March is finally here, so that means the warm temps that we’ve been waiting several weeks for, are surely on the horizon – if they haven’t already arrived. With two-and-a-half weeks remaining until our next convention outing, we’ve been think about having another segment where we do full episodic reviews on anime titles that are well-known, and lesser-known called Anime REvisited. We don’t have an exact date of when we’ll be doing this segment, but if you guys have any suggestions on what titles you want us to revisit, just let us know in the comment section below, or hit us up on our discord channel. Also, with the upcoming release of Avidd Minddset’s Minddgames EP, we have a special remix of Sonic Adventure 2’s Meteor Herd level produced by Avidd Minddset. Be sure to like and subscribe to our youtube channel if you like the track, and Minddgames will be released on all major (and minor) music streaming services on March 13th. That’s all we have for now, but until next post, stay nerdy my friends! ๐
D&A Anime Blog: What’s Happening In March!
We’re finally into the third month of the new year, and just three weeks away from the first day of Spring. This month is going to be quite an exciting month because we’ve got some things planned as well as some releases (in terms of music) coming into the forefront. With all that being said here are just a few things that will be happening in March for the good ol’ boys of D&A Anime Blog:
Blogging Award Nominations
This month we’ll be nominating a few of our fellow blogging friends with some blogger awards; one of which is a special blogging award that we’ve created called the D&A Superstar Blogger Award! This award is for those bloggers who have liked and supported us since our 2016 inception, and have some of the most captivating posts that we’ve ever read. With our five-year anniversary (January 11, 2021) on the horizon, this blogger award is a special ‘Thank You’ to all of you awesome bloggers out there who are following your blogging passion. We’ll keep you posted throughout the month on when we’ll be nominating blogs for the award.
New Music
This month also marks the first time our own Donte’ J. Lewis of D&A Anime Blog releases music under his artist/producer name; Avidd Minddset. His first EP “Minddgames” will be available on music streaming platforms such as iTunes, SoundCloud, Spotify, Pandora, and more on March 13th. There’s also a collaboration track with music artist KING SHABAZZ called “Checkmate” coming soon to music streaming platforms everywhere, so we’ll keep you updated when it drops. Also, Lewis will be creating social media pages and eventually a website (as Avidd Minddset) exclusively for his music in the near-future.
New York! New York!
So it’s official; we’ll be going to our first New York anime convention known as Anime NYC! D&A heads to The Big Apple this November, and if you live in New York or in one of the five Burroughs and you want to see us live and in person, head on over to Anime NYC in the NYC this year.
That’s all we’ve got going on in terms of updates and what we’ll be doing in March, but we’re not done yet! There’s more posts to come during the week, but as always until our next post, stay nerdy my friends! ๐
A Founder’s Thoughts: With D.J. Lewis (February 23, 2020)
Hey guys, what’s going on? It’s Yours Truly here representing one-half of D&A Anime Blog. With only a week left before the month of March, I wanted to reflect on one of my favorite posts that I’ve written about the relationship between anime, and hip-hop. With February being Black History Month it’s really cool to see that there’s more diversity in anime than ever before, so if you want to see what I’ve posted about the connection that hip-hop has with anime check out Part 1 and Part 2 of the post.
Lately I’ve been feeling a little mundane as of late, so I’ve been watching some anime titles to help take my mind off of boredom – as well as work on other music production projects. I’ve also noticed that I don’t go on social media as often as I used to, but of course I always want to talk to you guys if you have any fresh ideas for the blog, or even if you just wanna chat about anything. Other than waiting anxiously to drop my first ever EP on all of the top music streaming services, there’s not a whole lot happening on my side of the tracks. Although we’re closing in on having two months of the new year making its way into the history books, A. Goldman and I are working on making some big moves for the blog’s future throughout 2020. Next year will be the blog’s 5th anniversary, and for that we have a special surprise that we want to give to our fans as a ‘thank you’ for all the love and support that you’ve given us over the years. (However, we can’t tell you what it is just yet ;).)
Before I end this post I just want to say that despite all the negativity that we deal with in reality, see on social media, and hear about on the news on almost a regular basis, take a little time to brighten someone’s day – however you can. Leave a like on one of their posts that speaks to you, or even lift someone’s spirits with a funny joke. For us, 2020 will be our year of kindness, and our year of making the lives of others a little bit better.
Until next post, stay nerdy my friends! ๐
D&A Update Time: Minddgames EP & Upcoming Reviews!
