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@aoi I'd assume they'll do remixes of the song to suit each rapper's style. Just doing straight out translation seem a waste. Plus those rappers likely want to put their stamp on the song. I just find it strange at first that 5 different rappers would do a collaboration; but then again that's the purpose of collaborations -- perceived/expected mutual benefit. In this case, T-ara to make a footprint in the US market (at least with Asian-Americans/hiphop fans) and the CB and company to make headway with Kpop audiences. But just as discussions we have on Shoutbox, best they avoid the paths used by other Kpop artists; instead use radio airplay and similar approach to reach into the American psyche. Long term success is still doubtful, but T-ara doing better than those before them would really be great.

It seems nice that T-ara gets exposed in the US/world stage, but I hope it is not at the expense of their Asian activities. I could say, the US/Western market can be much more fickle, and promoting away from their usual support bases may alienate T-ara from their 'core' support. But in any event, wish them the best. A door has been opened, so why not take the opportunity. As for those with doubts/skepticism, let's see how the whole thing unfolds. No use in spending the energy on negativity -- even if T-ara does fail, they ain't the first group to do so. And if they succeed, a bit more here and there (nothing long term for different reasons) -- my only fear for success is other groups are likely to capitalize and bandwagon on them... PS: F-I-V-E (5) English versions? Those artists must really found something they can relate to with CSD And should we expect a much less restraint in terms of lyrics?

Thanks! Lol, I also watched it from KBS World, but great to be able to watch it again. By the way, would you happen to have clip/s from Music Bank of T-ara's interview/comeback stage? It was also aired today.

Not to burst everyone's bubble, there may not be much to this (i.e. one-time thing). All I'm saying is, don't be too hyped than things will go big (it all can go bust instead). T-ara still lacks in a couple of areas (language barrier and Dani's inexperience comes to mind). But, if the girls some success in that side of the world, then why not? Their recent US trip seems more like an introductory trip -- testing the waters on how T-ara reception would be like. As always, sit back and see what happens. Whether they make headways in the US or not, one thing is sure, it would be interesting what they would do. PS: as Eunjung attested, face bad news/rumors with indifference. A worthy thing to emulate (to all Queen's).

That was fast. I do hope by their planned concert in late July it won't be a Jewelry Box 2.0. And it seems QBS has a shorter promo cycle (not sure how promos work in Japan or an effect of not having non-Japanese on music programs there). But in any case, the gang will be back together! Gambatte kudasai, T-ara!!!

Cool! Consideirng most of us are wondering how the unnies are! Thought announcement would be later as to give more attention to N4 (but with the US trip, I think it's timely to do announce QBS -- give both units attention in more or less equal measure). How come they have 1 less song? The title sounds like it's an anime theme (which won't be bad either). Besides the song, what concept will they do? Will it be something like in Qri's selca? Not sure how QBS will promote this time (though I anticipate at least Mainichi QBS). But better if they have more guestings and activities. QBS Fighting... Gambatte kudasai!

Good luck to the girls. And I hope they (CCM) won't force their way into the US market like other acts/agencies did. Trying to make serious attempts will just be a disaster in the making (their English skills alone would be a hindrance). Quote: "aim small, miss small". Much like what they did for their Japan promotes or Asian showcases, best to start little and slowly. But overall, I wish T-ara the best and hope they gain something out of their trip there.

Hyomin looks absolutely lovely. And contrasting seasons/backgrounds. We support you all the way, and anticipate more great pics!

Highly skeptical whenI first heard it (know beater + rumored bullies). It seems more like CB will get more out of this, and T-ara left with, more... hate (assumed that is still possible). They tried to win people over by being honest and crying (Beatles code 2), but sympathy has no effect on their haters. So might as well go down the route they started with JWD/CSD. So long as T-ara comes out better after this, then all I have to say, why not? Happy, skeptic, or plain dislike, let's wait and see what happens. And hope for the best. PS: so Dani's role is T-ara's (English) interpreter. Makes sense, at least no one will criticize her for lacking any knowledge in the language. And there is Dani (will this be her debut?).

So those would be special stages? Hmm, is that samulnori the traditional instrument used for JWD? And with the extra-sized dance crew, it really seems T-ara N4 would present the fusion in a big way. Anticipating for the performances.

It's nice they finally talked about it (besides Soyeon's interview last year). All I can say, more support for them, who knows what 'others' may say or do against T-ara at this point. Never lose faith, never stop trusting.

@nath Probably good to provide guidelines for this, like proof (possibly a screenshot of the order details from an online shop, e.g YesAsia) or say, steps in posting in CCM's site (I don't think many can read/understand Hangul). And mentioning CCM's Twitter via Twitter only or other sites are applicable as well (e.g. Facebook).

@tiaranatics Probably tears of joy. The other girls look happy.

