Mashikaku Rock Edit What would you like to edit? SynopsisBackgroundAlternative TitlesPictureChapters/VolumesPublishing DatesRelationsTypeExternal Links   414d6p

A music-themed shoujo manga, sprinkled with bits of romance, and friendship.

Mashikaku Rock is a short manga with a semi-unique plot. Basically, it starts off with Miyako, who is a diligent girl that always follows the school rules, the perfect model student. That is, until she meets Koutaru who invites her to his band.This story has many sweet, fluffy moments and teaches you to pursue the things you want in life. The plot is not too original, but it has its strong points.

To sum it all up, it is a nice read for all those shoujo-lovers looking for a refreshing manga. I really like ... how it wasn't the type of manga where the heroine is automatically considered pretty by taking off her glasses or shortening her skirt, breaking the school rules,etc. She wasvery cute with or without the glasses.

Additionally, the two short stores had an amazing plots. My the guy asked in favorite line was one of the question the guy in the first oneshot asked :"Can you fall in love with someone that you don't know their name?"
The second one was abou cute t childhood friendship and love. They really messed with my feelings ;A; Read it, you won't regret it!

A lovely collection of stories, capturing many emotions surrounding love!

The main story, Mashikaku Rock, had a compelling set of protagonists. I love the main girls journey as she learns to live for herself. I appreciated that not only is her romance highlighted, but also her friendship with the third bandmate.

The second story made me cry, and was my personal favourite. A really poignant reflection on missed opportunities and dealing with it being too late, as a boy thinks about his seatmate--who he never spoke to or learned the name of--who died.

The third story was an exploration of a childhood friend love triangle, and explored unrequited ... love and how it can affect friendships. I thought this one was sweet, and again had a compelling trio at the forefront.

And finally, the last story was just plain adorable.

Overall, I really reccommend this manga as a nice collection of romantic tales all headed by compelling protagonists and love interests!

"I'm living diligently, but there is one thing I am hiding..." Miyako

MASHIKAKU ROCK is a Soft romance manga written and illustrated by Watanabe Kana. The stories revolves around Miyako, a girl who lives her life diligently, following her deceased fathers words. The only thing he taught her in the past is to play the guitar, which he tells her not to play since he believed his actions caused a lot of problem to her mother. Once at school , she is asked by the drama club to help out with the instruments. She sees a guitar and strums it, only to be ... caught in act by Koutaru , her classmate. He asks her to the band in return to delete the evidence ? What does she chose? What happens henceforth? The answers all lie in this short sweet journey

Score card for lazy readers-
( since i am shojo manic and this is anice read, I maybe a bit bias with the rankings)
Story-7
Art-7
Character-8
Enjoyment-8
Overall-8

The story is simple and soft with no forced drama or cliche. I won't say it's original, but has its own touch and approach to music and specially playing music live. It's only 3chapters short, but sure leaves a smile in your face after reading it.

Since its a short manga, there usually is a small room for character development. But for mashikaku rock, it isn't the case. You get to see a development in Miyako , her change in ideals and her way to live her life. Koutaru , as the leader is very cute and heartwarming. His shy side is also sweet which make you go awwww. Youhei is the third member and a drummer with a happy go lucky personality. Overall the characters are light and have a simple atmosphere
When it comes to the art department, it sure is nice. You get to see the girl with braids unlike the usual stylish open hair chicks. The design, instruments are also drawn nicely. It's not fantastic nor it is pathetic . It suits the mood of the manga.

Overall this manga really made me feel nice and has a warm feeling. The characters though have small screen time, but grow on you and sure are likeable. Finally a shoujo manga with no hot buys, bishonens, harems and crazy butterfly weaklings.

I recommend this for all shoujo lovers who have got sick of cliche and the stupid girl plot.
Summer is kicking in so kill time with a good read..

If I messed up with some part, I'm very sorry. Please do feel free with discuss your thoughts with me and point out my flaws or criticize my reviews anytime. If you feel so, do drop by a comment on my page.

This review is only for mashikaku rock. It does not include the one-shots.
Will be edited when updated.
Also reviewd for the club - Review for the unreviewed