[2026] Perfect for road-trip BGM too! A stylish anime song roundup

Sunny Shiny MorningMatsuo Kiyonori

[Maison Ikkoku 45th Anniversary] Sunny Shiny Morning – Kiyonori Matsuo MV / Sunny Shiny Morning – KIYONORI MATSUO / “MAISON IKKOKU” 45TH

Just listening to it lifts your spirits—it’s an exquisite pop tune.

It’s a signature work by Kiyonori Matsuo, where a British flavor blends with an urban sensibility, released in March 1987.

It’s also famous as the opening theme for the anime Maison Ikkoku, based on Rumiko Takahashi’s original work.

Ryomei Shirai’s arrangement sparkles, and the horn tones evoke the light of morning.

While carrying the loneliness of night, the lyrics step forward into a new dawn—a worldview that hits even harder now that we’re adults.

You can enjoy it as stylish city pop, perfect for slipping into a café-working mood.

When your studying or work stalls and you need a refresh, definitely give it a listen.

LynxClariS

Lynx

Released in October 2025, this track is an ambitious work for ClariS, created under their new three-member lineup.

Produced as a linked partner to the Puella Magi Madoka Magica series, it carries the concept of connecting the past and the present.

Centered on a synth-pop sound, the transparent, intertwining vocals of the three members resonate pleasantly.

Its release coincided with the TV broadcast of the series’ theatrical version, making it a deeply moving song for longtime fans.

Highly recommended for those who want to experience a new starting point for ClariS.

MAGICAdo

【Ado】MAGIC

This is the first collaboration with Vocaloid producer Tsumiki, released in October as the opening theme for the anime “Cat’s Eye.” The track, where a retro vibe intersects with a Reiwa-era modern sound, is highly addictive—guaranteed to be on repeat.

The contrast between lyrics that depict the duality of a phantom thief—deception and truth, stealing and being stolen from—and Ado’s shape-shifting vocals amps up the excitement.

It’s a stylish dance tune you’ll want to play when you want to lift your mood.

ACTIONeill

eill | ACTION (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter eill, who has won support for her genre-defying musicality.

This piece, written as the ending theme for the second cour’s Nerima arc of the TV anime “Togen Anki,” was released in October 2025.

The lyrics, created with a battle that transcends the bounds of good and evil in mind, convey a powerful resolve to move forward beyond one’s position.

And eill’s mature vocals are incredibly cool.

A dramatic and emotional number.

ioliteEVE

Iolite – Eve Music Video

A song by Eve, written as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon and set for digital release in October 2025.

Its title is the name of a mineral that means “a stone that shows the way,” and it was created from Eve’s desire—having been familiar with Pokémon since childhood—to deliver music that accompanies the protagonists on their journey.

It portrays the courage to step into questions without clear answers and the sense of solidarity with friends, overflowing with a warmth like a light that illuminates the first step into the unknown.

The soundscape opens up all at once in the chorus, as if the sky were clearing.

It’s a track we hope will be heard by anyone trying to take on something new.

MonsterDa-iCE

Da-iCE /「Monster」Music Video

An aggressive track by Da-iCE where their heavy sound and explosive vocals take center stage.

Released in October 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Monster Strike: Deadverse Reloaded,” this self-produced song features lyrics and composition contributions from members Tetsuya Iwaoka and Hayate Wada.

Its dynamic arrangement fuses a pop melody with hip-hop and electronic beats, perfectly matching the anime’s worldview.

The lyrics, themed around inner ambition and impulse, are sure to resonate with anyone striving to break through their limits.

Be sure to check out this energetic dance number.