[Krowhop]

Akicon 2009 Report!
November 6th - 8th
Krowhop


The hustle and bustle of conventions can at times be overwhelming. There is so much to do and see, and by the time you know where everything is, the convention is over. The press of people and the lack of direction can make any con too much of a hassle to go to.

Akicon, however, is different. Over each doorway there were bold temple arches, proclaiming their contents, with room schedules listed CLEARLY on either side. They all matched, and tied into the overall theme. The atmosphere was so relaxing, and stimulating at the same time, it was hard NOT to enjoy yourself. The stage setup went along with all the rest, adding in traditional Japanese architecture. Even the smaller rooms were thoroughly decorated.

That in itself is enough to set it apart from most other conventions, but there was even more. One of the rooms was specifically set aside for photo opportunities with three different scenes. There was a street shot, graffiti included. On the opposite wall you could have your picture taken with your favorite anime character in a winter wonderland with snow swirling around. In the back of the room, secluded by standing bamboo and a temple arch, was a koi pond with a bridge and traditional garden.

The planning that went into the appearance of the Holiday Inn, where the convention took place, was impressive, to say the least.

The convention was 24 hour, so there was always something to do. Every night there was a concert by a different band, and even one earlier in the day. The bands' all got together to answer questions in a panel, and to give out autographs. More details on them will be forthcoming in a separate exclusive, so keep your eyes peeled!

The voice acting workshop was a big hit, with those who participated being able to actually have their voices in clips such as Samurai Shamploo , as well as others. Each of the new voice actors received a certificate as well as a copy of the DVD featuring their voice. The audience then received the honor to vote on who did the best, and the lucky winner won a tote bag full of goodies. Michael McConnohie and Melodee M. Spevack taught the class-keep an eye out for their feature, as well!

The other big hit was of course, Ichidan, a cosplay group based out of Idaho. They tour around to different conventions doing plays, skits, panels, and workshops. Akicon hosted their 'Death Note: The Death Eraser,' as well as a number of panels, including a bit on 'Wig Care.' They are a very close knit and supportive group, numbering in 87 active members, the youngest being 15, and oldest 30. "It's kinda like a dysfunctional family," said Kalah, the videographer. There will also be a featured article on them at a later date.

With two movie rooms, three workshops/panels, a reading room, the Main Stage, the Photo Room, Gaming center and the dealer's hall, the convention was on the smaller end. Despite the size the attendance was optimal, and for a second year convention, the results were good. Next year they are moving the the Hilton in Bellevue, WA, November 5th - 7th. Hope to see you there!

[Krowhop]

Soul Candy's Exclusive!

I had the opportunity to attend Soul Candy's concert on Friday night, their Q&A session, as well as spend some time with them after the autograph session. They took time out of their busy schedule to spend some time with me and elaborated on some of the questions. Below is a blurb from their page, followed by the Q&A.

Soul Candy is a Seattle-based band consisting for 4 talented musicians that bonded through their love of music and anime. They formed in July 2008 as a 5 piece band, and in November 2009 the band released 'Soul Candy', that consists of 5 original tracks that boasts a variety of sounds from fast rock, danceable beats, catchy vocals and an epic ballad. As the four member band from Seattle call their music “otaku rock,” the EP will appeal to many fans of Japanese animation. Their new songs are influenced by anime, . In addition, Soul Candy also was a part of a Q and A session at the convention along with other musical guests, followed by an autograph session. CDs were sold at their own booth at Aki Con, where interested fans got more information, got more autographs or just chatted informally with the band.



Christabelle Binag - Lead Vocals
Carlos Pardo - Lead Guitar and 2nd Vocals
Josh Granadosin - Bass
Isaac Granadosin - Drums

Q: Where did you come up with your name?
A: We were at the mall, and had all been watching Bleach at the time. Soul Candy wasn't too aggressive, so we choose it.

Q: How many conventions have you performed at?
A: 5- Anime Evolution, Akicon twice, Kumoricon, and Sakuracon

Q: When is your album going to be released OR are there any record deals in progress?
A: Last night we released our first CD. Five original songs that were composed and produced after Kumoricon. After the concert there, we were approached by fans who wanted our music, and we didn't have anything. We composed the songs and self produced them all in two months.

Q: What are your favorite cosplays?
A:
Chrisabelle - Sakura and Temari (Naruto)
Josh - Shikamaru(Naruto), 'Cause I'm lazy.
Carlos - Boy Ranma (Ranma 1/2) and Chun Li (Street Fighter)
Issac - Doesn't cosplay

Q: What are some of your favorite things to do in your spare time?
A: Enjoy watching J-Drama's, spending time with significant others, or checking out/trying to pick up prospective significant others.

"Buy our C.D. Thanks to our supporters, to the other bands here, and to everyone that was at our show last night(11/6/09)"

:::NOTICE:::

There is an informal contest, to make an AMV using one of Soul Candy's songs, with a signed flier as your prize! PM me for more details!