Latest J-Pop Releases [May 2025]

GeGeGe no KitaroAdo

GeGeGe no Kitaro

Ado, a devoted fan of GeGeGe no Kitaro, handled the opening theme in May 2025.

This work perfectly blends a modern arrangement by Maigo Hanyuu (Hanyuu Maigo) of a classic masterpiece with Ado’s bewitching vocals, and it has been chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV anime series GeGeGe no Kitaro: The Generations of GeGeGe I Loved, airing to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Shigeru Mizuki’s passing.

Ado also participates as a selector for the program, and in the first episode she personally chose Season 5, Episode 4, underscoring her deep affection for the series.

It’s a perfect track not only for fans of yokai, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a classic reborn with a contemporary sound.

TorieBillyrrom

Torie

Billyrrom captivates with an urban sound-making style that makes you want to surrender to its groovy rhythms.

Drawing attention at festivals both in Japan—such as in Osaka and Tokyo—and abroad, including Taiwan, their latest work is a comfortable track where refined mellowness merges with pop sensibilities.

Featured on the album “WiND,” it’s also noteworthy that guitarist Rin penned the lyrics from a female perspective.

Perfect for night drives or moments when you want to calm your mind, this song is recommended for anyone looking to step away from the city’s hustle and settle into a peaceful mood.

Etcetera, love youCANDY TUNE

[MV] CANDY TUNE “Etcetera LOVE YOU”

A sweet and cute pop tune set in a dating-sim-style world.

Released by CANDY TUNE in August 2024 as part of the “Kiss Me Pâtissier” tracklist, this song was created by the dream team of lyrics by Suu (SILENT SIREN) and music by Naoki Kubo, with its music video unveiled in May 2025.

The song stands out for its lyrics that candidly express feelings too big to be summed up as just “I love you,” paired with a catchy melody.

Since its debut at the final show of the group’s first-anniversary tour at Toyosu PIT on April 27, 2024, it has captured the hearts of many fans.

It’s a must-listen not only for anyone wanting to feel the flutter of romance, but also for those who wish to convey their feelings to someone special through song.

CheckmateCLAN QUEEN

Checkmate

CLAN QUEEN, who have been making waves with their innovative art-rock approach, return in May 2025 with a powerful new track that portrays an uncompromising pursuit of self-identity.

Anchored by a dark, funky sound, the immersive world crafted by yowa’s expressive vocals and AOi’s rap is nothing short of breathtaking.

As a lead single from the upcoming album NEBULA, the release is already generating high expectations.

The trio—AOi, yowa, and Mai—embody a new-generation ethos by taking complete control not only of the music but also the visuals and graphics.

It’s a must-listen for anyone drawn to a shape-shifting fusion of sound and imagery, as well as for those seeking lyrics that truly resonate.

TraceDEXCORE

DEXCORE 「Trace」 Official Music Video

A song that powerfully questions the value of one’s existence and the importance of memory was released in May 2025 alongside the album WE WERE HERE.

Built on a foundation of metalcore and deathcore, DEXCORE weaves heavy guitar riffs and dynamically shifting melodies into an exquisitely balanced piece.

Within its aggressive progression breathes delicate emotional expression, and the contrast between ferocious shouts and clean vocals resonates deeply.

The track carries a message of a soul’s cry—expressing a strong will to overcome inner conflict and the sense of loss over what’s slipping away, while holding hope for the future.

To celebrate the release of WE WERE HERE, a collaboration event will be held at ROCKAHOLIC in Shinjuku, Tokyo, from May 20 to 26.

It’s a song for those who connect with the profound humanity hidden within intense music and for listeners seeking a new frontier in heavy music.

impulseGLIM SPANKY

Impulse

GLIM SPANKY, inheriting the spirit of heavyweight psychedelic rock, has written a brand-new song for the commercial of BYD’s new SUV, the BYD SEALION 7.

Remi Matsuo’s powerful, husky vocals and Hiroki Kamemoto’s bluesy guitar weave a soul-stirring sound that truly embodies the essence of modern blues rock.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of their major-label debut in 2024, GLIM SPANKY released a best-of album titled “All the Greatest Dudes.” This new track feels like an ambitious step forward for the duo.

It’s the perfect song to fire you up—whether you’re driving or working out.

SHININGIS:SUE

IS:SUE (Isshu) ‘SHINING’ Official MV

This IS:SUE track features an arresting sound where hip-hop house and Afropop tones intertwine with drums reminiscent of 2000s pop.

It conveys a powerful message—keep honing yourself without fearing failure, transform outside stimuli into a spectrum of light, and shine—delivered through an addictive hook, bold lyrics, and edgy rap.

The song is included on the artist’s third single, “EXTREME DIAMOND,” and began streaming in April 2025.

It was also chosen as a tie-in song for the app WEAR GO LAND, which offers fashion experiences in a virtual space, and the group’s performance at KCON JAPAN 2025 in May has been generating buzz.

It’s perfect BGM for workouts and gym sessions, and a rousing anthem for moments when you want to stay true to yourself.