Living Vicariously Through My Brother - Pop-Up Cassette Store Japan

As my brother continued wandering around Japan, he ensured to send photos of various things he knew I would enjoy. That was really cool of him to take time out of his limited availability to do so, and in turn I share that trip with you.

Much like last week's Nintendo store, why can't we have this type of stuff in the USA? I mean, come on? A pop-up cassette player store? Who wouldn't want to grab a Sony Walkman or old school tape recorder? That junk is rad, bro!

It's a good thing I don't fly. I'd go broke in Japan! I'd have to buy a house there just to store all the crap I'd buy while visiting!

Get myself a cassette player, and then stop at this eight level Tower Records! That's right! Eight floors filled to the brim with music!

This sign understand...

My girl hates going to used CD shops around here. I spend hours looking through them. Just think how long it would take me to go through all of this?

As my brother left where he was at, he headed out into the night to cross this death trap...

Or I guess as the locals call it, "the largest crosswalk in Japan".

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Alf (Coleco)

Alf
Coleco
1986 - 1987

Freakin' sweet! It's Alf!

Fans of the fury Melmacian know the character has been around for quite some time now. He began on television screens in the self titles show which ran from 1986 to 1990, while also appearing in a Marvel Comics series (50 issues), and an animated series which ran for two seasons. Let's not forget the 2004  Alf''s Hit Talk Show which sadly only aired for seven episodes.

Fans of the alien were in luck in the late 80's. Not only was the show a hit among viewers, but merchandise was everywhere. Shirts, school supplies, stickers, and of course toys (and more) could be found pretty much everywhere.

Today we're having a look at the Coleco stuffed toys that were prevalent during the hay days of Melmac's infamous alien. Four different versions of the character could be found, each with its own specific feature / function.

For the Alf purist, there's the ever trusty plush version. It came in a saucer style cardboard box that featured very little artwork, or color for that mater. However, out of all the toys, it's definitely one of the better versions released. Especially if you just want an Alf to snuggle with while you watch your cartoons, and eat cereal.

 Alf - Alien Life Form

For those who wanted a little more bang for their buck, there were also two "talking" versions.

The first was developed in the style of Teddy Ruxpin. I.E. it had a tape deck on the back of the "doll" which you could insert cassettes into. Each cassette featured a story on each side.

 Talking Alf - The Storytelling Alien

Talking Alf - The Storytelling Alien (as it was known as) came packed with one cassette, and offered three additional cassettes - Each sold separately.

 Talking Alf - The Storytelling Alien Cassettes

Then there was Wisecracking Alf which would speak one of his favorite expressions when you pressed his stomach. Of course, much like any talking doll of the era, it's prone to get squeaky over time - Not to mention that ever infamous tinny sound.

 Wisecracking Alf - The Outspoken Talking Alien

For the Alf fan on the go, Stick Around Alf was a no brainer for your car window. He didn't do much beyond that, but you could always depend on him to hang around (ba-dum tshh).

Stick Around Alf

Though Alf has been dormant for some time, it is possible that the character will one day return. A feature film has been proposed and in the works since 2012 which would involve a CGI Alf alongside human characters ala Smurfs style. Movie posters exist for the film, and have for some time. You can find them "HERE".

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