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Adventures in Voice Acting
DVD Review
Adventures in Voice Acting feels like you're watching a documentary. But that's NOT what it is. It's a virtual toolkit that contains everything you'll need to start you on your journey into the world of Voice Acting. Get ready for an adventure that takes you behind the scenes and into the studio, as some of the best in the business teach you how they did it, and help guide you to prepare yourself for your own first day in the studio.
If you've ever wondered about how to break into the biz, then this is the guide you've been waiting for. For those of us that can't draw a straight line, this is how to immerse yourself into the world of professional animation without having to have a portfolio and years of art school.
 If youíre more of an "arm chair" Voice Actor, or just interested in knowing more about the inner-workings of the industry, this comprehensive and honest look at the Voice Acting profession will keep you riveted. There is nothing else out there like it. Finally a film that honors and pays respect to the incredibly hard-working and often under-recognized voice artists working today.
You'll get not only practical knowledge on what it takes to enter this field, but also learn from real life experiences. Top Voice Actors reveal their personal sacrifices and struggles, and talk frankly and openly about the realities of the business. Shot on location in busy studios across the U.S., Adventures in Voice Acting - Volume One also includes insights and advice from top Casting Directors, Producers and Voice Directors.
Adventures in Voice Acting is a three volume project covering anime, games and original animation. Volume One focuses on anime. Each volume is broken down into five approximately half-hour episodes. Episode 4 of volume one, for example, is dedicated entirely to advice - advice on auditions, demo reels, agents, and even classes. From this, any interested actor, fan or viewer can walk away with a solid understanding of what itís really like to not only follow your dreams, but live them as well.
Reviewed by Brian Cirulnick, February 2009
Anime Toonz 1 & 2
Anime Soundtrack Review
Anime Toonz are remixes of popular anime theme songs. Ranging from pop to techno to electronica to funky to just downright weird, the eclectic mix offers something for everyone. Kikuko Inoue (on disc one) has a very pretty voice and that helps, although it would be better for you if you know the theme songs she's doing.
The second disc by Maria Kawamura offers some great remixes such as the Macross "Do You Remember Love", Bitshifter's remix of the Love Hina theme song (an awesome video-game sounding mix), and Prozac's remix of Popolocrois, as well as some delicious soundbytes.
Reviewed by Brian Cirulnick, February 2005
The Best of Anime
Anime Soundtrack Review
What's most surprising about this album to us is that it's put out by a non-Japanese company — Rhino. We've seen many compilation albums of anime title songs before, but they were strictly Japanese. It's like suddenly being hit over the head as we realize "Duh, anime really HAS gone mainstream!" Also, Rhino goes a bit further by giving us 4 tracks that are the American versions of well-known anime (admittedly, Astroboy, Speed Racer and Gigantor might feel a bit out of place next to Megazone 23).
 Nevertheless, the album overall is a good sampling of what's out there in terms of different anime music. The CD features everything from the upbeat Urusei Yatsura season 1 title song to the more sublime "Sailing" (from Silent Mobius) seems to be represented. Some are too cute, but seem balanced compared to the harder rock sound from Megazone and Macross Plus. This CD is definitely one to play in the car while driving, as it's fun and you don't need to concentrate on the lyrics — besides, you're not likely to get road rage while listening to the Sailor Moon song!
Reviewed by Brian Cirulnick, January 2003
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Anime Karaoke Collection
Anime Soundtrack Review
 We know quite a few people who turn into different characters the moment you hand them a microphone. Turn on the spotlight, crank the amp, and a rock-star wanna-be is born. If you know that special someone who craves an audience to hear their singing, or you ARE that special someone who wants to belt out your favorite anime tune while in the shower; this is the album for you.
Many of the tracks you'll find here are not commonly available elsewhere and this is a great addition to your anime soundtrack collection.
With a wide selection of tracks to chose from, there's something for everyone and can be a quirky addition to liven up your standard, run-of-the-mill Karaoke set-up. Karaoke was invented in Japan, so it only seems appropriate to include an anime tune between those runs of Billy Joel and Elton John.
So, crank up the amp, grab that microphone and start disturbing the neighbors with this fantastic collection of anime tunes. You won't be disappointed, but you may be asked to leave town and/or appear on American Idol! Simon-san no baka!
Reviewed by Brian Cirulnick, July 2006
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