Update: We're in the Newspaper!

(EDIT: Took a few pictures with my camera, so you can ignore the first couple paragraphs. Click on the above image to see the full article and accompanying Japanese text.)

Well, we hit the newspaper today. I don't have time today to run about looking for a scanner since I actually have WORK to do today, so I'll have to just give you a quick description and synopsis of the article.

It's a small piece on about page 7, three short paragraphs with the three of us done up Japanese manga-style.

I'll give a real quick and rough translation for now, and try to clean it up later.

THIS is American

Nathan, a Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) from Kirishima town, and two other Americans in Aira county, put together a band for an international exchange event in Makizono town. In front of the audience, vocalist Andrew from Yokogawa town proceeded to chant "aaa... ooo..." repeatedly in a low voice, keeping with the guitar.

Over the top of this, Nathan played lead flute, while the chanting paid him no heed; "aaa... ooo..." Was this rock? Country? The audience knew nothing -- not the title, not even the genre. The innovative rhythm made the audience wonder 'Is this sort of mysterious song the latest thing in America?', while the beat carried on.

When asked about the song after the performance, the three men gave a wry smile. "It doesn't really have a name." In actuality, Jerry (from Yusui town) played only two chords while Nathan and Andrew just shouted along with the guitar. Despite the strange song with the strange construction, they managed to captivate the audience, and shrewdly succeeded in expanding their circle of "international exchange".

"... and that's the news. Back to you, John."