March is only a couple weeks away, and with that comes a few updates from the good ol’ nerds of D&A Anime Blog – one of which we’re very excited about! Although it took approximately three-and-a-half months to perfect it; song by song, track by track, and element by element, we’re proud to announce that the six-track EP known as Minddgames is complete! The release date will be March 13th, and you’ll be able to listen to the album on all of the most popular music streaming services. It contains a blended mix of Hip-Hop and Trap beats (808’s and all), and electronic elements like Techno, Trance, and Chiptune. The overall sound is nice, crisp, clear, and pleasing to the ear – and it’ll probably make you wanna dance once you hear a few tracks. Again, you’ll have to wait until March 13th.
In other updates and news; we’ll also be doing some detailed reviews on past anime titles that some of you guys may not have seen, as well as overview-reviews on some upcoming titles for the 2020 season. We’ll keep you posted once those shows make themselves known through Crunchyroll and FunimationNow. If you guys want us to do a review on an anime title, you can let us know in the comments below – or even hit us up on our Discord channel Anime Snap and tell us what show you want us to do.
Sorry to blog n’ run, but that’s all we’ve got for now!
Until next post, stay nerdy my friends! ๐
D&A Anime Blog: Sonic The Hedgehog (2020) Movie Review!
Before we kick off this awesome review, we just want to say Happy Valentine’s Day to all the guys who are taking their gals out for a night on the town. Today (or tonight rather) is the opening day for the controversial-yet-anticipated movie about the World’s Fastest Hedgehog known as, Sonic. We of course had the chance to catch the movie ourselves and went in with clear thoughts as to what we may or may not be expecting from the movie. However one thing that we must credit both the fanbase as well as Paramount for, was the new design for Sonic. Compared to the hot mess we were given back when the first trailer for the movie aired, I’m glad that the companies and producers really put some thought into this movie. So with introductions out of the way, let’s review the movie – shall we?
Without spoiling too much from the movie, here’s what you’ll be in for if you decide to go see it. The story is based off the well-known franchise that is Sonic the Hedgehog; where he finds himself on the run from those who want his power to use for their own malevolent, and selfish desires. From his world (which was designed to look like modern day Green Hill Zone) to our world, Sonic is able to bounce between worlds through his golden rings. For this movie, the rings allow him to teleport between worlds as opposed to keeping him alive much like the games. Now in the human world Sonic befriends a human who is the town sheriff of Green Hills, Montana, and the two of them find themselves on an adventure to stop the evil Dr. Robotnik (or Eggman as we call him) from trying to capture Sonic, and use his power to take over the world.
The Review
As we mentioned before, we got a chance to see the movie knowing what we might be expecting from it. Based on what we knew so far from the trailers we were right about two things; there were no chaos emeralds like we said in our last post, and the Dr. Eggman we know and love goes through an evolutionary track into his descent into being a mad (and slightly unstable) scientist. The opening started off with a scene from near the end of the movie, as if that hasn’t been done before many of times before. As a big Sonic fan, I’m glad that they kept a lot of the core source material from the games (such as the rings, the opening of Green Hill Zone, and Sonic’s trademark sneakers) while reintroducing the blue hedgehog to our world in a brand new origin story.
There were some good moments as well as some touching ones that weren’t too sappy, and in spite of the fact that there may have been a few inconsistencies here and there, there was a good balance between action, Sonic’s dialogue and relationship with the human world, comedy, and adventure. Seeing as though he’s been around since the 90’s, the movie kept a little bit of his original mentality, while introducing a more modern disposition to much of the younger generation – memes and internet dances included. Overall I’d say that this movie is a cross between a buddy-cop comedy, a kid’s superhero thrill ride, a journey of self-discovery, and finding a place that you can call home. Both us 90’s kids and Gen-Z have played all of the games (good and bad), read the comics, and watched the series (again, both good and bad).
Sonic meant a lot to so many of us growing up the same way Mario does, and we wouldn’t be surprised if Nintendo decides to make a live-action Mario movie (but that’s another post for another day). Ultimately, if you’re a Sonic fan, you’re gonna love this movie. If not, then you’re probably gonna hate it.
That’s our review! Now here’s our score:
D&A Movie Score – 4.4 / 5 Stars
There you have it! That will do it for our movie review post, and as always until our next one, have a Happy Valentine’s Day – and stay nerdy my friends! ๐
D&A Anime Blog: February Anime Cons 2020!
So we’re now into the second month of 2020, and just three days away from the big ‘V’ day – Valentine’s Day. With a new year comes new conventions, and this month we’ll be highlighting some new cons for you guys to check out! Some of these cons we didn’t even know existed until now, so if you get the chance to go to them, send us some pics! ๐
A Founder’s Thoughts With D.J. Lewis! (February 10, 2020!)
