Latest Japanese music releases [February 2025]

aloeFunatsu Mahiro

Masato Funatsu “Aloe” Official Music Video – Ending Theme Song for the drama ‘By the Irori at Ms. Alice’s House’

This is a work by Masho Funatsu that delicately portrays a frustrating relationship where, like a spiky aloe, you can’t get closer even when your hearts are near.

Centered on themes of “more than friends, not quite lovers” and the ambiguity of love, the song’s clear, translucent vocals create a warm atmosphere that gently embraces emotions many have experienced.

Released in January 2025, it airs as the ending theme for the TBS drama “At the Irori in Ms.

Alice’s House,” drawing attention as a track that complements its age-gap romance storyline.

It’s a recommended song for those who want to resonate with the wavering emotions of love or spend a calm, peaceful time.

Delicious Survivorhanabie

Hanabie (chilly weather during cherry blossom season). Tasty Survivor - Lyric Video [HANABIE.]

Hanabie.’s track, where fiery shouts intersect with catchy melodies, portrays the courage to face harsh trials and the bonds with comrades.

The protagonist keeps moving forward even in difficult situations, depicted alongside a powerful performance that kindles a light of hope in listeners’ hearts.

Written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Momentary Lily,” airing from January 2025, it was released for early streaming on January 30 of the same year.

A bold endeavor from the group, who continue their energetic run with the EP “Bucchigiri Tokyo,” this song stands by those weighed down by everyday frustrations and gives them the courage to look ahead.

AnubisRinu

[MV] Anubis / Riinu

Guided by Anubis, god of the underworld, this grand electronic track portrays a confrontation with the self.

Released in February 2025, it weaves a story of darkness and light through Riinu’s vocals.

The oriental, aggressive sound rooted in EDM is absolutely stellar! Even just reading the lyrics makes you feel like you’ve wandered into a world of myth.

One listen hits hard—an adrenaline-pumping song that’ll send your spirits soaring!

Bravery DanceYukihana Ramii × Aario Oorio e Peperonchiino

Bravery Dance / Anime “Useless Skill ‘Nut Master’” OP Theme / Yukihana Lamy × Aglio Olio e Peperoncino [Original Song]

Anison with a bright, upbeat message and a catchy, pop-infused sound.

Written and composed by the popular Vocaloid producer Kinoshita, this track was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “Useless Skill: Nut Master.” Its powerful rhythm and catchy melody intertwine with the distinctive back-and-forth between Yuki-hana Lamy and Aglio Olio e Peperoncino.

The lyrics, which portray the courage to face fate and the determination to make the most of an apparently plain skill—just like the anime’s protagonist—fit perfectly.

It reminds you of the beauty of living true to yourself!

A heart in love dancesOnda Masanori

The Dancing Heart of Love / Masanori Onda

Its sensual expression, as if wrapping the sweetness of romance in a gentle singing voice, is captivating.

Through unassuming everyday moments, the song delicately depicts the feeling of love for a partner, conveying the vibrancy and happiness of romance along with a light melody.

Masanori Onda’s uniquely warm vocals resonate as if nestling close to the listener’s heart.

Released in January 2025, this work was selected for TikTok’s #NewMusic and has garnered buzz as many users featured it in their posts.

In the music video, scenes that feel like snapshots of lovers’ daily lives stand out alongside warm, visually beautiful imagery.

It’s the perfect track to serve as background music for time spent with someone special, from relaxing moments at a café to a drive.

I don’t mind if you’re a little devil!takane no nadeshiko

[Dance Performance Video] Even A Little Devil Is Fine! / Takane no Nadeshiko [HoneyWorks]

A pop tune produced by HoneyWorks that adorably expresses the feeling of being in love.

Released by Takane no Nadeshiko in February 2025, this song paints overflowing emotions for someone you like alongside a bright melody.

As you listen, you might even feel like falling in love yourself! With lyrics that capture a maiden’s heart in love and a lively rhythm carrying the harmonies of ten voices, you’re sure to be captivated.

Specially, do it.＝LOVE

=LOVE (Equal Love) / 18th Single “Tokubechu, Shite” [MV full]

A sweet, bittersweet love song has arrived from =LOVE.

It’s infused with a passion so strong it can’t be captured by a simple “like” or “I love you,” filled with a girl’s possessiveness and pure feelings.

The melody is a pop tune brimming with cuteness, blending adorable charm and earnest emotion in perfect balance.

Set for release as their 18th single on February 26, 2025, the song features lyrics by Rino Sashihara and Maika Sasaki as center.

The music video has already sparked a major reaction, surpassing 5 million views just nine days after its February 2 premiere.

Highly recommended for those who want to empathize with a lovestruck girl’s feelings or revel in the sweet-and-sour memories of young love.