Kurokami 01: A Shana Clone?

This might just be me, but by the time I made it to the OP, I couldn’t help but think that this show was ripping off Shakugan no Shana. And this goes farther than just the main girl having red hair.

Evidence one: Intro starts with male lead, Ibuki, having a monologue while dying.

Kurokami 01 …… IN ENGLISH!?!???? *Update 2

I’ve been a bit busy recently, mostly playing video games I guess. Anyways, I haven’t yet watched all the new shows that started this winter, only a select few. (For those wondering Maria+Holic’s 02 has solidified the show on my must watch list)
This morning I went out in search of some of the shows I still need to watch, and one of the ones I had a bit of hope for was Kurokami. Coming to us from Sunrise, and looking rather nice while doing it.

That’s when I found this (The torrent above and a DD megaupload link).  Current status is that I’m downloading this along with a sub version, and will report my findings as soon as I can. I really wish I could know if this is a fandub or what.

According to ANN, the show is already licensed, and there are english VA already chosen. But did they really already release a dub?!??  And I thought Funi’s subbing of Shikabane Hime was a new level of speed.

*Update:

Looks like ANN, in fact has a news article that Bandai is airing the English version on iaTV 8 hours after the Japanese air time. I have to admit, that’s pretty cool.

For anyone who hasn’t heard of Kurokami yet, check out the trailer!

Update 2:

Watched the english dub, it’s ok, but I won’t be watching it over the subbed version. Still pretty cool that they have it already dubbed though.