Hey guys n’ gals! Welcome back to another installment of one of my ‘A Founder’s Thoughts’ posts, right here on D&A Anime Blog. So far we’ve gone about a good two months without any big snow storms (*knocking on wood*), as the temps are regulating to about the 40’s and 50’s. But enough about the weather, let’s talk about something that I wanted to get off my chest for quite awhile – since 2019 actually. All I can say about the matter is; no matter how you feel about it, or even how the other party made you felt about it, there are just some fights and arguments that aren’t even worth fighting. Now you’re probably wondering what I’m even referring to, right? Well it’s more along the lines of not dealing with toxic people or even toxic environments.
Honestly with all the stuff that’s going on nowadays, my generation (90’s kids/millennials) and Gen-Z find ourselves under a lot of stress and anxiety; be it from our jobs, our families, and even online communities. Although we face this lil’ demon from time to time, we’ve also found ways to cope with our anxiety. First off, just know that you’re not alone. You can only imagine how many others feel the same way you do, which is why its a good idea to start surrounding yourself with friends who will help lift you up when you’re down. Sometimes when I feel down in the dumps I watch a funny anime title, or even chat with some of you guys. Now that we’re in a new decade, it’s high time to distant yourself (or shut yourself off) from people or groups that bring you anxiety through their toxic nature. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, individuals like that will never admit they’ve did anything wrong or even confess that they’ve verbally made someone uncomfortable.
When it comes to topics like this you’ll never hear me rant and rave about it, but explain how I feel on the matter and slowly but surely take the necessary steps to compose myself, and move on from the matter. Now that I think about it, having this blog is also helpful for me so that I can side blog about my thoughts. Well, now that I’ve gotten that off my chest, time for us to grab 2020 by the horns and ride til’ we can’t no more!
Cancel toxic culture, and surround yourself with awesome people!
Until next post, stay nerdy my friends! ๐
Sonic The Hedgehog: What We Know (So Far) About The Movie…
With Valentine’s Day only a week away, we’re getting closer to the grand debut of the new live-action Sonic the Hedgehog movie! Despite the fact that the first promotion of the movie featured True Blue in a form that every fan of the franchise would love to forget (and we won’t let ‘them’ forget either), many now have high hopes for the outcome of the movie. Yeah, it’s kind of weird that they would pick Valentine’s Day to release the movie, but if you think about it no one’s gonna see it but the fanbase themselves – as well as younger Sonic fans. As of right now we don’t know what the overall plot of the story is, so without revealing any potential spoilers, here’s what we know so far…
This Is A Brand New Story
The movie itself is based off of its source material, so the only thing that’s constant is Sonic himself, and Dr. Robotnik (Dr. Eggman). Of course the Dr. Robotnik of this movie is what we can assume he looked like before he got fat, bald, and stressed out over trying to rid himself of the speedy blue hedgehog we all know and love. In the beginning of the new trailer we see Sonic at the most infamous zone, the Green Hill Zone, before speeding off through a giant dimensional ring that transports him to our world; where he now finds himself navigating through life.
Sonic’s Friends (and Rivals) Are Not In The Movie
No sign of Tails, Knuckles, Shadow, or anyone else in any of the trailers, so it’s safe to assume that they’re probably not going to be in the movie. That’s not to say that should this movie do well (and with the amount of money Paramount sunk into this), we might see them in a future sequel. (There’s always a chance that I could be wrong, you know.)
No Chaos Emeralds
Yep. There’s no sign of the seven chaos emeralds anywhere in the trailer(s). As this is a new story, Sonic is said to have a special kind of power deep within his blue quills. Could it be chaos power? We don’t know, but if Eggman (Jim Carrey) is after him for the source of his power, this might justify why Sonic wants to use it to protect his friends as well as the world.
The move comes out next Friday, and as far as we’re concerned, we’re going to go see it! And on that note, that will do it for another awesome filler post.
Until next time, stay nerdy! ๐
Our Mystery Blogger Award Nomination!
Wow, this is awesome! Looks like we’ve been nominated for the Mystery Blogger Award by fellow blogger Lesley ‘s Anime and Manga Corner, and for that we thank you so very much! You can read about Lesley’s nomination right here. As for the creator of the award itself, Okoto Enigma, you can read more info about the award on this link.
