[A must-listen for high school students!!] A roundup of standout tracks from trending artists

machine; mechanical deviceTani Yuuki

Mechanical Thing – Tani Yuuki [MV]

Tani Yuuki, whose nomination for the 2022 Japan Record Award’s New Artist prize is still fresh in our minds, has released his 17th single, “Kaimono,” which also serves as the opening theme for the anime EDENS ZERO.

The standout vocals from the very beginning, the arrangement that stokes anticipation, and the lyrics that evoke the anime’s story depict the struggle of connecting to the real world.

For those who strongly associate him with his signature song “W/X/Y,” it may be surprising to hear how powerfully he can deliver this rock-tinged style.

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utatane

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First loveTele

Tele | First Love – Music Video

Tele is the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, gaining attention for its literature-tinged worldview.

The track “First Love,” released digitally on November 29, 2023, also sparked buzz with its lyrical music video directed by Ao Inoue.

Its sound, at once weightless and rapidly unfolding, creates a uniquely inventive hook.

It’s a stylish yet faintly nostalgic pop tune that offers a glimpse into the exceptional sensibilities of the artist known as Tele.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Candy KissTravis Japan

Travis Japan – ‘Candy Kiss’ Music Video

Travis Japan is a seven-member idol group drawing attention for their global activities, such as studying abroad for an indefinite period before their major debut and signing with an American label.

Their third digital single, “Candy Kiss,” also made waves with its sharp choreography in the music video, created by Nicky Andersen.

The stylish, all-English lyrics offer a different kind of appeal from previous Johnny’s groups.

It’s a modern dance tune with a pleasant, pop-infused ensemble.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Like breathingVaundy

Like breathing

Vaundy, who is active as a singer-songwriter, released “Kokyū no Yō ni” ahead of his album “replica.” It’s also been getting attention as the theme song for the film “Just Remembering.” In fact, it isn’t a newly written track; he selected it from his unreleased songs to match the movie.

Even so, it’s been crafted into a grand, heartrending ballad that seems to capture the film’s worldview.

I love how the mood shifts dramatically between the first and second halves.

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yamamoto

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Run, SAKAMOTOVaundy

Run, SAKAMOTO / Vaundy: SAKAMOTO DAYS with Vaundy

This is a masterful work by Vaundy, written specifically as the opening theme for a popular anime! The energetic melody generated by its heavy bassline and sharp guitar sound will set your heart racing.

Recorded in London, UK, this piece brings new musical challenges to life through collaboration with overseas staff.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “SAKAMOTO DAYS,” airing from January 2025, it brilliantly captures the protagonist’s overwhelming strength and determination to protect his family.

It’s the perfect anthem not only for anime fans, but also for anyone who needs courage and a boost in their daily life!

GRL GVNGXG

GRL GVNG

This song is by XG, a girl group that debuted in 2022, and it’s been attracting worldwide attention, even hitting No.

1 on Billboard’s Hot Trending Songs chart.

The title “GRL GVNG” is read as “Girl Gang,” and it features a heavy beat reminiscent of R&B and hip-hop, with strikingly cool rap.

The bold, confident lyrics are another highlight.

The entire song is in English, so if you’re interested, be sure to dig into the words.

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Hane Keisuke

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idolYOASOBI

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

YOASOBI is a musical duo whose members are also active as solo artists, each boasting high popularity in their respective fields.

Their 19th digital-only single, “Idol,” used as the opening theme for the TV anime Oshi no Ko, was produced based on an original short story written by Aka Akasaka, the author of the anime’s source material.

The contrast between the hysteric synth sound and the cute vocals alone is enough to get you hyped.

It’s a fast-paced pop tune with rapidly shifting arrangements and intricate melodies that stick in your ears.

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Hoshino Takashi

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