Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

Magic Hour&TEAM

Magic Hour

Magic Hour is a youthful pop song that blends poignancy with power.

It serves as the opening theme for the TV anime Honey Lemon Soda and was released in January 2025.

Titled after the beautiful moments of the sky around sunset and just before sunrise, its melody strikingly symbolizes a special time.

The way the arrangement shifts toward the latter half seems to reflect the protagonist’s growth.

It’s a perfect pairing with the anime, and also recommended for anyone who wants to reminisce about their youth.

Rock never dies22/7

22/7 14th single “Rock Will Never Die” dance video (Anime “The Unfavorable Job [Appraiser] Was Actually the Strongest” ending theme)

It’s a rock number that makes you want to bob your shoulders along and fills you with energy.

It’s a song by the idol group 22/7, released in January 2025.

Also serving as the ending theme for the anime “The Unfortunate Job: Appraiser Was Actually the Strongest,” the track features an energetic sound and a catchy melody line.

Just following the sound seems to make the haze clouding your heart disappear.

The message—“If you believe in yourself, you can change the future”—is really wonderful, too.

Highly recommended when you want to switch your mood.

Perfect Day310 (Sato)

310 (Sato) 'Perfect Day' Short MV (Anime 'I'm a Guild Receptionist, but I Hate Overtime, So I Think I'll Solo the Boss' Opening Theme)

This work, released to the world as 310 (Sato)’s debut single, was chosen as an anime opening theme and carries a message about cherishing the small joys found in everyday life.

It features a clear, transparent vocal and a high-energy, fast-paced rock sound, making it a track that resonates with listeners.

Streaming begins in January 2025, with the CD release in March.

It’s recommended not only for anime fans but also for anyone looking to add color to their daily routine.

310’s vocals and the song’s unique world are sure to strike a chord with you.

sonetACIDMAN

ACIDMAN – sonet Music Video (WOWOW “W Series Drama: Golden Kamuy — Hokkaido Tattooed Prisoner Competition Arc” Final Episode Ending Theme)

ACIDMAN has delivered a song that draws you into the world of rock ballads.

Its grand, expansive melody evokes Hokkaido’s great outdoors and really seeps into the heart.

Centered on the theme of the butterfly effect, it sings of hope and anxiety for the future, and the importance of living true to yourself.

The track will be released as a CD single in January 2025 and has also been chosen as the theme song for the drama Golden Kamuy.

I recommend listening to it while taking in Hokkaido’s beautiful scenery—it’s sure to soothe your soul.

to cry innocently; to weep with a childlike airAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Adokenaku / Innocently Crying (Lyric Video)

This new song by singer-songwriter AKASAKI is infused with a strong desire to protect someone who sheds pure tears.

It portrays complex emotions where unwavering love for the other person intersects with the bittersweet fear that those feelings may not be returned.

Released digitally in January 2025, it drew attention as it was selected as Kiss FM KOBE’s recommended Japanese track of the month.

AKASAKI debuted in April 2024 and has since released singles including “Hikikomori” and “Bunny Girl.” This track is recommended for anyone who has experienced parting with someone important or wants to empathize with the feeling of caring deeply for another.

CASANOVA POSSEAli

ALI – CASANOVA POSSE

It’s a groove-driven track that blends a variety of elements—rock, funk, hip-hop, and Latin.

It’s a song by the band ALI, slated for release in January 2025, and it’s been selected as the opening theme for the anime Dr.

STONE.

The song carries a message of having the courage to break free from the past and forge your future, and listening to it really sets your heart on fire.

Why not give it a listen and recharge your energy for tomorrow?

Life is BeautifulASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Life Is Beautiful” Music Video

It’s a message song that portrays the struggle and beauty of living.

Released as ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s single in January 2025, it was chosen as the opening theme for the anime FARMAGIA.

The poetic lyrics by Masafumi Gotoh leave a strong impression.

Paired with a warm, resonant guitar sound, it really stirs the listener’s heart.

This work carries both questions for society and a sense of hope.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to think about your own future.