What's Up? Pararai [22nd edition]
Following up from last issue's introduction of GokuLuck, this time we're featuring another group of new characters: the struggling idol group, VISTY ♪
Design Points
Shogo: I really wanted him to be a good-looking guy who could make anyone think, he's so cool!. I liked the idea that he'd have a presence that ties all of the team's uniqueness together.
Aoi: Although parts of his outfit have a very distinct streetwear feel, I think the elements of the belt to accentuate the waist, his beautiful forehead, and his pose come together to give him a very strong princely image.
Toma: Toma's eye makeup and the glittery extensions in his hair give him a sophisticated and glamorous look.
Kantaro: The key point is the playful, toy-like aesthetic, such as in the gummy bear on his hat or the bear-shaped smartphone case.
Message From Kazari Tayu
Question: What would you give to each character for Valentine's Day?
To Shogo: An assortment of gummies; please eat as many as you feel like
To Aoi: Handmade heart-shaped chocolates; I feel like he'd praise me with a princely smile
To Toma: Chocolate-covered dried fruits; that way, at least they've got some vitamins in them.
To Kantaro: Chooclate egg; he just seems like he'd like them
Designer Interview
Kazari Tayu is an illustrator and singer-songwriter; other credits include character design for VS AMBIVALENZ, Yuugen Romantica, Spy Department Store, and others.Please tell us about VISTY's designs.
Since they're modern idols, they have a base of casual street style, but their accessories and hair colors add a bit of glamor to their designs.
Are there any easter eggs hidden in VISTY's designs?
If you look closely, you'll notice they all have more-or-less matching brand logos and accessories. Toma's jacket even has a butterfly design on the back.
Out of the members of VISTY, who do you think is the most likely to receive a lot of chocolate on Valentine's Day?
Definitely Aoi, and Kantaro would complain that it isn't fair.
What is your favorite song from the Paralive franchise?
My favorite is cozmez's "This Is My Love". It's got that great electric guitar riff throughout it and the deep bass that resonates in the background. Then the clear voices of the two of them on top of it all are so nice that I was immediately drawn into it!
Please share any highlights about VISTY and a message for the readers of Animedia.
Although they're a bit odd for the unvierse of Paralive, seeing as they're idols, they're all very grounded characters, and I'm looking forward to seeing how they bring that across through their songs. Although they're struggling with being labelled as "leftover idols", they're determined to keep shining for all of their Stellas, so I hope everyone will support them...!