This volume is basically “we’re getting the band back together.” Everyone’s trying recruit some of the past members to the ouendan. We get introduced to Tatsuhiko who is a meek and a little hand-grabby, some of it stems from his more touchy-feely Western upbringing and the other from not respecting Usami’s personal space (it’s played for laughs but comes off really creepy). Suga, basically 2nd-in-command, who is staunchly sexist and doesn’t believe Usami should be a member at all.

This series isn’t bad, but I can’t bring myself to care about the ouendan. It just doesn’t capture my interest. However, I did like Imamura struggles with self-acceptance, lonliness, and the lack of memories/friends he never had a chance to make before. When he gets down on himself, wondering if anyone even wants him around and if all he does is ruin things, it will be relatable to a lot of readers though CRINGY at some points.

2.5 - 3

Review of volume 1 ( )

All out war erupts between the ouendan pep squad and the cheerleader army, keeping this entry in the series pretty amusing. The time travel aspect contributes a couple gags but little else to this high school humor series. ( )