[May 2026] The latest J-Pop releases. Check out the hottest new tracks!

Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)Reiko

REIKO ‘Lullaby (Prod. ALYSA)’ Music Video

After participating in SKY-HI’s audition “THE FIRST,” REIKO has honed her craft as a solo artist under BMSG.

Released digitally on January 12, 2026, “Lullaby (Prod.

ALYSA)” was selected as the January ending theme for the TV program “Hiruobi.” Produced by ALYSA, the track blends a nostalgic band sound with piano to create a warm yet wistful atmosphere.

The lyrics, which dwell on lingering feelings for a former lover, delicately portray regret and prayers for time that can’t be reclaimed.

It’s a song that gently stays by your side on sleepless nights when memories resurface.

With a tender yet resolute vocal delivery that resonates deeply, it’s a superb ballad number.

By the side on a moonlit nightUru

[Official] Uru “By Your Side on a Moonlit Night” — Theme song for the film “The Guardian of the Camphor Tree”

Singer Uru, who continues to captivate listeners with her deep vocals and ethereal presence.

Her 17th single, “Katawara nite Tsukiyo,” released in January 2026, was written as the theme song for the film “Kusunoki no Bannin,” based on a novel by Keigo Higashino.

The lyrics and composition were handled by Iyori Shimizu of back number, and the blend of a melody that nestles into a quiet night with vocals that seep into the heart is striking.

This song, which scoops up feelings that can’t be put into words, feels perfect for nights spent alone or moments when you’re thinking of someone special.

Picaresque heroano

ano “Picaresque Hero” Music Video

Singer-songwriter ano, who draws attention on variety shows with a unique personality and showcases multifaceted talents in band activities and acting, has released this digital single in January 2026.

The track was written as the opening theme for the anime TRIGUN STARGAZE, and it also made waves for being composed by DAIDAI of Paledusk.

Its lyrics portray a journey forward while bearing contradictions and impulses that aren’t just about justice—words that will likely resonate deeply with people whose emotions defy easy categorization.

Blending a propulsive, high-speed rock sound with ano’s distinctive vocals, it’s an energetic number that powerfully pushes listeners onward.

#KISSYOUBUDDiiS

BUDDiiS「#KISSYOU」Official Music Video

BUDDiiS is a dance and vocal group drawing attention for their “DIY” concept, where the members handle everything themselves—from songwriting and composition to choreography.

“#KISSYOU,” which was released as an advance digital single in January 2026 and serves as the lead track for their major-label debut album THIS IS BUDDiiS, released in February 2026, also made waves for featuring KEVIN’s participation in writing and composing.

Its sound, which blends cuteness with coolness, gives off an urban and stylish impression.

True to its theme of a “love song that makes you look forward to the morning,” it’s a recommended number to listen to when you want to reset gloomy feelings and kick-start your day with energy.

5TELLAFLOW

5TELLA

FLOW is a five-member mixture rock band with a fervent global following.

Released in January 2026 and chosen as the theme song for the arcade card game Mobile Suit Gundam Arsenal Base WAVECHOES, this track shines with a finely tuned interplay between twin vocalists that mirrors the game’s 5-on-5 battle system, stirring a sense of camaraderie that really fires you up.

It’s also surprising to learn that it was produced around the world—in places like Chicago and London—squeezed in between stops on their overseas tour, as if the heat of the journey was poured directly into the music.

The synth-driven, high-velocity sound is sure to steel your resolve before a make-or-break moment.

It’s an energetic rock tune that gives a powerful push to players heading into battle.

The Moon’s Elbow feat. MarcinIchika Nito

Ichika Nito – The Moon’s Elbow feat. Marcin (Official Music Video)

Guitarist Ichika Nito—also active as a member of Dios and ichikoro—has earned global acclaim starting from social media.

The title track of his long-awaited first album, The Moon’s Elbow, released in January 2026, “The Moon’s Elbow feat.

Marcin,” leaves a strong impression with its technical guitar work and crystalline ensemble featuring Poland’s Marcin.

The expansive sound, embodying the concept of telling a story using only the guitar, shakes listeners to the core with thrilling developments and overflowing emotion—even without words.

It’s an instrumental piece of overwhelming intensity where the two artists’ distinct personalities collide yet harmonize.

BANQUET BANGMAZZEL

MAZZEL / BANQUET BANG -Music Video-

Formed through an audition program, MAZZEL is a dance and vocal group that continues to captivate fans with genre-blurring music.

Released for streaming on February 2, 2026, this track was produced as a lead single from their second album, “Banquet,” set to be released in April of the same year.

The nonstop sound crafted by SKY-HI and others carries an intensity that, true to the theme of a “banquet,” feels like it frees the listener’s heart.

In the music video, they take on a one-shot sequence that lasts for about three minutes from the very beginning, and you can really feel their raw intensity through the visuals.

It’s a bold, party-ready tune that’s perfect for when you want to experience the unity of a live venue and a thrilling sense of the extraordinary.