top Gear). The Scirocco has its back kicked by the Mazda RX-8 and the face was vomited by the Alfa Romeo Brera.

Warming up this Scirocco R
for today's Hockenheimring match!

The regular Scirocco got sick of having its back side kicked by the Mazda RX-8 and its face vomited by the Alfa Romeo Brera so by solving this, the November Speed DLC Pack included the all new Volkswagen Scirocco R. This was meant to be promised to counter these attacks but is it worth a drool-worthy V-Dub? James May, better reject that jingle you made for the Scirocco and Jeremy Clarkson, prep up some explosives because this new Scirocco R is EXPLOSIVE!

The Scirocco R is STIG APPROVED!

The Scirocco R is heavily inspired from its experiences from the 24 Hours Nurburgring race. Thanks to its dual victory at the 24 Hours Nurburgring, this was the first of its kind on Volkswagen's new R lineup consisting of this and the Golf VI R. Speaking of which, you might think that the Scirocco R and the Golf R are like two sides of the same coin because it was powered by the EA113 (2.0L T-GDi) engine but no. While the Golf R produces 267 HP of power and 254lb-ft of torque, the Scirocco R produces 261 HP of power and 258lb-ft of torque. It is believed that the Golf R is better than the Scirocco R because it has more power and more importantly, it's All-Wheel Drive. However, despite the lag, the Scirocco R has more torque and lighter than the Golf R. Seems like these two are going to be somewhat "neck-and-neck" between those two.

You should know that this hatch
was developed for Nurburgring purposes!
The Scirocco R could be the most explosive Scirocco ever built but still a modified Mazda RX-8 will kick its back side and a modified Alfa Romeo Brera will vomit on its face. This car is all about "power with responsibility" not "Berlin to Warsaw in one full tank". Who knows, this might cause a Mass Exodus among V-Dub fans worldwide. Sorry VW but you'll gonna have to be better than that! The world God only knows that this one could be "STIG APPROVED" if I tried it on the Top Gear Test Track...

Those who're playing Forza 4 and downloaded the November Speed DLC Pack; Get Ahead. Get a new Scirocco R. For people who valued their arms...

Google Let It Snow Easter Egg

Let It Snow

As heard from most sources, when most people typed "Let It Snow" at Google, what they'll be experiencing that the Google page drops snow and then it got covered in snow until they clicked the "Deforst" button to remove the snow. No wonder there's another Google easter egg happened since the "Do A Barrel Roll" part.

BANANA SPLIT CLOWN IN A MILLION UPDATE 12/17/11

At the December 17, 2011 episode of Banana Split, the remaining four contestants are struggling to vie as the remaining three and for that challenge, they have to impersonate the most famous personalities. Karen Dematera impersonates as Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, while Super Tekla impersonates as Mommy Dionesia, then Onse impersonates as Annabelle Rama, and Mimi Aringo impersonates as Miriam Defensor-Santiago!

Talk about craziness, huh? But guess who got kicked out from the competition? Onse got eliminated!

A whole family of Stigs...

The Stig Family Sticker


This looks weird by Gearhead created some kind of "Stig Family Sticker" that costs $7. Like what it said, "Some Say He's A Family Man..." Guess this features, The Stig, Mrs. Stig, Stig kids, a "Baby Stig" (remember that from the Top Gear Christmas Special 2010?) two Stig dogs and two Stig cats.

This could be "Stig Approved" but rubbish...