The Rules
- Put the award logo image on your blog
- List the rules
- Thank whoever nominated and provide a link to their blog
- Mention the creator of the award and provide a link as well
- Tell your readers 3 things about yourself
- You have to nominate 10–20 people
- Notify your nominees by commenting on their blog
- Ask your nominee any 5 questions of your choice, with one weird or funny question
- Share 2 links to your best posts
3 Things About Me
- Aside from being a fan of anime and manga, I love producing Hip-Hop and Electronic music. (And I plan on being a DJ/Producer.)
- My favorite comedian is Gabriel Iglesias.
- I love yorkies! They’re my favorite dog breed! ๐
Lesley’s Anime and Manga Blog Questions
Is there a particular style of music thatโs your favorite?
That’s a good question. Back in high school I pretty much liked Hip-Hop and R&B, but after I went to my first rave party at an anime convention, I’m pretty much electronic music all the way – although I like all types pretty much.
What other interests do you have besides anime and/or manga?
Producing my own original music and traveling.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Oh boy, I think I’ve asked myself this question 10 years ago. (*chuckles*) Well, hopefully running our own anime convention, being married, still DJing, and still enjoying watching anime and reading manga.
If you could make just one wish, what would it be and why?
Aw, man. Just one? I’d say if it can only be one wish, make it world peace. There’s a lot of bad stuff going on worldwide; from the Coronavirus to the upheaval in the Middle East. So if I can only have one wish, it would be world peace.
If you could go on a date with an anime character, who would it be and why?
Ooh, man! I’ve been waiting to answer this one. There’s only one waifu I wanna take out on a date, and her name is Stocking Anarchy! Why? She’s cute, fine as hell, and if we’re attacked by a ghost, she’ll slash it to pieces! Plus she has a sweet tooth and I kinda do too. Also, not to mention that she more level-headed than her sister and easier to talk to. (I’m still not buying the fact that she’s a demon – though that won’t change how I feel about her if it’s somehow true.)
My Best Posts
My Nominations
- Karandi (100 Word Anime)
- Scott (Mechanical Anime Reviews)
- Irina (I Drink and Watch Anime)
- All About Anime
- Megan (A Geeky Gal)
- Animania404
- Roderick J “Jay” Friz
- Natsu Dragneel
- Jiraiyan
- The AniMessenger
My Questions
- Who Are Your Top 5 Anime Characters?
- What Are 2 Places That You Would Like To Visit, and Why?
- What’s Your Favorite Movie (or Movie Franchise)?
- What Was The Coolest Part About Your Childhood?
- If There Was One Anime Series That You Would Rewrite, What Would It Be?
Well, that will do it for my nomination post! Until the next one, stay nerdy! ๐
D&A Anime Blog: Best Con Moments!
Since we’ve launched our blog back in 2016, we never imagined that it would reach the level that it currently is now. Between the fans, the voice actors, and all of the conventions we’ve gone to in the last ten years, we’ve had some awesome moments as the dynamic duo of D&A Anime Blog. (A. Goldman, and Yours Truly.) Although we’re still growing as a blog and taking on new experiences in our lives, it’s been quite a fun ride doing this – and we ain’t stopping anytime soon! Here’s a handful of some of our best con moments between other fans, as well as voice actors.
Going to Zenkaikon for the First Time!
Back in 2017 we went to our first anime convention in another state. We didn’t know what to expect when we got there, but after going for our first time, Zenkaikon was a blast! We’ll be returning for Zenkaikon 2020, so if you didn’t get the chance to see us in 2017 or 2019, come check out Zenkaikon (and say ‘hi’ if you see us)!
Meeting Monica Rial for the First Time!
20+ years in the VA biz? Check! Over 500 characters to her name? Check! The Most Iconic Voice in the World? Yep! Have we met her? Yes we did! (Twice!) Needless to say, Monica Rial is one of the coolest ladies you’ll even met; next to Collen, Jamie, Felecia, and many others. She’s also the voice actor welcome wagon if you’re an aspiring voice actor, and we’re hoping that we get to meet her once again.
Going to Thy Geekdom Con for the First Time
Although this convention is now a four-day con, we were able to check out this convention back in 2017 (on the birthday of D&A’s Donte’ J. Lewis) and met One Punch Man himself, Max Mittleman. Even though it’s been three years since our first appearance at this convention, we hope that we’ll one day get the chance to go back to this con some day.
Although the first month of the year is officially in the books, there’s plenty more moments and memories to be made at the coming conventions that we got lined up for 2020. Until next post guys n’ girls, stay nerdy! ๐
D&A Anime Blog 