Latest J-Pop Releases [January 2025]

whipB’z

B’z / Whip

This work stands out with its powerful guitar riffs and energetic vocals.

It’s a hard rock number quintessentially B’z, portraying a person who relentlessly pushes themselves.

You can feel from the lyrics the act of driving oneself forward, trying to surpass one’s limits.

Released as a digital single in January 2025, it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Digital Single Ranking.

It was also written as the theme song for the ABEMA original drama “Informer: Beasts Living in the Dark.” It’s a recommended track for those who tend to overwork themselves or want a song to fire them up.

ZenBAND-MAID

BAND-MAID / Zen (Official Music Video) — Opening theme song for MAPPA’s anime “Zenshu.”

A powerful track that portrays the challenge of breaking new ground.

Composed by BAND-MAID and released in January 2025, it was selected as the opening theme for MAPPA’s original TV anime “Zenshu.” Its energetic, aggressive rock sound is incredibly satisfying to listen to.

The lyrics, themed around “change,” “challenge,” and “self-discovery,” are deeply connected to the anime’s story and evoke the characters’ growth.

It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to discover a new version of themselves!

Rolling StoneBREIMEN

BREIMEN “Rolling Stone” Official Music Video (TV Anime “Dr. STONE” Season 4 Ending Theme) #BREIMEN #DrSTONE

A five-member band, BREIMEN, that’s stirring up a fresh breeze in the music world.

Their unique sound, which fuses genres like funk, jazz, and rock, is truly captivating.

I’ve heard this song was written specifically as the ending theme for the TV anime Dr.

STONE SCIENCE FUTURE airing in January 2025.

It seems to center on themes of constant forward progress and taking on uncharted territory, and listening to it is exciting.

It might even inspire you to try something new yourself.

nomineeCYNHN

nominee

CYNHN’s “Nominee” is a work filled with hope and anticipation for the future.

The title, which means “a person who has been nominated,” reflects their desire to be recognized in the music scene.

You can feel their ambitious stance in the inversion of their blue-themed worldview and their challenge to the contemporary music landscape.

Digitally released on January 1, 2025, the song is a lead single from the album INVERSIOИ.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to discover a new side of CYNHN or relate to down-to-earth lyrics.

doppelgängerCreepy Nuts

doppelgänger

This is a song by Creepy Nuts written as the theme for the film Under Ninja.

It was released digitally in January 2025 and is included on the album LEGION, which came out in March.

It features an intoxicating beat crafted by DJ Matsunaga and multilayered rapping by R-Shitei, with lyrics centered on the theme of one’s inner multiplicity.

It’s a must-listen for anyone in the midst of self-discovery or feeling out of place in modern society.

TREASURE！DIALOGUE＋

DIALOGUE＋ 「TREASURE！」Music Video

This song is characterized by a positive, energetic sound.

It’s the 12th single by DIALOGUE+, slated for release in January 2025.

It was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Someday the Mightiest Alchemist?”.

The lyrics, centered on self-discovery, challenge, and growth, are striking in the way they encourage an attitude of taking on limitless possibilities.

A rock-influenced arrangement and catchy melody amplify the uplifting message.

When you need the courage to face difficulties, this track will lend you strength.

after allDUSTCELL

DUSTCELL – In the End

Songs crafted with heartfelt care resonate deeply with listeners.

While reflecting on life’s impermanence and the fleeting nature of time, it conveys the importance of living fully in the present.

Released in January 2025 as a character song for the RPG Honkai: Star Rail, this piece features characteristically philosophical lyrics by DUSTCELL and a beautiful animated music video.

It’s recommended for those feeling worn out by daily life or hoping to deepen their bonds with loved ones.

With lyrics that strike the heart and a unique worldview, it’s sure to offer new insights.