Tamons B side [Season 1 Episode 1]

Tamon’s B-Side Episode 1: The Idol Next Door We Didn’t Know We Needed

Let’s cut to the chase—idol anime are everywhere these days. From sparkly stage performances to behind-the-scenes drama, we’ve seen it all. But Tamon’s B-Side Episode 1? It’s like someone took that formula, crumpled it up, and handed us a raw, messy, and totally relatable note instead. And honestly? We’re here for it.

Based on Yuki Shiwasu’s manga Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? (translated as “Which Face Does Tamon Have Now?”), this series swaps the usual “perfect idol” trope for something way more human. Tamon Fukuhara is the leader of F/ACE, a rising boy band with fans screaming his name at every show. On stage, he’s the ultimate heartthrob—wild hair, killer dance moves, the kind of smile that could sell out stadiums in minutes. But off-stage? He’s a disaster. Think: tripping over his own feet, overthinking every word, and panicking so hard about a minor mistake that he threatens to quit the group entirely.

That’s where Utage comes in. She’s not just a fan—she’s the fan. The one who knows every lyric, every dance step, and every tiny detail about Tamon’s life. When she overhears him spiraling backstage, she doesn’t just fangirl; she jumps into action. Cue the chaos: Utage hiding in a closet to avoid security, Tamon accidentally spilling coffee on his costume, and a last-minute pep talk that’s equal parts awkward and heartfelt. It’s not flashy, but it’s real.

The animation? It’s got that soft, shoujo vibe that makes every scene feel like a warm hug. The stage sequences pop with neon lights and dynamic camera angles—you can almost hear the crowd roaring. But the best parts are the quiet moments: Tamon’s shaky hands before a show, Utage’s wide-eyed panic when she’s caught, the way their eyes meet when he realizes someone sees him beyond the idol facade. Studio details are still under wraps, but whoever’s behind this gets it—they know that the “B-side” (the hidden, unpolished parts) is where the real story lives.

Now, let’s talk about the fans. Since the episode dropped (slated for January 3, 2026, but already generating buzz), social media has been blowing up. On MyAnimeList forums, users are losing it over Tamon’s vulnerability. One fan wrote, “Finally, an idol who isn’t perfect! I’ve never seen someone so relatable—like, I’ve had those exact panic attacks before a big test.” Another added, “Utage isn’t just a ‘fangirl’—she’s his hype woman, and their dynamic is everything. I need more of them.”

Sure, there are a few eye-roll moments. The “accidental closet meeting” is classic rom-com fluff, and some of the dialogue feels a little cheesy. But let’s be real—when you’re 16 and obsessed with a band, cheesy is part of the fun. This isn’t trying to be a masterpiece; it’s trying to be yours. The kind of show you watch with your friends, screaming at the screen when Tamon messes up and cheering when he nails the performance.

Is Tamon’s B-Side Episode 1 perfect? No. But that’s the point. It’s messy, it’s awkward, and it’s exactly what we need right now. In a world of polished K-pop idols and over-the-top anime protagonists, Tamon and Utage feel like people we could actually meet. The boy who’s scared to let people down, the girl who refuses to let him give up—their story isn’t about fame. It’s about finding someone who loves you, flaws and all.

So, if you’re tired of the same old idol drama, give this a shot. It might not have the biggest budget or the most complex plot, but it has heart. And let’s be honest—isn’t that what really matters?

Final Verdict: 8/10. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s good. The kind of good that makes you smile, text your friend, and count down the days until Episode 2.

P.S. Keep an eye on Utage—she’s not just a side character. Mark my words, she’s going to be the backbone of this series. And Tamon? We’re all rooting for you, you disaster. Never change.