Latest J-Pop Releases [April 2025]

mimosaHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki / mimosa

A gem of a medium-tempo ballad whose love-filled vocals resonate in the heart.

Written specifically for the drama “Zoku Zoku Saigo kara Nibanme no Koi,” it was released in April 2025.

Set against a richly layered rock sound, the song reflects on life’s joys and sorrows, and on what changes and what remains the same.

A track that can serve as a compass as you walk through life.

Why not give it a listen on nights when you want to think things over, or when you want to look back on memories with someone dear?

Kiss U Dead Or AliveSeikima II

SEIKIMA-II “Kiss U Dead Or Alive” Official Music Video #SeikimaII

A track by Seikima-II featuring irresistibly crunchy guitar riffs.

In April 2025, it became a major talking point as their first new release in 37 years.

Demon Kakka’s powerful vocals and Jail Ohashi Daikan’s guitar work create a massive sound that conveys the spirit of heavy metal—the very origin of Seikima-II—into the present.

The lyrics, depicting ruinous and perverse love, leave a strong impression, unfolding a dark and passionate worldview.

It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking uncompromising, hard-hitting music.

Metal buddieschōtokkyū

Metal buddies

This metal number combines a strong message with humor, throwing a stone into the pond of social divisions and cancel-culture flare-ups in the digital age.

Performed by Chotokkyu, it’s set for release in April 2025.

With unpredictable shifts—like moving from a heavy sound to a catchy chorus—the track weaves in an overflowing amount of positive messages, resulting in a delightful chaos.

The more you listen, the more energized you feel.

Crank up your spirits with this song!

hydrangearikon densetsu

hydrangea

This is a ballad with a lustrous melody that evokes rainy scenes.

It’s a song by Rikon Densetsu, released in April 2025, and was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Across the River: This Is My Way of Life!” It begins with a quiet tune where the bass and snare gently resound, and Ayumi Matsuda’s clear vocals and Jun Beppu’s guitar weave a beautiful harmony.

Centered on the rainy season, the piece delicately depicts shifting emotions.

It gently stays by your side on pensive days or during quiet moments spent thinking of someone dear.

Cat’s Meow (feat. Hidefumi Kenmochi)Den-on-bu

DENONBU – Cat’s Meow (feat. Hidefumi Kenmochi) / Denonbu – Cat’s Meow (feat. Hidefumi Kenmochi)

This track blends a distinctive electronic sound with playfully catchy beats.

Produced by Hidefumi Kenmochi—known as the track maker for Wednesday Campanella—it was released in April 2025.

The resonant, bass-driven electronics pair perfectly with the airy vocals, creating a one-of-a-kind sonic world.

It’s highly danceable, the kind of song that makes your body move naturally, and its unpredictable structure keeps it from ever getting boring.

If you love electronic music, don’t miss this one!