Trending Music [October 2023]

moon bathingYorushika

Moonbath

Yorushika is a two-member rock band consisting of composer n-buna and vocalist suis.

Their 16th digital-only single, “Gekkouyoku” (“Moonlight Bath”), was written as the theme song for the animated film Kaina of the Great Snow Sea: Star Sage.

True to Yorushika’s style, the literary lyrics and gentle vocals draw you in alongside a dramatic ensemble.

Featuring acoustic guitar, the arrangement creates delicacy and depth, resulting in a somewhat mystical track.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Tokyo Callingatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Tokyo Calling (Official Music Video)

A four-member dance-vocal unit, ATARASHII GAKKO!, has been winning support at home and abroad with songs that show respect for Showa-era pop and catchy dance performances.

Their digital single “Tokyo Calling,” released on October 20, 2023, features an electronic beat that takes the group into new territory and really pumps up the energy.

The rich, layered sound and repeating phrases give it an addictive quality that makes you want to keep listening.

It’s a track whose dramatic arrangement draws you into its world, and the music video—packed with powerful impact—is a must-see.

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Hoshino Takashi

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draft from a gapSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 'Oh, Draft Wind'

Sakurazaka46 is a hugely popular idol group.

“Sukimakazeyo” is included as a coupling track on their seventh single, “Shōnin Yokkyū.” Compared to the title track, this song has a somewhat wetter, more introspective feel.

The lyrics, which portray someone moving forward positively while wrestling with their worries, are something anyone can relate to.

The music video, shot amid grand, sweeping scenery, has also become a hot topic—be sure to check it out to immerse yourself even more in the song’s world.

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yamamoto

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Prince ShōtokuSuiyōbi no Campanella

Wednesday Campanella 'Prince Shōtoku'

Since its reformation, the music unit Wednesday Campanella has scored a massive hit on TikTok with their track “Edison.” Released digitally on October 18, 2023, their song “Prince Shōtoku” centers on the historical figure known for the anecdote that he could listen to ten people at once.

Its comical lyrics and funky ensemble almost make you believe he really thought that way.

It’s an eccentric pop tune with a catchy melody that even helps you remember terms from history class.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Heavenly Thunder (feat. yowanecity)kankan

Worldly Thunder / Kankan

Kankan, who has been active as a singer since around 2018, collaborated with Vocaloid producer yowanecity on the track “Kairai.” It features a high-tempo sound that strongly reflects elements of Vocaloid music.

Layered with Kankan’s powerful vocals and distorted electronic tones, it builds a chaotic sonic world.

Another hallmark is the abundance of lyrics that evoke traditional Japanese motifs.

The music video, which pairs the song with stylish anime visuals, has also drawn attention—be sure to check it out.

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yamamoto

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FlowerFuji Kaze

Hana

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, whose talent drew attention even before his major-label debut and who now dominates the J-pop scene with his urban musicality.

His 14th digital-only single, “Hana (Flower),” was written as the theme song for the TV drama “The Most Favorite Flower.” Its lyrics convey a message of someday letting your own unique flower bloom, offering comfort to those who feel lost or troubled.

It’s an emotional number, with a stirring melody carried by a piano that is both rich in depth and light on its feet.

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Hoshino Takashi

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handsNoda Megumi

Emi Noda – hands (Official Concept Video)

Emi Noda, whose popularity took off after posting her songs on YouTube, wrote “hands” as the theme song for the drama ‘Neko Kare: Shonen o Kau’ (Keeping a Boy).

Centered on the action of “grasping,” the song unfolds to portray a range of emotions.

Its delicate, poetic psychological depictions draw listeners into its world.

The vertically shot music video has also become a hot topic, so be sure to check it out—it features direction that makes full use of the vertical format.

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yamamoto

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