Idol Group Rough x Laugh Unleashes “Weird Official Free Materials” Campaign, Ditching AI for Authentic Absurdity

Fan Culture & Interaction in kawaii Idol Life
2025.12.24

Embracing the Absurd in a Digital Age

In an era where AI can effortlessly generate images, Rough x Laugh posed a serious question: “If future AI is going to create strange images anyway, why not prepare them ourselves with real-life photos from the start?” This inquiry led to a unique project where the members recreated scenarios that future AI might conjure up, capturing them with authentic textures and human warmth.

Imagine an idol tossing a signed cabbage instead of a signed ball on stage, or using hijiki seaweed as false eyelashes. These surreal scenes, along with others like an idol taking a selfie with konjac jelly, or replacing an eye mask with sushi, have been brought to life through whimsical photos.

An idol throwing a cabbage on stage

These “weird official materials” are now available as official free-to-use assets for non-commercial purposes. Fans and creators can utilize them for social media posts, blogs, note articles, and presentation materials. This initiative not only showcases the group’s playful spirit but also embodies the message of their lead track, “Nan Mankai” (何満開), which encourages self-belief and affirming one’s journey.

A Glimpse into Rough x Laugh’s Creative World

The campaign’s official free materials include:

  • “Weird Official Materials”: Real-life photos that resemble future AI-generated images.

  • Official Artist Photos: Standard promotional images for “Watashi Fanfare.”

These captivating images are accessible via the official campaign page: https://roughlaugh-official.com/news/2591/.

Here are some examples of the quirky visuals:

An idol using sushi as an eye mask

An idol playfully using sushi as an eye mask, blending culinary delight with comedic charm.

An idol taking a selfie with konjac jelly

A vibrant image of an idol taking a selfie with konjac, a traditional Japanese jelly, adding a touch of everyday absurdity.

Idols practicing with vegetable microphones

Members of the group using vegetables like daikon radish and cucumbers as makeshift microphones, embodying their down-to-earth and fun-loving spirit.

Album Details and Upcoming Events

Rough x Laugh’s 1st album, “Watashi Fanfare,” is a significant milestone for the group. It is available in three editions:

  • Standard Edition (CD Only): 3,500 yen (tax included), featuring 12 tracks, including existing songs and new recordings like “Nan Mankai.”

  • TYPE-A (CD + Blu-ray): 8,500 yen (tax included), with 12 tracks and a 130-minute Blu-ray containing MV clips, a producer interview with Nobuyuki Sakuma (with member commentary), and unreleased YouTube footage.

  • TYPE-B (2CD): 5,500 yen (tax included), a 23-track compilation across two discs, including a new song by Funa Sasaki titled “Kietaku Naru Hodo Kimi ga Suki da.”

The lead track, “Nan Mankai,” has an accompanying music video that can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/-3zLpwS-9yQ.

To celebrate the album’s release, Rough x Laugh will hold special events featuring live performances and fan interactions. These events are scheduled for:

  • January 17, 2026 (Saturday) at Tower Records Kichijoji Parco Store

  • January 18, 2026 (Sunday) at Shiodome Sio-Site Underground Walkway

  • January 24, 2026 (Saturday) at Tower Records Kinshicho Parco Store

  • January 25, 2026 (Sunday) at Tower Records Shinjuku Store

A New Wave of Kawaii Expression

Rough x Laugh’s decision to create these peculiar, yet charming, real-life images offers a fresh perspective on idol promotion. It’s a testament to their authentic, playful, and sincere approach, echoing the album’s theme of self-acceptance. This initiative not only provides unique content for their fanbase but also engages with broader cultural discussions around AI’s role in creativity.

As one fan might exclaim, “Only Rough x Laugh could pull off something this brilliantly bizarre and endearing!” Their ability to blend humor with genuine artistic expression, creating a sense of intimate connection through their quirky visuals, sets a compelling precedent.

This campaign will surely resonate with fans globally, demonstrating how Japanese idol culture continues to innovate and connect with audiences through authenticity and a delightful sense of humor. It highlights how the essence of ‘Kawaii’ can evolve, embracing both the charming and the wonderfully absurd, to create truly memorable experiences in the future of entertainment.

For more information, please visit Rough x Laugh’s official channels:

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