Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

RephobiaGōruden Bonbā

Golden Bomber “Refophobia” MV

It portrays recurring fear and anxiety through a distinctive worldview.

Released by Golden Bomber in January 2025, this ambitious work is a significant song commemorating their 20th anniversary.

Its gothic rock sound is complemented by a sultry vocal performance, and the lyrics reflect Sho Kiryuin’s genuine emotions.

The music video, staged like a horror film, has also become a hot topic.

If you’ve thought of them as a “comic band,” you might be surprised when you listen.

Jasmine LOVEsairento rapusodi

[MV] Jasmine LOVE / Silent Rhapsody (2025.1.7 Release)

This is a bittersweet love song by a four-member men’s group from Shizuoka, singing about a love that feels so close yet just out of reach.

The melody and lyrics gently resonate with listeners, skillfully portraying the subtle distance and shifting emotions of romance.

It’s the title track of their third single, set for release in January 2025, and the music video features the members taking on full-fledged choreography.

Filmed in Thailand, the MV captivates with its refreshing visual beauty anchored in white and blue tones.

It’s a recommended track for anyone struggling with love or wanting to revisit the sweet, bittersweet pangs of romance.

Sakura, flutterSazan Ōrusutāzu

Southern All Stars – Sakura, Hirari [Official Visualizer]

Southern All Stars’ new song is as beautiful and fleeting as a flurry of cherry blossoms, with a light, spring-breeze melody and refined Japanese lyrics that truly resonate.

It also carries a wish for recovery from the earthquake disaster.

It will be released for digital streaming on January 1, 2025, and is said to be included on the album “THANK YOU SO MUCH,” scheduled for release in March.

The beauty and harshness of nature, loss and renewal, and hope—while listening to a song that embraces such profound themes, how about taking a walk with someone special during cherry blossom season? It’s sure to be an experience that touches the heart.

Something like “happy”Sabasusutā

Sabasister – “Happy Nante” Music Video

This song by SABA SISTERS celebrates the importance of finding happiness in everyday life.

With its positive message and bright melody, it’s a perfect track to kick off the New Year.

It will be released digitally on January 1, 2025, in collaboration with au’s New Year commercial.

This piece is recommended for people with busy lives or those who tend to overlook small joys.

Listen at the start of the new year and let it lift your spirits!

overlapshiyui

[MV] Overlap / Siyui (Prod. by Yukino Ito)

It might resonate with your heart on sleepless nights.

Released in January 2025, this song was chosen as the ending theme for the anime Blue Exorcist: Beyond the Snow.

Set to Siyui’s vocals, it portrays a journey of facing oneself, with lyrics that embrace weakness and convey a resolve to keep moving forward while carrying pain.

It’s a piano-driven rock ballad where the emotionally rich vocals and dramatic arrangement are a perfect match.

AfterwordTonbokōpu

Tonbo Corp – Afterword (Music Video)

A ballad that sings of the pain of heartbreak and the courage to look ahead.

Tonbo Corp’s “Afterword” was released in January 2025.

Its poignant lyrics addressed to a former lover and the emotional resonance of the guitar touch the heart.

Vocalist Rin Yukimura’s true-to-life voice faithfully conveys the protagonist’s feelings.

It’s a warm song recommended not only for those who have experienced heartbreak, but also for anyone who wants to take even a small step forward in life.

Good luck to me tomorrow.Nanawo Akari

Good Fortune to Tomorrow’s Me / Nanawo Akari

It’s a heartwarming number packed with energy and kindness.

The song, performed by Nanawo Akari, is set for release in January 2025.

It was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime “I’m a Guild Receptionist, but I Don’t Want Overtime, So I’m Going to Solo the Boss.” With its bright, poppy melody, it conveys the beauty of valuing yourself.

Listening to this track somehow helps you relax your shoulders and feel hopeful about tomorrow.

It’s recommended for when you’re worn out from busy days or need a boost of energy.