Former Melon Kinenbi member Ohtani Masae has revealed that she will be starting a new solo project under the name "Ohtani Masae aka Himawari."

The Hello!Project group Melon Kinenbi disbanded on May 4th, and since then, Ohtani has decided to launch her own solo singing career.� Her debut song "Killing My Caddy" was put out in extremely limited distribution in August, but will be coming out officially on January 12th.� It will be followed up with her second release, "ENDLESS LOVE," on February 9th.

Today, the former idol will be performing at the IVY HALL in Shibuya for a special event called "X'mas CHAPEL LIVE & SWEETS PARTY."� Currently she plans to begin her transition to a theater actress and will be in some productions next spring.

Ohtani also recently teamed up with another Melon Kinenbi member,�Shibata Ayumi, to make the mail order only photo book, "YOU&I."� The book contains original songs made by Shibata herself, and even came packaged with a CD recording of "YOU&I."� The book is available through the official fan club site which also offers posters, clear files, and a cell phone strap.

Source & Photos : natalie