Riiight, the "official" meaning behind the song. I'd still stick to the "hidden" meaning, just to keep things interesting.

it's different from what they used to do, like the absence of the drama (no crying, no dying) in the drama mv. I'd always thought the girls would do something so ridiculously un-serious (simply show haters they don't give a... they don't care). They finally did. Some people will like it, some people won't (just to be expected as you can't, and will not, please everybody). My hats to them for doing this.

If it's an LP, so I'd assume there would be other songs in it? Do we have a playlist?

"Bad publicity is better than no publicity" -- seems to be the possible reason why Hwa's name was included. Personally, mentioning her just asking for unwanted attention. But with how the cases with Soyeon (chat, WGM) and Hyomin (feeding "enemies") were blown out of proportion (failed, but still not stopping haters), I would 'assume' CCM would continue to pointedly making any references to Hwayoung. But, wherever you stand, it would be best just sit and wait. PS: as I mentioned in the older thread for the sub unit, I really hope the 3 unnies won't be sidelined. It would be nice EunJiMin (frequent absentees from group perfs) and Areum (minimal experience) take the stage more, while Boram, Qri, Soyeon be back to solo projects. Role reversal of sorts.

Short term sales is nice, but it would be better to have consistency and longevity. If I'm not mistaken, RP became the #1 song due to consistent sales. Staying power is a stronger indication of success (for me anyway) than topping the charts in the short term. And for T-ara, it might be better to go this route (less attention, less criticism). Ii is possible Banisuta may reach decent sales, since its possible a couple of people would attempt to get all the jackets. But I don't have a barometer to compare what constitutes what is good and bad sales [in the Japanese market], except perhaps compare Banisuta with T-ara's previous releases.

Hmm, the unnies will focus more on solo activities? A reversal of the previous trend (of EunJiMin having more individual activities). Let's see how things work out. The change is nice to allow the unnies more exposure (it's been awhile since either Boram or Qri had any such endevours, and we know Soyeon's first venture was cut short). Assuming it's actual projects and not sidelined. Keep an open mind and see.

To re-confirm what Z said, yes, online stores will use the latest exchange rates to convert the currency they use with that of your own (assuming its different), like YesAsia uses USD or CDJapan uses JPY. If you shop online, you should receive an email confirmation of your payment as well as the exchange rate used at the time of the purchase.

What's the point in releasing that statement now? The damage has been done (and its probable the stigma will be with Eunjung), and I believe the drama has ended. Best thing to do now is settle this in court. Or some more meaningful penance. An apology won't just cut it, especially this late.

It sounds to me more like an open challenge than anything Bold move, my hat to the girls. I just hope it won't backfire (if it does, well, you guys know who should be the 'proper' one to be blamed).

Two questions: - who sent the food support? - where are the rest of T-ara? Other than that, wishing a good run for Eunjung as an MC (and to Amber as well).

If any of you want to display all jackets in one search, use this: "Bunny Style (Jacket" as search in YesAsia. Anyway, for all those who wish to buy through YesAsia, please do so using the YesAsia links on Diadem before you pre-order/purchase.

Cheap ploy or not, there are people who'd buy it, especially with tags of "collector" and "limited edition" (Lucky Star reference here). As for CCM, whether its experiencing financial woes or success, its a company (designed specifically to generate profits). Certainly, it would think of ways to make money, whether with less risk, recycle/adopt ideas from someone else, or do something unexpected. Case in point, iPhone and iPad, of which other companies adopted and released similar products of their own. The approach is certainly cheap, but at least its different from the previous strategies (Japanese remakes/translations, remixes). Plus, its a sort of fan service. The sub-unit songs is reminiscent of Budokan special stages (I know, I bunched Soyeon and Areum together). And the girls' solo songs, its like having anime/game character songs/themes. Initially, I thought of T-ara doing a Cry Cry/TTL type with one subunit doing the fast/dance song, the other performing the ballad version. Admittedly, this one is bolder. Another thing, it can be said the strategy is a popularity survey as well, i. e. see who are the most popular members based on sales (let's hope this would not be an excuse for CCM to pull one of its more sinister and infamous decisions). The approach is risky, especially the solo songs. It can be expected that Soyeon, Eunjung, Hyomin, and Areum can pull theirs; Jiyeon, Boram, and Qri more doubtful. Let us hope that their individual songs are tailored for them and showcase their best aspects. Personally, I'd love the novelty of the girls having their own songs. On the positive side, if it doesn't work, good try; if it does, it may well be the direction in the future. In any case, T-ara supporters can hope for is that at least the songs and jackets themselves are worth their cost. The strategy could pull in a load of profits for CCM/EMI/Tower Records (or whoever is involved); but if proven sub par, then expect folks to be discouraged or outright not buying the next products to be released. PS: nothing against Hwayoung and Dani, but if they're in it, we'd probably be seeing 2-4 songs more (so for the cash-strapped its much worse). On the other hand, if the upcoming songs proved a hit, then it would be a shame the two ain't included.