Latest J-Pop Releases [May 2025]

Flashbang and halationNisshoku Natsuko

Natsuko Daisuke – “Flare and Halation” Official Music Video

Nisshoku Natsuko is known for a commanding band sound conjured from a single piano and her powerful vocals.

Though her setup is just piano and drums, she has steadily grown her fan base with a unique musical style that weaves in diverse elements like jazz, rock, and funk.

This work is the lead track from the album “Ginka,” released in May 2025, vividly portraying a protagonist brimming with urgency and fighting spirit.

In the music video directed by Yuka Ueda, the fierce passion residing behind Nisshoku’s calm gaze is expressed with striking visual beauty.

It’s a song that delivers a genuine emotional impact to listeners who continue to engage earnestly with music.

StarHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Star [Official Video]

A bold musical challenge fused with a groovy sound, this new signature work from J-pop maverick Gen Hoshino marks his first album in about six and a half years, Gen.

Released in advance of the album, the track is also featured in a commercial for ASAHI’s coffee brand Wonda and its new product.

While rooted in pop, it boasts a sophisticated sound design infused with soul and R&B elements, and its memorable music video—showing him strolling through the city while humming the lyrics—has become a talking point.

Collaborations with international artists such as Louis Cole and Sam Gendel push him into new musical territory.

With the Gen Hoshino presents MAD HOPE Asia Tour also announced, this is a must-hear track for music fans seeking a comfortable groove and refined musicality.

StardustMatsuda Seiko

Seiko Matsuda / Stardust

In celebration of her 45th anniversary, a lavish collaborative work by Seiko Matsuda and Yumi Matsutoya was released in May 2025.

Featuring a gentle melodic line and a comfortable rhythm, the piece is rooted in pop while blending with Matsutoya’s delicate lyrical world to create a more profound ballad.

It offers an exquisite musical experience woven by two legends of the Japanese music scene—irresistible for fans.

The track is also included on the album “Eternal Idol, Eternal Youth, Seiko Matsuda.

~45th Anniversary Ultimate All-Time Best~,” set for release in June, where it can be enjoyed alongside her signature songs.

It’s a perfect tune for moments when you want to sink into music with a calm heart or revisit precious memories.

mild daysHitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku – mild days (Official Music Video) [TV Anime “Silent Witch: The Magical Record of a Silenced Wizard” Ending Theme Song]

A gently expressive song capturing the quiet joys of everyday life was released by Hitsujibungaku in May 2025.

Moeka Shiotsuka’s delicate vocals and the band’s soft, woven sound resonate as if tenderly wrapping around the listener’s heart.

The track serves as the ending theme for the TV anime “Silent Witch: The Secret of the Silent Witch.” In the music video, which features footage from their West Coast U.S.

tour held in April 2025, you can feel the warm moments they experienced along the journey.

It’s a song that reflects the musical maturity the band has cultivated through releases like “our hope” and “12 hugs (like butterflies).” Perfect for conversations with friends or those times when you want to relax and unwind.

MAKUAKEASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

MAKUAKE

This track features an impressive, grand soundscape where emotional guitar tones blend brilliantly with brass arrangements.

It’s a song by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, set for digital release in April 2025, and serves as the theme for ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s rock festival, NANO-MUGEN FES.

2025.

The passionate lyrics, which underscore the importance of living in the here and now, are deeply moving.

It’s a perfect number for music fans seeking the heat and euphoria of a rock festival.

Get New MiraiASP

ASP / Get New Mirai [LYRiC ViDEO]

A track where powerful sound and pop melodies fuse in a perfectly balanced mix.

Released as a single in May 2025, it distills ASP’s trademark rebellious spirit and energetic appeal.

With an alternative rock foundation and powerful vocal work, it’s perfect for boosting motivation or refreshing your mood.

This release lets you fully experience the魅力 of a group that continually pushes the possibilities of music.

MY LIFEAYANE

AYANE / MY LIFE (Lyric Video)

AYANE’s April 2025 track celebrates the importance of living true to yourself.

Its sophisticated sound—pop infused with R&B rhythms—stands out.

With a clear, translucent voice and expressive delivery, it conveys a powerful message that resonates with the feelings of young people today.

It’s a song that offers courage and empathy to anyone who feels uncertain about their values or way of life.