When I reviewed Capcom/Inti-Creates’ brilliant retro “rebirth” of Mega Man, I lamented that the soundtrack (certainly one of the more essential elements of any worthwhile Mega Man game) was good but not the greatness that I thought it could or should have been. Who knew that all it needed to achieve said greatness was a little jazzing up? I’m serious here, folks, the funktastic, disco rock version of Hornet Man’s theme is pure, concentrated awesome and will basically be playing on a continuous loop in my apartment for the next week (at minimum). Now, granted, it’d be easy enough to just play these from my computer as I’m taking on the robot masters, but it would be a stroke of brilliance on Capcom’s part to be able to insert these into the game itself as downloadable content.

Mega Man 9 Arranged Soundtrack (via Inti Records)

By Stewart Smith

By NYT.

This year’s CMJ Japan Takeover showcases the unique blend of sounds from the artists Holidays of Seventeen (photo above), Local Sound Style, and Ovum  (all working under the label FABTONE RECORDS). A two day long celebration of aural delight began tonight at the Santos Party House @ 6:30. Tomorrow starts the “CMJ Official Japan Night” over at the Knitting Factory, and finishes up finally with the “CMJ Party Night” this Thursday. Definitely an event not to miss out on, these artists are sure to put out a musical bash. For more information, hit the jump!

Ever want your own tiny garden just for yourself? The latest in eco, projects geared towards a healthier environment and better planet has produced a small key chain sized bean plant sprout. Boford Japan, a leader in unconventional novelties and products, made its claim to fame from miniature weapons.  Might just be the easiest plant Quite possibly the easiest garden to maintain ever, it’s also the smallest. Take it with your everywhere, show your friends, and watch it grow. Way more portable than the chia pet. Just another environmentally safe designed product from the lineup at Japan C.

By NYT.

KAMACHAN and CHOP, the lead actors for KAMACHOP, would like to personally invite you to come to the finale screening for the NYTFGP2008 Festival Part One! They were so enthusiastic about the film that we snagged their personal video message. And at their request, we would like to have you to come to Tribeca Cinemas tomorrow at 6:30. Free complementary drinks will be served after the screening, and Director Matsumoto will be making appearances as well. You can find out how to RSVP after the jump.

Anji Matsumoto is the director for the film KAMACHOP. This movie was selected by viewers during the NYTFGP2008 voting, which occurred this past summer, many of which were already loyally devoted Japanese fans of the movie and it’s extremely amicable, energetic cast.  It’s hard to explain the experience of being in the same room as Director Matsumoto, his twin, CHOP, and co-star KAMACHAN, with anything other than exciting and enjoyable.

KAMACHOP is playing this Thursday, Oct. 16 at the Tribeca Cinemas. Tickets are still available, so purchase them while they’re still available. For the exclusive interview on the “story of two ghosts who exist,” KAMACHOP, follow the jump.