I heard you guys like translations so I translated an article so you can fail at making Xzibit Pimp My Ride jokes… wait what?
Q: What are some of the differences between AKB and NMB?
-They’re young and really easy to get along with! And hmm, what else is there… They’re really steadfast in sitting in their seats at the theatre. Just joking, but really, I get the feeling that the fans are watching really intently. I haven’t performed with them yet, so as I get to that point I’ll probably start to understand more of the differences.
Q: Your impression of NMB?
-It’s really easy to become friends with them. I feel that they just keep moving forward. Also, they’re very skilled at expressing themselves when they dance when the choreography is limited. On a music show, a lot of us are troubled on what kind of poses to strike or how we should act, and I think that NMB has a really high awareness of what to do there. They know how to draw attention to themselves individually. They’re also all really funny, and I’ve frequently heard that their MC sessions have a good reputation.
Q: What do you think about everyone speaking in Kansai-ben? Does it give a different impression from AKB?
-Hmmm. Even when I was in AKB I would speak in Kyoto-ben so it’s not really that different for me. And since everyone around them speaks Kansai-ben anyway, everyone gets used to it fast, I think.
Q: Did you watch NMB perform before you appeared on stage for them?
-When I went to introduce myself, I did, but I only caught 3 songs. I thought they gave a very strong performance.
Q: As a beginner, what do you think some of the standout points are for NMB48?
-No matter what song, definitely the style in which they dance. Their dancing is on point. Also, for their songs they usually have some sort of gymnastics/acrobatic performance.
Q: Is there a member that you have a particular interest in?
-Kishino Rika and Ogasawara Mayu. They are incredibly funny and have strong characters.
Q: Lastly, what’s your goal as part of NMB?
-I would like to just give it my all. I think it would be great for NMB fans to like AKB, and similarly, for AKB fans to develop an interest in NMB.
Q: Impression of Yamamoto Sayaka?
-She’s very disciplined and has the image of an honor student. But she’s also concurrently a part of NMB, and she takes the initiative in setting a funny mood with a passionate focus. It’s as expected for the captain. If I think about it now, you could see traces of those in the past…
Q: Impression of Watanabe Miyuki?
-Sorry to say this, but until I joined NMB I knew nothing about her. With Sayanee I knew her because we’ve both been in senbatsu since Everyday Kachuusha so there were lots of opportunities to get to know her, but except her I haven’t really worked with any other NMB members. But, she’s my senpai when it comes to transferring teams, so I think she’ll be great to talk to regarding my feelings. (laughs)
Q: Impression of Yamada Nana?
-I saw herAKB48 Kouhaku Uta Gassen performance of Dakimeraretara on DVD, and I thought “Wow, her expressions are really good.” When I actually met her in after transferring, everyone kept calling her old lady (laughs). I didn’t expect that atmosphere at all so I was really surprised. However, we’re the same age. Since we’re the oldest in NMB, I became a little bit stressed that they would also call me old lady (laughs).