Latest J-Pop Releases [April 2025]

New WorldMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama / “New World” Music Video

This is a ballad that weaves together feelings for one’s father and mother.

It was created as the theme song for Naotaro Moriyama’s documentary film “Where Is This Wonderful World?” and released in March 2025.

The song, which reflects on feelings for a mother lost in early childhood, is marked by a gentle melody carried by acoustic guitar and piano, and a delicate vocal performance.

Describing heaven as a “new world” is such a beautiful sensibility.

Why not give it a listen when you want to reflect on the bonds and love of family?

AddictionSakurazaka46

Addiction

A Sakurazaka46 track with a powerful beat that stays with you! Composed by Kenta Urashima and Taishi Noguchi, with arrangement by APAZZI, this piece is the title track of the album “Addiction,” slated for release in April 2025.

It portrays being consumed by love through a high-speed sound arrangement and lyrics that pour out without end.

It’s a number that heightens the feeling of being in love even for the listener.

Summertime GhostSuiyōbi no Campanella

WEDNESDAY CAMPANELLA “Summertime Ghost” (Official Audio)

A sophisticated electro tune that evokes the atmosphere of a midsummer night.

It’s a song by Wednesday Campanella, released in April 2025, and selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Kowloon Generic Romance.” You’ll be drawn into its dramatic composition, which feels like turning the anime’s mysterious worldview directly into music.

It’s a piece that makes you want to listen closely while picturing a fantastical nocturnal scene.

Party of MonstersHikawa Kiyoshi

Party of Monsters

It’s a danceable monster tune.

A lavish collaboration between Kiyoshi Hikawa and Tetsuya Komuro, it will be released digitally in April 2025, with the CD to follow in June.

Chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “GeGeGe no Kitaro: The Generations of GeGeGe I Loved,” it sparked a lot of buzz.

With techno-flavored rhythms and even high-speed rap woven in, it marks a new frontier for Hikawa.

This ultra-repeatable track is a must-add to your playlist!

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?

flower fortune-tellingShimizu Miisa

MIISA Shimizu – Hanauarai (Flower Fortune-telling)

This is an unrequited love song that delicately portrays fleeting feelings with a clear, translucent vocal.

Released in April 2025 as the opening theme for the drama “Kiri-o Fan Club,” the track features Miisha Shimizu’s expressive vocals, beautifully harmonizing with the poignant melody line.

The sound arrangement, infused with elements of funk music, also leaves a strong impression.

It’s a song that stays close to the pains and anxieties of love, so give it a listen when you’re dealing with those feelings.

Gazaniasnekomata okayu

Gazanias / Nekomata Okayu (official)

A glossy rock tune inspired by Showa-era kayōkyoku.

This work signals a new frontier for Hololive Production’s Nekomata Okayu, with distribution starting in April 2025.

Lyrics and composition are by koyori, known as a Vocaloid producer.

The wistful lyrics, which lay bare feelings for a loved one, pair beautifully with the ennui-tinged guitar sound.

This track also serves as the lead single from the album “Perso-nya~ Respect.” When you want to set free the feelings you’ve kept in your heart, this song might be just the thing.